How To Choose a Window Company in Dartmouth
It's essential to find a window installer that matches your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although premium replacement windows may be more expensive to buy, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, materials, and styles of replacement windows you choose, can impact 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. If you're undecided, a window provider can help you determine which options are ideal for your home.
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 | $224-$1378 |
| Awning | $325-$905 |
| Bay | $748-$5554 |
| Custom | $333-$925 |
| Casement | $259-$1501 |
| Double-hung | $120-$781 |
| Egress | $222-$554 |
| Glass Block | $44-$561 |
| Picture | $195-$1439 |
| Single-hung | $88-$1481 |
| Skylight | $111-$1337 |
| Sliding | $255-$1295 |
| Storm | $52-$366 |
| Transom | $271-$567 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently 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 | $52-$1481 |
| Composite | $534-$1201 |
| Fiberglass | $88-$748 |
| Vinyl | $180-$1666 |
| Wood | $267-$1501 |
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 assess the cost of labor, warranties, and any other supplemental fees that your project may need.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Dartmouth area
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Private accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window installers are considered general contractors and require a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window classification. CSL applicants must pass an open-book exam and prove three years of work experience. Once a business has a CSL, it must also register with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation as a "home improvement contractor."
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you desire should influence your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will provide more about the window types 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
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to read what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Dartmouth
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
Is it better to replace all my windows at once, or just a few at a time?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
