Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Cambridge, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As a flagship brand for a major window manufacturer, this provider specializes in high-end, custom replacement windows. They are known for a full-service, professional installation process, from in-home consultation to final cleanup. Their windows are highly energy-efficient and are built to order for a perfect fit.
A well-established local company with a strong focus on the Greater Boston area, including Cambridge. They are highly regarded for their work on both modern and historic homes, offering a wide range of products from leading manufacturers. Their expertise includes complex installations and repairs.
While based further south, this company has a significant presence in the Boston metro market and is frequently hired for projects in Cambridge. They are praised for their customer service, quality installation, and broad selection of products, including specialty and security windows.
The window service market in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is characterized by high demand, strong competition, and premium pricing. The city's housing stock consists largely of older homes, including many historic properties, which drives the need for specialized custom solutions and preservation-sensitive installations. Energy efficiency is a paramount concern for homeowners due to high local energy costs and a strong cultural focus on sustainability. The market is competitive with a mix of large, branded contractors (like Renewal by Andersen) and highly-rated local specialists. Pricing is typically above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living, strict building codes, and the expertise required to work on Cambridge's unique homes. Customers generally expect a high level of professionalism, proper licensing, and robust warranties.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cambridge regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
In Cambridge, the cost for professional window installation typically ranges from $800 to $1,500 per window, depending on the window style, size, and energy efficiency features. This higher-than-national-average cost reflects local labor rates, the prevalence of older homes requiring careful custom fitting, and the common need for energy-efficient models suitable for our cold New England winters. For a standard 10-window project, homeowners should budget between $8,000 and $15,000 for a full, quality installation.
Yes, Cambridge has strict local regulations, especially for homes in historic districts or for buildings over 50 years old. You will likely need a building permit from the Cambridge Inspectional Services Department (ISD) for any structural change, and if your home is in a historic district like Avon Hill or Old Cambridge, you must also obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historical Commission. These rules ensure replacements preserve the architectural character, so always verify requirements with your installer before work begins.
While installation can be done year-round, late spring through early fall (May to October) is ideal in Cambridge. This avoids the peak heating season and the unpredictable snow and freezing temperatures of winter, which can complicate sealing and curing processes. However, scheduling several months in advance is crucial, as demand is high, and lead times can be long, especially for custom windows needed for our many historic and uniquely sized homes.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience with Cambridge's diverse housing stock, from triple-deckers to historic Victorians. Check for Massachusetts Construction Supervisor Licenses (CSL) and reviews on local platforms. A reputable provider will be familiar with Cambridge permitting, offer products that meet or exceed Massachusetts' stringent energy codes (Chapter 1150A), and provide a detailed, written contract that includes cleanup and final inspection coordination.
Given our cold winters and humid summers, look for windows with a low U-factor (for insulation) and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to manage summer heat. Dual-pane or triple-pane glass with Low-E coatings and argon gas fill are standard recommendations. The Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code, which Cambridge adheres to, sets high performance standards, so ensure your chosen windows carry the ENERGY STAR® label for the "Northern" climate zone to maximize comfort and utility savings.