How To Choose a Window Company in Royal Oak
Each window company has specialized offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The size, material, and style of your new windows are the most significant factors in your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's recommended to speak with 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 | $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
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides unique advantages depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, aluminum and composites look sleek and stay strong in Royal Oak's strong storms, so they tend to cost more.
| 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 contractor you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Browse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will deliver top-notch service.
Licensing and Credentials
Depending on the particulars of your job, a window technician 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 the necessary licenses, contact your local government.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you desire should factor into your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will show more about the varieties of windows it works with, such as:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
Perhaps the best way to prescreen window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Trustpilot, Yelp, the BBB, and Google. Speak with people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Royal Oak
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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 upgrading to new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
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.
