Replacing your home’s windows can be a major investment, but also a great way to increase energy efficiency, boost curb appeal, and improve noise reduction. The cost to replace windows depends on several factors, including the number of windows, types of windows, window materials, installation requirements, your location, and more. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into the cost to replace windows and how to get the best deal.
Window Replacement Cost Factors
The total cost to replace windows is influenced by:
Number of Windows
The more windows you need to replace, the higher the overall project cost. Prices are usually calculated on a per window basis. So your total budget will depend largely on how many windows are being swapped out.
- For a typical single-family home, plan on $300-$800 per window for materials and professional installation.
- Larger homes with lots of windows or multi-unit properties will have a higher overall budget.
- Smaller projects like just replacing a few damaged windows are more affordable overall.
Types of Windows
Window replacement costs vary depending on the type of operating style you choose. The most common options include:
- Double or single hung windows – These vertically opening sash windows tend to be more affordable at around $350-$700 installed.
- Casement windows – Side-hinged windows that crank open outwards range from $400-$900 each installed.
- Awning windows – Hinged at the top and opening outwards, awning styles run $375-$850 apiece.
- Slider windows – Relatively inexpensive at $300-$700 each, slider windows glide horizontally.
- Fixed or picture windows – Non-operable windows cost $250-$550 each. Often used as accent windows.
- Bay or bow windows – Combination angled windows are $800-$2,500 or more.
- Specialty shapes – Round, arched, or customized windows are $500-$1,500 or more per window.
Window Materials
The materials used to construct the window frame and sash also affect the installation price:
- Vinyl – Most affordable at $250-$700 per window. Vinyl is durable, low maintenance, and energy efficient.
- Wood – Natural beauty with higher insulation properties, $500-$1,200 per window. Needs regular repainting.
- Fiberglass – Offers strength and thermal efficiency, $400-$1,000 each installed. Low maintenance.
- Aluminum – Modern metal frames range from $300-$800 installed. Durability with minimal maintenance.
- Composite – Blend of materials like wood, vinyl and fiberglass for increased performance and aesthetics. $550-$1,250 per window.
Glass Types
Upgrading your window glass adds to the project budget:
- Single pane – Least expensive at $100-$300 per window, but not energy efficient.
- Double pane – Better insulation with two panes of glass, $250-$450 per window.
- Low-E – Specialized low-emissivity coatings block UV rays and regulate temperature. $350-$550 each.
- Triple pane – Three panes with either air or argon gas between them provide optimal efficiency. $500-$900 per window.
- Specialty glass – Options like tinted, tempered, or impact-resistant glass has added costs.
Installation Requirements
Specialized installation needs can increase labor costs:
- Standard installation in existing openings is quicker and costs less.
- Full frame window replacement has higher labor fees for removing old frames.
- Custom retrofit installations may need structural modifications, adding expenses.
- Second story or high windows need equipment rentals and more difficult access, boosting project costs.
Energy Efficient Upgrades
- High performance glazing with low U-factors and SHGC ratings improve efficiency, but have higher prices.
- Gas fills like argon or krypton between panes have better insulation than just air.
- Window weatherstripping helps seal air leaks, providing added energy savings.
- Window insulation like retractable foam boosts efficiency for an added price.
Window Features
Additional features and customizations add to the window price:
- Integrated window blinds – Convenient but cost $50-$100 more per window.
- Decorative glass – Etched, stained, or textured glass adds aesthetic appeal at $50-$250 more per window.
- Security features – Laminated glass, reinforced frames, and locks improve security for added cost.
- Smart glass – Electrochromic glass changes opacity electronically, ranging from $700-$2,500 per window installed.
Labor and Installation Costs
Expect to pay $150-$300 per window in professional installation fees. Better contractors charge higher rates but also provide superior skills and service. Keep in mind:
- Labor makes up about 30% of the total replacement cost on average.
- Simple, easy to access windows can have lower installation costs.
- Second story or awkward placements require more effort and expense for installers.
- Hiring experienced professionals ensures proper installation and minimizes future issues.
- DIY installation can save on labor but has risks like improper sealing, leaks, damage, and voided warranties.
Your Location
Replacement window costs vary across the country based on factors like:
- Local contractor labor rates
- Regional material and transportation costs
- Permitting fees
Higher costs of living areas like Southern California or New England will be on the upper end of the price spectrum, while more rural areas may be more affordable.
Average Window Replacement Costs
To budget for your project, here are some typical total window replacement costs for common home types and window numbers.
Average Cost to Replace Windows in a Single-Family Home
For a typical single-story suburban home:
- 15 windows – About $9,000-$15,000 for mid-range quality vinyl windows
- 20 windows – Approximately $12,000-$20,000 for a mix of mid to higher-end windows
- 25 windows – Around $15,000-$25,000 for predominantly higher-end or specialty windows
Two-story homes can range from $15,000 up to $35,000+ depending on window types, materials, and number of windows.
Average Cost to Replace Windows in a Condo or Apartment
For units with external windows:
- Studio or 1 bedroom – $2,500-$4,000 average if replacing 5-8 windows
- 2 bedroom – Around $4,000-$7,000 for 8-15 windows
- 3+ bedroom – Approximately $5,500-$10,000+ for 10-20 windows
Average Cost to Replace Windows in a Commercial Building
- Small retail shop – About $6,000-$12,000 for 10-20 windows
- Medium sized office – Around $15,000-$30,000+ for 30-60 windows
- Large multi-story building – Over $50,000+ depending on the number and size of windows
How to Save on Replacement Window Costs
There are a few ways to get a better deal on your window replacement project:
- Get quotes from at least 3 contractors – compare bids and pricing from different companies.
- Ask about current promotions or sales – These can bring down costs, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Order in bulk – Purchasing all windows together brings down the per unit price.
- Choose basic window styles – Odd shapes or premium styles have much higher price tags.
- Select smaller windows – The larger the window size, the higher the materials cost.
- Install DIY – Skip hiring a contractor and do it yourself. Great way to save but has risks.
- Supply your own windows – Just pay for professional installation to save on window costs.
- Go with mid-range materials – Avoid ultra cheap or luxury window materials to keep prices affordable.
- Upgrade in phases – Spread out costs by only replacing bad windows first.
Factors That Increase Window Replacement Cost
Be aware that selecting certain options, customizations, or complex projects can increase your total replacement costs:
- Large window sizes – Bigger windows use more materials.
- Numerous windows – More windows equals higher project costs.
- Premium materials – Exotic woods, aluminum-clad, etc. have higher price tags.
- Specialty glass – Low-E, triple pane, or tempered glass costs more.
- Energy efficient upgrades – Improved insulation and glazing increases costs.
- Difficult access – Second story or tricky installs require more labor.
- Custom shapes – Arched, round, or radius windows are pricier.
- Damage repairs – Fixing rotted wood, cracked walls, or structural issues adds expenses.
- Code compliance – Meeting fire codes or egress requirements can add costs in commercial settings.
- Rush orders – Quick turnaround projects or upgrades during peak season mean premium pricing.
New Window ROI
The upfront investment in new replacement windows pays off over time in several ways:
- Increased home value – Buyers are willing to pay more for homes with modern, energy efficient windows. You can recoup 60-80% of window replacement costs.
- Lower energy bills – Prevent costly air leaks and reduce heating/cooling costs by 15-25% or more each year, saving hundreds of dollars annually.
- Improved comfort – Better insulation keeps homes draft-free and easier to regulate the temperature.
- Less noise – New windows block exterior sounds significantly better for a quieter indoor space.
- Better aesthetics – Modern windows improve curb appeal and flood rooms with natural light.
- Reduced maintenance – Materials like vinyl and fiberglass are durable and low maintenance.
With smart window shopping, proper professional installation, and routine maintenance, new replacement windows can be a worthwhile investment that pays dividends for years to come.
Pros and Cons of DIY vs Professional Window Replacement
You can either tackle window replacement yourself or hire a professional contractor. Below are some of the main benefits and downsides of each option.
DIY Window Replacement
Pros:
- Significant cost savings on labor
- Sense of personal accomplishment
- Customize to your preferences
- Can be done at your own pace
Cons:
- Demanding physical labor
- Steep learning curve if unfamiliar
- Risk of injury from tools or broken glass
- Chance of incorrect installation and leaks
- Voided warranties on windows and lack of recourse
- No licensed expertise guiding the project
Professional Window Replacement
Pros:
- Expertise ensures proper installation
- Licensed and insured
- Fix unforeseen issues and inspect for damage
- Provide manufacturer warranties
- No chance of injury from tools or broken glass
- Can offer financing and bundled deals
- Experience with building codes and regulations
Cons:
- More expensive with higher labor costs
- Less control over schedule or process
- Limited customization options
Vinyl vs Wood vs Aluminum Windows: Pros and Cons
Choosing the ideal frame materials for your new windows involves weighing pros, cons, and costs.
Vinyl Windows
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Little maintenance required
- Excellent durability and longevity
- Resists rot, rust, warping, and wear
- Insulating properties improve energy efficiency
- Color options available
Cons
- Can become brittle in extremely cold climates
- susceptible to damage from impact
- Minimal noise dampening abilities
- Limited aesthetic appeal
Wood Windows
Pros
- Unmatched natural beauty
- Can be painted or stained
- Excellent durability
- Customizable styles and finishes
- Good noise reduction
- Repairable if damaged
Cons
- Expensive upfront cost
- Requires frequent repainting and maintenance
- Not as thermally efficient as other materials
- Susceptible to wood rot over time
Aluminum Windows
Pros
- Very affordable option
- Maximum durability
- Minimal maintenance
- Sleek, modern aesthetic
- Custom color finishes available
Cons
- Conducts heat and cold easily
- Noisy with minimal noise dampening
- Susceptible to condensation and fogging
- Paint finish can chip or scratch over time
Double Hung vs Casement Windows: Which is Better?
The two most popular styles of operable replacement windows are double hung and casement styles. But which is the better option? Here’s a rundown of how they compare.
Double Hung Window Pros
- Both sashes open for maximum ventilation
- Familiar operation by sliding up and down
- Effective cleaning from inside
- Traditional styling fits most homes
- Budget-friendly price point
Double Hung Window Cons
- Limited opening size
- Prone to air leakage over time
- Noisiness in windy conditions
- Not as contemporary visually
Casement Window Pros
- Full, wide-open views when cranked open
- Airtight seal resists leaks
- Easy cleaning from inside
- Contemporary appearance
- Can add visual interest
Casement Window Cons
- Only one sash opens
- Hardware prone to breaking
- Exterior cranks can be hard to reach
- Limited ventilation if only one window
- Relatively expensive
Overall, casement windows tend to provide better energy efficiency and ventilation, but double hung styles are more classic and budget-friendly. The right option comes down to design preference, budget, and home style.
Replacing Windows in a Brick Home: What to Know
Replacing windows in historic brick homes comes with some unique considerations compared to other home exteriors like wood siding or stucco. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Masonry openings require extra care during window removal to avoid cracking bricks. Professionals have the proper techniques.
- Sizing the window openings in brick is more challenging. Measure carefully to get an accurate fit.
- Matching the window style to your home’s era prevents clashing aesthetics in older brick homes.
- Tougher installations in brick may preclude DIY in favor of an experienced masonry contractor.
- Flashing the windows properly is crucial to prevent moisture issues within the brick over time.
- Alternative mounting options like block frames allow installing replacement windows without removing bricks.
- Budget is higher due to extra installation considerations, but maintains the charm of original brickwork.
With the right planning and contractor, you can achieve long-lasting, high-performance windows that complement your brick architecture.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Windows
While windows can last 20-30 years, many homeowners replace them sooner to upgrade efficiency, aesthetics, and performance. Here are some telltale signs it’s time for new replacement windows:
- Frequent fogging, condensation, or frost buildup between panes
- White hazy deposits and degraded seals around glass panes
- Peeling, cracked paint, or wood rot on window frames
- Warping, sagging, or gaps in the window frame or sashes
- Broken, cracked, or missing panes of glass
- Difficulty sliding or opening windows due to paint buildup
- Locks and hardware that are broken or don’t latch properly
- Whistling, rattling noises or noticeable drafts from poor seals
- Spikes in energy costs from inefficient heat/cooling loss
- Rooms that are uncomfortable or stuffy due to poor ventilation
- Lack of noise reduction and external sounds filtering in
If your windows exhibit any of these issues, it’s a sign to consider upgrading to new replacement windows for a more comfortable home.
Finding the Best Window Replacement Companies
The company you choose for your window replacement project can make all the difference. Follow these tips to find the best contractor:
- Get at least 3 bids to compare pricing and scope of work.
- Verify they are licensed, insured, and experienced with window installation.
- Ask for local references and look up reviews of past customers.
- Inquire about their window manufacturers and brands.
- Get a detailed written estimate defining materials, timeline, warranty, and price.
- Evaluate responsiveness to your questions and needs.
- Check that they will pull proper permits for the work.
- See if they provide exclusive offers on window models and promotions.
- Ask about financing options they can provide.
- Choose a reliable company that makes you feel confident in their skills.
Taking the time to find the right window installer helps ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind with the finished product.
Window Replacement Timeline
For professional installation, plan on the following approximate timeline:
- Initial estimate: 1 week
- Order windows and supplies: 4-6 weeks from deposit and order confirmation
- Permit approval (if needed): 2-4 weeks
- Window installation: 2-5 days depending on the number of windows
So in total, allow about 2-3 months from the initial quote to the final installation. Time can often be reduced for smaller projects or by selecting builder-grade windows that ship faster.
DIYers may progress faster or slower, with the total project timeline spanning anywhere from a few weekends to over a month depending on your pace. Order windows and supplies well in advance so everything is prepared for your installation kickoff.
Window Replacement Permits
In most cases, you’ll need a permit from your local building department to replace windows, which involves:
- Having the window contractor submit paperwork, plans, and specifications for