How To Choose a Window Company in Lewiston
An exceptional reputation is crucial when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also suit your needs and understand your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with performance is crucial. Although premium windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The final cost of your replacement windows will depend on the particular materials, styles, and sizes 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. It's recommended to speak with a reliable window installer to figure out your ideal options.
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 | $214-$1316 |
| Awning | $310-$864 |
| Bay | $715-$5305 |
| Custom | $318-$884 |
| Casement | $247-$1434 |
| Double-hung | $115-$746 |
| Egress | $212-$529 |
| Glass Block | $42-$536 |
| Picture | $186-$1375 |
| Single-hung | $84-$1414 |
| Skylight | $106-$1277 |
| Sliding | $243-$1237 |
| Storm | $50-$349 |
| Transom | $259-$542 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering energy efficiency objectives, aesthetic preferences and the local climate. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. Wood windows cost less 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 | $50-$1414 |
| Composite | $510-$1147 |
| Fiberglass | $84-$715 |
| Vinyl | $172-$1591 |
| Wood | $255-$1434 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these aspects with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Lewiston area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In Maine, the responsibility falls on cities to determine whether window installation companies need licenses. Even building codes are locally-managed to an extent.
Once you pick an installer, it must provide you a written contract to sign if the job costs over $3,000. This contract will include a clause prohibiting you from paying more than a third of the material costs upfront.
When choosing a company for your window needs, look at what professional memberships and accreditations it has. Certificates from the American Window and Door Institute or Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance are among the most widely recognized in the industry. You should also ask for proof of insurance and multiple customer references.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window styles and materials. Look for one that focuses on 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 prescreen window companies for your job is to find out what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Lewiston
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 upgrading to 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?
Do window companies have guarantees or warranties for their work?
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