22 Best Window Replacement Companies in Columbia, IL (Mar 2023)
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How Installing Energy-Efficient Windows in Columbia Saves You Money

There are several benefits of switching to energy-efficient windows. Some reasons you may want to consider making the change are the following:

• Save on power bills: Once you upgrade to energy-efficient windows, you can see a reduction in your bills by about 12% because you'll need less energy to heat or cool your house.
• Protect your investment: Upgrading and repairing your windows is an important part of maintaining your property and its value, particularly if you have an older home.
• Decrease your carbon footprint: You can reduce your indirect greenhouse gas emissions by about 12% once you install Energy Star certified windows. In Columbia, that's about 642 pounds per year on average.
• Protect your valuables: Many Energy Star certified windows have low-emissivity coatings, which filter out damaging UV rays, reducing fading of your furniture, carpet and other valuables.

Estimated Cost of Window Replacement in Columbia

Windows come in all shapes and sizes, so costs and services will vary tremendously. Here are the typical costs and the primary services that you'll find from window installation companies.

How Much Do New Windows Cost?

On average, Columbia homeowners can anticipate their window installations to range from $250 to $1,200. The most common installations sit at around $600. But costs will vary considerably depending on the number of windows you need, the current condition of your home, your location and the quality of your products. A lot of window companies also offer door installations and other add-ons like coating, shutters, baths and more. Additional services will increase overall project costs.

It's important to note that windows with higher efficiency may cost more upfront but can save you hundreds of dollars via returns on your energy bills. Investing in Energy Star certified windows can save Columbia homeowners $316+ a year when replacing single-pane windows.

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

What Services do Window Installers Offer?

The first step of a window replacement is to figure out whether you should get a full-frame or pocket installation.

Full-frame installations involve replacing the full window — the sill, frame, trim and all. These are typically done when you want a different style for your windows or when it has a great amount of deterioration. Full-frame installations are more comprehensive and will increase overall costs. Pocket installations (or retrofits) entail replacing a window within its existing frame, which makes pocket installations more simple and affordable. However, if the frame has any rot or deterioration, you should opt for a full-frame installation instead.

If you're still debating which kind of installation you need, you can talk to your installer and get their recommendation. The decision mostly is influenced by the age of your window frames and if there's any damage present.

How We Choose the Best Window Installers in Columbia

EcoWatch differs from other reviewers, as we evaluate these companies through a sustainability lens. We've reviewed the top window installation companies in Columbia mainly based on energy efficiency, as it's the most sustainable option and the best one for homeowners. Energy Star certified windows have been shown to cut your power bills by hundreds of dollars. Along with energy efficiency, our rating methodology takes the following factors into consideration:

Service Area

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

Work Quality

We're certain that you're looking for professionals who do a great job installing windows. We've vetted each company included in our guide to ensure its technicians are well-qualified and that the company has gotten lots of positive customer feedback to vouch for its service.

Customer Reviews

Customer feedback is another super important review factor. If most customers don't have positive feedback about their service from a certain company, it won't be featured on EcoWatch.

Cost

Cheaper windows don't necessarily mean better windows, but we know many of our readers would like to keep costs as low as possible. When analyzing the prices of providers, we awarded higher scores to companies with reasonable prices and accessible financing rather than "cheaper" services.

Warranty

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

Years of Experience

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