How To Choose a Window Company in Dracut
Reliability is important when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also align with your priorities and respect your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, as well as the styles, materials, and sizes of windows you select, can impact pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's recommended to speak with a trusted window installer to decide on your best 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 | $253-$1555 |
| Awning | $366-$1021 |
| Bay | $844-$6267 |
| Custom | $376-$1044 |
| Casement | $292-$1694 |
| Double-hung | $136-$882 |
| Egress | $250-$625 |
| Glass Block | $50-$634 |
| Picture | $220-$1624 |
| Single-hung | $99-$1671 |
| Skylight | $125-$1508 |
| Sliding | $287-$1462 |
| Storm | $59-$413 |
| Transom | $306-$640 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners often base their decision 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 | $59-$1671 |
| Composite | $603-$1355 |
| Fiberglass | $99-$844 |
| Vinyl | $203-$1880 |
| Wood | $301-$1694 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
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 galleries that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will provide high-quality service.
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window contractors are considered general contractors and require a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window specialization. CSL applicants need to pass an open-book exam and show 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
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's essential to find a company that focuses on installing 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 most surefire ways to evaluate a company is to check what other customers have written about their experiences. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, Google, 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 Dracut
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
