How to Compare Replacement Window Costs
Selecting the right replacement window for your home or condo is a big decision. Before you buy replacement windows or hire a professional contractor to install windows in your home, it’s critical to perform the necessary research first. And one of the most important aspects to consider is the cost of your new windows. However, by doing your due diligence, you’ll be armed with pertinent information to help you make an informed decision.
When comparison shopping for replacement windows–regardless of whether you want to make your home more energy-efficient or to boost your home’s value–some factors to consider are:
- quality of materials
- type of window you want to install
- which brand you want to use
- which replacement window company to hire
This goal of this article is to provide you with some key tips to help you with find the best replacement windows out there for a price that suits your budget.
Tip #1: Determine Which Kind of Replacement Window You Want
The first thing to consider when comparing window prices is to figure out which type of window replacement you want to install or have installed in your home or office. Determining window type is a key factor because replacement window range in price, quality and craftsmanship, from super cheap windows–that may only last five years–to super expensive–that are expertly crafted but are also extremely expensive.
If you are looking for cheaper, more affordable replacement windows, your best bet would be vinyl replacement windows. Vinyl replacement windows cost less than most wood replacement windows, and there are some very affordable yet quality vinyl window manufacturers, like Harvey Windows (which we install exclusively at King Shade and Window).
When considering which kind of window you want, it’s also important to think about how long you plan to live in your current condo or home. For example, if you only plan to live there less than five or ten years, you will be better off with vinyl replacement windows instead of more expensive wood ones (from a cost efficiency standpoint).
Tip #2: Evaluate Replacement Window Contractors and Professionals
The second thing to do is to make appointments with replacement window companies to compare different contractors and their estimates. When comparing window replacement companies, be sure to ask them to provide estimates. A good rule of thumb is get estimates from three window contractors. By comparing three different window companies you can make a more accurate decision. Make sure the companies you call specialize only installing replacement windows because:
- they will be more knowledgeable about the range or products out there and will be better suited to find the perfect fit for your budget
- they are less likely to try to sell you unrelated products in an effort to get you to spend more than you want to
When you call such companies, be sure to confirm that the estimates are free and that you won’t be obligated to sign any papers or pay for any services if you decide to go with another replacement window provider.
Also, make sure you carefully evaluate the credentials and references of the companies installing your replacement windows. Check with your friends, family, and neighbors so you can get references about handy men and contractors who have experience installing home replacement windows. Find out which kinds of windows they would choose from the job. In sum, selecting a trusted contractor to install your windows is critical because selecting the wrong one can cost you dearly in the long haul.
Tip #3: Explore All Price and Cost Options
A third tip is to inquire about cheaper replacement window price options. Many window replacement companies will spend hours pushing their mid-to-high end window models, but they rarely tell homeowners about their lower end models. If you’re keeping to a strict budget, make sure to ask about costs on windows that are a “step down” from the models they’re showing you. If the replacement window contractor keeps pushing you to more expensive options that are outside your price constraints, you may want to think twice about choosing that contractor because they probably don’t have your best interest in mind and a more concerned with lining their pockets.
When it comes to balancing price and quality, vinyl replacement windows have become more popular these days due to their higher energy efficiencies and low cost options. Another great option to look into are fiberglass replacement windows, as they are also both durable and energy efficient choices.
Tip #4: Check Consumer Ratings for Windows
There are a number of resources online where you can get consumer and expert ratings for replacement windows. Consumer reports is the gold standard for home replacement window reviews. You also want to make sure the replacement windows you buy are energy star certified, which means they meet the stringent standards set by the US Government and are guaranteed to save you at least 15% on your energy bills.
Finally, it is important to stick to your guns when you go into the process of trying to buy the best replacement windows for your budget. By doing your homework and following these tips, you will have amassed a great deal of knowledge on window costs and pricing and will know what to expect. Remember it’s the company’s job to win you over, since the customer is always right.
Get Your FREE Estimate for Replacement Windows!
If you’re in Massachusetts, King Shade and Window can help you with all of these decisions so you don’t have to do it on your own. King Shade and Window had been installing replacement windows for more than 60 years. We specialize in installing Harvey windows at affordable prices.
Contact King Shade and Window Today and we’ll give you a FREE estimate on the replacement windows that are best for your particular budget.