How To Choose a Window Company in Albany
An exceptional reputation is crucial when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. However, your chosen company should also align with your priorities and respect your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the sizes, styles, and materials of replacement windows you opt for, can impact pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. An installer 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 | $231-$1417 |
| Awning | $334-$930 |
| Bay | $770-$5712 |
| Custom | $342-$952 |
| Casement | $266-$1544 |
| Double-hung | $124-$803 |
| Egress | $228-$570 |
| Glass Block | $45-$577 |
| Picture | $200-$1480 |
| Single-hung | $90-$1523 |
| Skylight | $114-$1375 |
| Sliding | $262-$1332 |
| Storm | $54-$376 |
| Transom | $279-$583 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your desired look, your energy efficiency goals, and the local climate. For example, windows made of wood 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 | $54-$1523 |
| Composite | $550-$1235 |
| Fiberglass | $90-$770 |
| Vinyl | $185-$1713 |
| Wood | $275-$1544 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these factors with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Speak with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often keep photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
In Oregon, window installation is considered "carpentry" and window repair is "handyman services." A company that performs either task will need a license from the state's Construction Contractors Board. It must also carry a $10,000 surety bond and at least $100,000 in liability coverage.
Types of Windows Offered
The type of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will provide more about the varieties of windows it deals with, 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 one of the smartest ways to screen potential window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Albany
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
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