How To Choose a Window Company in St. Charles
It's important to find a window installer that aligns with your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The material, style, and size of your replacement windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's wise to consult a vetted window installer to decide on your most suitable options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $234-$1441 |
| Awning | $339-$946 |
| Bay | $783-$5808 |
| Custom | $348-$968 |
| Casement | $271-$1570 |
| Double-hung | $126-$817 |
| Egress | $232-$580 |
| Glass Block | $46-$587 |
| Picture | $203-$1506 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1549 |
| Skylight | $116-$1398 |
| Sliding | $266-$1355 |
| Storm | $55-$382 |
| Transom | $283-$593 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners often base their decision 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 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 | $55-$1549 |
| Composite | $559-$1256 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$783 |
| Vinyl | $188-$1742 |
| Wood | $279-$1570 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you understand the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a business that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Privately-issued certificates 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 kind of window you desire should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will show more about the varieties 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
Reading other customers' stories is an interesting way to screen different window companies. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, the BBB, and Trustpilot Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in St. Charles
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 minimize your electricity bills.
What time of year should I replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light passes through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which measures how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to occur (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
