How To Choose a Window Company in San Diego
With San Diego's robust local economy, you're sure to find a trustworthy window company in line with your values and preferences. As you reach out to companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to upgrading your windows, value is most important. Each window you buy should provide top-notch durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing budget windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their reduced lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The age of your home, together with the sizes, materials, and styles of windows you opt for, can affect pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're undecided, a window specialist can help you determine 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 | $237-$1454 |
| Awning | $343-$955 |
| Bay | $790-$5862 |
| Custom | $351-$977 |
| Casement | $273-$1585 |
| Double-hung | $127-$825 |
| Egress | $234-$585 |
| Glass Block | $46-$593 |
| Picture | $205-$1519 |
| Single-hung | $92-$1563 |
| Skylight | $117-$1411 |
| Sliding | $269-$1367 |
| Storm | $55-$386 |
| Transom | $286-$599 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides unique advantages depending on the local climate and energy efficiency needs. Fiberglass and vinyl 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 | $55-$1563 |
| Composite | $564-$1268 |
| Fiberglass | $92-$790 |
| Vinyl | $190-$1758 |
| Wood | $282-$1585 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these aspects with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Examine a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and guarantees. Many companies also keep online photo galleries that present past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will provide high-quality workmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
A California window company must be licensed as a General Building Contractor, Window Coverings Contractor and Glazing Contractor if it takes on jobs valued at over $500. Each certification has its own exam and experience requirements. If a contractor is caught working without a license, they'll have to pay steep fines.
Types of Windows Offered
There are several replacement window types you can choose from, and it's essential to find a company that is experienced with the ones you want. Browse 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 best ways to screen a company is to see what other customers have said about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Ask people you know who have used the professional you're thinking of hiring, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in San Diego
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, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
How long does a window replacement job take?
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