How To Choose a Window Company in Manchester
It's important to find a window replacement company that meets your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with performance is important. Although top-of-the-line replacement windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The material, style, and size of your replacement windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. A professional can guide you through choosing the options that fit your needs.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $240-$1473 |
| Awning | $347-$967 |
| Bay | $800-$5937 |
| Custom | $356-$989 |
| Casement | $277-$1605 |
| Double-hung | $129-$835 |
| Egress | $237-$592 |
| Glass Block | $47-$600 |
| Picture | $208-$1539 |
| Single-hung | $94-$1583 |
| Skylight | $118-$1429 |
| Sliding | $272-$1385 |
| Storm | $56-$391 |
| Transom | $290-$606 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers different benefits depending on the local climate and energy-saving goals. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $56-$1583 |
| Composite | $571-$1284 |
| Fiberglass | $94-$800 |
| Vinyl | $192-$1781 |
| Wood | $285-$1605 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its public and private credentials, guarantees, and experience. Company websites often keep photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
While Connecticut doesn't require contractors to carry licenses, they must still register with the state's Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), and there are still limitations on what jobs they can perform. Most residential window installers are considered "minor contractors" and can only work on single and multi-family homes. If a company performs glasswork, it must have a Glazier license from the DCP.
Types of Windows Offered
The type of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will show more about the styles of windows it specializes in, such as:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
Reading other customers' stories is a great way to screen window companies in your area. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google Talk to people you know who have used the company you're evaluating, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Manchester
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
What's the typical timeline for a professional window replacement?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
