27 Best Window Replacement Companies in Berkeley, CA (2023 Reviews)
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How Installing Energy-Efficient Windows in Berkeley Saves You Money

When you switch to energy-efficient windows, you may see a few benefits, such as:

• Save on energy bills: The Department of Energy estimates that heat gained or lost through windows makes up about 25-30% of household energy use. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can help lower that number, which helps you save $531 a year on your bills.
• Protect your valuables from fading: When you switch to energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity coatings, your floors, carpets and furniture will fade less due to their ability to filter out damaging UV rays.
• Protect your investment: The older your home is, the more likely it is that switching to energy-efficient windows will benefit you. Older homes usually have windows that are outdated, drafty or potentially even damaged in some way. Upgrading your windows could help increase the value of your property if you decide to sell.
• Decrease your carbon footprint: You can reduce your indirect greenhouse gas emissions by about 12% when you install Energy Star certified windows. In Berkeley, that's about 117 pounds per year on average.

Estimated Cost of Window Replacement in Berkeley

When considering window installation, each company offers varying services and prices. Let's look at some typical costs and services.

How Much Do New Windows Cost?

According to our research, the average cost of installing a single window is around $600. However, window replacement costs can range from $200 to $1,200 per window. But costs differ remarkably based on the size of your home, complexity of the installation, your location and the quality of the company you choose. Many window installers also offer door installations and replacements, which will add extra costs to your project.

Keep in mind that energy-efficient windows may come at a higher price point, but Energy Star estimates the upgrade will save you between $101 and $583 per year when you install single-pane windows and between $27 and $197 per year when you install double-pane, clear glass windows. Your exact savings will vary depending on your local climate, energy rates and individual home characteristics.

Costs will also vary depending on the material of your frame. Aluminum frames are the least expensive. They're sturdy, light and maintenance-free, but provide poor insulation. Vinyl frames are somewhat expensive and provide good insulation. Composite frames made with wood fibers encased in plastic also provide good insulation and are moderately expensive. Wood frames are the most expensive and are the most in-demand. They're also aesthetically pleasing and provide decent insulation for your home.

What Services do Window Installers Offer?

When it comes to window replacements, there are typically two types that your provider will have: full-frame and pocket installations.

A full-frame installation replaces the entire window, including the windowsill, frame, trim and the window panes. As this type of installation requires more time, it will be more expensive than a pocket installation. Pocket installations (also known as retrofits) are when you replace a window within its existing frame. Pocket installations are simpler and won't cost as much, but you can't do this kind of installment if you have any pre-existing rot or water damage.

If you're unsure which type of window installation service you need, your installer should be able to help you out. Generally, the choice depends on factors such as the age and condition of the home, the type of building material, budget and time restrictions.

How We Choose the Best Window Installers in Berkeley

The EcoWatch Reviews team is different from other reviewers since we're examining these companies through a sustainability lens. Along with energy efficiency, we evaluated each installer and ranked them based on the following methodology:

Service Area

This one is self-explanatory, but we've chosen to highlight window installers that serve the Berkeley area so you can find a quality window installation company near you.

Work Quality

When choosing new windows, the quality and breadth of services can often play just as important of a role in insulation and performance as the brand you choose. We do rate window installers higher if they offer high-quality products, but we also factor in workmanship as reflected in customer feedback.

Customer Reviews

We analyzed patterns in recent online reviews to find the companies with the most customer satisfaction, weighted by sample size. Customer satisfaction may be the factor we place the most value on, as it reflects the quality of services across most other categories, including quality of installation, quality of parts, warranty, cost, professionalism and more.

Cost

This one is a give-and-take: similar to other services, cheap window installers may not provide the most quality service. On the other hand, we want to make sure we're highlighting companies that offer a variety of price and financing options so they're accessible to most homeowners.

Warranty

As discussed previously, windows are a hefty investment, so you'll want to be certain that investment is protected. Window installation companies with lengthy warranties for products, parts and installation (aka workmanship) rank higher with EcoWatch.

Years of Experience

Because of Berkeley's climate, homeowners need to be wary of rot, water damage and low efficiency. We factored in local experience to reflect the ability of Berkeley window companies to prepare homes for these issues. If a company has less than 10 years of experience, it loses points in this category.