How To Choose a Window Company in Fairland
Each window provider has unique offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, cost-effectiveness is key. Each window you replace should deliver top-notch durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, together with the styles, materials, and sizes 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. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you figure out which options are most suitable for your home.
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 | $232-$1427 |
| Awning | $336-$937 |
| Bay | $775-$5751 |
| Custom | $345-$958 |
| Casement | $268-$1555 |
| Double-hung | $125-$809 |
| Egress | $230-$574 |
| Glass Block | $46-$581 |
| Picture | $201-$1491 |
| Single-hung | $91-$1533 |
| Skylight | $115-$1384 |
| Sliding | $264-$1342 |
| Storm | $54-$379 |
| Transom | $281-$587 |
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, wooden 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 | $54-$1533 |
| Composite | $553-$1244 |
| Fiberglass | $91-$775 |
| Vinyl | $186-$1725 |
| Wood | $276-$1555 |
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 installation, guarantees, and any other extra expenses that your project may require.
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 window companies also keep online photo galleries that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will provide top-notch craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Window installers 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 good financial standing.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you want should influence your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the varieties of windows it focuses on, 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
Reading other customers' stories is an excellent way to screen different window replacement companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. Speak with people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Fairland
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light passes through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which tells you how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which determines how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which measures how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
