How To Choose a Window Company in Boston
With Boston's robust local economy, you're sure to find a reputable window replacement 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 window replacement, value is paramount. Each window you buy should deliver unparalleled durability at an affordable price point. Although premium windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The final cost of your replacement windows will rely on the specific materials, sizes, and styles you need. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're unsure, a window company can help you decide which options are most suitable for your home.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $277-$1704 |
| Awning | $401-$1119 |
| Bay | $926-$6869 |
| Custom | $412-$1144 |
| Casement | $320-$1857 |
| Double-hung | $149-$966 |
| Egress | $274-$685 |
| Glass Block | $54-$695 |
| Picture | $241-$1780 |
| Single-hung | $108-$1831 |
| Skylight | $137-$1653 |
| Sliding | $315-$1602 |
| Storm | $65-$452 |
| Transom | $335-$702 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option offers different benefits depending on your 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 | $65-$1831 |
| Composite | $661-$1485 |
| Fiberglass | $108-$926 |
| Vinyl | $222-$2060 |
| Wood | $330-$1857 |
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 installation, guarantees, and any other supplemental fees that your project may require.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and talk to a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that highlight past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will provide high-quality service.
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window contractors are classified as general contractors and need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window specialization. CSL applicants must pass an open-book exam and show 36 months of full-time experience. Once a contractor has a CSL, it also needs to register with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation as a "home improvement contractor."
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 window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the varieties of windows it deals with, 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
Perhaps the best way to prescreen window companies for your job is to read what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google. 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 Boston
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the federal 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 in during the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
Will my window company install blinds?
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