Get Quotes from Top Window Repair Contractors in Chicago, IL

Are You Licensed to Practice as a Window Contractor in Chicago?

The Chicago Department of Buildings is in charge of issuing home repair or general contractor licenses under the trade licenses for window contractors in the city. To apply for this license, window contractors can use the Chicago Business Direct platform or schedule an in-person meeting with a business consultant at the Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

Operating without a license in Chicago can result in fines of up to $1000, and that's assuming there have been no prior infractions. Keep in mind that every day a violation persists counts as a separate and unique infraction. Such a violation may also be punished as a misdemeanor, which could mean being imprisoned in the county jail for a period of time not exceeding six months, in addition to any other penalties stipulated by law. To find out whether your intended contractor is duly licensed, go through the list of licensed general contractors in the city.

For more information on licenses necessary to carry out window installation and replacement in Chicago, please get in touch with the Chicago Department of Buildings at:

You can also contact the Chicago Business Affairs and Consumer Protection at:

How Much Do You Charge Compared to Other Window Repair Contractors in the City?

The type of window installed, where the window is located, and the complexity of the replacement or installation process significantly impact the cost. For example, a bay window will cost significantly more to install than a single-pane window.

Before starting the project, you should consider requesting and comparing quotations from at least three window contractors in the city to have a good idea of how much it would cost. It should be noted that discrepancies in the supplied quotes are typical. However, you should be cautious with any contractor who gives an estimate that stands out from the competition, especially if they are unable to explain why their quote is so noticeably different.

Chicago's window replacement, repair, and installation contractors earn approximately $52,080 annually. Listed below are the hourly average wages for Chicago window contractors compared with the average hourly wages of these professionals across other parts of Illinois as well as several other major cities in the United States:

Will You Get the Window Installation Permits as Required by the City Code?

As stipulated in the Chicago Construction Codes Chapter 14A-4, Chicago requires a permit for window replacements in four dwelling units or more, as long as the replacement is the same size and in the exact location as the window being replaced. The Easy Permit Program, a streamlined permitting procedure for minor, straightforward home and building renovation projects, can be used to apply for a window replacement permit by homeowners or window replacement contractors. To begin, download an application, complete it, and bring any necessary supporting documents to the Chicago permit offices.

However, residential structures up to four stories above grade and related auxiliary buildings do not need a building permit for window repairs or replacements done with the same materials. It is essential to note whether or not a permit is required for your window replacement; your project must still adhere to all applicable Chicago Construction Codes standards. For more information on permits for window replacement in Chicago, please contact:

What Kind of Window Replacement Services Do You Offer?

Another crucial aspect to take into account when choosing a window contractor for your project is learning what kinds of services they offer. Chicago window installers often provide a wide range of services, including new window installations, repairs, and replacements for damaged or cracked windows, and window upkeep services like caulking and sealing.

However, a large number of these contractors frequently focus on particular window kinds and technology. Typical window designs found in Chicago construction projects include:

• Arched Windows
• Awning Windows
• Bay Windows
• Bow Windows
• Casement Windows
• Double Hung Windows
• Egress Windows
• Fixed Windows
• Garden Windows
• Glass Block Windows
• Glider Windows
• Hopper Windows
• Jalousie Windows
• Picture Windows
• Round Circle Windows
• Single Hung Windows
• Skylight Windows
• Sliding Windows
• Storm Windows
• Tilt-turn Windows
• Transom Windows

Each of these windows has its own operating system and advantages. For instance, double-hung windows have two frames that carry glass panes that slide up and down on vertical tracks, while slider windows are essentially the horizontal form of a double-hung window. Although neither of these window styles opens completely, they can still be employed in spaces that need cooling and ventilation. On the other hand, Bay windows are often built primarily for aesthetic reasons and in sitting rooms and bedrooms. Therefore, you must always make sure that the window replacement contractor you choose has the proper skill set to operate with your desired window type.

Find out if the window contractor offers additional services, such as siding, gutter, insulation, and roofing installation, as well as how much these services will cost you. The following are some price ranges for window installation, replacement, and related services in Chicago:

Estimates for window installation or repair based on task

Estimates for window repair/replacement based on faulty component

Estimates for window repair based on type of window

Estimates for window repair based on window frame material

What Brands of Windows Do You Work With?

While verifying the services your window contractor provides is critical, it is just as essential to be informed about which window brands they are most experienced with. Doing this may significantly increase the likelihood that your window installation or replacement project will be completed successfully. Chicago residents who own homes and other properties frequently choose the following window brand manufacturers:

• Advanced Window
• American Awning Window
• American Thermal Video
• Chicago Windows & Doors
• ClimateGuard Windows & Doors
• Feldco Windows
• First Choice Window Replacement & Installation
• Lang Exterior
• Midwest Windows and Doors
• New Edge Window Replacement
• New Era Windows Cooperative
• New Tech Window
• Searls Window and Doors
• Semko Inc.

When trying to replace your existing windows or install new windows in your home, it is usually a good idea to stick with well-known window brands. In addition to being constructed with high-quality materials and available in a number of appealing and reasonably priced styles, these brands are frequently tried and trusted locally. However, when choosing the type of window to utilize for your window installation or replacement job, you should always request a warranty and go over the following features with your window contractor before making your final decision:

• Climate control
• Compatibility with the external and internal finishes of your home
• Ease of cleaning and general maintenance
• Safety and Security
• Ventilation

Manufacturers of windows provide two popular warranty options: a lifetime warranty and a limited lifetime warranty. In addition to these major types, a warranty may also be prorated or non-prorated, transferable or non-transferable:

• Limited Lifetime Warranty: The most typical type of window warranty, a limited lifetime warranty, only lasts for the period designated by the manufacturer as the "lifetime" of the window—a time frame during which the window is anticipated to retain its highest quality. The manufacturer often provides this warranty to cover aesthetic and performance flaws. Be aware that the labor and service are not covered by this warranty; just the window parts are.
• Lifetime Warranty: Alternatively, a lifetime warranty includes all replacement parts. The term "lifetime" should not however be confused with the lifespan of the homeowner. It simply denotes the legal time frame set by the manufacturer for the window to keep its highest level of quality.
• Double Lifetime Warranty: Homeowners who are replacing some windows can also get a double lifetime warranty. This kind of warranty is stronger. It provides coverage for as long as a residence is owned and, in most situations, is transferable to the subsequent owner.
• Prorated Warranty: In addition to choosing between a lifetime or limited lifetime warranty, you may also consider a prorated warranty. Over the course of use, a diminishing percentage of repair or replacement part expenses are covered by this warranty. The homeowner is allowed to pay more out of pocket for repairs or replacements as time goes on.
• Transferable Warranties: Some warranties allow the coverage to be transferred to a new homeowner. This kind of warranty might aid in maintaining the value that upgraded windows have brought to your home.

It is also crucial to ensure the window brand you choose is Energy Star compliant, which means it must help your home get a score of 75 or higher on the EPA's 1–100 scale. This score indicates that your building outperforms at least 75 percent of similarly situated buildings countrywide.

How Energy-Efficient Are Your Windows?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 30 percent of the energy used for household heating and cooling is lost or gained through windows. Therefore, when repairing outdated windows or installing windows for a new home, energy-efficient windows should be given high priority. This Department also believes that replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones could result in annual savings of up to $500.

In addition to lowering your monthly energy costs, depending on your jurisdiction, investing in new energy-efficient windows may make you eligible for federal or state financing, municipal, state, or federal rebates, and tax advantages. The presumably enormous cost of installing energy-efficient windows is reduced by these financing alternatives and rebates. Similar financing has previously been made available to homeowners by the State of Illinois through its Residential Energy Property Credit program. To reap the financial rewards, look for programs like the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) to see if you qualify before starting your project.

Also, look up any pertinent window programs offered locally on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) website. A comprehensive list of incentive programs provided by the state, local, and utility companies across the United States is kept up to date by DSIRE. The Energy Star Rebate Finder may also be helpful to you in learning about rebates and other offers for ENERGY STAR-certified items that are offered in your community.

Do You Carry the Necessary Insurance Policy for Window Replacement Contractors in Chicago?

Contractors who replace windows are subject to a variety of workplace dangers, including cuts, lacerations, and falls from great heights. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, behind transportation incidents, falls, slips, and trips were the second-leading cause of death among employees in 2020, with 24 of the 135 total fatalities reported in Chicago and other Illinois cities. By employing an insured window replacement contractor, you are protected from having to pay for these damages and are also given coverage for other work-related risks, including possible litigation and property damage.

Before making any hiring agreements with a potential window replacement contractor, always demand proof of insurance from them and verify this proof with the relevant issuing company. It should be noted that Chicago requires window replacement contractors to carry commercial general liability insurance with limits of at least $300,000.00 per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage resulting in any way from the issuance of the license or activities carried out in accordance with the license. If they have at least one full-time or part-time employee, they should also keep workers' compensation insurance.

To learn more about the city's mandatory insurance requirements for window replacement contractors, call the Chicago Department of Buildings at (312) 743-3600.