How To Choose a Window Company in Columbus
Dependability is essential when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also suit your priorities and respect your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important 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 raise your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The final cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the specific materials, sizes, and styles you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're unsure, a window company can help you determine which options are ideal for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $229-$1408 |
| Awning | $332-$924 |
| Bay | $765-$5675 |
| Custom | $340-$945 |
| Casement | $264-$1534 |
| Double-hung | $123-$798 |
| Egress | $227-$566 |
| Glass Block | $45-$574 |
| Picture | $199-$1471 |
| Single-hung | $89-$1513 |
| Skylight | $113-$1366 |
| Sliding | $260-$1324 |
| Storm | $53-$374 |
| Transom | $277-$580 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your energy efficiency goals, the local climate, and your desired look. For example, wood windows can give your home an organic design without breaking the bank, but you'll have to invest more toward maintenance. Aluminum and composite windows cost more up-front, but they're incredibly durable against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $53-$1513 |
| Composite | $546-$1227 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$765 |
| Vinyl | $184-$1702 |
| Wood | $273-$1534 |
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
Choose a company 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 completed projects
- Privately-issued certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Window installer requirements are up to local governments in Indiana. While big cities like Fort Wayne and Indianapolis have licensing requirements, many countryside communities don't issue them at all. A trustworthy window company will choose to show its expertise by earning private certificates from trade groups like the American Window and Door Institute or Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will reveal more about the varieties of windows it focuses on, 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
One of the simplest ways to screen a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. 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 Columbus
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the federal Department of Energy, as much as 33% of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
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?
- Air leakage rating, which indicates how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which measures how a window holds moisture
- U-factor, which shows a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which shows how much light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which determines how much heat from sunlight can pass through the window
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
