How To Choose a Window Company in Plain
Reliability is essential when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also align with your priorities and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with performance is vital. Choosing economy windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The final cost of your replacement windows will depend on the particular materials, sizes, and styles you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's advisable to consult a reliable window installer to decide on your most suitable options.
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 | $222-$1364 |
| Awning | $321-$896 |
| Bay | $741-$5499 |
| Custom | $329-$916 |
| Casement | $256-$1486 |
| Double-hung | $119-$773 |
| Egress | $219-$549 |
| Glass Block | $43-$556 |
| Picture | $193-$1425 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1466 |
| Skylight | $109-$1323 |
| Sliding | $252-$1283 |
| Storm | $52-$362 |
| Transom | $268-$562 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on your energy efficiency goals, your desired look, and the local climate. 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 against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $52-$1466 |
| Composite | $529-$1189 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$741 |
| Vinyl | $178-$1649 |
| Wood | $264-$1486 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Contact a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, public and private credentials, and experience. Company websites often keep photo galleries showcasing previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
If window and door installations are 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 Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland have their own permit regulations. We recommend contacting your local building office for more information.
Types of Windows Offered
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's important to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Search 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
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 Yelp, 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 Plain
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
Will my window company install blinds?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
