How To Choose a Window Company in Independence
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, cost-effectiveness is paramount. Each window you purchase should provide optimal durability at a fair price point. Although premium windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The total cost of your replacement windows will depend on the specific materials, styles, and sizes you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. An installer can guide you through picking the options that fit your requirements.
To help you form a rough estimate, this table shows the typical cost of the most common residential window types.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $220-$1351 |
| Awning | $318-$887 |
| Bay | $734-$5447 |
| Custom | $326-$907 |
| Casement | $254-$1472 |
| Double-hung | $118-$766 |
| Egress | $217-$543 |
| Glass Block | $43-$551 |
| Picture | $191-$1412 |
| Single-hung | $86-$1452 |
| Skylight | $108-$1311 |
| Sliding | $250-$1271 |
| Storm | $51-$359 |
| Transom | $266-$556 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners usually base their decision on energy efficiency objectives, aesthetic preferences and the local climate. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. You'll pay less for wood windows up-front, but you'll need to invest in regular maintenance to prevent the frame from wear and warping. Vinyl is readily available and tends to cost less, but don't underestimate its strong durability and low maintenance needs.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $51-$1452 |
| Composite | $524-$1178 |
| Fiberglass | $86-$734 |
| Vinyl | $176-$1634 |
| Wood | $262-$1472 |
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 take into account the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other supplemental fees that your project may need.
Experience and Training
Choose a business that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Privately-issued credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
While Kentucky issues state-level licenses for some skilled trades, it does not for window installation. Cities and counties have full leeway to set their own guidelines, and we encourage you to reach out to your city hall to find out more.
Further, investigate what private awards a window installer has. Some renowned certifications include those from the AWDI or Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you prefer should influence your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will tell more about the window types it works with, 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 greatest ways to screen a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include the BBB, Trustpilot, and Yelp 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 Independence
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
When's the best time to replace my windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- Air leakage rating, which shows how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which shows how a window holds moisture
- U-factor, which shows a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which determines 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.
