How To Choose a Window Company in Cranberry
Each window installer has unique offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although top-of-the-line replacement windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The overall cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the particular materials, sizes, and styles you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you determine which options are most suitable for your home.
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 | $236-$1450 |
| Awning | $341-$952 |
| Bay | $787-$5843 |
| Custom | $350-$973 |
| Casement | $272-$1579 |
| Double-hung | $127-$822 |
| Egress | $233-$583 |
| Glass Block | $46-$591 |
| Picture | $205-$1515 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1558 |
| Skylight | $116-$1406 |
| Sliding | $268-$1363 |
| Storm | $55-$385 |
| Transom | $285-$597 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners usually 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 warping and wear. 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 | $55-$1558 |
| Composite | $562-$1263 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$787 |
| Vinyl | $189-$1753 |
| Wood | $281-$1579 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How many years it's been operating
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
While Pennsylvania window installers don't need a state license, they must still register with the attorney general's office and follow contract guidelines for residential jobs over $500 in value. Some cities, including Philadelphia, require licensure and have liability insurance minimums.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you desire should factor into 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 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 simplest ways to screen a company is to check what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Cranberry
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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 purchasing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
How frequently should I upgrade or replace my windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- Air leakage rating, which indicates how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which rates how a window deals with moisture
- U-factor, which shows a window's insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which measures how much light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which measures how much heat from sunlight can pass through the window
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
