How To Choose a Window Company in Minot
Trustworthiness is crucial when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also suit your needs and appreciate your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The style, material, and size 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. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you figure out 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 | $224-$1378 |
| Awning | $325-$905 |
| Bay | $748-$5554 |
| Custom | $333-$925 |
| Casement | $259-$1501 |
| Double-hung | $120-$781 |
| Egress | $222-$554 |
| Glass Block | $44-$561 |
| Picture | $195-$1439 |
| Single-hung | $88-$1481 |
| Skylight | $111-$1337 |
| Sliding | $255-$1295 |
| Storm | $52-$366 |
| Transom | $271-$567 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners frequently choose a material based on energy efficiency objectives, the local climate and aesthetic preferences. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. Wood windows cost less 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 | $52-$1481 |
| Composite | $534-$1201 |
| Fiberglass | $88-$748 |
| Vinyl | $180-$1666 |
| Wood | $267-$1501 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and contact a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many window companies also keep online photo galleries that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will provide high-quality craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
North Dakota contractors, including replacement window installers, must obtain a license from the Secretary of State to take any job worth $4,000 or more. To earn a license, applicants must submit business filings, provide proof of insurance, and show compliance with state workers' comp laws. There is no required testing or continuing education, so it's best to choose an installer with a strong track record. Certifications from trusted trade groups, such as the American Window and Door Institute or Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance, can also guide your search.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window contractors offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that specializes in the type you want for your home.
- 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 check what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, Google, Trustpilot, and the BBB. 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 Minot
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
How do replacement windows differ from new construction windows?
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