Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Fishtail, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally-owned and operated specialist focusing exclusively on window and door services for residential and historic properties. Known for exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and deep expertise in both modern energy-efficient solutions and period-correct custom window repair and replication.
A larger, well-established company based in Billings that serves a wide region, including Stillwater County. They offer a comprehensive range of window brands and services, from standard replacements to high-performance options. Their strength lies in their extensive inventory, professional installation teams, and robust warranties.
A trusted local provider serving the Carbon County area, including the Beartooth Front communities like Fishtail. They are known for being responsive, reliable, and skilled in both standard installations and more complex window repair jobs. They are a go-to for many local contractors and homeowners in the area.
** The window service market for Fishtail, Montana, is characteristic of a rural, mountainous region. There are no large national chains (e.g., Renewal by Andersen, Window World) with a physical presence in the immediate area. The market is served exclusively by regional and local contractors, primarily based in the nearby hub towns of Columbus, Red Lodge, and Billings. **Quality and Competition:** The quality of service is generally high, with companies competing on reputation, craftsmanship, and personalized service rather than price alone. The competition level is moderate; while there aren't dozens of providers, the existing companies are well-established and have built strong reputations over many years. Expertise in handling the specific climate challenges of Montana—such as high winds, heavy snow loads, and extreme temperature swings—is a key differentiator. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically above the national average. This is due to several factors: the higher cost of transporting materials to a remote location, the "travel fee" component for service calls to rural addresses like Fishtail, and the demand for high-performance, energy-efficient windows to combat the harsh winters. For a standard vinyl double-hung window replacement, homeowners can expect prices to start in the $600-$900 per window range, including installation. Custom wood windows, historic replication, or high-end fiberglass products will be significantly more expensive.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Fishtail regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Fishtail, Montana.
Fishtail experiences cold, snowy winters and significant temperature swings, making energy efficiency paramount. You should prioritize windows with a low U-factor for insulation and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to manage both winter heat loss and summer sun. Look for durable frames and robust weather-stripping to withstand our high winds and seasonal temperature extremes, which can range from below zero in winter to the 80s in summer.
For a standard-sized home in the Fishtail area, a full vinyl window replacement typically ranges from $15,000 to $30,000, though prices vary based on home size, window count, and material choices (e.g., fiberglass or wood). Local factors like travel distances for crews from larger towns (Bozeman, Billings) and the potential for custom sizes in older homes can add to the cost. Always get itemized estimates that include removal, installation, and disposal.
The ideal installation windows are during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). This avoids the peak summer demand from contractors and the severe cold and snow of winter, which can complicate installation and proper sealing. Scheduling well in advance is crucial, as local installers' calendars fill up quickly during these optimal periods.
In Stillwater County, which includes Fishtail, a building permit is generally not required for like-for-like window replacements that do not alter the structural framing. However, if you are changing the window size or style in a way that modifies the wall structure, a permit is needed. It's always best to confirm with the Stillwater County Planning Department, as rules for historic properties or those in specific subdivisions may differ.
Choose a provider with proven experience in Montana's climate and ask for local references in the Fishtail/Nye area. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Montana. A reputable installer will conduct a thorough in-home assessment, discuss energy ratings suitable for our region, and provide a detailed written warranty covering both the product and their labor against issues like air infiltration from our strong winds.