How To Choose a Window Company in Helena
Dependability is important when it comes to choosing a window provider. However, your chosen company should also align with your needs and appreciate your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial expense, so balancing cost with quality is important. Choosing economy 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 play the largest role in determining your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can help you with selecting the products 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 | $209-$1288 |
| Awning | $303-$845 |
| Bay | $699-$5191 |
| Custom | $311-$865 |
| Casement | $242-$1403 |
| Double-hung | $113-$730 |
| Egress | $207-$518 |
| Glass Block | $41-$525 |
| Picture | $182-$1345 |
| Single-hung | $82-$1384 |
| Skylight | $103-$1249 |
| Sliding | $238-$1211 |
| Storm | $49-$342 |
| Transom | $253-$530 |
Window Material Cost
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers 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 | $49-$1384 |
| Composite | $499-$1122 |
| Fiberglass | $82-$699 |
| Vinyl | $168-$1557 |
| Wood | $249-$1403 |
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 factor in the cost of labor, warranties, and any other extra expenses that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Select a business that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Helena area
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Montana requires window professionals to enroll in the Construction Contractor Registration Program instead of acquiring a license. The law applies to any business that removes from or adds to real property, be it a home or a business. Since there's no licensing exam involved, we advise you to look into private certifications from each company you're evaluating.
Types of Windows Offered
The type of window you desire should play a role in your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will provide 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 vet window companies for your job is to find out what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Google, Yelp, 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 Helena
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
Is it better to replace all my windows at once, or just a few at a time?
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