How To Choose a Window Company in Reston
It's essential to find a window replacement company that matches your specific values, needs, and preferences. Consider the following traits during your hunt:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major purchase, so balancing cost with quality is vital. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The overall cost of your window replacement will rely on the particular materials, sizes, and styles you need. 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 specialist can help you decide which options are best for your home.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $241-$1479 |
| Awning | $348-$971 |
| Bay | $803-$5961 |
| Custom | $357-$993 |
| Casement | $278-$1611 |
| Double-hung | $129-$839 |
| Egress | $238-$595 |
| Glass Block | $47-$603 |
| Picture | $209-$1545 |
| Single-hung | $94-$1589 |
| Skylight | $119-$1435 |
| Sliding | $273-$1391 |
| Storm | $56-$393 |
| Transom | $291-$609 |
Window Material Cost
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on your climate and energy efficiency needs. Vinyl and fiberglass are readily-available materials, so they tend to cost less. Likewise, aluminum and composites look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $56-$1589 |
| Composite | $574-$1289 |
| Fiberglass | $94-$803 |
| Vinyl | $193-$1788 |
| Wood | $287-$1611 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Ensure that you discuss each of these elements with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been serving the Reston area
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government certificates attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In Virginia, a window installer needs a state license if they must pull permits for their work. Certain jurisdictions require building permits for window installation, while others like Prince William, Fairfax, and Arlington Counties do not.
Types of Windows Offered
The style of window you prefer should factor into your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal 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
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. Read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot, Google, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to people you know who have used the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Reston
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 enhance your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
Do window installers also work with blinds and coverings?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
