How To Choose a Window Company in Urbandale
An exceptional reputation is essential 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
When it comes to window replacement, cost-effectiveness is key. Each window you purchase should offer optimal durability at a fair price point. Although top-of-the-line windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The overall cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the specific materials, styles, and sizes you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's advisable to consult a reliable window installer to determine your ideal options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $224-$1376 |
| Awning | $324-$903 |
| Bay | $747-$5545 |
| Custom | $332-$924 |
| Casement | $258-$1499 |
| Double-hung | $120-$780 |
| Egress | $221-$553 |
| Glass Block | $44-$561 |
| Picture | $194-$1437 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1478 |
| Skylight | $110-$1335 |
| Sliding | $254-$1293 |
| Storm | $52-$365 |
| Transom | $271-$566 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, 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 in Urbandale's strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $52-$1478 |
| Composite | $534-$1199 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$747 |
| Vinyl | $179-$1663 |
| Wood | $267-$1499 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
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 exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will provide top-notch workmanship.
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 submit proof of insurance and have at least a $25,000 bond.
Types of Windows Offered
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Check 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
One of the easiest ways to vet a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, the BBB, Google, and Trustpilot. 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 Urbandale
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- Air leakage rating, which indicates how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which measures how a window deals with moisture
- U-factor, which determines a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which determines how much light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which measures 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.
