How Much Does It Cost To Replace Windows?
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Windows?
The average cost for a standard-size vinyl window that is double-hung, double-pane, and energy-efficient is between $400 and $650 per window installation. For a wood replacement window, expect to pay between $700 and $1,000 including installation.
$400 – $650 Per Vinyl Window
$700 – $1,000 Per Wood Window
The average cost for a standard-size vinyl window that is double-hung, double-pane, and energy-efficient is between $400 and $650 per window installation. For a wood replacement window, expect to pay between $700 and $1,000 including installation.
Window Replacement Costs
Window replacement costs $550 on average with most homeowners spending $400 to $1,000 per window including installation. The cost to replace every window in a 3-bedroom house ranges from $4,500 to $9,600 depending on the sizes, frame materials, type, and the number of windows.
Labor cost for professional installation is $159 to $258 on average.
| National Average Cost | $550 |
| Minimum Cost | $200 |
| Maximum Cost | $2,000 |
| Average Range | $400 to $800 |
Replacement Window Prices By Material
An average replacement costs $400 to $650 per window installation for a standard-size vinyl window that is double-hung, double-pane, and energy-efficient. For a wood replacement window, expect to pay $700 to $1,000 including installation.
Here are the average replacement window prices by frame material:
| Frame Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $100 – $850 |
| Composite | $280 – $900 |
| Wood | $200 – $1,000 |
| Aluminum | $80 – $1,400 |
| Fiberglass | $150 – $1,400 |
| Clad | $300 – $2,000 |
Vinyl Window Replacement Cost
Vinyl window replacement costs $100 to $850 each with most homeowners paying $400 to $600 for a double-hung, double-pane, and energy-efficient window. Vinyl frames are the most cost-effective type of window frame and require little maintenance, but the color may fade.
Replacement Wooden Windows Cost
A wooden replacement window costs $200 to $1,000 with installation. Wood frames can contract or swell because of the exterior elements, and they need maintenance. However, wood provides excellent temperature insulation.
Composite Replacement Windows Cost
Composite window frames cost $280 to $900 each and are more expensive than vinyl but cheaper than wood frames. Composite windows also have better structural integrity than wood and vinyl and can be painted.
Aluminum Windows Cost
Replacement aluminum windows cost $80 to $1,400 each depending on the size, and number of panes. Aluminum window frames, being made from metal, are very durable and robust, low-maintenance, and more affordable when compared to wood. However, they also conduct more heat and cold than wood.
Clad Windows Cost
Clad window frames cost $300 to $2,000 each and are the most expensive option for window frames. With a vinyl shell over a wood or aluminum frame, they are low-maintenance. With the wood interior frame option, they are more energy efficient because they block out external heat or cold.
Fiberglass Windows Cost
Fiberglass windows cost $150 to $1,400 each and are able to endure extremes in both hot and cold temperatures. Fiberglass windows are energy efficient and can offer the look of painted wood without the maintenance associated with wood windows.
Window Replacement Cost Calculator
The average cost for a typical low-E glass vinyl window is $244 to $373 while labor runs $159 to $258 to install. The main factors used when calculating prices are the window type, the window framing material, and labor costs.
Cost Of Windows By Type
A typical single-hung window replacement starts at $200, while a large double- or triple-pane bay window could cost up to $8,000 to install. Here are the average cost of windows for materials and installation:
| Window Type | Window-Only Cost | Window + Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basement Hopper | $60 – $370 | $180 – $500 |
| Single Hung | $100 – $500 | $200 – $600 |
| Double Hung | $150 – $600 | $250 – $800 |
| Fixed & Picture | $80 – $500 | $180 – $1,000 |
| Sliding | $150 – $600 | $250 – $1,000 |
| Basement | $50 – $500 | $200 – $1,000 |
| Storm | $150 – $750 | $250 – $1,100 |
| Glass Block | $80 – $800 | $200 – $1,200 |
| Casement | $200 – $1,000 | $350 – $1,500 |
| Tilt Out | $350 – $1,500 | $500 – $2,100 |
| Double Pane | $60 – $2,800 | $120 – $3,800 |
| Custom | $300 – $3,000 | $500 – $5,000 |
| Egress | $500 – $2,500 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Folding | $1,500 – $4,800 | $2,500 – $5,600 |
| Bay | $500 – $2,500 | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Bow | $1,500 – $5,000 | $2,500 – $10,000 |
Single-Hung Replacement Windows
A typical single-hung window costs $100 to $500 on average and is one of the most popular choices due to price. A single-hung window keeps the top half of the window fixed in place while the bottom half of the window moves up and down.
Double-Hung Window Prices
A typical double-hung window costs $150 to $600. A double-hung window allows both the top and bottom halves to move up and down. If you opt for the more expensive version, the top and bottom halves also swing inward.
Picture Window Replacement Cost
Depending on the size, a fixed or picture window will cost $80 to $500 on average. Fixed windows only have one pane of glass and do not open. Picture windows often require custom sizing, which can increase your cost.
Casement or Awning Window Prices
A typical casement window costs $200 to $1,000, depending on the framing material. These windows open from left to right by using a hand crank, allowing a wide opening. Casement windows are often found near basements or ceilings.
A casement style that's hinged to the top is called an awning window, while a hopper is hinged to the bottom.
Bay and Bow Window Costs
Both bay and bow windows start at around $500 and can go all the way to $10,000+. Both types extend outward from the wall and require framing, flashing, and roofing extras. Typically most homes have 1 or 2 bay windows on the front of the house, and possibly a third facing into the backyard.
Bay Window – Costing $500 to $2,500, a bay window is a series of three windows. Generally, there is a large window in the middle with a smaller window on each side, and it extends outward from the house.
Bow Window – Costing $1,500 to $5,000, a bow window usually contains five or more individual windows that are placed in a curved setting.
Sliding Replacement Windows
Depending on the size, sliding windows typically cost around $150 to $600. These windows work just like single- or double-hung windows but move horizontally instead of vertically. They come in many different types and styles, allowing either one side or both sides of the window to move.
Basement Window Replacement Cost
Basement windows cost $50 to $500 each to replace. Typically, these will be fixed windows that do not open for maximum insulation, and they're small and affordable.
Egress Windows Installation Cost
Egress window installation costs $500 to $2,500. If you choose to place an egress window in a basement, you can expect to pay much more, with prices starting at $2,000 and going up to $5,000.
An egress window is required by code if you plan to put a bedroom in the basement. These windows can also be used as an escape route during a fire or natural disaster.
Glass Block Windows Cost
The range of costs for glass block windows span from around $80 to $800, and the prices are generally dictated by the size of the window being installed or built. Extra features like constructing it on a curve will also add to the project cost. Glass block windows are often selected for bathrooms because of the privacy afforded by them.
Folding Windows Cost
Folding windows cost $1,500 to $4,800 and aren't as common as traditional windows. Folding window panes ride in a trench in the sill to facilitate their opening and closing. This type is an excellent choice of windows for an unobstructed view.
Custom Replacement Windows Cost
Custom windows cost $300 to $3,000+ each, excluding installation. Custom windows are typically only used when the window openings are an irregular size or not uniform, as seen in very old homes. Your contractor will measure and order your custom windows directly from the manufacturer and then install them.
Average Cost To Replace Windows
The average cost to replace windows is $400 to $800 each with most homeowners spending $550 each with installation. Expect to pay $8,000 to $12,000 to replace 20 windows in an average home.
Costs increase if the window frame openings need any additional work or replacement.
Cost To Install Replacement Windows
The typical cost to install replacement windows is $403 to $631 each, which includes professional labor. Costs increase for a two-story home, or triple-glazed windows, or argon-gas windows. Replacing windows updates a home design and reduces energy costs.
Labor Cost to Install Replacement Windows
The labor cost to install a standard-size vinyl replacement window is $159 to $258. Expect to pay $35 to $80 to remove and replace single-pane window glass set in putty or vinyl stops, or $100 to $175 per double-pane window.
Add another $170 per window to install weather stripping.
Labor costs $35 to $65 per hour to install replacement windows.
Removal and disposal of old windows costs about $70 to $250 per window.
Anything other than a regular window can cost more to install, such as skylights, casement windows, bay windows, windows on the second or third story, etc.
Home Windows Replacement Cost
Home windows replacement costs $6,000 for an average 3-bedroom house with 20 windows, or up to $16,000 depending on their size, style, quality, and quantity.
With an average of 1 window for every 100 square feet of a home, the following chart includes window installation costs for a range of house sizes:
| Home Size (SF) | # Of Windows | Lower End | Average | Higher End |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 10 | $3,000 | $5,000 | $8,000 |
| 1,500 | 15 | $4,500 | $7,500 | $12,000 |
| 2,000 | 20 | $6,000 | $10,000 | $16,000 |
| 3,200 | 32 | $9,600 | $16,000 | $25,600 |
| 4,200 | 42 | $12,600 | $21,000 | $33,600 |
| 5,400 | 54 | $16,200 | $27,000 | $43,200 |
Window Replacement Cost Per Window
The average window replacement cost is $400 to $1,000 each with most homeowners spending $403 to $631 on average. A small single-hung window starts at $200 to install, while a wooden double-pane window costs $700 to $1,000.
Window Replacement Cost by Room
Different windows have different prices because of the ease or difficulty of installation.
| Location | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basement Window | $200 – $1,000 |
| Basement Egress | $600 – $1,500 |
| Bathroom | $300 – $1,000 |
| Bedroom | $300 – $1,000 |
| Kitchen | $300 – $2,500 |
Cost of Replacing Windows by Size
Regardless of the frame type or opening mechanism, the cheapest replacement project is windows placed into an opening the same size as the original. Extra costs and time apply for creating a larger opening. Contact a window installer near you today for an exact quote for custom sizes.
The most common window sizes are:
Wood - 18" to 60” wide and 18” to 48" tall
Vinyl - 18” to 48” wide and 18” to 36” tall
Single-Pane Window Replacement Cost
The average cost to replace a single-pane window is $288 to $460. Standard single-pane glass can be purchased for as little as $2.50 per square foot. These basic windows have the least insulation and are typically found in older homes.
Double-Pane Window Replacement Cost
The average cost to replace a double-hung, double-pane window ranges from $450 to $1,000.
A double-pane vinyl window ranges from $450 to $600 to install.
A double-pane wooden replacement window costs $800 to $1,000.
Window Cost if Frames Are Rotting
Replacing the glass in a window is cheaper than replacing the entire wood frame plus glass, which must be done if the frames are rotting or warping. The final price will be about double the cost of replacing the glass. See the difference in framing material costs in our comparison table above.
Cost to Replace Windows in an Old House
The average cost to replace windows in an old house is $800 to $3,000 each, which is double or triple the standard price. Factors that affect your price include rotten wooden frames, the need for custom window sizes, the need to upgrade to current standards, and removing any counterweights.
Depending on the current state of the home, you may be able to keep the current frame in place and just swap on the glass for an average cost of $350 per window.
Additional Factors
Other possible expenses you could incur as part of your window replacement are:
Framing costs $365 to $1,500.
Insulation costs $200 to $600.
Costs to repair trim are $200 to $850.
Siding repairs cost $200 to $1,100.
The cost to install drywall is $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot.
Hurricane shutters cost $35 to $350 per window installed.
Full Frame Window Cost vs. Retrofit Replacement
Most windows are available as full-frame (new construction) or replacement windows. Replacement retrofit windows are available in custom sizes. Full-frame windows are generally only available in standard sizes and installed into an existing opening.
| Full-Frame Windows | Replacement Windows |
|---|---|
| Install is between $150 – $1,000 per window | Install is between $100 – $300 per window |
| Only available in standard sizes | Custom sizes available |
| Requires drywall removed to expose studs | Set into existing framing |
| 12.5% cheaper for windows, a lot more to install | 12.5% more for windows, a lot less to install |
| Needed if the frame is damaged or in remodeling | Good for replacement or updating home |
| Extra costs from an interior and exterior wall finish | No additional costs from stripping back walls |
Full-Frame Window Replacement Cost
An installed full-frame window costs $150 to $1,000 each for professional installation and is only available in standard sizes. A full-frame window is a new window in a frame with a sash.
The full-frame option requires the wood that surrounds it to be nailed into the studs in the wall.
The opening will have to be stripped down to the studs by cutting the drywall on the interior wall, replacing the studs around the window, and finishing out the drywall once the new window has been installed.
In most cases, this will also require removing a portion of the siding on the exterior of the home, which will also need to be finished out when the window is in place.
If you have brick on the outside, your costs will go up significantly.
Cost To Install Retrofit Windows
A retrofit replacement window will cost $100 to $300 each and is much easier for a professional to install. A retrofit replacement window is a window that fits inside an existing frame in the home. Retrofit windows are an excellent choice for home updating.
Energy-Efficient Window Replacements
Most Energy Star rated windows will carry a rating that indicates the rate of insulation performance (called the U-Factor, generally measuring between 0.30 and 0.60).
The solar heat gain coefficient rating shows how well the window blocks the heat of the sun and measures between 0.27 and 0.40.
There can be an effective reduction of heat loss of between 30% to 40% achieved by upgrading to products that carry an R-value of 5, and a U-factor in the region of 0.15.
Energy.gov has a table which details the most efficient windows. However, the cost savings may not cover the cost of the upgrade for up to 18 to 20 years.
According to EnergyStar, “Energy Star certified windows can lower your energy bill by an average of 12 percent. That’s about $27 to $111 per year for a 2,000-square-foot single-story home with storm windows or double-pane windows and $126 to $465 if your home has just single-pane windows.”
Energy-Efficient Windows Tax Credits
Federal income tax credits are available to lower costs of energy-efficient home upgrades by up to 30% when installing new windows. Discuss how to claim the expenses of upgrading to new windows on your taxes with a qualified accountant.
Best Replacement Window Brands
According to the Consumer Reports window buying guide, the following is their list of top window manufacturers with some of their average price ranges:
| Brand | Cost | Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andersen | $95 – $1,750 | Composite, clad, wood, and vinyl windows; Both low-E and argon-filled, high-efficiency in double-hung and casement styles | 20-year warranty on the glass; 10 years on the rest of the window |
| Marvin | $350 – $1,500 | Includes double-hung, single-hung, sliding (glider), casement, awning, bay, specialty, and round top windows | Glass for 10 years; Cladding finish free from defects for 20 years; Warrantied against coastal corrosion for 10 years |
| Jeld-Wen | $95 – $1,100 | Clad-wood, custom wood, premium Atlantic vinyl, premium aluminum; Styles: double-hung, single-hung, fixed, sliding, casement; Impact-resistant glass; Resin system Kynar 500, which prevents the window structure from fading or chalking | Ownership lifetime on the vinyl; 20 years on the wood and clad products; 10 years on aluminum; Certified to meet code in areas with frequent hurricanes |
| Kolbe | $250 – $950 | Stock and made to order; Include styles like casement, awning, double-hung, sliding, and specialty windows in wood and aluminum clad | Between 10 and 20 years
|
| Pella | $120 – $1,800 | Wood, clad, vinyl, and aluminum construction; Stock sizes and custom windows | Limited lifetime warranty coverage |
| Ply Gem | $49 – $180 | Vinyl construction; Available as both low-E and argon-filled glass options | Limited lifetime warranty coverage |
| Reliabilt | $75 – $290 | Vinyl construction; Includes double-hung as well as casement windows and in both low-E and argon-filled glass; Standard sizes and extensive options for custom orders | Limited lifetime warranty coverage |
| Simonton | $137 – $460 | Includes low-E and argon-filled double and single-hung, slider, casement, awning, bay and bow, picture, geometric and garden windows; Stock sizes and custom windows | Limited lifetime warranty; Transferable if you purchase a home that already has Simonton windows or doors installed |
| Weather Shield | $250 – $1,200 | Low-E and argon-filled double-hung, slider, casement, awning, and special shape windows; Stock sizes and custom windows; Historic and hurricane windows | Free from defects in material or workmanship for 20 years |
Window Warranty
A good window warranty includes coverage for components, performance mechanisms, and more including:
Pieces, parts, and materials
Glass systems and frame
All locks and hardware
All installation and labor
100% non-pro-rated
100% transferable
Window replacement FAQs
How Much is Window Glass Replacement?
Window glass replacement costs $150 to $500 on average, depending on the size and type. Installers charge $35 to $75 per hour, and the glass itself costs $30 to $100. These costs will rise if argon gas has to be injected between the glass, or if the seals need to be replaced.
Are Replacement Windows Worth The Cost?
Replacement windows are worth the cost if your future energy savings are high, you'll live in the home for 20 years, or if new windows will help sell your home faster. In most cases, homeowners see a 70% return on investment for the project costs upon the sale of a house with upgraded windows.
How Often Should You Replace Windows?
Manufacturers tend to agree on the need to replace windows after about 20 years, especially older windows. Today, windows are warrantied anywhere from 5 to 20 years, and some are even covered for as long as you own the home.
Consider replacing windows with:.
Poor window insulation, which increases energy bills
Poor sound insulation
Failing opening mechanisms
Warping or rotting window frames
Recoup a return of around 70% when selling a home with new windows
Foggy double-paned windows
How Can I Get The Lowest Cost On Window Replacements?
The lowest cost window will likely provide the least insulation, but keep in mind that you can save by
Installing fixed or picture windows
Installing one big window rather than multiple smaller windows
Installing in the off-season
Using builder grade or contractor grade windows rather than architectural grade
Using standard sizes and shapes over custom products
Not sourcing windows from a dealer that only stocks one brand
How Much Does A Mobile Home Replacement Window Cost?
A mobile home replacement window costs as high as $300 from some vendors. Home Depot offers Tafco mobile home windows priced $61 to $154 each.
How Much Is A Condo Window Replacement?
The costs for most windows in average-priced condos will average somewhere around $500, and more for higher-end condos. Some condo HOAs have specific rules on the look and type of windows allowed in the home.
What Is The Cost Of Replacing Windows And Frames?
Expect to pay an additional 50% to 100% if the frames need to be replaced before new windows are installed. Generally, unless the home is really old with original windows, the damage is often localized to one side of the house, so not every window will incur the extra cost.
How Much Is It To Swap Out Windows And Doors Together?
The bigger the spend with a contractor, the higher the likelihood there is for discounts. The caveat to looking for a lower cost from a package deal is that you are restricted by the types of product that vendor carries, and you could end up with windows you love and doors you are less keen on.
How Much Does Window Disposal Cost?
In the bid from your contractor, you may see a line item for old window disposal with costs ranging from $50 to $80 per cubic yard as well as a $30 to $40 per hour charge to load up a trailer with the materials and drive it to the appropriate dump.
DIY Vs. Hiring a Pro
Replacing the windows in your home can be dangerous and difficult. In the worst-case scenario, you need a professional to come to your home to redo the installation. When you hire the right professionals, it will be done fast and flawlessly.
Why Hire a Professional?
The task of replacing the windows in your home is not as straightforward as it may appear in a YouTube video.
Advantages of hiring professional window installer include:
Excellent work – This is a craft that the professionals you hire have spent years learning and perfecting. Each window will be installed with no gaps left for heat transfer to keep the climate in your home just the way you want it.
Equipment and tools – Professional window installers will have all the tools required to install your windows.
Better prices – Professional installers typically have access to better materials and better prices than a member of the public.
Faster – Professional window installers will be 8 to 10 times faster than the average homeowner who has decided to do the work themselves.
Cleanup – When the last window has been installed, and everything looks perfect, your installation team will load up the original windows and cart them off to be disposed of properly.
Issues – In addition to being able to measure everything accurately before any windows are ordered, they will also know how to deal with situations like rotting wood, and mold, as well as do the work, so it complies with any city ordinances, HOA rules, or building codes specific to your area.
Getting a Professional Window Replacement Quote
As with any home improvement project, get between 3 to 5 cost estimates after you research potential contractors to do the work. You should see very similar elements on quotes from top professionals, and those elements include the following:
Before Installation – Any design costs or setup costs.
During Installation – Specific costs associated with each window and expenses for any potential issues they might incur once the studs are exposed—like dealing with mold, rotten or damaged structural elements, and any costs related to insulation or weatherproofing.
After Installation – The costs associated with removing the old windows and any construction debris and their proper disposal.
Along with the quotes from each potential contractor, you can ask for an electronic or paper copy of the guarantee the windows and the installation come with.
