20 Best Window Companies in Columbia, IL (2024 Reviews)

How Installing Energy-Efficient Windows in Columbia Saves You Money

Switching to energy-efficient windows can help improve the comfort of your home and help you save on electricity bills. Here are more details about how switching out your windows could benefit you:

• Reduce your carbon footprint: In Columbia, you can cut your indirect greenhouse gas emissions by about 642 pounds per year after you upgrade to energy-efficient windows.
• Protect your investment: When your home is on the older side, your windows could also be outdated or leaky. Upgrading and repairing your windows is an important part of maintaining your property and its value.
• Protect your valuables: Many Energy Star certified windows have low-emissivity coatings, which not only insulate your home better, but also filter out damaging UV rays, preventing fading of your furniture, carpet and other valuables.
• Save money on power bills: According to the Department of Energy, heat gained or lost through windows makes up about 25-30% of household energy use. Switching to energy-efficient models can help lower how much energy is used in your home, therefore saving you about 12% more on your bills.

Estimated Cost of Window Replacement in Columbia

Windows come in varying shapes and sizes, so costs and services will differ greatly. Here are the typical costs and the primary services that you’ll find from window installers.

How Much Do New Windows Cost?

The average cost to install a single window is about $600 but can range from $200 to $1,200. How much it will cost varies depending on several factors, such as the location of your home, type, number of windows, size, material and more.

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

Another factor that influences the total cost is the material you choose for your frame. Aluminum frames are usually the least expensive and are sturdy and light, but they provide poor insulation. On the other hand, wood frames are the most expensive, as they are aesthetically pleasing and provide decent insulation. Fiberglass and vinyl frames provide good insulation and cost somewhere between the other two.

What Services do Window Installers Offer?

The first thing to ask yourself when planning to replace your windows is: Do you need a full-frame installation or a pocket installation?

Full-frame installations involve replacing the total window, including the sill, trim and frame. You most likely need a full-frame installation when you want to change the style of your windows or your window has noticeable damage or rot. Because these installations are more involved, they will raise the overall cost. Pocket installations (or retrofits) entail installing a new window within its existing frame, which makes pocket installations more simple and affordable. But, if the frame has any damage or rot, you will most likely need a full-frame installation instead.

Your window replacement company should be able to help you understand what’s best for your needs. In Columbia, the decision will mostly be based on the age of your windows and if there’s any moisture damage. Wood can decay if not properly maintained over the years, so it’s a good idea to have a professional check your frames and window sills.

How We Choose the Best Window Installers in Columbia

The EcoWatch Reviews team differs from most reviewers since we examine these companies through a sustainability lens. We’ve reviewed the best window installers in Columbia mainly based on their energy efficient offerings, as it’s what’s best for the environment and for you as a homeowner. Energy Star certified windows can reduce your energy bills by hundreds of dollars. Along with energy efficiency, our rating methodology takes the following factors into consideration:

Service Area

Because this is a guide for Columbia, we paid more attention to companies that cover the city. There are certainly other reputable providers that didn’t make the list because they wouldn’t be able to serve homeowners in Columbia.

Work Quality

We’re certain that you’re looking for professionals who do a great job installing windows. We’ve vetted each company featured on this list to ensure its contractors are well-qualified and that the company has received a lot of positive customer feedback to vouch for its service.

Customer Reviews

Customer feedback is another very important review factor. If the majority of customers don’t have good things to say about their service from a certain company, it won’t be featured on EcoWatch.

Cost

This one is a give-and-take: similar to most services, cheap window installers may not provide the highest quality service. Still, we want to ensure we’re highlighting companies that offer a spectrum 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 make sure that investment is protected. Window installation companies that have lengthy warranties for products, parts and labor rank higher with EcoWatch.

Years of Experience

Last but not least, we like to see companies that have been in the industry for a while. Window installers that have more experience are going to earn higher rankings by our standards. We like to see at least ten years of experience.