How To Choose a Window Company in Allen
With Allen's large population, you're sure to find a dependable replacement window company that suits your values and preferences. As you reach out to companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a substantial investment, so balancing cost with long life is important. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, in addition to the styles, sizes, and materials of windows you opt for, can influence pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's wise to speak with a vetted window installer to figure out your ideal 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 | $216-$1330 |
| Awning | $313-$873 |
| Bay | $722-$5361 |
| Custom | $321-$893 |
| Casement | $250-$1449 |
| Double-hung | $116-$754 |
| Egress | $214-$535 |
| Glass Block | $42-$542 |
| Picture | $188-$1390 |
| Single-hung | $84-$1429 |
| Skylight | $107-$1290 |
| Sliding | $246-$1251 |
| Storm | $50-$353 |
| Transom | $262-$548 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on the local climate, your desired look, and your energy efficiency goals. 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 | $50-$1429 |
| Composite | $516-$1159 |
| Fiberglass | $84-$722 |
| Vinyl | $173-$1608 |
| Wood | $258-$1449 |
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 total costs 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 completed projects
- Official non-government certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
To install windows in the Lone Star State, all a contractor must do is register with the Secretary of State. Some cities, most notably San Antonio, require service providers to hold liability insurance and pass a background check. Dallas and Fort Worth require contractors to register with the city, and Houston does not require licenses or registrations at all.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should factor into your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will tell more about the kinds 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
Reading other customers' stories is a great way to screen window companies in your area. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Yelp, 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 Allen
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the federal Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Energy-efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and retain heat in the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
What time of year should I replace my windows?
How do replacement windows differ from new construction windows?
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