How To Choose a Window Company in Lawrence
Each window provider has specialized offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with value is crucial. Although premium replacement windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The final cost of your window replacement will depend on the specific styles, materials, and sizes you need. 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 advisable to consult 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 | $263-$1616 |
| Awning | $381-$1061 |
| Bay | $877-$6512 |
| Custom | $390-$1085 |
| Casement | $303-$1760 |
| Double-hung | $141-$916 |
| Egress | $260-$650 |
| Glass Block | $52-$658 |
| Picture | $228-$1688 |
| Single-hung | $103-$1736 |
| Skylight | $130-$1567 |
| Sliding | $299-$1519 |
| Storm | $61-$429 |
| Transom | $318-$665 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. For example, windows made of wood 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 | $61-$1736 |
| Composite | $627-$1408 |
| Fiberglass | $103-$877 |
| Vinyl | $211-$1953 |
| Wood | $313-$1760 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you understand the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a business that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window companies are classified as general contractors and need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window specialization. CSL applicants need to pass an open-book exam and demonstrate three years of vocational training. Once a contractor 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
No two businesses offer the same window types and materials. Look for one that specializes in the type you want for your home.
- 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 evaluate a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. 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 Lawrence
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What time of year should I replace my windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which measures 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.
