How To Choose a Window Company in Wheaton
It's essential to find a window installer that matches your unique values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with value is important. Although high-quality windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. 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. It's advisable 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 | $252-$1547 |
| Awning | $364-$1016 |
| Bay | $840-$6236 |
| Custom | $374-$1039 |
| Casement | $291-$1686 |
| Double-hung | $135-$877 |
| Egress | $249-$622 |
| Glass Block | $49-$631 |
| Picture | $218-$1616 |
| Single-hung | $98-$1663 |
| Skylight | $124-$1501 |
| Sliding | $286-$1455 |
| Storm | $59-$411 |
| Transom | $304-$637 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on the local climate and energy-saving goals. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $59-$1663 |
| Composite | $600-$1348 |
| Fiberglass | $98-$840 |
| Vinyl | $202-$1870 |
| Wood | $300-$1686 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its experience, guarantees, and public and private credentials. Company websites often keep photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
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. Outside the Windy City, licensing requirements are not uniform.
Types of Windows Offered
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's important to find a company that focuses on installing the ones you want. Look on a company's website and reviews for any of these types:
- 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 screen window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Wheaton
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
What kinds of repairs can my window company perform?
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