How To Choose a Window Company in Potomac
It's important to find a window replacement company that matches your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following points during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant investment, so balancing cost with performance is important. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, styles, and materials of windows you select, can impact pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can help you with selecting the solutions that fit your requirements.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| 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
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners usually 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 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 | $54-$1533 |
| Composite | $553-$1244 |
| Fiberglass | $91-$775 |
| Vinyl | $186-$1725 |
| Wood | $276-$1555 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Potomac area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Private credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Window contractors and subcontractors in Maryland must carry a license from the state's Home Improvement Commission. Each applicant for a license must take a test on business and trade practices, submit business filings, verify surety bond information, and show financial responsibility.
Types of Windows Offered
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Look on 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 easiest ways to screen a company is to read what other customers have written about their experiences. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google 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 Potomac
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 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 can pass 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 occur (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.
