Compare the highest-rated windows professionals in Hays, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, family-owned business in Havre that is the most prominent local provider for glass and glazing services. They specialize in residential and commercial window replacement, repair, and glass services. They are known for their quick response times and expertise in handling everything from broken window panes to full custom window installations, making them a go-to for the Hi-Line region.
While primarily a lumber and building materials supplier, Hi-Line Home Center is a critical resource for residents of Hays undertaking window projects. They sell a wide variety of new, energy-efficient windows from major brands and can provide expert guidance on selection. They often have a network of recommended local contractors for installation or can facilitate professional installation services for their customers.
Located in Malta, this is another highly-regarded regional glass and window service provider that serves the vast rural areas of northeastern Montana. They offer comprehensive residential window services, including repair, replacement, and storm window options. Their service area explicitly includes communities like Dodson and Zortman, indicating they are accustomed to traveling to serve the Fort Belknap area, including Hays.
** The window service market for Hays, Montana, is characterized by its reliance on regional providers from larger towns like Havre (approx. 50 miles west) and Malta (approx. 70 miles northeast). Due to the remote, rural nature of the community, there are no local dedicated window stores or installers within Hays itself. The competition level is moderate among the established regional players, who are all well-known and have built long-term reputations over decades. **Service Quality:** The quality of service is generally high, as these businesses survive by serving a large geographic area and rely on word-of-mouth and community trust. Expertise is practical and geared towards the harsh Montana climate, with a strong focus on durability and energy efficiency. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is typically higher than in urban areas due to the cost of travel and logistics for service calls. Homeowners should expect travel fees or minimum service charges. The cost for a standard double-hung vinyl window installation can range from **$600 - $1,200 per window**, including the window unit and professional installation, with higher costs for custom sizes, high-efficiency models, or complex installations. Repair services are more cost-effective but still carry a premium for travel.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hays regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about windows services in Hays, Montana.
Hays experiences the full force of Montana's Northern Plains climate, with bitterly cold, windy winters and hot summers. You should prioritize windows with a low U-factor for superior insulation against the cold and a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to manage summer heat. Double or triple-pane windows with argon gas fills and Low-E coatings are highly recommended to improve energy efficiency and comfort year-round, which is critical given our local temperature extremes.
Costs vary based on window quality, home size, and installation complexity, but for a standard home in Hays, homeowners can expect a range of $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Regional factors like the need for high-performance windows to combat our climate and potentially higher transportation costs for materials to our more remote location can influence the price. Always get itemized quotes from local installers that break down product and labor costs.
The ideal installation windows are during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October), avoiding the deep winter freeze and the peak of summer heat. For a typical whole-home project, expect the process to take 1-3 days for a professional crew. Scheduling well in advance is crucial, as local contractors' calendars fill up quickly before and after the harsh winter season.
While Hays itself may not have extensive local amendments, you must comply with the Montana State Building Codes, which adopt International Residential Code (IRC) standards. A reputable local installer will handle securing any necessary permits from the Blaine County building department. This is important for ensuring installations meet egress requirements for bedrooms and proper weatherization standards suited to our climate zone.
Seek contractors with proven local experience who understand the specific weather challenges of our region. Verify they are licensed, insured, and offer strong warranties on both labor and products. Ask for local references in Hays or nearby communities like Lodge Pole or Harlem, and check their reputation for navigating the logistical aspects of working in a rural area. A trustworthy provider will conduct a thorough in-home assessment before providing a detailed quote.