Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Ames, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As part of the nation's largest exterior remodeler, Window World of Des Moines brings extensive buying power and a standardized process to the Ames market. They are a high-volume provider known for offering quality vinyl windows at competitive prices, focusing heavily on replacement and energy-efficient solutions. Their strength lies in a streamlined installation process and a strong warranty.
A true local Ames business, Ames Window & Door has built a strong reputation for personalized service and expertise in both residential and commercial projects. They are known for handling a wide range of products, from standard replacements to more complex custom and historical window solutions. Their local presence allows for quick service and deep community ties.
The Window Fitter is a highly-regarded, family-owned contractor based in Des Moines that serves the broader central Iowa region, including Ames. They receive consistent praise in customer reviews for their professionalism, attention to detail, and high-quality installation work. They position themselves as a premium service provider focusing on custom fit and superior craftsmanship for replacement projects.
** The window market in Ames, Iowa, is characterized by a mix of local specialists and regional powerhouses. Due to the presence of Iowa State University and a strong historic housing stock, there is consistent demand for both standard vinyl replacements and more nuanced custom or repair work, particularly for older homes. **Competition Level:** The market is moderately competitive. Homeowners have a clear choice between local, service-oriented shops like Ames Window & Door and larger, efficiency-focused companies like Window World that offer competitive pricing through volume. High-end craftsmanship providers like The Window Fitter also compete effectively for customers seeking premium service. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally high, with numerous providers holding manufacturer certifications (e.g., for brands like Andersen, Pella, or Simonton) which ensures proper installation and validates warranty claims. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is mid-range compared to national averages. A standard double-hung vinyl window replacement project for an average home can typically range from **$5,000 to $15,000**, depending on the number of windows, the quality of the product selected (basic, mid-range, or premium), and the complexity of the installation. Custom wood windows, historic reproductions, or high-performance triple-pane glazing will push costs significantly higher. Most reputable companies in the area provide free, in-home estimates.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ames regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Ames, Iowa.
For a standard double-hung vinyl window replacement in Ames, homeowners can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 per window installed, with total project costs heavily dependent on the number of windows. Key factors include the window material (vinyl, wood, fiberglass), the size and style (e.g., picture windows vs. casements), and the condition of your home's existing frames. Local labor rates and the specific energy efficiency features you choose, which are crucial for Iowa's extreme temperature swings, will also impact the final price.
The ideal times for window installation in Ames are during the mild, stable weather of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October), avoiding the peak humidity of summer and the freezing temperatures of winter. For a typical whole-house project, expect the installation itself to take 1-3 days, but you should plan for a longer overall timeline from consultation to completion due to high demand in these seasonal windows and potential lead times for custom-ordered products.
Absolutely. Given Ames' climate with hot, humid summers and cold, windy winters, look for windows with a low U-factor (for insulation against cold) and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to reduce summer heat gain. Double-pane, Low-E argon gas-filled windows are the standard recommendation. For maximum efficiency, especially in older homes, consider triple-pane glass, which provides superior insulation against Iowa's temperature extremes and can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
Generally, a permit is not required for a simple window replacement in Ames if you are not altering the structural opening. However, it's always wise to confirm with the City of Ames Inspection Division. When choosing an installer, select a licensed and insured local company with strong references in the Story County area. Look for installers who are certified by major manufacturers (like Andersen or Pella) and who provide detailed, written estimates that include warranty information covering both the product and their labor.
Older homes in Ames often have non-standard window sizes, settled or out-of-square frames, and may contain lead paint in pre-1978 structures, requiring EPA Lead-Safe Certified work practices. Additionally, original wood frames may have significant rot or water damage that must be repaired before a proper installation can occur. A reputable local installer will conduct a thorough on-site inspection to identify these issues upfront and provide solutions, such as custom-sized replacement windows or necessary carpentry repairs, to ensure a proper, weather-tight seal.