Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Albany, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As a subsidiary of the renowned Andersen Corporation, this provider offers a premium, full-service replacement window experience. They are known for their high-quality, energy-efficient Fibrex® composite windows, which are custom-built for each home. Their strength lies in a streamlined process from in-home consultation to professional installation, all handled by their own team.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated business with a strong reputation in the East Bay. They specialize in both replacement and new construction windows, offering a wide range of brands and materials to fit different budgets and architectural styles, from classic Berkeley brown-shingles to modern homes.
This El Cerrito-based company provides a crucial niche service, focusing extensively on window repair and restoration in addition to replacement. They are an excellent choice for homeowners with historical windows or those looking to fix issues rather than fully replace, offering services like sash replacement, balance repair, and weather-stripping. They also install security and storm windows.
** The window market in Albany, CA, is characterized by high demand for quality and energy efficiency, reflecting the city's affluent and environmentally conscious demographic. The housing stock is a mix of early 20th-century craftsman and Tudor-style homes and more modern constructions, creating a need for both historical window preservation and high-performance new installations. **Competition Level:** The market is moderately competitive. While there are few storefronts in Albany itself, the city is surrounded by a dense network of highly skilled contractors from Berkeley, Oakland, and El Cerrito. Reputation, verified by online reviews and local word-of-mouth, is the primary differentiator. **Average Quality:** The expected quality is very high. Homeowners in Albany are typically well-informed and seek out durable, long-lasting products from trusted brands like Andersen, Marvin, and Pella, often with advanced glazing (double or triple-pane, Low-E) to meet California's strict energy codes. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is at a premium level. A full window replacement project for a standard Albany home can range from **$15,000 to $40,000+**, depending on the number of windows, the materials chosen (vinyl, fiberglass, wood, composite), and the complexity of the installation. High-performance and custom-shaped windows command the highest prices. Repair services are more accessible, typically ranging from $200 to $600 per window for common issues.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Albany regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Albany, California.
In Albany, a full window replacement typically ranges from $800 to $2,500 per window, including installation. Key factors include the window style (e.g., double-hung vs. picture), material (vinyl, fiberglass, or wood), and energy efficiency ratings. Local costs are often higher due to California's strict building codes, seismic requirements, and the prevalence of older homes needing custom sizing or historical considerations, which can add to labor and material expenses.
Yes, Albany requires building permits for window replacements that involve structural changes or alterations to the exterior envelope. The city follows the California Building Code (CBC), which includes strict energy efficiency standards (Title 24) and seismic safety provisions. For homes in designated historic districts or with specific architectural review guidelines, you may also need design approval from the City's Planning Division before proceeding.
Albany's mild, marine-influenced climate with cool summers and damp, foggy winters makes moisture resistance and condensation management critical. We recommend windows with low-E glass and argon gas fills to improve thermal performance without excessive solar heat gain. Proper weather sealing is essential to prevent moisture intrusion and mold, which are common concerns in our coastal environment, while also providing good ventilation for our temperate seasons.
The ideal installation period in Albany is during the late spring through early fall (May to October), when rainfall is minimal and days are consistently dry. This dry weather allows for proper sealing and prevents water damage during installation. While work can be done year-round, scheduling early is crucial as reputable local installers often book several weeks in advance during this peak season.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed (California CSLB), insured, and have specific experience with Albany's permit process and older home stock. Look for strong local references and reviews, and ensure they provide detailed written estimates that include compliance with Title 24 energy codes. A reputable installer will also conduct a thorough on-site assessment to identify potential issues like dry rot or seismic retrofitting needs common in our area's vintage homes.