How To Choose a Window Company in Vancouver
Dependability is crucial when it comes to choosing a window company. However, your chosen company should also match your priorities and respect your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major purchase, so balancing cost with long life is vital. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The total cost of your replacement windows will hinge on the specific sizes, materials, and styles you need. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. It's advisable to consult a reliable window installer to decide on 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 | $236-$1453 |
| Awning | $342-$954 |
| Bay | $789-$5858 |
| Custom | $351-$976 |
| Casement | $273-$1584 |
| Double-hung | $127-$824 |
| Egress | $234-$585 |
| Glass Block | $46-$592 |
| Picture | $205-$1518 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1562 |
| Skylight | $117-$1410 |
| Sliding | $269-$1367 |
| Storm | $55-$386 |
| Transom | $286-$598 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option gives you different benefits depending on the local climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl 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 | $55-$1562 |
| Composite | $564-$1267 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$789 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1757 |
| Wood | $282-$1584 |
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, guarantees, and any other supplemental fees that your project may need.
Experience and Training
Choose a company that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- The number of years it's been in business
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Privately-issued certifications attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
The Washington state government requires every contractor and subcontractor to register with the state Department of Labor and Industries, no matter their yearly revenue or trade. A window installer should carry one or more of these license classifications:
- Millwork
- Glass and glazing
- Handyman
- Window coverings
Types of Windows Offered
No two window installers offer the same window styles and materials. Find one that specializes in the type you want for your home.
- 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 check what previous customers have said about them. 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. 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 Vancouver
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
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. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and in during the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
Do window companies have guarantees or warranties for their work?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
