How To Choose a Window Company in Boston
With Boston's sheer size, you're sure to find a reputable window replacement company that aligns with your values and preferences. As you contact companies, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's important to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing economy windows could actually raise your overall cost, since they come with a shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The material, size, and style of your new windows play the largest role in determining your final cost. Simple double-hung windows deliver great value with their straightforward style and simple mechanisms, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's recommended to consult a vetted window installer to determine your most suitable options.
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 | $277-$1704 |
| Awning | $401-$1119 |
| Bay | $926-$6869 |
| Custom | $412-$1144 |
| Casement | $320-$1857 |
| Double-hung | $149-$966 |
| Egress | $274-$685 |
| Glass Block | $54-$695 |
| Picture | $241-$1780 |
| Single-hung | $108-$1831 |
| Skylight | $137-$1653 |
| Sliding | $315-$1602 |
| Storm | $65-$452 |
| Transom | $335-$702 |
Window Material Cost
Replacement window prices also vary based on material. Each option provides different benefits depending on the local climate and energy-saving goals. Fiberglass and vinyl 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 | $65-$1831 |
| Composite | $661-$1485 |
| Fiberglass | $108-$926 |
| Vinyl | $222-$2060 |
| Wood | $330-$1857 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Your total cost for new windows will also include warranty fees (if applicable), permit-related costs (if required), and labor. Be sure to discuss each of these elements with an estimator before committing to a window company.
Experience and Training
Choose 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 credentials attesting to its workmanship
Licensing and Credentials
Massachusetts window installers are classified as general contractors and need a Construction Supervisor License (CSL) with a window specialization. CSL applicants need to pass an open-book exam and prove three years of full-time experience. Once a business 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
No two businesses offer the same window designs and materials. Find one that's an expert in the type you want for your home.
- 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 screen window companies for your job is to check what previous customers have said about them. Trustworthy sources for customer reviews include Trustpilot, the BBB, and Yelp Ask people you know who have used the company you're interested in, and ask a representative for professional references.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Boston
How much energy and money will I save by upgrading my windows?
According to the national Department of Energy, up to a third of a house's HVAC usage is to compensate for the heat or cold entering through windows. Efficient windows help keep heat out in the summertime and retain heat in the wintertime, both protecting your comfort and saving you money.
How can I fix a rotting or molding window frame?
Will my window company install blinds?
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