How To Choose a Window Company in State College
It's essential to find a window installer that meets your unique values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following points during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement 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 windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The style, material, and size of your replacement windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's wise to consult a trusted window installer to figure out your best options.
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
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers unique advantages depending on the local 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 | $55-$1558 |
| Composite | $562-$1263 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$787 |
| Vinyl | $189-$1753 |
| Wood | $281-$1579 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a better picture of the overall expenses involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Choose a business that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Privately-issued accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
While Pennsylvania window contractors don't need to hold 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 standards.
Types of Windows Offered
No two window companies offer the same window types and materials. Look for one that focuses on the type you want for your home.
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Crank-out
- Custom
- Double- or single-hung
- Egress
- Garden
- Jalousie
- Picture
- Sliding
- Skylight
- Specialty
- Storm
- Transom
- Vent
Customer Feedback
Perhaps the best way to prescreen window companies for your job is to read what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, Trustpilot, Google, and the BBB. Talk to people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in State College
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 minimize your electricity bills.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
How important are guarantees and extended support packages?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
