How To Choose a Window Company in Iowa City
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to window replacement, cost-effectiveness is king. Each window you purchase should offer top-notch durability at an affordable price point. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, materials, and styles of replacement windows you select, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you figure out which options are most suitable 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 | $221-$1358 |
| Awning | $320-$892 |
| Bay | $738-$5475 |
| Custom | $328-$912 |
| Casement | $255-$1480 |
| Double-hung | $119-$770 |
| Egress | $219-$546 |
| Glass Block | $43-$554 |
| Picture | $192-$1419 |
| Single-hung | $86-$1460 |
| Skylight | $109-$1318 |
| Sliding | $251-$1277 |
| Storm | $51-$360 |
| Transom | $267-$559 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers different benefits depending on your 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 in Iowa City's strong storms, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $51-$1460 |
| Composite | $527-$1184 |
| Fiberglass | $86-$738 |
| Vinyl | $177-$1642 |
| Wood | $263-$1480 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the total costs involved in the project.
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 guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
Iowa mandates window contractors to register with the state's Division of Labor if they make over $2,000 per year from jobs. While the registration process doesn't require exams, new contractors must still provide proof of insurance and have at least a $25,000 bond.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window contractors offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that specializes in 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 see 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 a company you're interested in, and ask a representative for a copy of its reference list.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Iowa City
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the federal Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and retain heat in the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
Do window installers also work with blinds and coverings?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
