Is it cheaper to repair my windows than replace them?
Sometimes, yes, and we'll tell you when. If one sealed unit has fogged up but the frame is solid, swapping just the glass runs about $150 to $500 and saves you a full replacement. A sash that's stuck or a balance that's failed can often be rebuilt too. We only push full replacement when the frame is rotted, the seals keep failing, or you want to fix old flashing. We don't sell a whole-house job to fix one window.
Should I do full-frame or insert (pocket) replacement?
It depends on what we find at the opening, and we show you the frame before we quote. Inserts are faster and cheaper when the existing frame is sound, since the new window sets into the old frame. Full-frame is the right call when there's rot, water damage, or you want to redo the flashing and weather barrier the right way. On a lot of older Bellingham homes the frame looks fine from inside but is soft once we open it up, so we check before we commit.
How long is the wait, and how long is the install?
Most windows and doors are custom-ordered to the size of your opening, so there's a lead time while they're built, usually a few weeks. Once the units arrive, a whole-house window job typically installs in a few days. A single door or a foggy-glass swap is often a one-day job. We give you a real timeline at the quote, not a guess.
Will the new windows leak or fog up later?
Not if they're installed right. We flash to the weather-resistive barrier with sill pans and head flashing, not just a bead of caulk, so water that gets behind the trim drains back out. New sealed units carry a manufacturer warranty against seal failure, and we back our labor with a workmanship warranty. Proper flashing is the single biggest reason a window stays dry in our wet climate.
Do I need a permit for window or door replacement?
Usually yes. Window and door replacement in the City of Bellingham and unincorporated Whatcom County typically needs a permit, especially for egress in bedrooms, tempered glass near doors and wet areas, and fall-protection sill heights. We pull the permit and handle the inspection so the egress and tempered-glass requirements are met. Basement bedroom egress sizing is a common gotcha, and we size it right.
How quickly will I hear back after requesting a quote?
Fast. Most folks hear from us within 15 minutes during business hours (seven days a week, 8am to 5pm). We don't believe in making people wait around. If you've got a window or door project, we want to talk about it.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. The work is performed by Apex Builderz LLC, a licensed, bonded, and insured Washington general contractor (WA Contractor Reg. # APEXBBL749B1, UBI 604-945-342). We're happy to show you the paperwork, just ask.
