How To Choose a Window Company in Portage
Dependability is important when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and respect your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major purchase, so balancing cost with quality is vital. Although top-of-the-line windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The total cost of your replacement windows will rely on the specific sizes, styles, and materials you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. A window expert can help you with selecting the options that fit your preferences.
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
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides unique advantages depending on the local climate and energy efficiency needs. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, aluminum and composites look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $53-$1513 |
| Composite | $546-$1227 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$765 |
| Vinyl | $184-$1702 |
| Wood | $273-$1534 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to assess the cost of installation, warranties, and any other extra expenses that your project may entail.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online galleries that present past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will deliver excellent craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Window installer requirements are up to local governments in Indiana. While large cities like Fort Wayne and Indianapolis do have licensing requirements, many countryside communities don't issue them at all. A dependable window company will choose to show its skill by earning private certificates from trade groups such as the American Window and Door Institute or Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will reveal more about the kinds of windows it specializes in, 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
Reading other customers' stories is an excellent way to screen window companies in your area. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. 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 Portage
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
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 enhance your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
Should I replace my windows a couple at a time, or is it more economical to replace them all at once?
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