How To Choose a Window Company in Eldersburg
Dependability is key when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also suit your priorities and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The overall cost of your window replacement will hinge on the specific materials, sizes, and styles you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're unsure, a window company can help you decide which options are ideal 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 | $247-$1516 |
| Awning | $357-$995 |
| Bay | $823-$6111 |
| Custom | $366-$1018 |
| Casement | $285-$1652 |
| Double-hung | $133-$860 |
| Egress | $244-$610 |
| Glass Block | $48-$618 |
| Picture | $214-$1584 |
| Single-hung | $96-$1629 |
| Skylight | $122-$1471 |
| Sliding | $280-$1425 |
| Storm | $57-$402 |
| Transom | $298-$624 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. 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 against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $57-$1629 |
| Composite | $588-$1321 |
| Fiberglass | $96-$823 |
| Vinyl | $198-$1833 |
| Wood | $294-$1652 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you gain a complete understanding of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its experience, guarantees, and public and private credentials. Company websites often keep photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
Window specialists and subcontractors in Maryland must carry a license from the state's Home Improvement Commission. Each candidate for a license must pass a trade and business exam, submit legal filings, verify surety bond information, and prove financial responsibility.
Types of Windows Offered
The type of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will tell more about the styles of windows it deals 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
Perhaps the best way to prescreen window companies for your job is to check what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB. Talk to people you know who have used the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Eldersburg
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 enhance your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
How do replacement windows differ from new construction windows?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
