Comparing Window Replacement Costs in Oakland, CA

From Brittany on May 24th, 2011 in Window Replacement

Window replacement is heating up in Oakland, California. The city has seen more energy-efficient upgrades in recent years than nearly any other city in the country. With so much emphasis on sustainability, not to mention federal rebates to support you, there has never been a better time to compare replacement window costs in Oakland.

To get cost quotes in your area, click here.

Federal Rebates and Average Costs

Window replacement is no small investment, but you can get a portion of it back through tax credits and rebates. The state of California is a leader in energy-efficient rebates for homeowners. Federal rebates also apply, with 10% of your costs up to $500 eligible for tax rebates. Federal rebates can be applied along with local and state rebates as well.

Another way to recoup costs is to install high energy-efficiency replacement windows, such as those approved by Energy Star. Energy-efficient windows are available in a wide range of styles, are eligible for federal and state rebates, and often pay for themselves through energy savings in a few short years. In fact, these types of windows can reduce your utility bills by as much as 35% monthly, or thousands of dollars annually. Of course, your upfront costs will vary, but most homeowners pay anywhere from $8,000 and up for a complete window renovation.

Getting an Estimate

Your choice of window contractors greatly affects costs. Fortunately, many of our certified window installers have reduced their installation fees due to the slow economy. You can get a few estimates quickly by clicking here, and check what kinds of low rates are available in your local area.

In most regions, the first step to maximize efficiency in your home  is to have an energy assessment completed. Your window installer will often do a walk-through analysis of your home and make recommendations for efficiency improvements. This way, you’ll understand your energy usage and choose products that are right for your home.

For instance, triple pane windows might save you more than double pane windows, depending on your home energy usage and your region’s climate. Recommendations might also include other upgrades, such as better insulation or a new air conditioning and heating system, which often qualify for rebates as well.

You can begin by getting an estimate for replacement windows in your home. An estimate is free, and will help you learn how much energy you can save by installing energy efficient windows. Experts always recommend comparing estimates for the lowest costs.

Choosing Your Windows

The most popular replacement windows in Oakland are double hung windows and bay windows. Double hung windows are the standard for most homes. They’re usually ordered double paned as well for energy efficiency, and can be treated with a glaze or tint for an even tighter seal. Some homeowners prefer to opt for the tinted style, since the glaze can wear off after a period of time. Double hung windows are very insulating, however, and come in a wide selection of styles and sizes.

Bay windows are also a good replacement window to increase energy savings. Opting for licensed window contractors is the simplest way to ensure that your replacement windows are installed properly, particularly when it comes to arched bay windows. Bay windows can be difficult to install, but with a professional team on the job, you can be sure your windows are as tightly sealed and efficient as possible.

Photos via Flickr here & here