How To Choose a Window Company in Ellicott City
Each window provider has different offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial expense, so balancing cost with quality is crucial. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The material, style, and size of your replacement windows are the most significant factors in your final cost. 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. An installer can guide you through choosing the products 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 | $242-$1489 |
| Awning | $351-$978 |
| Bay | $809-$6004 |
| Custom | $360-$1000 |
| Casement | $280-$1623 |
| Double-hung | $130-$845 |
| Egress | $240-$599 |
| Glass Block | $48-$607 |
| Picture | $210-$1556 |
| Single-hung | $95-$1601 |
| Skylight | $120-$1445 |
| Sliding | $275-$1400 |
| Storm | $56-$395 |
| Transom | $293-$613 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners frequently base their decision on the local climate, energy efficiency objectives and aesthetic preferences. 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 | $56-$1601 |
| Composite | $578-$1298 |
| Fiberglass | $95-$809 |
| Vinyl | $194-$1801 |
| Wood | $289-$1623 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window repair and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Ellicott City area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Window installers and subcontractors in Maryland must carry a license from the state's Home Improvement Commission. Each applicant for a license must successfully complete a test on business and trade practices, submit legal paperwork, verify insurance information, and prove financial responsibility.
Types of Windows Offered
No two businesses offer the same window styles and materials. Look for one that specializes in 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
Reading other customers' stories is a great way to screen window companies in your area. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, and the BBB. Speak with people you know who have used a company you're interested in, and ask a representative for a copy of its reference list.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Ellicott City
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the national Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
What time of year should I replace my windows?
What repair services do window companies offer?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
