How To Choose a Window Company in Lake Villa
It's crucial to find a window replacement company that matches your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial expense, so balancing cost with long life is important. Although top-of-the-line windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The overall cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the particular sizes, materials, and styles you need. 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 undecided, a window specialist can help you decide which options are most suitable 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 | $222-$1367 |
| Awning | $322-$898 |
| Bay | $743-$5511 |
| Custom | $330-$918 |
| Casement | $257-$1490 |
| Double-hung | $120-$775 |
| Egress | $220-$550 |
| Glass Block | $44-$557 |
| Picture | $193-$1429 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1469 |
| Skylight | $110-$1326 |
| Sliding | $253-$1286 |
| Storm | $52-$363 |
| Transom | $269-$563 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners usually make their selection by considering aesthetic preferences, the local climate 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 warping and wear. 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-$1469 |
| Composite | $530-$1192 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$743 |
| Vinyl | $178-$1653 |
| Wood | $265-$1490 |
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 extra expenses that your project may entail.
Experience and Training
Examine a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online portfolios 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 business, the more likely it will provide excellent 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 more varied.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window types and materials. Look for one that's an expert in 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 one of the best ways to screen different window companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like Trustpilot, Google, 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 Lake Villa
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.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- Air leakage rating, which shows how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which measures how a window manages moisture
- U-factor, which shows a window's insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which determines how much visible light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which evaluates how much heat from sunlight can pass through the window
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
