Get Quotes from Top Window Repair Contractors in Jacksonville, FL

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Window Company in Jacksonville

Window repair and installations are solid investments whether you are selling your property or upgrading your home. Poorly constructed windows will not only reduce your home's curb appeal and resale value, and compromise your security from the elements and burglars but also spike your utility bill due to energy loss. Hence, it is best to leave your window works with a qualified contractor in the city who will help you pick energy-efficient windows and complete your project in line with Florida's Building Standards.

You can find out whether the window replacement contractor you intend to hire for your project is qualified and competent enough to handle the project by asking the following question:

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

Anyone intending to provide installation, repair, fabrication, erection, alteration, or addition to windows in Jacksonville must have the proper contractor certificate issued by the Construction Trades Qualifying Board. Professionals whose scope of work is limited to the repair and installation of windows and associated accessories, for example, must hold a valid Windows and Doors Specialty Contractor Certificate, whereas professionals who engage in repairs, replacement, and installation of windows alongside other home improvement work must hold a General Building and Residential Contractor Certificate, according to Title VIII, Chapter 342, Section 342.110 of the Jacksonville Construction Regulations and Building Codes.

Working as a contractor and performing window repair, replacement, or installation without first obtaining either category of contractor certificates is a violation punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 per occurrence and a potential disqualification from applying for or testing for a contractor's license for two years If guilty of a second violation.

Professionals who are interested in offering window repair and replacement services in Jacksonville can avoid paying unnecessary fines by meeting the requirements for obtaining the appropriate contractor certificate from the Construction Trades Qualifying Board. These requirements include providing information showing financial responsibility, credit, and business reputation, receipt from the Tax Collector evidencing payment of an application fee, and proof of compliance with insurance requirements established by the State Department of Business and Professional Regulation for the trade or craft in which the certificate holder will engage.

In addition, each applicant must provide a summary of education, training, and experience in the construction trades and proof that the applicant has demonstrated working knowledge of regulations applicable to the trade by passing an examination given by the Board or some other governmental agency in the state. For other inquiries concerning the requirements and process of obtaining a contractor certificate of competency in Jacksonville, you can contact the city's Construction Trades Qualifying Board Contractor Certification Coordinator by calling (904) 255-7975 or visit their office at:

231 E Forsyth St
Suite 410
Jacksonville, FL 32202

Note that some unscrupulous individuals may pose as contractors to steal from unsuspecting citizens. Homeowners must bear in mind that the first step in determining whether a professional they intend to hire for window repair, replacement, or installation is eligible to work in the city is by confirming if they are licensed. Jacksonville homeowners can confirm their preferred contractor's license status by calling (904) 255-7970. You can also confirm if the contractor is licensed by the state or Duval County by utilizing the Jacksonville Building Inspection Division's contractor license search tool.

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

Jacksonville window contractors consider several factors when calculating the cost of their services. These factors include the size of the house, the size and number of windows to be worked on, the position of the window, the homeowner's preferred window material, and the amount of labor required to complete the job. It is important to note that the cost of a window replacement or repair service may be higher if the contractor installs multiple windows, the windows are difficult to reach, or the windows have an odd design. However, before hiring a window contractor in Jacksonville, homeowners are advised to obtain and compare estimates from at least three different window replacement contractors to ensure they get the best deal.

Jacksonville's window replacement, repair, and installation contractors earn approximately $48,240 annually. Listed below are the hourly average wages for Jacksonville window contractors compared with the average hourly wages of these professionals across other parts of Florida State as well as several other major cities in the United States:

Jacksonville Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$23.19
Tampa Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$22.79
Orlando Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$22.74
Lakeland Window Contractors' Hourly Average Wage
$22.81
St Petersburg Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$22.79
Los Angeles Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$21.56
Chicago Window Contractors' Hourly Average Wage
$25.04
Boston Window Contractors Hourly Average Wage
$24.62
Houston Window Contractors' Hourly Average Wage
$21.77
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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

Except for minor window repairs, which can be performed with the approval of the City's Building Official, a permit is required to replace or install a window in Jacksonville. Making sure that a permit is pulled by your window contractor before they start your project protects you from financial liabilities that may result from constructing without a permit. According to part four, chapter 320 of the city's building code, starting any construction activity for which a permit is required without first obtaining such a permit is punishable by a fine of up to $250. Homeowners can ensure that this does not happen by asking their window contractor for a copy of the building permit issued by the City's Building Inspection Division for the project. Jacksonville's Building Inspection Division is responsible for issuing permits for all construction work, including window replacement and installation in the city. Applications for these permits can be made online or in person at:

Building Inspection Division
City of Jacksonville
214 North Hogan Street
Jacksonville, Florida 32202

As soon as the application is reviewed and the permit fees have been paid, the Building Inspection Division will issue a permit to the applicant. Once the permit is issued, it must be kept on the construction site and exhibited upon request by any of the city's Building Officials. Note that the Jacksonville Building Inspection Division shall inspect all building projects for which a permit has been issued. The inspection is usually performed during and upon completion of the project. Window replacement contractors can contact (904) 255-8500 and select option 4 to find out if the window project they are executing requires inspection. Likewise, contractors can call the above-mentioned telephone number for inquiries concerning window replacement and installation permits.

What Kind of Window Replacement Services Do You Offer?

Jacksonville window contractors offer a variety of services, which include, but are not limited to, window repairs and replacement, installation of new windows, and window maintenance services, such as maintenance of window screens and ensuring that a window's rubber sealing is in place. Even though most window contractors in the city can handle basic window types, homeowners must understand that some require a great deal of expertise and specialization. For example, oriel, which is a type of bay window, requires a lot of usually expensive treatments during installation.

Hiring someone who is not an expert to install this type of window can result in a significant loss of money. Homeowners should always consider whether their preferred contractor specializes in replacing and installing the window types they choose for their project. Some common window types used in Jacksonville buildings include:

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

Having confirmed that the window contractor you intend to hire is experienced in handling the window type you want for the project, the next thing is to discuss how much the service will cost you. Some cost estimates for window installation, replacement, and related services in Jacksonville are listed below:

Estimates for window installation or repair based on task

Skylight installation (for standard fixed skylight)
$858.63 - $1,116
Building window tinting (per square foot, for a basic solar film)
$5.20 - $6.92
Double-hung window installation/replacement (per window)
$500 - $900
Storm window installation (per window)
$170 - $250
Siding installation (per square foot)
$2.40 - $9.20
Gutter installation (per linear foot)
$3.25 - $20
Roof installation (per 100 square feet)
$200 - $2,300
Resealing
$35 - $100
Rescreening
$35 - $100
Scratch removal
$30 - $100
Alignment
$35 - $100
Insulation
$60 - $180
Re-glazing
$150 - $350
Restoration
$200 - $450
Leak repair
$30 - $400
Cleaning
$50 - $400
Tinting
$200 - $400
Hurricane proofing
$35 - $400
Soundproofing
$400 – $1,300
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Estimates for window repair/replacement based on the faulty component

Spring
$45 - $100
Handle
$45 - $90
Hinge
$45 - $100
Lock
$45 - $100
Seal
$45 - $100
Thermal seal
$45 - $150
Screen
$60 - $200
Glass
$60 - $600
Sash cord
$60 - $200
Well
$60 - $250
Lintel
$60 - $650
Molding
$70 - $400
Frame
$100 - $550
Flashing
$150 - $500
Arm
$40 - $150
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Estimates for window repair based on the type of window

Arched
$100 - $550
Awning
$70 - $500
Bay
$200 - $600
Block
$55 - $300
Casement
$105 - $500
Double-hung
$105 - $550
Egress
$100 - $625
Garden
$200 - $550
Picture
$100 - $550
Single-hung
$70 - $450
Skylight
$200 - $500
Sliding
$70 - $500
Stained glass
$200 - $625
Storm
$70 - $400
Transom
$35- $200
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Estimates for window repair based on window frame material

Wood
$100 - $300
Aluminum
$150 - $500
Vinyl
$200 - $555
Fiberglass
$200 - $550
Composite
$250 - $600
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

What Brands of Windows Do You Work With?

Most Jacksonville window contractors can work with different brands of windows manufactured in the country. However, it is still crucial to ask the contractor you intend to hire the types of window brands that they specialize in. Ensuring that your contractor specializes in handling the service you need and the brand of windows you prefer for the job guarantees that the project is expertly executed. Listed below are some window brand manufacturers favored by home and property owners in Jacksonville:

  • Norandex Windows
  • Simonton Windows
  • PGT Windows
  • Adler Windows
  • Loewen Windows
  • Velux USA Windows
  • Ply Gem Windows
  • Marvin Windows
  • New South Windows Solutions
  • Ace Doors and Windows
  • American Window Products, Inc
  • Dream Doors and Windows
  • Universal Windows Direct of Jacksonville
  • Eagle View Windows
  • Renaissance Windows and Doors
  • Miracle Windows and Showers

While hiring an experienced and competent hand to replace, repair, or install your windows is essential, homeowners must understand that choosing a good brand of window for the project is equally important. Window choice typically affects the success of installations irrespective of who is executing the installation. This is why most Jacksonville home and property owners prefer to get their supply from popular window manufacturers when they want to replace their old windows. Home and property owners in the city choose the top window manufacturers because they make high-quality, long-lasting windows.

However, since each window project is usually dependent on the type of building and the home or property owner's preference, it is always best to ask for a warranty and discuss the following features with your window contractor before making your final selection:

  • Security and safety
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Ventilation
  • Climate control
  • Compatibility with your home's interior and exterior finishes

Most window manufacturers in the country offer two types of warranties: a lifetime warranty and a limited lifetime warranty. Note that a warranty can also be prorated or non-prorated, transferable or non-transferable, depending on the window manufacturer.

  • Limited Lifetime Warranty: A limited lifetime warranty guarantees that the manufacturer will cover performance and aesthetic issues on specific parts of the window that occurred during the expected life of the window. The expected life of the window means the period during which the window will retain its maximum quality. It is important to note that a limited lifetime warranty only covers window parts, not labor or servicing.
  • Lifetime Warranty: On the other hand, a lifetime warranty means that the manufacturer will cover all replacement parts. However, property owners should keep in mind that a lifetime warranty is only valid for as long as the manufacturer determines that the window can maintain its maximum quality.
  • Double Lifetime Warranty: A double lifetime warranty is usually more robust than the lifetime and limited lifetime warranties. This warranty guarantees coverage for as long as the home is owned and can be transferred to the next homeowner in most cases.
  • Prorated Warranty: A prorated warranty ensures that the window manufacturer will share the cost of repairs or replacement for part costs by contributing a steadily decreasing percentage over the years of usage. Homeowners must understand that they will pay more for repairs as what the manufacturer will contribute for repairs continues to decrease.
  • Transferable Warranty: Warranties may be transferable or non-transferable. Transferable warranties remain valid after the sale of your home, and they are passed on to the new homeowner, while non-transferable warranties can not be passed to another person. Homeowners should discuss with the window manufacturer and get a transferable warranty because it ensures that the added home value created by their window upgrade is intact.

How Energy-Efficient Are Your Windows?

According to the US Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows account for up to 30% of household heating and cooling energy consumption. Given the impact of windows on heating and cooling energy consumption, homeowners should choose energy-efficient windows when replacing old windows or installing windows in a new home. Homeowners can save up to $500 a year in energy bills by installing energy-efficient windows. In addition, homeowners may be eligible for federal or state financing, state or municipal refunds, and tax breaks after choosing energy-efficient windows. Note this is usually dependent on each homeowner's jurisdiction. For example, since 2010, Florida has received $22.8 million from the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which reduced energy costs and improved health and safety in over 3,021 homes.

There are several other Home Energy Efficiency Programs, and homeowners can take advantage of these programs. Homeowners can Visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) or the Florida PACE Funding Agency. These agencies support home improvement projects that center on energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy generation, and resiliency upgrades. A few examples include air conditioners, roofs, windows and doors, water heaters, solar panels, pool heaters, hurricane shutters, and generators. Lastly, homeowners can utilize the Energy Star Rebate Finder to discover rebates and other offers available in Jacksonville for ENERGY STAR-certified products.

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

Yes, every licensed contractor in Jacksonville, including window contractors, is required to carry general liability, workers' compensation, and employer liability insurance plans. Hence, homeowners must ensure that the window contractor they intend to hire carries all the necessary insurance policies. Homeowners can confirm whether the contractor is insured by asking for an insurance certificate and contacting the insurance company that issued the certificate.

In addition, homeowners can verify if their contractor has current worker's compensation insurance or exemption by calling the Florida Division of Workers Compensation Compliance at (850) 488-2333. By confirming that the contractor is insured, homeowners can avoid financial liabilities resulting from several on-the-job hazards, including lacerations, slips, and falls from heights, often faced by window replacement contractors. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls, slips, and trips accounted for 77 of the 275 fatal work injuries recorded in Florida in 2020, making it the state's second leading cause of fatal work injuries. Given the number of fatal work injuries caused by slips and falls in the country, homeowners should not only hire contractors who are insured, but they also need to ensure that the contractor follows all safety regulations and instructions during the work.

How to File a Complaint Against a Bad Window Replacement Contractor in Jacksonville

Jacksonville homeowners lose several thousands of dollars to home improvement scammers every year. However, since 2011, the Florida Attorney General's Office has recovered over $10 billion for consumers across the state that has fallen victim to different kinds of scams, including home improvement scams. Although some victims of home improvement scams may be lucky enough to recover their money, it is important to note that it is not every home improvement scam victim that recovers their money.

Hence, homeowners should not wait until it is too late before they educate themselves about home improvement scams in the city. For example, every homeowner should be aware of common home improvement scam tricks employed by bad home improvement workers, including fake window replacement contractors in the city, as this will reduce the likelihood of falling victim to these scammers. Some common tricks employed by bad home improvement workers to scam consumers in Jacksonville include:

  • Dismissing the provision of adequate information about the business or contact address
  • Claiming that they are from another city and offering to do your work at a discount
  • Making use of high-pressure sales tactics to get you to sign a contract with them right away
  • Offering discounts and ridiculously low bids to persuade you into hiring their services
  • Insisting on cash-only deals and requesting significant upfront payment before any work is done
  • Dismissing the need to provide you with references or proof of work done in the past
  • Claiming that a written contract is not necessary
  • Deliberately dismissing the need to clarify the different types of warranties they are offering.
  • Asking you to obtain the permit for the job yourself
  • Dismissing the need for insurance

While identifying these scam tricks is the first step in preventing home improvement scams, Jacksonville homeowners must understand that identifying scam tricks alone is inadequate as scammers are evolving new tricks every day. Hence, in addition to identifying scam tricks, homeowners should take certain precautionary steps before hiring any window replacement contractor. Some of these steps include:

  • Avoid door-to-door solicitors
  • Get a written estimate from every window replacement contractor you are considering and compare them.
  • Always verify the window replacement contractor license status. You can do so by (904) 255-7970 or by utilizing the Jacksonville Building Inspection Division's contractor license search tool.
  • Find out if complaints have been made against the contractor in the past. You can check third-party websites like the Better Business Bureau, government agencies like the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, and the Construction Trades Qualifying Board.
  • Ask for proof of insurance and confirm whether it is still active
  • Make sure they pull the permit for the project before commencing work
  • Ask for a list of satisfied customers that you can contact to get a first-hand review of the contractor's performance
  • Get a written contract, and do not sign until you fully understand it
  • Do not pay more than one-third of the total price as an upfront payment
  • Do not make full payment until the job has been satisfactorily completed and inspected

Victims of window replacement scams in Jacksonville can report the matter to the city's Office of Consumer Affairs online or by calling (904) 630 - 2489 to speak with a consumer affairs investigator. Likewise, victims of window replacement scams can also report a fraudulent window replacement contractor in Jacksonville to the Construction Trades Qualifying Board by calling (904) 255-7970 or the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online.

Finally, victims of window replacement scams should also know that they have the right to file a claim against the contractor in an appropriate court. If the claim is valued at less than $8,000, the appropriate court is usually the Duval County Small Claim Court. However, it is crucial to speak with an attorney before filing a claim in court.