How To Choose a Window Company in Reading
It's crucial to find a window replacement company that meets your unique values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following points during your search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major purchase, so balancing cost with quality is important. Although premium replacement windows may be more expensive to buy, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The age of your home, as well as the styles, materials, and sizes of replacement windows you choose, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window provider can help you figure out which options are most suitable for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $244-$1499 |
| Awning | $353-$984 |
| Bay | $814-$6042 |
| Custom | $362-$1007 |
| Casement | $281-$1633 |
| Double-hung | $131-$850 |
| Egress | $241-$603 |
| Glass Block | $48-$611 |
| Picture | $212-$1566 |
| Single-hung | $95-$1611 |
| Skylight | $120-$1454 |
| Sliding | $277-$1409 |
| Storm | $57-$398 |
| Transom | $295-$617 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on your energy efficiency goals, your desired look, and the local climate. 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 in Reading's strong storms, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $57-$1611 |
| Composite | $581-$1307 |
| Fiberglass | $95-$814 |
| Vinyl | $196-$1812 |
| Wood | $290-$1633 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your contractor will factor the price for your windows and the value of their services into its total estimate. Make sure to take into account the cost of labor, warranties, and any other supplemental fees that your project may entail.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has served your area, 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 showcasing previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
While Pennsylvania window installers aren't required to get 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 minimums.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you want should influence your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the kinds 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
One of the simplest ways to evaluate a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google. Talk to people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Reading
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
What are some important metrics to know when I shop for replacement windows?
- Air leakage rating, which shows how tight a window's seal is
- Condensation resistance, which rates how a window manages moisture
- U-factor, which shows a window's temperature-insulating capability
- Visible transmittance, which determines how much light passes through a window
- Solar heat gain coefficient, which determines 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.
