How To Choose a Window Company in Caledonia
Each window company has varying offerings and approaches. To ease the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's essential to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Although high-quality replacement windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The size, style, and material of your new windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. An installer can guide you through selecting the products that fit your preferences.
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 | $223-$1372 |
| Awning | $323-$901 |
| Bay | $745-$5530 |
| Custom | $331-$921 |
| Casement | $258-$1495 |
| Double-hung | $120-$778 |
| Egress | $221-$552 |
| Glass Block | $44-$559 |
| Picture | $194-$1433 |
| Single-hung | $87-$1474 |
| Skylight | $110-$1331 |
| Sliding | $253-$1290 |
| Storm | $52-$364 |
| Transom | $270-$565 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides unique advantages depending on your climate and energy-saving goals. Vinyl and fiberglass 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 | $52-$1474 |
| Composite | $532-$1196 |
| Fiberglass | $87-$745 |
| Vinyl | $179-$1659 |
| Wood | $266-$1495 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you gain a complete understanding of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
The longer a window installer has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Speak with a company representative to learn more about its experience, public and private credentials, and guarantees. Company websites often keep photo galleries showing off previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
Wisconsin construction professionals need a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier certification from the Department of Safety and Professional Services for most jobs, including window repair. The only exceptions are if a job is less than $1,000 in value, or if your community doesn't require building permits for window work.
Wisconsin is one of a few states that require continuing education for construction companies. A representative must take at least 12 hours of coursework every two years to keep their license. The state actively promotes business and trade best practices.
Types of Windows Offered
There are many replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that specializes in 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
Perhaps the best way to evaluate window companies for your job is to read what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include the BBB, Google, and Trustpilot Ask people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Window Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Caledonia
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
According to the national Department of Energy, as much as 33% 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 retain heat in the wintertime, improving your comfort and furthering your dollar.
What time of year should I replace my windows?
I broke my window's glass. Could I replace just the glass?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
