How To Choose a Window Company in Sterling
Trustworthiness is essential when it comes to choosing a window replacement company. 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
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with performance is important. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, size, and material of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's recommended to speak with a vetted window installer to figure out your most suitable options.
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 | $235-$1446 |
| Awning | $341-$949 |
| Bay | $785-$5828 |
| Custom | $349-$971 |
| Casement | $272-$1575 |
| Double-hung | $126-$820 |
| Egress | $233-$582 |
| Glass Block | $46-$589 |
| Picture | $204-$1511 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1554 |
| Skylight | $116-$1403 |
| Sliding | $267-$1360 |
| Storm | $55-$384 |
| Transom | $284-$595 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might select a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. For example, wooden 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 | $55-$1554 |
| Composite | $561-$1260 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$785 |
| Vinyl | $189-$1748 |
| Wood | $280-$1575 |
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 assess the cost of installation, warranties, and any other additional costs that your project may need.
Experience and Training
Select a company that focuses on window replacement and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How many years it's been operating
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Private certificates attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In Virginia, a window contractor needs a state contracting license if they must pull permits for their work. Some 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 want should play a role in your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will reveal more about the window types it specializes in, 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 different window companies. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Trustpilot, Yelp, and the BBB 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 Sterling
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 installing new, more efficient windows, you can boost your home's energy efficiency and minimize your electricity bills.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient 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.
