How To Choose a Window Company in Essex
Each window company has unique offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is king. Each window you replace should provide top-notch durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing economy windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, styles, and materials of replacement windows you opt for, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's wise to speak with a reliable window installer to figure out your most suitable options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $231-$1422 |
| Awning | $335-$934 |
| Bay | $772-$5731 |
| Custom | $343-$955 |
| Casement | $267-$1549 |
| Double-hung | $124-$806 |
| Egress | $229-$572 |
| Glass Block | $45-$579 |
| Picture | $201-$1486 |
| Single-hung | $90-$1528 |
| Skylight | $114-$1379 |
| Sliding | $263-$1337 |
| Storm | $54-$377 |
| Transom | $280-$585 |
Window Material Cost
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on your climate and energy efficiency needs. Fiberglass and vinyl are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, aluminum and composites look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $54-$1528 |
| Composite | $551-$1239 |
| Fiberglass | $90-$772 |
| Vinyl | $185-$1719 |
| Wood | $275-$1549 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its public and private credentials, guarantees, and experience. Company websites often have photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
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 pass a trade and business exam, submit legal filings, verify insurance information, and show financial responsibility.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you desire should factor into your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will tell more about the varieties of windows 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
Perhaps the best way to prescreen window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Trustpilot, Google, Yelp, and the BBB. 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 Essex
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
I broke my window's glass. Could I replace just the glass?
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