How To Choose a Window Company in Charlottesville
Reliability is important when it comes to choosing a window installer. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and understand your vision. Think about the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, value is king. Each window you purchase should deliver unparalleled durability at a reasonable price point. Although high-quality replacement windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The age of your home, in addition to the styles, materials, and sizes of windows you select, can influence pricing. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. If you're undecided, a window provider can help you determine 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 | $227-$1396 |
| Awning | $329-$916 |
| Bay | $758-$5626 |
| Custom | $337-$937 |
| Casement | $262-$1521 |
| Double-hung | $122-$791 |
| Egress | $225-$561 |
| Glass Block | $45-$569 |
| Picture | $197-$1458 |
| Single-hung | $89-$1500 |
| Skylight | $112-$1354 |
| Sliding | $258-$1312 |
| Storm | $53-$370 |
| Transom | $275-$575 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers different benefits depending on your 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 | $53-$1500 |
| Composite | $541-$1216 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$758 |
| Vinyl | $182-$1687 |
| Wood | $270-$1521 |
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 installation, guarantees, and any other additional costs that your project may require.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, public and private credentials, and experience. Company websites often keep photo galleries where you can see previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
In Virginia, a window contractor needs a state license if they must pull permits for their work. Certain jurisdictions require building permits for window installation, while others like Fairfax, Arlington, and Prince William Counties do not.
Types of Windows Offered
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Check 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
Perhaps the best way to screen window companies for your job is to find out what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Ask people you know who have used the company you're evaluating, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Charlottesville
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the national 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 in during the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
I broke my window's glass. Could I replace just the glass?
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