How To Choose a Window Company in Lowell
With Lowell's large population, you're sure to find a trustworthy window company that aligns with your values and preferences. As you reach out to companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with quality is vital. Although top-of-the-line windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The style, size, and material of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's advisable to speak with a trusted installer to determine your ideal options.
To help you form a rough estimate, this table shows the typical cost of the most common residential window types.
| 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
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers different benefits depending on the local climate and energy-saving goals. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $59-$1671 |
| Composite | $603-$1355 |
| Fiberglass | $99-$844 |
| Vinyl | $203-$1880 |
| Wood | $301-$1694 |
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Speak with a company representative to learn more about its public and private credentials, guarantees, and experience. Company websites often have photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window companies are classified as general contractors and require a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window classification. CSL applicants need to pass an open-book exam and prove 36 months of work experience. Once a company 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
No two contractors offer the same window styles and materials. Find 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
Reading other customers' stories is one of the best ways to screen potential window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Lowell
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the national Department of Energy, as much as 33% 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?
Do window companies have guarantees or warranties for their work?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.