How To Choose a Window Company in Norfolk
With Norfolk's robust local economy, you're sure to find a reputable replacement 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 window replacement, cost-effectiveness is paramount. Each window you replace should offer unparalleled durability at a fair price point. Although premium replacement windows may come with a higher initial price tag, they often provide better long-term value due to their increased lifespan. The age of your home, together with the sizes, materials, and styles of windows you select, can influence pricing. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while a custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. It's recommended to speak with a reliable window installer to figure out your most suitable options.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| 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
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might choose a material based on the local climate, your desired look, and your energy efficiency goals. For example, wood windows can give your home an organic design without breaking the bank, but you'll have to invest more toward maintenance. Aluminum and composite windows cost more up-front, but they're incredibly durable against the elements, so you'll spend far less on maintenance.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $53-$1500 |
| Composite | $541-$1216 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$758 |
| Vinyl | $182-$1687 |
| Wood | $270-$1521 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include applicable warranty fees, permit application fees, and labor. Make sure to discuss each of these elements with a sales representative before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Peruse a company's website and chat with a representative to learn more about its product and service offerings, pricing, and warranties. Many window companies also keep online portfolios that exhibit past projects.
Ensure that the company specializes in window replacement. The more specialized training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will provide top-notch service.
Licensing and Credentials
In Virginia, a window contractor needs a state contracting license if they must 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 style of window you prefer should play a role in your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will show more about the varieties of windows it focuses on, 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 evaluate window companies for your job is to see what previous customers have said about them. You can find customer reviews on websites like Yelp, Trustpilot, Google, and the BBB. Ask people you know who have used the company you'd like to hire, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Norfolk
What are the benefits of hiring a window installer?
Do I need a building permit to replace my home's windows?
How can I gauge the quality of a replacement window?
- "visible transmittance," which indicates how much light can enter through the window
- "solar heat gain coefficient," which shows how much UV light the window absorbs and releases as heat
- "Condensation resistance," which measures how well a window can resist moisture (the higher the number, the better)
- "Air leakage," which evaluates how easy it is for air drafts to develop (the lower the number, the better)
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
