How To Choose a Window Company in Ela
It's crucial to find a window installer that aligns with your specific values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is king. Each window you purchase should offer unparalleled durability at a fair price point. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The final cost of your replacement windows will rely on the specific materials, styles, and sizes you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you determine which options are best 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 | $237-$1459 |
| Awning | $344-$958 |
| Bay | $792-$5879 |
| Custom | $352-$979 |
| Casement | $274-$1589 |
| Double-hung | $128-$827 |
| Egress | $235-$587 |
| Glass Block | $47-$594 |
| Picture | $206-$1524 |
| Single-hung | $93-$1567 |
| Skylight | $117-$1415 |
| Sliding | $270-$1371 |
| Storm | $55-$387 |
| Transom | $287-$601 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. For example, wooden 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 | $55-$1567 |
| Composite | $566-$1271 |
| Fiberglass | $93-$792 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1763 |
| Wood | $283-$1589 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these factors with a sales representative 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. Speak with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, public and private credentials, and experience. Company websites often have photo galleries where you can see previous work technicians have done.
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 business disclosures for the public record. Beyond the Windy City, licensing requirements are not uniform.
Types of Windows Offered
The type of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will show more about the varieties of windows it works with, 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 one of the smartest ways to screen different window replacement companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Ela
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
