How To Choose a Window Company in Worcester
Dependability is key when it comes to choosing a window provider. However, your chosen company should also suit your needs and understand your vision. Keep in mind the following factors during your company search:
Window Cost by Type
When it comes to replacing your windows, cost-effectiveness is king. Each window you replace should deliver top-notch durability at a reasonable price point. Choosing budget windows could actually increase your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The material, size, and style of your replacement 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 custom-cut arch window in a master suite will cost more. If you're unsure, a window provider can help you decide which options are ideal 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 | $227-$1393 |
| Awning | $328-$915 |
| Bay | $756-$5615 |
| Custom | $336-$935 |
| Casement | $262-$1518 |
| Double-hung | $122-$790 |
| Egress | $224-$560 |
| Glass Block | $44-$568 |
| Picture | $197-$1455 |
| Single-hung | $89-$1497 |
| Skylight | $112-$1351 |
| Sliding | $257-$1310 |
| Storm | $53-$370 |
| Transom | $274-$573 |
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. Fiberglass and vinyl 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 | $53-$1497 |
| Composite | $540-$1214 |
| Fiberglass | $89-$756 |
| Vinyl | $182-$1684 |
| Wood | $270-$1518 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for window replacement will also include applicable warranty fees, permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these aspects with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Choose a company that focuses on window replacement and installation, and look for this information on its website:
- How many years it's been operating
- Photo galleries of completed projects
- Privately-issued certificates attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window installers are considered 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
There are numerous replacement window types you can choose from, and it's crucial to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Browse 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
One of the easiest ways to screen a company is to read what other customers have written about their experiences. Read customer reviews on sites such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. You can also view customer reviews and company ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Talk to 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 Worcester
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
The U.S. Department of Energy states that 25%–30% of a home's heating and cooling capacity is used to compensate for heat gain and heat loss through windows. By installing new, more efficient windows, you can improve your home's energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills.
What should I do if a window is molding or has rot?
How long does a window replacement job take?
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