DPG Home Improvement, LLC

Window and door replacement in Melrose requires a building permit from the city's Building Department when you change an opening, alter a header, or convert a window to a door. Like-for-like swaps may use a simplified permit, but inspectors review bedroom egress, tempered glazing near doors and tubs, and fall protection on upper floors — relevant given the town's tall Victorians. Nearly all of Melrose's housing predates 1978, so the EPA RRP lead rule applies and the installer must be lead-certified. Permit fees are modest and contractors typically include them in the project quote rather than billing separately.

Melrose pricing runs slightly above the regional average given the older stock and tight access. A standard vinyl double-hung runs roughly $700 to $1,200 installed per opening, with wood-clad or custom units that match Victorian sightlines running higher. Entry doors range from $2,000 to $5,000 depending on materials and period detailing. Patio sliders generally land at $2,600 to $5,800. Because most homes are pre-1978, expect the $50 to $150 per window lead-safe surcharge on nearly every job. A whole-house project of a dozen-plus windows commonly runs $11,000 to $20,000.

Massachusetts requires a written contract and a Home Improvement Contractor registration for most residential window & door installation work; ask for the registration number and check it before paying a deposit.

More on permits, costs, rebates and common questions, plus every other window & door installation contractor serving the town, on the Windows & Doors in Melrose page.