How To Choose a Window Company in Chesapeake
With Chesapeake's large population, you're sure to find a reliable window company that suits 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, cost-effectiveness is king. Each window you purchase should offer top-notch durability at an affordable price point. Although high-quality windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often yield better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The final cost of your window replacement will depend on the specific materials, sizes, and styles you need. Single-hung windows often cost less due to their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. An expert can guide you through picking the products that fit your preferences.
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 | $227-$1396 |
| Awning | $329-$916 |
| Bay | $758-$5626 |
| Custom | $337-$937 |
| Casement | $262-$1521 |
| Double-hung | $122-$791 |
| Egress | $225-$561 |
| Glass Block | $45-$569 |
| Picture | $197-$1458 |
| Single-hung | $89-$1500 |
| Skylight | $112-$1354 |
| Sliding | $258-$1312 |
| Storm | $53-$370 |
| Transom | $275-$575 |
Window Material Cost
Window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on your 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 | $53-$1500 |
| Composite | $541-$1216 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$758 |
| Vinyl | $182-$1687 |
| Wood | $270-$1521 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each contractor you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you get a clear picture of the total costs involved in the project.
Experience and Training
Peruse 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 galleries that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more dedicated instruction its staff has, and the longer it has been active, the more likely it will deliver high-quality service.
Licensing and Credentials
In Virginia, a window installer needs a state license if they need to pull permits for their work. Certain jurisdictions require building permits for window replacement, while others like Prince William, Fairfax, and Arlington Counties do not.
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you desire should play a role in your company choice. Not every installer will necessarily be familiar with the types you want. A company website will provide more about the styles 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 check what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Yelp, the BBB, 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 Chesapeake
Why should I hire a professional to install or replace my windows?
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
