How To Choose a Window Company in Lake Oswego
Reliability is key when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also match your needs and appreciate your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to window replacement, value is key. Each window you buy should deliver top-notch durability at a fair price point. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, together with the materials, sizes, and styles of windows you choose, 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. It's wise to consult a reliable window installer to decide on 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 | $247-$1517 |
| Awning | $357-$996 |
| Bay | $824-$6114 |
| Custom | $366-$1019 |
| Casement | $285-$1653 |
| Double-hung | $133-$860 |
| Egress | $244-$610 |
| Glass Block | $48-$618 |
| Picture | $214-$1585 |
| Single-hung | $96-$1630 |
| Skylight | $122-$1472 |
| Sliding | $280-$1426 |
| Storm | $57-$403 |
| Transom | $298-$625 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to choose a window material. Homeowners frequently make their selection by considering the local climate, energy efficiency objectives 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 | $57-$1630 |
| Composite | $588-$1322 |
| Fiberglass | $96-$824 |
| Vinyl | $198-$1834 |
| Wood | $294-$1653 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these aspects with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and contact a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online photo galleries that showcase past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will deliver top-notch workmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
In Oregon, window installation is considered "carpentry" and window repair is "handyman services." A company that performs either job will need a license from the state's Construction Contractors Board. It must also carry a $10,000 bond and at least $100,000 in liability coverage.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you want should influence your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will provide more about the varieties of windows it specializes in, 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. You can find customer reviews on websites like Google, the BBB, Trustpilot, and Yelp. 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 Lake Oswego
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the federal Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which measures how much light enters 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 evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to develop (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.
