Top Window Replacement & Installation in Burien, Washington Ranked

Replacing your windows is one of the most impactful home improvement projects you can undertake in Burien. It's not just about a fresh look; it's about enhancing your home's comfort, reducing energy bills, and increasing its value. With Burien's mild, wet climate, choosing the right energy-efficient windows is crucial for managing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This guide will help you understand your options, from styles and materials to installation methods and costs, so you can make an informed decision and connect with qualified local professionals for your project.

Local Glass Repairs LLC

seattle

Local Glass Repairs LLC is a window repair and replacement company based in Seattle, WA. They provide fast and professional glass repair services for both residential and commercial properties, specializing in accurate measurement and installation of broken or damaged windows. Their experienced team serves Seattle, Burien, and Tacoma, offering a seamless process backed by a 10-year warranty on insulated glass units.

5.0

354 Reviews

Einar Johanson Window & Door

922 N 128th St, Seattle, WA 98133

Einar Johanson Window & Door is a window replacement company located in Seattle, WA, specializing in custom window and exterior door replacement. They offer skilled installation services performed by long-term, salaried craftsmen, ensuring precise fits and quality workmanship. With over 67 years of experience, they serve residential customers seeking reliable window and door solutions.

5.0

260 Reviews

TN Glass Install LLC

5243 S Puget Sound Ave, Tacoma, WA 98409

TN Glass Install LLC is a window repair and replacement company based in Tacoma, WA. They serve both residential and commercial clients, offering expert installation and repair services using high-quality glass from leading manufacturers. The company handles a range of projects, from fixing windows on tall buildings to replacing windows in small businesses. They also provide emergency glass replacement services to help maintain safety and protect properties during urgent situations.

4.9

740 Reviews

valueGLASS

3228 Perry Ave, Bremerton, WA 98310

valueGLASS is a veteran-owned window repair and replacement company based in Seattle, WA. They provide glass services for auto, residential, and commercial needs, including windshields, home windows, storefronts, and specialty vehicles. Their certified technicians also calibrate advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) after replacements to ensure safety and performance.

4.9

346 Reviews

Emerald City Energy Windows & Doors

3225 S 116th St # 117, Tukwila, WA 98168

Emerald City Energy Windows & Doors is a family-owned window and door replacement company based in Seattle, WA. They specialize in installing and replacing windows and sliding glass doors, offering expert design recommendations and partnering with leading brands to provide quality products. Serving homeowners in the greater Seattle area, they focus on personalized consultations and professional installations to meet each client's unique needs.

4.9

290 Reviews

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Why Window Replacement Matters in Burien

Living in the Puget Sound region means dealing with cool, damp winters and mild summers. Your home's windows are a primary defense against the elements, and outdated, drafty units can lead to significant energy waste and discomfort. Modern window installation focuses on creating a tight thermal envelope. By upgrading to energy-efficient models designed for our specific climate, you can eliminate drafts, reduce condensation, and create a more consistent indoor temperature year-round ^{1 2}. This not only lowers your heating and cooling costs but also improves your home's overall livability and resilience against the pervasive moisture.

Beyond comfort and savings, new windows offer a substantial return on investment. Nationally, homeowners can recoup around 70% or more of the project cost in increased home value ³. In a desirable area like Burien, where curb appeal and modern amenities are valued, this return can be even more attractive. New windows also reduce outside noise, enhance security with modern locking mechanisms, and require far less maintenance than older wood frames that are prone to rot in our wet environment.

Popular Window Styles for Burien Homes

The right window style affects function, ventilation, aesthetics, and even energy performance. Here are the most common types chosen for Burien homes.

Double-Hung and Single-Hung Windows These are the classic, versatile choices found in many traditional and contemporary homes. Both feature two sashes (the movable parts), but in a double-hung, both sashes move vertically, allowing for top and bottom ventilation. Single-hung windows have only the bottom sash that moves. They are generally affordable, easy to operate, and their simple design makes them easy to clean from inside your home ^{4 5}.

Casement and Awning Windows Operated with a crank, these windows open outward and provide excellent ventilation and unobstructed views. Casement windows hinge on the side, while awning windows hinge at the top. Their design allows them to seal more tightly than sliding windows when closed, making them among the most energy-efficient operating styles available ^{6 7}. They are ideal for capturing Burien's cooling breezes during summer.

Sliding Windows Also known as gliders or sliders, these windows open horizontally along a track. They are a great option for wider openings, like in living rooms or walk-out basements, where a large, unbroken view is desired. While they are straightforward to use, their sliding mechanism can be slightly less airtight than crank-out styles over time ⁸.

Bay and Bow Windows These projecting window combinations add architectural interest, space, and panoramic light to a room. A bay window typically consists of a large central picture window flanked by two smaller angled windows (often double-hung or casement). A bow window is made of four or more equal-sized windows arranged in a gentle curve. Both styles create a beautiful focal point but are more complex and costly to install due to their structural requirements ^{4 5}.

Key Features for Energy Efficiency

Selecting energy-efficient windows is non-negotiable for Burien's climate. Look for these key features to ensure maximum performance and savings.

Glass and Glazing

• Double-Pane vs. Triple-Pane: Double-pane glass with an air gap is the standard and a significant upgrade over single-pane. For superior performance, especially in homes with significant exposure to wind or noise, triple-pane windows offer an extra layer of insulation ^{9 10}.
• Gas Fills: The space between panes is often filled with inert gases like Argon or Krypton. These dense gases are better insulators than air, reducing heat transfer and improving the window's U-factor (its insulating ability) ^{1 11}.
• Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (Low-E) is a microscopic, virtually invisible metallic coating applied to the glass. It reflects infrared light, helping to keep your home warmer in the winter by reflecting interior heat back inside and cooler in the summer by reflecting exterior solar heat away ^{9 2}.

Frame Materials The frame material impacts durability, maintenance, and insulation.

• Vinyl: Extremely popular due to its affordability, low maintenance (never needs painting), and good thermal performance. Modern vinyl frames are durable and come in various colors ¹².
• Fiberglass: Offers exceptional strength, durability, and thermal efficiency. It expands and contracts at a rate similar to glass, reducing stress on seals. It can be painted but is typically more expensive than vinyl ⁹.
• Wood: Provides a classic, warm aesthetic and excellent natural insulation. However, wood requires regular painting or staining to protect it from Burien's moisture, making it a higher-maintenance choice ⁸.

Performance Ratings Always look for windows certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The two most critical ratings for our area are:

• U-Factor: Measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping. Look for a lower number (e.g., 0.30 or below) for better insulation ^{2 11}.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much solar heat the window allows in. For Burien's mild summers, a moderate SHGC (e.g., 0.30-0.40) is often recommended to allow for some beneficial passive solar heating in winter without overheating in summer ^{9 10}.

Understanding Installation Methods

The installation method is as important as the window itself. A poor installation can negate the benefits of even the most efficient window.

Retrofit Installation (Pocket Replacement) This is the less invasive and generally more affordable option. The new window unit is installed directly into the existing, structurally sound frame. The interior and exterior trim remain intact. Retrofit is ideal when your existing frames are in good condition, you're satisfied with the current window size and style, and you want a quicker project with less disruption ¹³.

Full-Frame Replacement This is a complete, "down-to-the-studs" installation. The old window, including the entire frame, sill, and trim, is removed. The new window is installed in the rough opening, allowing for a thorough inspection of the surrounding wall structure, repair of any water damage or rot, and the addition of new flashing and insulation. Full-frame replacement is best for older homes, when changing the window size or style, or when the existing frame is damaged. It offers the best potential for air sealing and long-term performance but is more labor-intensive and costly ^{13 14}.

A Look at Window Replacement Costs in Burien

Costs for window installation can vary widely based on the factors discussed. Here's a breakdown of what Burien homeowners can expect.

Cost Per Window On average, you can expect to pay between $400 and $1,000 or more per window installed ^{1 13}. A standard, mid-range vinyl double-hung window with double-pane, Low-E glass typically averages around $550 to $600 per unit installed. The final price is a combination of the window itself and the labor to install it.

Material Cost Factors:

• Window Material: Vinyl windows range from $100-$900 per unit, wood from $150-$1,300, and fiberglass from $320-$1,500 ¹².
• Glass & Features: Triple-pane glass, specialty gas fills, and higher-performance coatings will increase the cost of the window unit.
• Style & Size: Custom sizes, complex shapes, and styles like bay/bow windows are significantly more expensive than standard double-hung or sliders ^{4 6}.

Labor Cost Factors: Labor typically adds $70 to $300+ per window and depends on the installation method (full-frame costs more than retrofit), the accessibility of the window (e.g., second-story vs. ground floor), and the condition of the existing opening ¹⁵.

Whole-Home Project Cost For a typical 3-bedroom home in Burien, a full-house window replacement project can range from $4,500 to $9,600 or more ¹⁴. While this is a considerable investment, it's important to view it through the lens of long-term energy savings, increased comfort, and added home value. Many homeowners find that the monthly savings on their energy bills help offset the project cost over time, and the improved aesthetics and function enhance their daily living experience.

Finding the Right Professional

Given the complexity and importance of proper installation, choosing a qualified contractor is critical. Look for a licensed, bonded, and insured professional with specific experience in window replacement in the Pacific Northwest. They should be knowledgeable about local building codes, weatherization requirements, and the best products for our climate. Ask for references, review portfolios of past work, and ensure they provide a detailed, written estimate that specifies the make and model of windows, the installation method, and a clear timeline.

Frequently asked questions

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