How To Choose a Window Company in Bedford
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
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with long life is vital. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, as well as the materials, styles, and sizes of windows you select, can influence pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A window expert can help you with picking the options that fit your preferences.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $220-$1354 |
| Awning | $319-$889 |
| Bay | $735-$5458 |
| Custom | $327-$909 |
| Casement | $254-$1475 |
| Double-hung | $118-$768 |
| Egress | $218-$545 |
| Glass Block | $43-$552 |
| Picture | $191-$1415 |
| Single-hung | $86-$1455 |
| Skylight | $109-$1314 |
| Sliding | $250-$1273 |
| Storm | $51-$359 |
| Transom | $266-$557 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to select a window material. Homeowners often make their selection by considering aesthetic preferences, the local climate and energy efficiency objectives. 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 | $51-$1455 |
| Composite | $525-$1180 |
| Fiberglass | $86-$735 |
| Vinyl | $177-$1637 |
| Wood | $262-$1475 |
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 factor in the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other extra expenses that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Browse a company's website and contact a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will deliver high-quality craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
To install windows in the Lone Star State, all a contractor must do is sign up 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
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's essential to find a company that focuses on installing the ones you want. Look on 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 one of the smartest ways to screen different window replacement companies. 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. 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 Bedford
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 investing in new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
Does window replacement involve pulling permits?
Should I replace my windows a couple at a time, or is it more economical to replace them all at once?
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