How To Choose a Window Company in DeKalb
Trustworthiness is essential when it comes to choosing a window provider. However, your chosen company should also suit your priorities and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although high-quality windows may be more expensive to buy, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The style, size, and material 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 new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. A professional can guide you through picking the solutions that fit your preferences.
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 | $222-$1366 |
| Awning | $322-$897 |
| Bay | $742-$5508 |
| Custom | $330-$918 |
| Casement | $257-$1489 |
| Double-hung | $119-$775 |
| Egress | $220-$549 |
| Glass Block | $44-$557 |
| Picture | $193-$1428 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1468 |
| Skylight | $110-$1326 |
| Sliding | $252-$1285 |
| Storm | $52-$363 |
| Transom | $269-$563 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners usually choose a material based on energy efficiency objectives, aesthetic preferences and the local climate. 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 wear and warping. 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 | $52-$1468 |
| Composite | $530-$1191 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$742 |
| Vinyl | $178-$1652 |
| Wood | $265-$1489 |
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 assess the cost of installation, guarantees, and any other supplemental fees that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and contact a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online galleries that showcase past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will provide excellent service.
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. Beyond the Windy City, licensing requirements are not uniform.
Types of Windows Offered
There are several replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Search 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 a great way to screen potential window companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB. Speak with people you know who have used a company you're interested in, and ask a representative for a copy of its reference list.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in DeKalb
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
