How To Choose a Window Company in Erie
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To streamline the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with value is crucial. Choosing budget windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The size, style, and material of your new windows are the most significant factors in your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. An installer can help you with selecting the solutions that fit your preferences.
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 | $218-$1339 |
| Awning | $315-$879 |
| Bay | $727-$5396 |
| Custom | $323-$899 |
| Casement | $251-$1458 |
| Double-hung | $117-$759 |
| Egress | $215-$538 |
| Glass Block | $43-$546 |
| Picture | $189-$1399 |
| Single-hung | $85-$1439 |
| Skylight | $107-$1299 |
| Sliding | $247-$1259 |
| Storm | $51-$355 |
| Transom | $263-$551 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on your energy efficiency goals, the local climate, and your desired look. For example, wood windows 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 | $51-$1439 |
| Composite | $519-$1167 |
| Fiberglass | $85-$727 |
| Vinyl | $175-$1618 |
| Wood | $259-$1458 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each window installer you're evaluating 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
Choose a company that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Official non-government accreditations 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 written contract requirements for residential jobs over $500 in value. Some cities, including Philadelphia, require licensure and have liability insurance standards.
Types of Windows Offered
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that specializes in the ones you want. Search 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 an excellent way to screen different window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. 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 Erie
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
What is the maintenance schedule for an average window, and how long will it last?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
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