How To Choose a Window Company in Wilmington
Trustworthiness is essential when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also align with your priorities and respect your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with performance is crucial. Although high-quality windows may be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The final cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the particular materials, sizes, and styles you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're unsure, a window specialist can help you decide which options are ideal for your home.
To help you form a rough estimate, this table shows the typical cost of the most common residential window types.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $207-$1272 |
| Awning | $299-$835 |
| Bay | $691-$5126 |
| Custom | $307-$854 |
| Casement | $239-$1386 |
| Double-hung | $111-$721 |
| Egress | $205-$511 |
| Glass Block | $41-$518 |
| Picture | $179-$1329 |
| Single-hung | $81-$1367 |
| Skylight | $102-$1234 |
| Sliding | $235-$1196 |
| Storm | $48-$337 |
| Transom | $250-$524 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently choose a material based on energy efficiency objectives, the local climate and aesthetic preferences. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. Wood windows cost less up-front, but you'll need to invest in regular maintenance to prevent the frame from warping and wear. Vinyl is readily available and tends to cost less, but don't underestimate its strong durability and low maintenance needs.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $48-$1367 |
| Composite | $493-$1108 |
| Fiberglass | $81-$691 |
| Vinyl | $166-$1537 |
| Wood | $246-$1386 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Browse a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online photo galleries that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will deliver high-quality workmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Delaware doesn't require window installers to carry a state license. Instead, cities can set their own licensing requirements—many of which are rather easy to fulfill. Contractors in Wilmington and Newark must register their businesses with the local government. Those in Dover must also register, but they'll be charged a fee to the city based on their annual revenue.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that focuses on the type you want for your home.
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
One of the most surefire ways to vet a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to people you know who have used the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Wilmington
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
When's the best time to replace my windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light passes through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which shows how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
