How Much Does Window Replacement Cost?

How Much Does Window Replacement Cost?
by John Carlucci - August 24, 2022

While the average cost to replace a window ranges from $200 to $1,800 per window, this does not account for the unique characteristics of your home or the variety of windows currently available.

In this guide, we'll break down average window replacement costs by framing material, window type, and other factors so that you have a better understanding of how much it costs to replace a window.

How to Calculate the Cost of a Window Replacement?

As you prepare a budget for replacing your windows, choose the framing material you like. Choose a material that complements the interior design of your home and provides adequate insulation for the local climate. You should also evaluate how many windows you wish to replace. Finally, consider labor costs, as professional installation is highly advised.

After estimating the cost of your window replacement project, consider the following methods to save money:

  • Choose "contractor-grade" or "builder-grade" windows from prominent window manufacturers; these will be of great quality but less expensive than "architecture-grade" windows.
  • Standard window types and shapes without additional features you may not need or use will be less expensive than custom windows.
  • Obtain numerous quotations from qualified window installers in order to negotiate a fair price.

What Are the Labor Costs for Window Replacement?

In addition to the cost of the windows, labor expenditures must be considered. In most circumstances, we recommend hiring a professional installation for your replacement project. Homeowners may anticipate paying an average of $100 to $300 per standard window installation or approximately $38 to $40 per hour.

Complicated installations (such as those using big or custom windows) will increase labor expenses. These costs may range between $800 and $1,200 per window installation. While a standard installation would take approximately one hour, larger installations could take up to six hours.

Aspects That Influence the Price of Window Replacement

The material of the window frame and the type of window, which we will cover in the following sections, are two of the most important elements influencing the cost of window replacement. Here are a few additional elements that will affect the replacement window cost:

  • The position of your windows affects the cost, as ground-floor windows require less labor to replace than a basement and upper-floor windows.
  • Older homes may have non-standard window sizes and structural difficulties that necessitate more cautious installation, which can increase labor expenses.
  • More expensive are window frames that require additional insulation and weatherproofing.
  • In addition to the style of a window, the type of glass can influence the price. Double-pane windows, which have two layers of glass, are more expensive than single-pane windows, but they are significantly more effective in blocking sound, heat, and cold air. Tinted, tempered, and safety glass is all slightly more expensive than regular glass, and larger or atypically sized windows will incur additional expenses.
  • Window replacement is less expensive than window installation during new construction. Using retrofit window replacements instead of full-frame windows, which already include a nail fin, will save you a substantial amount of money.

How Much Do Different Types of Windows Cost?

In addition to frame materials, the type of window also affects the price of replacing windows. Here are the most popular window kinds and their respective replacement costs.

  • Picture windows, also known as fixed windows, consist of a single pane of glass in a frame that does not open. However, picture windows frequently have unusual proportions and shapes, which may necessitate the installation of a custom window costing between $80 and $800.
  • Single-Hung: A single-hung window consists of a stationary upper pane of glass and a sliding or swinging lower pane. Popular and inexpensive, these windows are often only seen on the ground floor. Installing one of these windows normally costs between $100 and $400.
  • A double-hung window is comparable to a single-hung window, with the exception that the top sash can slide down or swing open. These are slightly more expensive than single-hung windows, with replacement costs ranging from $150 to $650.
  • A bay window consists of three huge panes of glass in an inclined frame that extends from the side of the home. Due to the size of the glass, these windows are often fairly expensive to replace, costing between $500 and $2,500 on average. Similar to bay windows, bow windows consist of at least five enormous curving panes of glass and often cost at least $1,000 to replace.
  • Casement: Casement windows normally open from left to right using a manual crank. Depending on the size of your casement window, window replacement will cost between $150 and $1,000. A casement window with a hinge at the top, known as an awning window, can be replaced for between $420 and $760.
  • Glass Block: Glass block windows are most frequent in bathrooms since they allow light in while maintaining seclusion. Again, size and form will have a significant impact on the replacement cost for glass block windows, which normally range from $400 to $1,000.
  • Sliding windows are single- or double-hung windows that open horizontally rather than vertically. The cost to replace standard-sized sliding windows is from $150 to $600, while the cost to replace full-size sliding glass doors is between $1,000 and $2,500.
  • As you may assume, replacing skylight windows is costly due to the relative complexity of installation. Depending on the size, form, and opening mechanism of your skylight, expect to pay between $900 and $2,400 to replace its window.
  • Storm windows are additional panes of glass that are put inside or outside of existing windows to protect and insulate them. They might be removable or permanent. Replacement expenses for a single storm window range from $150 and $450 on average. However, most homeowners choose to secure all of their windows, which costs approximately $5,000.

How Much Do Different Window Framing Materials Cost?

The window's framing material is exactly what it sounds like: the structure between the window's glass and the walls. This material determines the appearance, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, and cost of a window.

Vinyl

Vinyl window frames are the most prevalent due to their cost and durability. This PVC material is a good insulator and so contributes to the energy efficiency of the window. Vinyl is also the option with the lowest maintenance requirements. It is not the most durable or aesthetically pleasing option, but it is inexpensive. Vinyl window replacement typically costs between $100 and $900 per window, with an average cost between $400 and $600 per window.

Aluminum

Aluminum, a durable and lightweight metal, is a popular material for window frames due to its resistance to bending and warping. Unfortunately, it is not an effective insulator, therefore it results in windows that are less energy-efficient. Typically, aluminum window frames cost between $275 and $1,285.

Wood

Wood windows offer a classic appearance, which is typically why homeowners choose a wood frame. Functionally, wood does not expand or contract when exposed to heat, therefore window frames can be repaired rather than replaced entirely. Wood can crack, peel, and distort, so you may be required to make repeated repairs in the future.

Depending on the type and grade of the wood, wood window frames can range in price from $150 to $1,300 per window, with an average of $600 to $700 per window.

Composite

Composed of wood fibers and polymers, composite window frames are among the most resilient. They are as energy-efficient as vinyl, cutting energy expenses by insulating window openings, but cost $300 to $1,500 per window, which is more than wood.

Fiberglass

The appearance of fiberglass window frames resembles painted wood, and they combine the energy efficiency of vinyl with the durability of aluminum. The cost to replace a fiberglass window ranges from $500 to $1,500, which is greater than any of the other listed materials.

How Does Window Location Affect the Cost?

The location of your windows can increase the costs associated with window replacement. For instance, the expenditures for windows in the entryway, bathroom, and bedroom will remain very modest due to their common size. Costs may climb, though, if you renovate rooms with several specialties or ornamental windows (i.e., kitchen or living room).

The price of replacing basement windows is greatly dependent on the type of window chosen. The cost to replace basement windows might range between $200 and $1,000. However, if you want to install basement egress windows for a basement bedroom, you may expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 or more. Egress windows are specialized windows that are large enough to be used for emergency egress. Installation of these windows typically requires the assistance of a specialist.

You might also anticipate increased charges for upper-floor windows. These installations necessitate higher personnel expenditures, specialized equipment, and more project completion time.

Energy-Efficient Options for Replacement Windows

If you are looking for ways to reduce your energy costs, there are a number of ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home with the proper replacement windows or glass type.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Single-pane windows are the most common type of residential window. These windows, as the name suggests, consist of a single pane of glass. They do not give your home insulation or energy efficiency protection. The exterior temperatures permeate through the windows and alter the temperature inside your home. Single-pane windows are the most budget-friendly alternative, with average costs ranging from $100 to $350.

Utilizing two panes of glass with gas trapped between them, double-paned windows offer superior energy efficiency. Typically, argon or krypton is utilized since it is harmless, odorless, and colorless. This gas is used as an insulator in double-pane windows, preventing outside temperatures from affecting your home's interior temperature. Expect to pay between $400 and $900 for the installation of each window in your home.

If you require greater security, you can install windows with three panes of glass. They are the most expensive of the window alternatives, costing between $500 and $1,800 per window.

To maximize your energy savings, you can install Energy Star-certified replacement windows. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) endorses these items for their cost-effective energy efficiency.

According to Energy Star, using these certified replacement windows would reduce your annual energy expenditures by an average of 12 percent. By upgrading your non-certified goods, you can save $101–583 per year on single-pane windows and $27–$197 per year on double-pane, clear installations.

Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

In addition to selecting energy-efficient windows, homeowners can opt for glass with ultraviolet (UV)-blocking coatings. Low-emissivity (or Low-e) coatings help regulate the transfer of thermal energy through the panes. Low-e coatings applied to the exterior of the glass will prevent heat from entering your home without obstructing the sun's rays.

Tinted windows are an alternative to Low-e windows that block UV radiation with solar window film. They resemble car window tinting but are less noticeable and do not detract from your home's aesthetics.

Retrofit Replacement Cost vs. Full Frame Cost

By selecting retrofit installs, homeowners can reduce the cost of their window replacement job. This style of installation utilizes the window's existing frame and trim and requires only the removal of the window sash. A retrofit installation can reduce window installation costs by 10–15%.

However, if you opt for a full-frame installation, the total price might quadruple. During this installation process, the window sash, trim, and frame are removed and replaced with new components. The window frame and trim must be stained to match the existing trim after installation.

How to Save Money on Window Replacement Expenses?

There are numerous ways to reduce the expense of window replacement. Homeowners should first call their local utility company to inquire about any rebates and incentives. These credits are limited to professionally installed Energy Star or energy-efficient windows. You may also receive additional rebates from companies that install windows.

Certain states provide tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, such as windows. Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DRISE) to see if your state offers any incentives.

Conclusion

With proper planning and preparation, the cost of window replacements need not be prohibitive. Due to the numerous variables that might affect window replacements, we recommend dealing with a professional window installation to guarantee the project is completed correctly.

Contact at least three installers and compare their quotes, products, and warranty options to determine which windows are best for your home.

Read this article to learn about what is the cheapest state to buy a house in.

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