Forestville Residence
Telegraph Hill Residence
PRICING
Custom wood windows are labor intensive, and are consequently more expensive than stock windows. Because we are truly a custom shop, our windows are made to order, and our prices vary from job to job. We don't have standard price lists. Our clients select various features and design elements to suit their needs and budgets.
We can give you a budget price for windows with no obligation, if you provide us with a list of sizes, quantities, configurations and basic specifications.
Some Factors that Affect the Cost of Our Windows
- Window design:
Every project we do is unique. Sash vary in type and shape. From one project to the next, the number of lights and layouts within each sash may vary. Frame details can vary, such as sills, stools, and jamb widths. All these variables combine to make our pricing as custom as our windows. - Window sizes:
Not surprisingly, small windows are less expensive than large windows. Due to labor costs, below certain minimum sizes, the price does not decrease much. Our glass also has minimum sizes for pricing (~2 sq ft), meaning lots of small lights can be expensive. We can suggest ways to save money if your design ideas are flexible...or we can build exactly what you want. It is up to you. We are here to help. - Divided light configuration:
As mentioned above, more divided lights per sash will increase the costs. Also, we love to do curves and angles, but they do increase costs. - Glass and glazing:
A wide variety of glass types are available for use in our windows. Although we still make single-glazed sash (usually for restoration work), most of our windows are dual-glazed. Some common glass types are:- Clear DSB, single glazed glass: It is our most economical glazing. It usually won't meet current energy codes, though.
- Clear insulated glass: added energy efficiency over single glazing.
- Solarban Low E glass: energy efficient with UV-blocking and solar control qualities.
- Laminated safety glass: reduces sound transmission, and effectively blocks most of ultra-violet (UV) light, which can damage fabrics and art work.
- Tempered glass: used to comply with building code requirements for safety glazing. We can supply it without logos if desired.
- Restoration glass: either machine-made or hand-made new glass is available to match old wavy glass.
- Other specialty glass: leaded, stained, etched, tinted, many obscure patterns. We can build windows using your glass, too.
- Wood species:
All our windows are built from solid wood and kiln-dried. We use vertical-grain Douglas fir unless otherwise specified. Genuine mahogany is also available at additional cost. We make windows from any available and appropriate wood species. Over the years, we have made windows of pine, redwood, oak, red cedar, yellow cedar, walnut, and cherry. - Paint grade vs. stain grade:
If windows will be painted, we usually prime them in our shop, and they will be delivered ready for finish painting. If a stain or clear finish is specified, we will charge more to select stain grade wood that is attractive and free from visible defects. Even stain grade jobs should be primed and painted on the exteriors. - Operating hardware:
We normally fit and install any operating hardware. Concealed friction hinges are frequently used for casement, awning, and hopper windows. Butt hinges are also an option, and are available in a variety of sizes, materials, and finishes. Double hung windows may be balanced with traditional weights and pulleys, or spring balances. - Finish hardware:
Hardware used to secure wood sash, such as casement fasteners and double hung sash locks, comes in a wide variety of styles, finishes, and sizes. The client usually supplies his own locks and handles, but we can provide it as an option. There is a wide price range for most finish hardware. - Window screens:
Window screens are optional. Aluminum frame screens are the least expensive alternative. Metal pull-down screens, available in various finishes, roll up out of sight when window sash are closed, and can be partially concealed in the window frames. We can manufacture wood frame screens with various types of screen cloth, including true bronze. - Shop drawings:
Shop drawings are included for all our jobs. These include specifications, elevations drawn to scale, and window details. The size and complexity of the job will determine the cost allowance for shop drawings. - Delivery:
We do deliver. Delivery costs depend upon the size of the job, and the distance between our shop and the jobsite. You can save some money by picking up the windows yourself at our shop. - Consulting:
During the time we have been making custom wood windows, we have acquired considerable window expertise, and are available to consult with architects, designers, homeowners, and building contractors.
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