How To Choose a Window Company in Fitchburg
Each window provider has unique offerings and approaches. To simplify the company search, keep these factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually raise your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, together with the materials, sizes, and styles of replacement windows you opt for, can influence pricing. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's advisable to speak with a vetted window installer to decide on your best 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 | $231-$1421 |
| Awning | $335-$933 |
| Bay | $772-$5728 |
| Custom | $343-$954 |
| Casement | $267-$1548 |
| Double-hung | $124-$806 |
| Egress | $229-$571 |
| Glass Block | $45-$579 |
| Picture | $201-$1485 |
| Single-hung | $90-$1527 |
| Skylight | $114-$1379 |
| Sliding | $263-$1336 |
| Storm | $54-$377 |
| Transom | $280-$585 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers unique advantages depending on the local 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 | $54-$1527 |
| Composite | $551-$1238 |
| Fiberglass | $90-$772 |
| Vinyl | $185-$1718 |
| Wood | $275-$1548 |
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 labor, guarantees, and any other supplemental fees that your project may require.
Experience and Training
The longer a window company has been operating, the better its workmanship will likely be. Talk with a company representative to learn more about its guarantees, experience, and public and private credentials. Company websites often have 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 residential work, including window replacement. The only exceptions are if a job is under $1,000 in value, or if your city doesn't require building permits for window work.
Wisconsin is one of several states that require continuing education for construction companies. A representative must take at least 12 hours of coursework every two years to stay in good standing. The state actively promotes business and trade best practices.
Types of Windows Offered
There are several replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Search 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
One of the simplest ways to screen a company is to see what other customers have written about their experiences. You can find customer reviews on websites like the BBB, Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. 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 Fitchburg
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
What's different between a new construction window and a replacement window?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
