How To Choose a Window Company in Portland
With Portland's sheer size, you're sure to find a dependable window company in line with your values and preferences. As you contact companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
Replacing your windows is a major investment, so balancing cost with long life is important. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often provide better long-term value due to their extended lifespan. The age of your home, as well as the sizes, styles, and materials of windows you select, can affect 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 recommended to consult a reliable installer to figure out your ideal options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $231-$1417 |
| Awning | $334-$930 |
| Bay | $770-$5712 |
| Custom | $342-$952 |
| Casement | $266-$1544 |
| Double-hung | $124-$803 |
| Egress | $228-$570 |
| Glass Block | $45-$577 |
| Picture | $200-$1480 |
| Single-hung | $90-$1523 |
| Skylight | $114-$1375 |
| Sliding | $262-$1332 |
| Storm | $54-$376 |
| Transom | $279-$583 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option gives you 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, composites and aluminum look sleek and stay strong against the elements, so they tend to cost more.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $54-$1523 |
| Composite | $550-$1235 |
| Fiberglass | $90-$770 |
| Vinyl | $185-$1713 |
| Wood | $275-$1544 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're evaluating about warranty fees, labor costs, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the financial commitment involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Select a provider that focuses on window installation and repair, and look for this information on its website:
- How long it's been in business
- Photo galleries of projects its crews completed
- Official non-government accreditations attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
In Oregon, window installation is considered "carpentry" and window repair is "handyman services." A business that performs either job will need a permit from the state's Construction Contractors Board. It must also carry a $10,000 bond and at least $100,000 in liability coverage.
Types of Windows Offered
There are a variety of replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that focuses on installing 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
Reading other customers' stories is a surefire way to screen potential window companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google. 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 Portland
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
How can I fix a broken window screen?
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