Top Window Replacement & Installation in Hampton, Virginia Ranked

Upgrading your windows is one of the most impactful home improvements you can make in Hampton. New window installation not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also directly addresses the unique challenges of our coastal Virginia climate-from humid summers and mild winters to the potential for strong winds and storms. By choosing the right energy-efficient windows, you can improve indoor comfort, reduce energy bills, and increase your property's value. This guide will help you understand your options, from styles and materials to costs and installation methods, so you can make an informed decision and connect with qualified local professionals for your project.

ACE Home Improvements

5629 Normandy Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23464

ACE Home Improvements is a window replacement and exterior remodeling company serving Virginia Beach, VA, and the surrounding Hampton Roads area including Chesapeake and Norfolk. Established in 1982, this veteran-owned and family-operated business offers vinyl siding, replacement windows, doors, and custom decks designed to withstand the coastal climate. They provide products with lifetime manufacturer and workmanship warranties, emphasizing durable, energy-efficient solutions tailored for Virginia homes.

5.0

282 Reviews

Custom Home Improvement & Repairs of Hampton Roads

2000 General Booth Blvd Ste 204, Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Custom Home Improvement & Repairs of Hampton Roads is a window replacement company based in Virginia Beach, VA. They provide a range of home improvement services including roofing, siding, window replacement, door installation, and storm damage restoration. Their roofing services are designed to withstand the coastal weather conditions of Virginia Beach, such as high winds, salt air, and humidity. The company employs certified roofing contractors who ensure all work meets Virginia state requirements and local codes. They also participate in the GAF Roofs for Troops program, offering special support for veterans. Custom Home Improvement & Repairs offers 24-hour availability on weekdays.

4.9

966 Reviews

Jayhawk Exteriors

1824 Engle Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23320

Jayhawk Exteriors is a window replacement and sliding glass door installation company serving Virginia Beach, VA. They offer a range of exterior remodeling services including roofing, siding, windows, gutters, and doors. Known for using energy-efficient products and providing clean, detailed workmanship, Jayhawk Exteriors has been serving the Hampton Roads area since 2003. Their capabilities include full roof replacements with GAF materials and factory-backed warranties. The company is fully licensed and insured, emphasizing fair pricing without upselling.

4.9

315 Reviews

Roofing Systems of Hampton Roads

virginia beach

Roofing Systems of Hampton Roads is a family-owned roofing company serving Virginia Beach, VA, with a focus on residential roof replacement and repair. Established in 2005, they provide a range of roofing materials including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, and specialty tiles. Their services address local weather challenges such as storms and humidity, offering roof installation, emergency tarp-up, and additional home improvement options like window and door replacements. The company's certified contractors bring extensive experience tailored to the needs of homeowners in the area.

4.9

125 Reviews

West Shore Home

1210 Scholastic Wy, Chesapeake, VA 23323

West Shore Home is a home remodeling company serving Virginia Beach, VA, and nearby areas including Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Newport News. They specialize in window replacement, sliding glass door installation, bathroom remodeling, and flooring installation. Their services include energy-efficient, storm-resistant windows and secure entry and patio doors designed for local climates. West Shore Home has completed thousands of projects with custom solutions tailored to each home. The company is fully bonded and insured, with local installation teams and warranties on materials and workmanship.

4.8

1.5k Reviews

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Understanding Your Window Style Options

The style of window you choose affects its function, ventilation, and aesthetic. Hampton homeowners have several popular styles to consider, each with distinct benefits.

Double-Hung Windows are the most common choice for replacement projects ¹. They feature two sashes that slide vertically, allowing for ventilation from both the top and bottom. This design makes them easy to clean and offers excellent airflow control, which is beneficial during Hampton's variable seasons.

Casement Windows are operated with a crank, swinging outward like a door. They provide a tight seal when closed, making them highly energy-efficient and excellent at catching breezes for ventilation ². Their unobstructed glass area also offers great views, perfect for rooms where you want to maximize light.

For adding architectural interest and space, Bay & Bow Windows are outstanding options. A bay window typically consists of a large central picture window flanked by two smaller windows (often double-hung or casement) set at an angle. A bow window is made of four or more windows arranged in a gentle curve. Both styles project outward from the home's exterior, creating a sense of extra interior space and flooding rooms with natural light, making them ideal for living rooms or dining areas ^{3 4}.

If your priority is an unimpeded view and maximum sunlight, a Picture Window is a large, fixed pane of glass that does not open. They are fantastic for framing beautiful backyard vistas or bringing abundant light into a room. Because they are sealed, they can be very energy-efficient, but they must be paired with other operable windows in a room to ensure proper ventilation ⁵.

Selecting Materials for Durability and Efficiency

The material of your window frame is crucial for longevity, maintenance, and performance in Hampton's environment. The right choice balances climate resilience with your budget and desired look.

Vinyl Windows are a top choice for many Hampton residents due to their affordability, low maintenance, and good energy efficiency. Vinyl frames don't need painting, resist moisture well, and provide excellent insulation. They are available in a wide range of styles and colors, making them a versatile and cost-effective solution for most homes ^{6 7}.

Fiberglass Windows offer superior strength and durability, with an expansion rate similar to glass, which helps maintain a tight seal over time. They can withstand Hampton's humidity and temperature swings without warping or cracking and can be painted to match your home's exterior. While typically at a higher price point than vinyl, their longevity and performance can make them a valuable investment ⁷.

Wood Windows provide a classic, high-end aesthetic that is often desired for historic or traditional-style homes. They offer excellent natural insulation. However, wood requires more maintenance than vinyl or fiberglass, including periodic painting or staining to protect against moisture-a key consideration in our humid climate. Modern wood windows often feature aluminum or vinyl cladding on the exterior to reduce maintenance while preserving the warm interior look ⁸.

Key Energy Efficiency Features for Virginia Homes

Given Hampton's climate, prioritizing energy efficiency in your new windows is essential for year-round comfort and savings. Look for these key features and ratings.

Glass Packages: Single-pane glass is largely obsolete for new installations. Double-pane glass, with an air or gas-filled space between the panes, is the standard for good insulation. Triple-pane windows add a third layer of glass and gas, offering even greater thermal and sound insulation, which can be beneficial for homes near noisy areas or for maximizing energy savings ^{9 10}.

Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (Low-E) is a microscopically thin, invisible metallic coating applied to the glass. It reflects infrared light, helping to keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer, without compromising visible light. This is a critical feature for managing solar heat gain in our climate ^{1 7}.

Gas Fills: The space between panes is often filled with inert gases like Argon or Krypton. These dense gases are better insulators than regular air, reducing heat transfer and improving the window's overall U-Factor (see below) ¹⁰.

Understanding Performance Ratings: Always look for windows certified by ENERGY STAR® for the U.S. South-Central region, which includes Virginia. Two key ratings to compare are:

• U-Factor: Measures the rate of heat loss. The lower the U-Factor, the better the window insulates. For Virginia, look for a U-Factor of 0.30 or lower ^{1 9}.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much solar radiation is admitted through the glass. A lower SHGC blocks more solar heat, which is desirable in warm, sunny climates to reduce cooling costs. An appropriate SHGC balances cooling needs with free solar heating in the winter ⁷.

What to Expect: Window Replacement Costs in Hampton

The cost of window installation can vary widely based on the factors discussed. Having a realistic budget expectation is key to planning your project.

On average, homeowners in the Hampton Roads area can expect to pay between $300 and $1,200 or more per window, fully installed ^{6 11 8}. This wide range accounts for the spectrum of choices from a basic vinyl double-hung retrofit to a large, custom-shaped wood casement window with triple-pane glass and a full-frame installation.

Breakdown of Cost Factors:

• Material: Vinyl frames are generally the most affordable option. Fiberglass and wood command higher price points due to material costs and manufacturing ^{12 3}.
• Glass & Features: Upgrading from double-pane to triple-pane, adding Low-E coatings, or specifying gas fills will increase the cost but also the long-term value through energy savings ^{11 13}.
• Size & Style: Larger windows, custom shapes, and complex styles like bay/bow windows cost more than standard-sized double-hung units ⁵.
• Installation Method: A full-frame replacement is more labor-intensive and thus more expensive than a retrofit installation (covered in the next section) ^{6 12}.

Labor costs typically add $100 to $300+ per window to the project, depending on the complexity of the installation and the contractor's rates ^{8 13}. It's important to get detailed, written estimates from several licensed and insured local installers that break down both material and labor costs.

The Installation Process: Retrofit vs. Full-Frame

Understanding the two primary installation methods will help you know what to expect on installation day and which approach is right for your home.

Retrofit Installation (Pocket or Insert Replacement): This is the less invasive method. The installer removes the old window sashes and any interior stops, but leaves the existing main frame and trim intact. The new window unit is then secured into this existing "pocket." The primary advantages are a faster installation, lower cost, and minimal disruption to your interior and exterior finishes. This method is ideal if your existing window frames are square, structurally sound, and free of rot or water damage ^{6 1}.

Full-Frame Replacement: This is a more comprehensive approach. The entire existing window, including the exterior trim and the main frame down to the studs, is removed. The new window unit, which includes a completely new frame, is then installed directly into the rough opening. This method allows the installer to inspect and address any hidden rot, insulation, or flashing issues. It is necessary if you are changing the window size or style, or if the existing frame is damaged. While more expensive and time-consuming, it often provides a better, longer-lasting seal and is the only option for a true "like-new" installation ^{1 14}.

A reputable local installer will assess your home and recommend the best method based on the condition of your existing windows and your goals for the project.

Finding the Right Local Professional

Your window investment is only as good as the installation. Proper installation is critical for achieving the promised energy efficiency, weather-tightness, and longevity of your new windows.

Look for established local window companies or contractors with specific experience in the Hampton Roads area. They will understand the local building codes, permit requirements (if any), and the specific weather challenges our homes face. Check for proper licensing, insurance, and warranties on both the product and the labor. Reading reviews and asking for references from recent projects in your neighborhood can provide valuable insight into a company's workmanship and customer service ¹⁴.

Many national brands like Window World and Renewal by Andersen have local franchise installers, while other homeowners prefer working with dedicated local contractors such as those found in the area. Whichever route you choose, ensure you receive a clear, detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, specific products (including model numbers and performance ratings), timeline, payment schedule, and warranty information before work begins.

Frequently asked questions

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