How To Choose a Window Company in Waltham
Each window company has different offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, cost-effectiveness is most important. Each window you purchase should deliver top-notch durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The material, size, and style of your replacement windows are the most significant factors in your final cost. 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. A window expert can help you with selecting the options that fit your needs.
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
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl 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 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Choose a business that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window contractors are classified as general contractors and need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window classification. CSL applicants need to pass an open-book exam and show 36 months of work experience. 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
No two window contractors offer the same window styles 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
Reading other customers' stories is one of the smartest ways to screen different 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. 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 Waltham
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
Can I replace just my windows' glass and not their frames?
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