How To Choose a Window Company in Chicago
With Chicago's robust local economy, you're sure to find a reliable window replacement company that matches your values and preferences. As you gather estimates, keep the following factors in mind:
Window Cost by Type
When you're shopping for replacement windows, it's crucial to remember that there's more to cost than just purchase price. You want a high-quality and durable window. Choosing cheap windows could actually increase your overall cost, due to their shorter lifespan and more intensive maintenance needs. The style, size, and material of your new windows have the greatest impact on your final cost. Transom windows are inexpensive with their simple size and straightforward form factor, while new skylights cost more to prepare for and install. It's recommended to consult a vetted window installer to decide on your ideal options.
In this table, you can find cost data for the most common residential window types to determine how much you might pay.
| Window Types | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Arched | $252-$1547 |
| Awning | $364-$1016 |
| Bay | $840-$6236 |
| Custom | $374-$1039 |
| Casement | $291-$1686 |
| Double-hung | $135-$877 |
| Egress | $249-$622 |
| Glass Block | $49-$631 |
| Picture | $218-$1616 |
| Single-hung | $98-$1663 |
| Skylight | $124-$1501 |
| Sliding | $286-$1455 |
| Storm | $59-$411 |
| Transom | $304-$637 |
Window Material Cost
Materials also help determine a window's cost. You might pick a material based on the local climate, your energy efficiency goals, and your desired look. For example, wooden 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 | $59-$1663 |
| Composite | $600-$1348 |
| Fiberglass | $98-$840 |
| Vinyl | $202-$1870 |
| Wood | $300-$1686 |
Other Window Replacement Costs
Ask each company you're considering about labor costs, warranty fees, and permit fees. This will help you gain a complete understanding 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 window companies also keep online portfolios that present past projects.
Ensure that the company focuses on window replacement. The more specific training its staff has, and the longer it has been in business, the more likely it will provide top-notch workmanship.
Licensing and Credentials
Illinois doesn't issue state contracting licenses to window installers, but municipalities in the Land of Lincoln might have their own requirements for companies to follow. In Chicago proper, window installers must have a Class D or E license and submit copies of their business filings for the public record. Outside the Windy City, licensing requirements are more varied.
Types of Windows Offered
There are several replacement window types you can choose from, and it's vital to find a company that has expertise with the ones you want. Search 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 see 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. Referrals can also help you in your company search. Ask each company you're interested in for a list of references, and talk to family and friends about who they use for window installations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Window Replacement in Chicago
How could new windows help my energy efficiency?
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 upgrading to new, more efficient windows, you can enhance your home's energy efficiency and lower your electricity bills.
Are there tax incentives for installing energy-efficient windows?
My window screen tore. How should I fix it?
You might need to get a new screen for large tears or those along the edges of the window. A window installer you trust can get the job done without breaking the bank.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
