How To Choose a Window Company in Warren
An exceptional reputation is crucial when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also align with your needs and appreciate your vision. Think about 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 buy should offer unparalleled durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The final cost of your window replacement will hinge on the particular styles, sizes, and materials you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's advisable to speak with a reliable window installer to determine your ideal options.
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 often base their decision on 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 wear and warping. 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 total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit application fees, and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Examine 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 highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will deliver top-notch 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 their business filings for the public record. Beyond the Windy City, licensing requirements are more varied.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you desire should factor into your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the styles 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 check what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Warren
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light can pass through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you 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 measures 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.
