How To Choose a Window Company in Portland
With Portland's sheer size, you're sure to find a dependable window replacement company that matches your values and preferences. As you make calls, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with long life is important. Although high-quality replacement windows may be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The age of your home, as well as the materials, styles, and sizes of replacement windows you opt for, can impact pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. An installer can guide you through choosing the options that fit your requirements.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| 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
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides unique advantages depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $54-$1523 |
| Composite | $550-$1235 |
| Fiberglass | $90-$770 |
| Vinyl | $185-$1713 |
| Wood | $275-$1544 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you gain a complete understanding of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has served your area, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have photo galleries demonstrating previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
In Oregon, window fitting is considered "carpentry" and window repair is "handyman services." A firm that performs either task will need a license from the state's Construction Contractors Board. It must also carry a $10,000 bond and at least a $100,000 liability insurance policy.
Types of Windows Offered
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Check 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
Reading other customers' stories is a surefire way to screen potential window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. 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 Portland
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
How can I fix a broken window screen?
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