Window replacement is one of the home improvement projects that homeowners must carry
out to maintain their homes. A damaged window can cause a range of problems, from
increased energy costs to safety risks. Fortunately, replacing a window is not as expensive
as some other projects.
On average, the cost of a window replacement project can range anywhere from $300-
$1,000 per window, depending on size and material choice. Some additional variables that
may affect your total cost include labor costs, installation fees, and materials used for the
window.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve gathered data to provide an accurate estimate of how
much it will cost to replace windows in your home. By understanding the cost, you can make
an informed decision about which type of window replacement is best for your budget and
home.
Calculating the Replacement Window Cost
The total cost of replacing a window depends on many factors. Your location, window type,
and material all matter. We’ll help you understand how all these reflect on the amount you’ll
spend on your window replacement.
Window Material
The amount you will spend to replace the window largely depends on the window frame
material. A wooden frame window will cost differently from fiberglass or vinyl. An aluminum
frame will also differ from a composite frame.
The type of window material you choose will also determine the maintenance cost. A high-
quality window frame will last longer and improve the aesthetics of the window.
Below is an estimated cost for each material type:
Wood Frame Window
A wooden frame ranges between $150 and $1,300. Wood frames give an outstanding
architectural look. In some areas, wooden frames are a requirement. For example, homes in
historic districts or landmarks must have a wood frame.
The wood frames are believed to improve the aesthetic look of the homes in this area. The
advantage of wood frames is that they are easy to maintain and last longer. However, they
require frequent maintenance, regular repairs, and touch-ups to look good.
Vinyl Frames
Vinyl frame windows are the most common window material. This is because they are
affordable and last longer. Such windows are also energy efficient, making the home
comfortable to stay in. It costs between $100 and $900 to replace a vinyl window.
Composite Windows
Replacing these windows will cost between $300 and $1200 per window. Composite
windows are more durable than others. They are a blend of wood fiber and PVC polymers.
The composite windows are more energy efficient and more durable than vinyl. But they
don’t require maintenance after installation.
Aluminum Frames
Aluminum frames are the most affordable window material. Most homeowners use it in their
residential homes. Even though aluminum frames can’t insulate your windows like other
materials, they are a good choice.
It costs between $75 and $400 for each window. However, some window types go for
$1,200 or more. Such high-end windows are beautiful and unique.
Fiberglass Frames
Fiberglass window frames are durable. Such frames are also good insulators, just like their
vinyl counterparts. Fiberglass window frames are also durable, beautiful, and stronger.
Replacing them costs between $500 and $1500 per window.
Clad Window
Replacing a clad window will require more money as it’s expensive. It costs between $300
and $2000 per window. The clad window has a vinyl shell over a wooden or aluminum
frame. They are low-maintenance frames that are energy efficient. Such windows prevent
much heat from getting into the house.
Type of Window
The type of window you choose for replacement also affects the total cost. Every type of
window has its purpose. So, before buying any, you have to consider the purpose it will
serve.
The different window types and their costs include:
Single-Hung
A single-hung window will cost between $100 and $400. It’s a common window type in most
homes because of its price. A single hung window’s bottom part moves up and down.
However, the remaining upper half remains in a fixed position. Such a window type is ideal
for the ground floor, where it’s easier to clean the upper parts.
Double-Hung
This is another common window type in most homes. Unlike the single-hung window, it has
a movable bottom and top sash. Double-hung windows are a good choice as they ensure
sufficient airflow in the house. It’s also easy to clean. It costs between $300 and $600 to
replace each window.
The Bay Window
Bay windows extend outward from the wall. Such windows need framing, flashing, or roofing
to work effectively. The cost of this window replacement is $500-$2500. This is exclusive of
the window installation cost. The bay window has smaller windows on the sides and a bigger
one in the center.
Transom
When replacing your windows, a transom can help beautify their frame. Transom windows
enable light into the house as they act as ventilators too. Replacing the is between $140 to
$300.
Bow
Like the bay window, the bow window also requires framing or flashing. A bow window is
ideal for the front of the house. But another one can face the backyard. It has five window
panes installed in a bowing manner.
The window installation cost is $1500-$5000. This is plus the buying costs. However, the
number of window panels and the window size determine its total cost.
Garden Window
The Garden window is a smaller version of the Bay window. They are for greenhouses on
the side of the house. Garden windows have additional square footage and shelf space. It
ensures houseplants or flowers get enough natural light. Such a window will cost you $1000
to $4000.
Casement
Buying a casement window will cost between $200 and $1000. Casement windows have a
hand crank that opens from left to right. They can open wide and are for the areas around
the ceilings for basements. Casement windows have solid glass that gives a less obstructed
view.
One of the windows that will reduce your window replacement cost is the pocket window. It
doesn’t need full window frame replacement as the new window can be fixed in the older
frame. The cost of replacing such a window depends on the frame’s condition and its size.
Arched
This window type has a rounded top. Usually, it’s added to the other window types for
aesthetic purposes. Arched windows will require spending around $345 to $480.
Egress
Egress windows are expensive. But they are a good choice for the bedroom or an escape
route. It costs between $500 and $2500. But this can increase to $2000-$5000 when it’s for
the basement.
Glass Block
You will spend between $80 and $800 on a glass block window. However, this can increase
when you opt for a different window size. Other things, like the installation area, also raise
the cost. Glass windows are a good choice for the bathroom as they offer a high privacy
level.
Picture
This is a window available in different sizes and shapes. The picture windows have a single
glass pane and can’t open. But homeowners can customize them to meet their needs.
Customized picture windows are more expensive. The standard cost for replacing a picture
window is $300 to $800, which includes labor costs.
Skylight
You can also replace the skylight windows. However, they are labor intensive, which will
increase the window replacement cost. On average, you will spend between $900-$2400 per
piece, depending on your location and its size.
Awning
Awning windows are a good option for regions with a lot of rain. It prevents water from
getting into the house when the window is opened. The water-resistant awning on the
window will cost $225 to $480 for every window. Awning windows have a crank that acts as
a lock and prevents the wind from destroying them.
Jalousie
The Jalousie windows best suit warm areas. They work as blinds, so curtains are not a must.
You can open it with a lever to allow free airflow. The charges for replacing such a window
range from $175 to $375.
Sliding
The sliding windows are like single-hung or double-hung windows. However, they move
horizontally, unlike the other two types of windows. Sliding windows are available in different
styles and types, giving homeowners various choices.
You can choose one that slides on both sides or one side, depending on your preference.
Sliding windows cost about $150-$600.
Storm
The storm windows consist of an extra glass pane on the exterior. It offers additional
insulation and prevents the window from being damaged. You can install temporary or
permanent storm windows. It goes for $150-$450 per window. The window installation cost
is around $5000 for all the windows at home.
Hopper
A hopper window is a type of casement window that is hinged at the bottom. It opens from
the top or bottom to allow light. Hooper windows are the best choice for tighter spaces within
the house. They cost from $170 to $645 to buy.
Remember, each window type comes in different sizes, which is the main cost determinant.
For example, a bigger window costs more than a smaller one. The above prices are for
buying the window type. Depending on the location and the contractor, the homeowners will
foot the window installation cost.
The Number of Glass Panes
It will be costly to replace a window with more glass panes. On average, replacing bay
windows with three panes will cost around $910 to $7100. But this will increase when you
opt for bow windows with 4-6 panes. You might spend about $1500 to $6500 to buy
materials. Then pay for the window installation cost separately.
Location of the Window
Where the window is installed in the house also affects the replacement cost. Some areas
attract additional costs for every window. For example, a basement window can cost $250-
1000 more than the initial cost.
You can spend $2000-$5000 more for the egress basement window. Such windows act as
escape routes when there is an emergency in the house.
The windows for the bedroom or bathroom will be between $300 and $1000 each.
On the other hand, dining, foyers, and windows go for $300 to $1000. The amount will
double if your living room requires bigger windows like a bay, bow, or picture.
Moreover, the windows installed on the upper floor will take more time to replace. This
means the window installation cost will increase, as most contractors charge per hour. Such
areas will also need special equipment and more window installers, increasing costs.
Glass Type and Size
The type of glass you choose when replacing windows also determines the overall cost. You
can opt for energy-efficient glass that lowers your utility bills. For example, tinted glass
prevents UV rays from reaching the house. But when you are in a calamity-prone area,
impact-resistant glass is the best option.
Furthermore, your location and the age of the house determine the type of glass to settle for
during replacement. The law dictates that homeowners must install safety or tempered glass
in some areas.
If you have an old home, your windows may differ from the standard size. So, when
replacing them, you can go for a different, better size. In the process, you might also change
the window frame. All these will be reflected in the total amount for window replacement.
The Brand of the Window
A brand sets its product prices differently according to its market reach and share. This is the
same case with window brands. When you buy, Jeld-Wen windows, expect to spend
between $95 and $1100.
However, the Andersen and Pella windows will cost more. They go for around $95-$1750
and $120-$1800 per window, respectively. You will spend more on certain window brands
than others.
Labor Charges
When replacing windows, expect to spend varying amounts on labor. The cost can be high
depending on the window installers you opt for. It can cost you $50-65 per hour or $100-300
for every window. The more windows replaced, the higher the labor charges. To reduce the
cost, work with window installers near me.
The Age of the House
The window replacement price will be higher if your house is over 70 years old. Remember,
such homes have unique window sizes, which require a change. The windows also tend to
be old and fragile, while some are rotten.
The window might also need to meet the building codes in your area. The best way to avoid
frequent, expensive maintenance is to replace the entire window. However, this will affect
the overall cost of the window replacement.
Your Geographical Location
Your home’s geographical location will also determine the window replacement costs.
Remember, the local codes in some areas dictates the kind of window frame a house can
have. The type of glass also matters in some places.
Additionally, the climatic condition of the area dictates the type of window to use. For
example, triple-pane windows are a good choice for colder regions. Such glasses offer better
insulation and are energy efficient. However, they are expensive.
For the warmer regions, double-pane windows will provide enough insulation and protection.
The two types of windows cost different amounts. The home improvement costs in these
locations will be different.
Other Factors that Determine the Window Replacement Cost
When planning for window replacement, there are other home improvement costs you have
to factor in. This is after considering working with window installers near me. The other
factors include:
Structural Repairs
When repairing windows around the house, chances are high that the frames could be
broken, rotten, or old. Such will force you to do structural repairs to have the window in
shape for long.
The window installers can also trim the siding and drywall during the repairs. The cost of
doing this will affect the total estimates for replacing the window.
Weatherproofing or Insulation
You can also decide to weatherproof or insulate the windows when doing a replacement.
Doing this will help make the house comfortable to stay in. However, it comes at an extra
cost. Weatherproofing a window can take between $3 and $20 per square foot.
Disposal and Cleanup Expenses
Even though some contractors cover this cost, not all of them do it. So, when calculating the
window replacement cost, spare some cash for this. It can be between $50 and $65 per
hour. When the contractors charge for this service, it will leave your home cleaner with no
debris to dispose of yourself.
Full Frame Window/ Retrofit Replacement
Retrofit windows are a good choice for new homes. However, full-frame windows can also
work. The cost of replacing the full window frames differs from that of retrofits. Each retrofit
requires $100-$300 in labor charges. Full frame replacement goes for $150-800.
More charges will result when you opt for full-frame replacement. Full frame replacement is a
good choice for a new construction project. The walls and studs are stripped when doing a
full frame replacement in an existing building. It can damage the windows or the walls,
leading to additional costs.
Is Window Replacement Necessary?
Window replacement is necessary when it becomes hard to close or open the windows. It’s
also a good decision if the windows are damaged, affecting the house’s aesthetics. Also,
replacement is necessary when the utility bills increase because of broken windows.
Not replacing the windows in time can encourage mold growth on the walls. It can also
cause further damage to the frame. If you are not careful, a broken window can allow
dangerous animals into the house.
Work With A Professional
Your window replacement project can cost you a leg and an arm if you don’t have the right
tools and don’t know what you’re doing. It’s essential to hire a professional window installer
who has experience replacing windows of different materials, shapes, and sizes.
Professional installers can also help you assess the best type of material that will work well
with your home’s architecture and climate.
If you’re looking for a window replacement near me, HOMELYNK is your guy! We have a
network of professional and reliable window installers to help you get the job done. From
helping you pick out the right materials to installing your new windows, our team is here to
make sure that your window replacement project runs smoothly and efficiently.
HOMELYNK is readily available for your home improvement needs and is the best window
installer near me. Contact us for professional guidance on your projects.
