How To Choose a Window Company in Bowie
Trustworthiness is key when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also align with your needs and appreciate your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a window with top-notch quality and durability. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, material, and size of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. 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. It's wise to speak with a reliable installer to determine 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 | $229-$1408 |
| Awning | $332-$925 |
| Bay | $765-$5677 |
| Custom | $340-$946 |
| Casement | $264-$1534 |
| Double-hung | $123-$799 |
| 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
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering the local climate, aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency objectives. 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 warping and wear. 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 | $53-$1513 |
| Composite | $546-$1227 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$765 |
| Vinyl | $184-$1703 |
| 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 factor in the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other additional costs that your project may need.
Experience and Training
Examine a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many companies also keep online galleries that present past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will deliver high-quality workmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Window contractors and subcontractors in Maryland must carry a license from the state's Home Improvement Commission. Each candidate for a license must take a test on business and trade practices, submit legal paperwork, verify surety bond information, and demonstrate financial responsibility.
Types of Windows Offered
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that specializes in 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 greatest ways to evaluate a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. 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 Bowie
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.