How To Choose a Window Company in Cincinnati
An exceptional reputation is important when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also suit your priorities and appreciate your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to window replacement, value is key. Each window you replace should deliver optimal durability at a reasonable price point. Although top-of-the-line replacement windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The final cost of your window replacement will hinge on the specific styles, materials, 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 wise to speak with a trusted window installer to figure out your most suitable options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $225-$1383 |
| Awning | $326-$908 |
| Bay | $751-$5575 |
| Custom | $334-$929 |
| Casement | $260-$1507 |
| Double-hung | $121-$784 |
| Egress | $223-$556 |
| Glass Block | $44-$564 |
| Picture | $195-$1445 |
| Single-hung | $88-$1486 |
| Skylight | $111-$1342 |
| Sliding | $256-$1300 |
| Storm | $52-$367 |
| Transom | $272-$569 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on your desired look, the local climate, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wood windows can give your home an organic design without breaking the bank, but you'll have to invest more toward maintenance. Aluminum and composite windows cost more up-front, but they're incredibly durable in Cincinnati's strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $52-$1486 |
| Composite | $536-$1205 |
| Fiberglass | $88-$751 |
| Vinyl | $180-$1672 |
| Wood | $268-$1507 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each window installer you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Browse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that showcase past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will deliver excellent service.
Licensing and Credentials
If installing windows and doors is all a company does, it will likely not need an Ohio contractor's license. However, it still needs a business license from the Secretary of State.
Cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus have their own licensure requirements. We recommend contacting your local building department for more information.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window types and materials. Find one that focuses on 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
Reading other customers' stories is a great way to screen different window companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google. 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 Cincinnati
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
What time of year should I replace my windows?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which shows how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which shows 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 occur (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.
