How To Choose a Window Company in Washington
An exceptional reputation is important when it comes to choosing a window provider. However, your chosen company should also match your needs and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
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 budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, styles, and materials of windows you select, can impact pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're unsure, a window provider can help you determine which options are best 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 | $235-$1445 |
| Awning | $340-$949 |
| Bay | $785-$5826 |
| Custom | $349-$971 |
| Casement | $271-$1575 |
| Double-hung | $126-$820 |
| Egress | $233-$581 |
| Glass Block | $46-$589 |
| Picture | $204-$1510 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1553 |
| Skylight | $116-$1402 |
| Sliding | $267-$1359 |
| Storm | $55-$384 |
| Transom | $284-$595 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering energy efficiency objectives, the local climate 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 | $55-$1553 |
| Composite | $561-$1260 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$785 |
| Vinyl | $189-$1747 |
| Wood | $280-$1575 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Examine a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will deliver excellent craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
New Jersey window installers must be registered home improvement or home repair contractors. The state's Department of Consumer Affairs grants licenses and enforces insurance requirements.
A proper contract is just as crucial as a contractor's license in New Jersey. The DCA lists several requirements that a contractor must include for jobs over $500 in value. It's a major red flag for a company to overlook one of these clauses, so verify you read everything before you commit.
Types of Windows Offered
There are several replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Look on 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
One of the most surefire ways to evaluate a company is to read what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. 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 Washington
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- Air leakage rating, which measures how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which rates how a window holds moisture
- U-factor, which determines a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which measures how much visible light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which evaluates how much heat from sunlight can pass through the window
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
