How To Choose a Window Company in Seattle
Trustworthiness is important when it comes to choosing a window provider. However, your chosen company should also suit your priorities and appreciate your vision. Consider the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for new windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a window with top-notch quality and durability. Although high-quality windows may cost more upfront, they often yield better long-term value due to their longer lifespan. The material, style, and size 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 a sweeping, custom-size picture window will cost more. A professional can help you with choosing the options that fit your needs.
This table shows average prices for various window types to give you an idea of what to expect.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $243-$1493 |
| Awning | $352-$980 |
| Bay | $811-$6016 |
| Custom | $360-$1002 |
| Casement | $280-$1626 |
| Double-hung | $131-$846 |
| Egress | $240-$600 |
| Glass Block | $48-$608 |
| Picture | $211-$1559 |
| Single-hung | $95-$1604 |
| Skylight | $120-$1448 |
| Sliding | $276-$1403 |
| Storm | $57-$396 |
| Transom | $294-$615 |
Window Material Cost
You'll also need to pick a window material. Homeowners usually base their decision on the local climate, aesthetic preferences and energy efficiency objectives. Aluminum windows are perfect for sleek, modern designs, but they cost more up-front. You'll pay less for wood windows up-front, but you'll need to invest in regular maintenance to prevent the frame from warping and wear. Vinyl is readily available and tends to cost less, but don't underestimate its strong durability and low maintenance needs.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $57-$1604 |
| Composite | $579-$1301 |
| Fiberglass | $95-$811 |
| Vinyl | $195-$1804 |
| Wood | $289-$1626 |
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 factor in the cost of labor, guarantees, and any other additional costs that your project may entail.
Experience and Training
The longer a window provider has been in business, the better its workmanship will likely be. Call a company representative to learn more about its experience, public and private credentials, and guarantees. Company websites often keep photo galleries where you can see previous work technicians have done.
Licensing and Credentials
The Washington state government requires all home contractors and subcontractors to register with the state Department of Labor and Industries, regardless of their annual revenue or trade. A window installer should carry one or more of these license classifications:
- Millwork
- Glass and glazing
- Handyman
- Window coverings
Types of Windows Offered
The kind of window you desire should factor into your company choice. Not every installation crew will necessarily be familiar with the window brand you want. A company website will reveal more about the varieties of windows it works 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
Reading other customers' stories is one of the best ways to screen window companies in your area. You can find customer reviews on websites like Trustpilot, Google, the BBB, and Yelp. 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 Seattle
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To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
