How To Choose a Window Company in Chicago
With Chicago's large population, you're sure to find a trustworthy window company that aligns with your values and preferences. As you reach out to companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a significant undertaking, so balancing cost with performance is crucial. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The style, size, 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 new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. If you're unsure, a window company can help you decide which options are ideal 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 | $252-$1547 |
| Awning | $364-$1016 |
| Bay | $840-$6236 |
| Custom | $374-$1039 |
| Casement | $291-$1686 |
| Double-hung | $135-$877 |
| Egress | $249-$622 |
| Glass Block | $49-$631 |
| Picture | $218-$1616 |
| Single-hung | $98-$1663 |
| Skylight | $124-$1501 |
| Sliding | $286-$1455 |
| Storm | $59-$411 |
| Transom | $304-$637 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option gives you different benefits 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 | $59-$1663 |
| Composite | $600-$1348 |
| Fiberglass | $98-$840 |
| Vinyl | $202-$1870 |
| Wood | $300-$1686 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you understand the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Examine a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many companies also keep online photo galleries that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in operation, the more likely it will provide high-quality craftsmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but municipalities in the Land of Lincoln might have their own requirements for companies to follow. In Chicago proper, window installers must have a Class D or E license and submit copies of their business filings for the public record. Beyond the Windy City, licensing requirements are different.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you want should play a role in your company choice. Not every contractor will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will tell more about the kinds of windows 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
One of the easiest ways to vet a company is to check what other customers have written about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Google, Trustpilot, and Yelp. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Chicago
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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 retain heat in the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
I've heard there are tax credits for energy-efficient windows. How much could I save?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
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