How To Choose a Window Company in Shaker Heights
Dependability is key when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and appreciate your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The size, style, and material of your new windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're undecided, a window company can help you decide which options are most suitable for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $220-$1354 |
| Awning | $319-$889 |
| Bay | $735-$5457 |
| Custom | $327-$909 |
| Casement | $254-$1475 |
| Double-hung | $118-$768 |
| Egress | $218-$544 |
| Glass Block | $43-$552 |
| Picture | $191-$1414 |
| Single-hung | $86-$1455 |
| Skylight | $109-$1313 |
| Sliding | $250-$1273 |
| Storm | $51-$359 |
| Transom | $266-$557 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. For example, wooden 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 Shaker Heights' strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $51-$1455 |
| Composite | $525-$1180 |
| Fiberglass | $86-$735 |
| Vinyl | $177-$1637 |
| Wood | $262-$1475 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you understand the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Shaker Heights area
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Private certifications attesting to its workmanship
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 permit regulations. We recommend contacting your local building department for more information.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you prefer should factor into your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will provide more about the window types it focuses on, 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
One of the greatest ways to vet a company is to read what other customers have said about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, the BBB, Yelp, and Trustpilot. Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Shaker Heights
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
You might need to change the screen for large tears or those along the edges of the window. A window company you trust can get the job done at a reasonable cost.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
