How To Choose a Window Company in Duluth
It's crucial to find a window replacement company that meets your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following points during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with performance is crucial. Choosing economy windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The overall cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the particular materials, styles, and sizes you need. 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. If you're unsure, a window company can help you determine which options are most suitable for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $223-$1368 |
| Awning | $322-$899 |
| Bay | $743-$5516 |
| Custom | $331-$919 |
| Casement | $257-$1491 |
| Double-hung | $120-$776 |
| Egress | $220-$550 |
| Glass Block | $44-$558 |
| Picture | $193-$1430 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1471 |
| Skylight | $110-$1328 |
| Sliding | $253-$1287 |
| Storm | $52-$363 |
| Transom | $269-$563 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wood windows can give your home an organic design without breaking the bank, but you'll have to invest more toward maintenance. Aluminum and composite windows cost more up-front, but they're incredibly durable against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $52-$1471 |
| Composite | $531-$1193 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$743 |
| Vinyl | $178-$1655 |
| Wood | $265-$1491 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you understand the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a business that focuses on window repair and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How many years it's been operating
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government certificates attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In Georgia, window installers are considered Drywall, Insulation, Studs & Acoustical Limited Service Specialty Contractors. They don't need a license to install windows or doors, but if their work extends beyond that scope, they will need licensure.
Types of Windows Offered
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Browse a company's website and reviews for any of these types:
- 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 an excellent way to screen window companies in your area. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Speak with people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Duluth
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
The U.S. Department of Energy states that 25%–30% of a home's heating and cooling capacity is used to compensate for heat gain and heat loss through windows. By investing in new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which shows 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 occur (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.
