How To Choose a Window Company in Park Ridge
Each window provider has varying offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial expense, so balancing cost with value is crucial. Although top-of-the-line windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The material, size, and style of your new windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's recommended to consult a trusted window installer to figure out your most suitable options.
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 | $240-$1475 |
| Awning | $348-$969 |
| Bay | $801-$5946 |
| Custom | $356-$991 |
| Casement | $277-$1607 |
| Double-hung | $129-$836 |
| Egress | $237-$593 |
| Glass Block | $47-$601 |
| Picture | $208-$1541 |
| Single-hung | $94-$1585 |
| Skylight | $118-$1431 |
| Sliding | $273-$1387 |
| Storm | $56-$392 |
| Transom | $290-$607 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners often 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. You'll pay less for wood windows 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 | $56-$1585 |
| Composite | $572-$1286 |
| Fiberglass | $94-$801 |
| Vinyl | $192-$1784 |
| Wood | $286-$1607 |
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 additional costs that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Park Ridge area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Private certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but cities 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. Outside the Windy City, licensing requirements are different.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you want should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the kinds of windows it deals 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
Perhaps the best way to vet window companies for your job is to read what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. Ask people you know who have used the company you're evaluating, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Park Ridge
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
Will my window company install blinds?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
