How To Choose a Window Company in Chelsea
Trustworthiness is crucial when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and understand your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is most important. Each window you purchase should deliver unparalleled durability at a fair price point. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the styles, materials, and sizes of replacement windows you choose, can affect pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's wise to consult a trusted window installer to decide on your most suitable options.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $277-$1704 |
| Awning | $401-$1119 |
| Bay | $926-$6869 |
| Custom | $412-$1144 |
| Casement | $320-$1857 |
| Double-hung | $149-$966 |
| Egress | $274-$685 |
| Glass Block | $54-$695 |
| Picture | $241-$1780 |
| Single-hung | $108-$1831 |
| Skylight | $137-$1653 |
| Sliding | $315-$1602 |
| Storm | $65-$452 |
| Transom | $335-$702 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners usually choose a material based on 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 warping and wear. 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 | $65-$1831 |
| Composite | $661-$1485 |
| Fiberglass | $108-$926 |
| Vinyl | $222-$2060 |
| Wood | $330-$1857 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How many years it's been operating
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Private certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window contractors are considered general contractors and need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window classification. CSL applicants must pass an open-book exam and prove three years of full-time experience. Once a business has a CSL, it also needs to register with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation as a "home improvement contractor."
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you want should influence your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will tell more about the kinds 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 a great way to screen different window replacement companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, the BBB, Trustpilot, and Yelp. Talk to 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 Chelsea
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. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and retain heat in the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
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.
