Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Albert Lea, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing local business specializing in a full range of glass and window services for residential and commercial properties. They are known for their personalized service, local expertise, and focus on both repair and full window replacement projects.
Part of a national franchise with a strong local presence in Mankato, serving the Albert Lea area. They are a high-volume installer known for offering value-priced, energy-efficient vinyl window replacements with a strong warranty.
A highly-rated, family-owned contractor based in the broader southern Minnesota/northern Iowa region, known for premium installation and customer service. They focus on custom exterior remodeling projects, including high-performance window replacements.
The window service market in Albert Lea is characteristic of a smaller Midwestern city. There is one primary, long-standing local provider (Albert Lea Glass & Window Co.) that handles a significant portion of the repair and smaller replacement jobs. For larger-scale or specialized replacement projects, residents and businesses frequently turn to reputable contractors from larger regional hubs like Mankato, MN, and even northern Iowa, who actively service the Albert Lea area. This creates a competitive environment that benefits the consumer. The quality of service is generally high, with an emphasis on durability and energy efficiency due to the region's climate. Pricing is moderate, with a typical full-window replacement project for an average home ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the window quality, style, and number of units. Competition ensures that multiple quotes are readily available.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Albert Lea regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Albert Lea, Minnesota.
For a standard double-hung vinyl window replacement in Albert Lea, homeowners can expect to pay between $600 to $1,200 per window installed, with total project costs varying significantly by home size. Key factors include the window material (vinyl, wood, fiberglass), the complexity of installation (e.g., historical home adjustments, rot repair), and the window's energy efficiency rating, which is crucial for our Minnesota winters. Local labor rates, the choice between full-frame vs. insert replacement, and any unique architectural features of your home will also impact the final estimate.
The ideal windows for installation in Albert Lea are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods typically offer mild, dry weather, which is safer for installers and allows for proper sealing of materials. While professional installers work year-round, scheduling in these off-peak seasons often provides greater availability and can avoid the delays that winter storms or summer humidity can cause, ensuring a more efficient process and proper caulk and sealant curing.
Yes, in Albert Lea, window replacements generally must comply with the Minnesota State Building Code, which includes specific requirements for egress in bedrooms and energy efficiency (U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) suitable for our climate zone. While a simple like-for-like replacement often doesn't require a permit, any structural change, alteration of the opening size, or work on a home in a designated historic district likely will. Always verify with the Albert Lea Building Safety Division; a reputable local installer will handle this process for you.
Start by verifying the contractor is licensed and insured in Minnesota, and check for positive reviews on local platforms and the BBB. Ask for references from recent jobs in Freeborn or surrounding counties and physically view a completed project if possible. A trustworthy Albert Lea installer will provide a detailed, written estimate, explain the products best suited for our region's temperature swings, and be transparent about their timeline and warranty coverage, both on labor and the window manufacturer's product.
Prioritize windows with a low U-factor (insulating ability) for winter and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) for summer. Look for double or triple-pane glass filled with argon gas and Low-E coatings, which are essential for managing heat loss and gain in our continental climate. Ensure proper installation with air-sealing techniques to prevent drafts; even the best window will underperform if not installed correctly to withstand Minnesota's wind, snow, and significant annual temperature range.