Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Harvard, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A true local staple, Harvard Lumber has been serving the community for decades. They are a full-service lumberyard and home center that offers a wide selection of windows from trusted brands. Their strength lies in their personalized service, local expertise, and ability to handle everything from supply to installation for both repair and full replacement projects.
As part of a national brand with a local franchise, Renewal by Andersen specializes in high-end, custom-made, energy-efficient replacement windows. They are known for their professional consultation, premium materials (often Fibrex), and full-service installation. They are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a long-term, high-performance solution.
A highly-rated local contractor based in nearby Woodstock, Allstar Construction provides a comprehensive range of exterior home services. They receive consistent praise for their quality workmanship, attention to detail, and professional customer service on window installation and replacement projects.
The window service market in Harvard, IL, reflects its status as a smaller, rural community with a strong sense of local business. The competition is moderate, with a mix of long-standing local hardware and lumber providers (like Harvard Lumber) and regional specialty contractors who serve the broader McHenry County area. Homeowners have access to a range of options, from budget-friendly vinyl replacements to premium, custom-built solutions. Typical pricing is in line with the Midwestern average, but can vary significantly based on the scale of the project and window quality. A standard vinyl double-hung window replacement can range from $450-$850 per window installed, while high-end, custom, or specialty windows (like bay windows or energy-efficient Fibrex models) can cost $1,000-$1,500+ per window. The market shows a growing demand for energy-efficient upgrades, driven by both desire for cost savings and the availability of modern products. Reputation and word-of-mouth referrals are exceptionally powerful in this local market.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Harvard regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Harvard, Illinois.
For a standard single-family home in Harvard, a full window replacement typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000+, depending on the number, size, and quality of windows. Prices are influenced by the harsh Illinois climate, as investing in energy-efficient windows with low-E glass and argon gas fills is highly recommended to combat both cold winters and humid summers, which can affect long-term heating and cooling costs. Always get itemized quotes from local installers that include removal, installation, and disposal.
The ideal times are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods typically offer milder, drier weather in Northern Illinois, which is crucial for a proper installation seal and allows for adequate ventilation for caulking and sealants to cure. While many installers work year-round, scheduling during these off-peak seasons can sometimes lead to better availability and pricing compared to the busy summer months.
For standard window replacements where the opening size is not being altered, a permit is generally not required in the City of Harvard. However, if you live in a historic district or are changing the window's structural opening, you must check with the Harvard Building Department. It is always the homeowner's responsibility to verify local codes, and a reputable local installer will be familiar with these requirements and can often handle the permit process if needed.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have a strong physical presence in McHenry County or surrounding areas. Ask for local references you can contact and view past projects. Verify they are certified by major window manufacturers (like Andersen or Pella), as this ensures proper installation training. Be wary of door-to-door sales with high-pressure tactics, especially after local storms, and always check their standing with the Better Business Bureau.
Given the significant temperature swings in Illinois, look for windows with a low U-factor (for insulation against cold) and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to manage summer heat. Double-pane windows with low-E coatings and argon gas fill are the effective standard. For maximum efficiency, consider triple-pane windows, which provide superior insulation and noise reduction—a benefit if you live near railway lines or busy routes like Route 14 or 173.