How To Choose a Window Company in St. Paul
It's crucial to find a window installer that meets your unique values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following areas during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with value is crucial. Although premium windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The total cost of your window replacement will depend on the particular materials, styles, and sizes you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's recommended to speak with a reliable window installer to determine your best 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 | $259-$1591 |
| Awning | $375-$1045 |
| Bay | $864-$6414 |
| Custom | $384-$1069 |
| Casement | $299-$1734 |
| Double-hung | $139-$902 |
| Egress | $256-$640 |
| Glass Block | $51-$649 |
| Picture | $225-$1662 |
| Single-hung | $101-$1710 |
| Skylight | $128-$1544 |
| Sliding | $294-$1496 |
| Storm | $60-$422 |
| Transom | $313-$655 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners usually choose a material based on the local climate, energy efficiency objectives and aesthetic preferences. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. You'll pay less for wood windows up-front, but you'll need to invest in regular maintenance to prevent the frame from wear and warping. Vinyl is readily available and tends to cost less, but don't underestimate its strong durability and low maintenance needs.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $60-$1710 |
| Composite | $617-$1387 |
| Fiberglass | $101-$864 |
| Vinyl | $208-$1924 |
| Wood | $308-$1734 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to take into account the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other extra expenses that your project may require.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Call a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
In Minnesota, window and door installation is considered carpentry work, and companies need either a remodeler or residential building contractor license from the Department of Labor and Industry. A company representative must clear a pre-application exam, provide copies of business filings, and participate in continuing education classes every two years once certified. If a window contractor makes $15,000 or less per year, it can request a Certificate of Exemption in place of a license.
Types of Windows Offered
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Search 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
Perhaps the best way to screen window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, Yelp, the BBB, and Trustpilot. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in St. Paul
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
How long does a window replacement job take?
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