How To Choose a Window Company in Urbana
Each window provider has specialized offerings and approaches. To streamline 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. Choosing budget windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The material, style, and size 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. It's advisable to consult a trusted window installer to decide on your best options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $237-$1459 |
| Awning | $344-$958 |
| Bay | $792-$5879 |
| Custom | $352-$979 |
| Casement | $274-$1589 |
| Double-hung | $128-$827 |
| Egress | $235-$587 |
| Glass Block | $47-$594 |
| Picture | $206-$1524 |
| Single-hung | $93-$1567 |
| Skylight | $117-$1415 |
| Sliding | $270-$1371 |
| Storm | $55-$387 |
| Transom | $287-$601 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners usually base their decision on aesthetic preferences, energy efficiency objectives and the local climate. 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 | $55-$1567 |
| Composite | $566-$1271 |
| Fiberglass | $93-$792 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1763 |
| Wood | $283-$1589 |
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 factors with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Browse 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 highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will provide excellent craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but municipalities 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 contractors offer the same window designs and materials. Look for one that focuses on 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 check what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Speak with people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Urbana
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light can pass through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which determines 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 develop (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.
