How To Choose a Window Company in Merrimack
Each window installer has specialized offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to window replacement, cost-effectiveness is key. Each window you purchase should provide top-notch durability at a fair price point. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The total cost of your window replacement will hinge on the specific styles, materials, and sizes you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. A professional can guide you through choosing the options that fit your requirements.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $234-$1437 |
| Awning | $339-$944 |
| Bay | $781-$5794 |
| Custom | $347-$965 |
| Casement | $270-$1566 |
| Double-hung | $126-$815 |
| Egress | $231-$578 |
| Glass Block | $46-$586 |
| Picture | $203-$1502 |
| Single-hung | $91-$1545 |
| Skylight | $115-$1394 |
| Sliding | $266-$1351 |
| Storm | $54-$381 |
| Transom | $283-$592 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners often base their decision on energy efficiency objectives, aesthetic preferences and the local climate. 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 warping and wear. 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 | $54-$1545 |
| Composite | $557-$1253 |
| Fiberglass | $91-$781 |
| Vinyl | $187-$1738 |
| Wood | $278-$1566 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a company 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 projects its crews completed
- Official non-government accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In New Hampshire, local governments can establish their own licenses, permits, and guidelines for service providers, including window installation companies. We strongly recommend contacting your local building office to see what's required of contractors in your area. You can also go to each company's website to check for private accreditations and professional memberships. The two most well-known certificates come from the AWDI and Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you want 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 specializes in, 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
Reading other customers' stories is one of the smartest ways to screen different window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Ask people you know who have used the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Merrimack
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the national Department of Energy, as much as 33% of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light enters through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which measures how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which measures how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
