How To Choose a Window Company in Birmingham
An exceptional reputation is crucial when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and appreciate your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with value is important. Choosing economy 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, sizes, and materials of windows you choose, can impact pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window company can help you figure out which options are most suitable for your home.
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 | $245-$1508 |
| Awning | $355-$990 |
| Bay | $819-$6078 |
| Custom | $364-$1013 |
| Casement | $283-$1643 |
| Double-hung | $132-$855 |
| Egress | $243-$606 |
| Glass Block | $48-$615 |
| Picture | $213-$1575 |
| Single-hung | $96-$1620 |
| Skylight | $121-$1463 |
| Sliding | $279-$1418 |
| Storm | $57-$400 |
| Transom | $297-$621 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on the local climate, your desired look, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wooden 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 in Birmingham's strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $57-$1620 |
| Composite | $585-$1314 |
| Fiberglass | $96-$819 |
| Vinyl | $197-$1823 |
| Wood | $292-$1643 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Privately-issued credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Depending on the specifics of your job, a window installer may need either a maintenance and alterations license or residential builders license from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. For more information on licensing requirements, contact your local government.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that focuses on 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 greatest ways to evaluate a company is to read what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, 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 Birmingham
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
Is it better to replace all my windows at once, or just a few at a time?
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