If you’re looking to replace the windows in your home, you’re most likely also number crunching before reaching out to suppliers. There are several factors that you’ll want to account for, including but not limited to window type and frame material. While these are the main determinants of the costs you may be looking at, there’s also the cost of labor you’ll be paying to have the windows replaced. Keep in mind that it will take a team of professionals nearly an hour on average to install a standard window.
The price of replacing a window can also depend on other factors as well. These include energy-efficiency features, the complexity of the project, and the location of the window. Taking all of these factors into account will allow you to narrow down on an estimate before proceeding with the replacement.
Window Replacement Price Based on Frame Material
The biggest factor that impacts both aesthetic appeal and replacement cost is the frame material you go with for your window. That being said, it’s always a good idea to replace your windows with those of the same material or of better quality in order to maintain home value. Bear in mind that these prices refer to the window itself.
Replacing Wood Windows
Among the most expensive options for frame material is wood, ranging between $300 to $600 per window. Besides other factors such as size and design, the window replacement price also depends on the type of wood being used. Oakwood, for instance, is relatively costlier than pine. Pricing aside, however, wooden window frames offer a unique aesthetic to just about any interior.
Vinyl Window Replacement
It comes as no surprise that vinyl is the most popular frame material thanks to it being comparably quite affordable and low-maintenance. This sought-after material offers a good deal of energy efficiency while lending a timeless aesthetic with trims and profiles that can be made to resemble wood. A vinyl window replacement cost ranges from $200 to $500 and varies from one manufacturer to another.
Fiberglass Window Replacement
Although fiberglass window frames share the same benefits as their vinyl counterparts in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic value, they also tend to be more sturdy. Regardless of this extra advantage, however, fiberglass isn’t all that common of an option; and that is due its hefty price tag of $800 to $1,200 on average per window.
Aluminum Window Replacement
Aluminum frames are easily the most affordable of the bunch but not the most versatile. They tend to lack in the efficiency and insulation department, making them less of a practical choice. Should that not be an issue for you, however, aluminum window replacements cost an average of $100 to $400 per unit — which can be ideal for tight budgets.
Replacing Composite Windows
Composite frames consist of a mix of PVC polymers, offering the same aesthetic versatility of wood and the durability of vinyl. Although they carry a bigger price tag upfront (ranging from $500 to $800), they are incredibly easy to maintain after installation. Windows with composite frames are also energy efficient, meaning that you can save money down the line.
Window Replacement Price By Window Type
Home window replacements are available in a slew of sizes and configurations. That being said, the pricing will naturally differ according to each type of standard window shape and functionality.
Replacing Picture Windows
Picture windows are designed to offer a substantial view of outdoor spaces while letting in a lot of natural light. They typically feature a single pane, are often fixed, and don’t consist of any mullions. Due to their simple design, picture windows are relatively the least expensive, costing as little as $300 for small units and up to $800 for larger ones (installation included).
Single-Hung Window Replacement
Also referred to as sash windows, single-hung windows are characterized by a fixed upper sash and a movable lower section. Depending on the features, such as the number of pane layers, expect to pay $100 to $400 for a single-hung window replacement (including labor).
Double-Hung Window Replacement
Double-hung windows look a lot like their single-hung counterparts from a distance. As opposed to the latter, however, both the upper and lower sashes are movable. The average homeowner will normally spend $300 to $600 for double-hung replacement windows, with the labor cost of installation accounted for. Bear in mind that the price also varies according to frame material, size of window, and the glass unit.
Sliding Window Replacement
Sliding windows are no different from other varieties in that they are available in a range of sizes, styles, and of course, prices. The windows consist of two sections, one or both of which slide horizontally. Including labor, you can expect to pay $200 for a standard sliding window and up to $2000 for high-end varieties.
Replacing Casement Windows
Casement windows attach vertically to the side of the frame via hinges, and normally open outwards using a crank handle. The cost of casement window replacements can be anywhere from $300 to $600 with labor and all.
Skylight Window Replacement
Although not as common as traditional windows, skylights are still a pretty common request when it comes to window replacement. This is mostly thanks to the gorgeous skylights that many older build homes come with but that aren’t necessarily as energy efficient as they used to be or can be now. Since their installation is more labor-intensive, however, they can be somewhat expensive to replace. Expect to spend anywhere between $900 and $2400 per unit, depending on size, location, and functionality.
Putting in a New Storm Window
Storm windows refer to the additional glass pane installed on the exterior side of a window to insulate and protect it against damage from extreme weather conditions. These additions can be either removable or permanent and can cost between $150 to $450 per piece. Since it only makes sense to install these on every window of one’s house, the average homeowner may spend up to $5000 for replacing storm windows.
Replacing a Bay Window
A common element in Victorian houses, bay windows still maintain their popularity to this day. The window features three separate frames with the one in the middle being larger than those on each side. When it comes to replacing bay windows, you’re looking at an average of $1,800 per unit.
How Window Glass Choice Changes Window Replacement Costs
Windows tend to alter how homeowners can see the outdoor world, and the type of glass plays an important role in that regard. The glass in windows often varies in the number of panes, energy efficiency, and light or heat insulation.
Single-Pane Windows
Single-pane windows have one layer of glass that you can find in various colors, styles, and treatments such as tinted, tempered, and shatterproof. As the least expensive option for windows, single-pane glass ranges from $100 to $400.
Double-Pane Window Glass
An upgrade from single-pane windows, the double-pane variety features two layers of glass with air in between them. This layer of air allows the window to be more energy-efficient and reduces the chance of condensation. Double-pane windows will sometimes contain argon gas to boost efficiency — but more on that later. Double-panes naturally cost more than their single-pane counterparts, averaging between $150 and $600 for basic window designs.
Triple-Pane Windows
If two panes aren’t enough for your home, you can always go for triple-pane windows for maximum energy efficiency, condensation prevention, and noise reduction. Due to the high cost of construction, triple-pane units aren’t a standard choice and are often manufactured upon custom orders. Triple-panes may cost anywhere between $400 and $950 for a simple window.
Reflective Window Glass Coating
Coating on windows is meant to minimize glare and prevent UV damage to furniture. Reflective window coating also reduces heat entering the home, helping to keep the indoor temperature cool during the summer. Depending on the type of coating, size of window, and how complex the design is, window coating prices can range from $225 to $550.
Spectrally Selective Window Coating
Spectrally selective coating or tinting allows for as much light to pass through while blocking up to 70% of the heat. This option is especially ideal for areas with hot and sunny weather. The prices vary according to the window design, size, number of panes, and type of coating. Spectrally selective coating on replacement windows cost an average of $350 to $850.
Argon Windows
An alternative to standard glass windows, the argon upgrade applies to double and triple-pane units. The space between the panes are basically filled with argon gas and sealed. Since argon gas is six times denser than air, it offers a great deal of energy efficiency by blocking the flow of heat for the price of $375 to $850 on average per window.
Glass for Low-E Windows
Low-emissivity (Low-E) windows contain a microscopic sheet of metal on the inner side of double or triple-pane glass. This not only helps in blocking UV rays, but is also useful in maintaining a moderate indoor temperature. Regardless of window size, you can apply low-E coating to just about any glass pane. And depending on your window’s size and design, expect to spend $250 to $650 on average.
Cost of Labor for Replacing Windows
A majority of window installers will charge an average rate of $30 to $65 an hour. Bear in mind that you may be paying more in areas where the cost of living is relatively high, such as New York or San Francisco. As a rule of thumb, consider adding between $100 to $600 for labor, depending on the complexity of the installation as well as the location of the window. Replacing a unit on the ground floor, for instance, wouldn’t take as much time and resources as replacing one on the second floor.