How To Choose a Window Company in Bloomington
An exceptional reputation is important when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also align with your needs and respect your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing economy windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, as well as the styles, sizes, and materials of windows you opt for, can affect pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're unsure, a window provider can help you figure out which options are ideal 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 | $206-$1266 |
| Awning | $298-$831 |
| Bay | $688-$5105 |
| Custom | $306-$850 |
| Casement | $238-$1380 |
| Double-hung | $111-$718 |
| Egress | $204-$509 |
| Glass Block | $40-$516 |
| Picture | $179-$1323 |
| Single-hung | $80-$1361 |
| Skylight | $102-$1229 |
| Sliding | $234-$1191 |
| Storm | $48-$336 |
| Transom | $249-$521 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on your energy efficiency goals, your desired look, and the local climate. For example, windows made of wood 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 | $48-$1361 |
| Composite | $491-$1104 |
| Fiberglass | $80-$688 |
| Vinyl | $165-$1531 |
| Wood | $245-$1380 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to factor in the cost of labor, warranties, and any other supplemental fees that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Select a business that focuses on window repair and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Bloomington area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Privately-issued credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but municipalities in the Land of Lincoln might have their own requirements for companies to follow. In Chicago proper, window installers must have a Class D or E license and submit copies of their business filings for the public record. Outside the Windy City, licensing requirements are not uniform.
Types of Windows Offered
No two businesses offer the same window styles and materials. Look for 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
Reading other customers' stories is an excellent way to screen potential window companies. 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. Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Bloomington
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
How important are guarantees and extended support packages?
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