How To Choose a Window Company in Harlem
It's essential to find a window installer that aligns with your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant investment, so balancing cost with quality is vital. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a shorter 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 sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can guide you through choosing the options that fit your needs.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $221-$1360 |
| Awning | $320-$893 |
| Bay | $738-$5480 |
| Custom | $328-$913 |
| Casement | $255-$1481 |
| Double-hung | $119-$771 |
| Egress | $219-$547 |
| Glass Block | $43-$554 |
| Picture | $192-$1420 |
| Single-hung | $86-$1461 |
| Skylight | $109-$1319 |
| Sliding | $251-$1278 |
| Storm | $51-$361 |
| Transom | $267-$560 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering the local climate, aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency objectives. 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 | $51-$1461 |
| Composite | $527-$1185 |
| Fiberglass | $86-$738 |
| Vinyl | $177-$1644 |
| Wood | $263-$1481 |
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 take into account the cost of labor, warranties, and any other supplemental fees that your project may entail.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but towns 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 different.
Types of Windows Offered
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's essential to find a company that focuses on installing 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
One of the best ways to screen a company is to check 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 Harlem
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the national Department of Energy, as much as 33% of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
I broke my window's glass. Could I replace just the glass?
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