How To Choose a Window Company in St. Clair
Reliability is important when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also suit your needs and appreciate your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, cost-effectiveness is king. Each window you replace should provide unparalleled durability at a fair price point. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, size, and material of your replacement windows are the most significant factors in your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're unsure, a window specialist can help you decide 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 | $193-$1188 |
| Awning | $280-$780 |
| Bay | $645-$4788 |
| Custom | $287-$798 |
| Casement | $223-$1294 |
| Double-hung | $104-$673 |
| Egress | $191-$478 |
| Glass Block | $38-$484 |
| Picture | $168-$1241 |
| Single-hung | $75-$1276 |
| Skylight | $95-$1152 |
| Sliding | $219-$1117 |
| Storm | $45-$315 |
| Transom | $234-$489 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering the local climate, energy efficiency objectives and aesthetic preferences. 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 | $45-$1276 |
| Composite | $461-$1035 |
| Fiberglass | $75-$645 |
| Vinyl | $155-$1436 |
| Wood | $230-$1294 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these aspects with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online galleries that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will provide excellent service.
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. Beyond the Windy City, licensing requirements are more varied.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window installers offer the same window designs and materials. Look for one that specializes 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
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to find out what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Google, Yelp, and the BBB 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. Clair
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the federal Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and retain heat in the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
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