How To Choose a Window Company in West Chester
An exceptional reputation is crucial 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 crucial 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 be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The age of your home, together with the styles, materials, and sizes of windows you select, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. A window expert can guide you through picking the solutions that fit your needs.
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 | $213-$1312 |
| Awning | $309-$861 |
| Bay | $712-$5288 |
| Custom | $317-$881 |
| Casement | $246-$1429 |
| Double-hung | $115-$744 |
| Egress | $211-$528 |
| Glass Block | $42-$535 |
| Picture | $185-$1370 |
| Single-hung | $83-$1410 |
| Skylight | $105-$1273 |
| Sliding | $242-$1233 |
| Storm | $50-$348 |
| Transom | $258-$540 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners often 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 | $50-$1410 |
| Composite | $509-$1143 |
| Fiberglass | $83-$712 |
| Vinyl | $171-$1586 |
| Wood | $254-$1429 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, public and private credentials, and experience. Company websites often keep photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
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 Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati have their own permit regulations. We recommend contacting your local building department for more information.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you want should play a role in your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window styles you want. A company website will show more about the varieties of windows 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
Reading other customers' stories is an excellent way to screen potential window companies. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB. 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 West Chester
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 upgrading to new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
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 measures how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which measures 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.
