How To Choose a Window Company in Reading
It's important to find a window replacement company that aligns with your individual values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial 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 come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide 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 select, can influence pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's wise to consult a vetted window installer to determine your most suitable options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| 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
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wood windows 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 | $59-$1671 |
| Composite | $603-$1355 |
| Fiberglass | $99-$844 |
| Vinyl | $203-$1880 |
| Wood | $301-$1694 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Reading area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Private credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window contractors are considered general contractors and require a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window classification. CSL applicants must pass an open-book exam and demonstrate 36 months of vocational training. 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
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's essential to find a company that specializes in the ones you want. Browse 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 simplest ways to evaluate a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Ask people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Reading
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
The U.S. Department of Energy states that 25%–30% of a home's heating and cooling capacity is used to compensate for heat gain and heat loss through windows. By investing in new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
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