What is the Average Cost of Window Replacement?

Spruce up your home’s curb appeal and increase value with new window replacements. Window replacement costs range from $200 to $1,800, and the national average is $650 per window. A 3-bedroom house with windows can be replaced for an average of $3,000 to $10,000.

It may be time to replace your windows if they aren’t opening or closing as well as letting in cold air. It’s important to know the cost of replacement windows in order to stay within your budget and not incur unexpected costs. Window replacement costs range from $200 to $1,800, with the national average being between $100 and $650 depending on the type of window and frame material. The labor cost of replacing a window can add up to $100 to $300. The cost of replacing windows is affected by the type of window, the frame material, the window size, and the energy efficiency of the window.

Factors for Calculating Window Replacement Cost

Window replacement cost is determined by many factors. The average cost of windows, including the glass, is $100 to $650. It can also vary depending on what type you choose. Additional $100-300 per window can be charged for labor. The price of replacement windows can vary depending on the type of window frame material and the location. The cost of replacement will also depend on where you live and whether it is a hot or cold climate.

Window Material

You will likely have the choice of the type of window frame material when replacing windows. Vinyl, wood, fiberglass and aluminum are the most popular window frame materials.

The most popular vinyl windows have an average cost of $100-$900 per window. Vinyl is durable and economical, as well as being energy-efficient.

Wood frames cost $150-$1,300. Wood frames are a classic architectural style. However, wood frames may not be required in certain areas if the home is situated in an historic district or is a landmark.

Vinyl frames are approximately 15-30% cheaper than fiberglass frames. Replacement windows cost $500-$1,500 on average across the country. A fiberglass frame is stronger and offers similar insulation properties as vinyl.

Aluminum frames are available in a range of $75 to $400 per window. Some window types can go up to $1,200 for larger windows or higher-end windows. However, they don’t insulate nearly as well as other materials.

Composite windows cost between $300 and $1200 per window. These windows are durable and made of a mixture of PVC polymers with wood fiber to provide maintenance-free frames.

Window Type

The cost of replacing windows will vary depending on the type of window. Consider the size, function, and appearance of your replacement windows before you install them. Each type of window serves a different purpose. The window’s size will determine how much it costs to replace.

Window Location

The location of windows can have an impact on the total cost of window replacement. Replacement in certain areas may add additional costs per window.

Basement window replacements cost anywhere from $250 to $1,000. Basement egress windows are also available at a range of prices, from $2,500 to $5,000. These windows can provide extra escape routes from a house in the event of an emergency. Most areas require basement-level bedrooms to have egress windows.

Bathroom and bedroom windows can be as low as $300 each.

Windows for a foyer or dining area typically cost $300-$700. However, these living areas can be a combination of large picture, bay or bow windows. This can easily increase the cost.

The time and labor required to replace windows on the upper floors of a house can be longer.

Glass Type Size and Type

Glass used in replacement windows can reduce utility bills and increase energy efficiency. Tinted glass can reduce harmful UV rays and may be recommended depending upon the location of the house. Impact-resistant glass may also be recommended. Based on the age and location of the house, safety or tempered glass may be required. Older homes might not have standard-sized windows openings. Replacement windows may be required to be removed.

Number Of Glass Panes

Replacement of windows with multiple glass panes is more expensive. Bay windows are made with three panes and average $1,800. Bow windows are typically made with five panes of glass and can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,500.

House Age

Older homes (often 70 years or more) will often require double or triple the projected pricing. Older homes present unique challenges such as small window sizes that can require custom Windows. This may also mean the need for repair or replacement of damaged or rotting trim or matching historical architecture. Counterweights will be removed and updated to current building codes. Insulation is required to fill in the empty spaces.

Full Frame Window Cost vs. Retrofit Cost

A nail fin is what makes the difference between retrofit and full-frame replacement windows. It is a flange that runs around the edge of the frame to attach it directly to the studs. This is also found in new construction. Retrofit windows, also known as replacement windows, can be 10 to 15% cheaper than new construction, and require less labor. Retrofit windows are recommended for existing homes. A homeowner may choose to use full-frame windows, or new construction. This can lead to a 50 to 100 percent increase in the cost of replacing a window. Additional costs may be incurred for the replacement of the whole window frame as well as the window. For new construction, when the walls are being stripped to the studs or remodels due to window and wall damage, full-frame replacement is recommended.

Additional costs and considerations

There are many cost factors to consider when budgeting for window replacement costs. Window replacement specialists charge an average of $40 per hour for window installations. The cost of labor can vary depending on the size and location of windows, as well as the level or expertise needed to properly install them. Window replacement costs may also include structural repairs, insulation, waterproofing and job location.

Labor and Work. Window replacement labor costs average $40 an hour. The typical range is $30 to $65 per hour. Higher labor costs are common in urban areas where there is a higher cost to live. You’ll save more money if you replace more windows at once. For homes that require custom replacement windows, labor costs can be higher.

Structural Repairs. Window replacement costs can be increased by having to remove and repair damaged or rotted frames. The contractor may not know what needs to be done to replace or repair the windows. This can cause the total to change after they have completed the initial estimate. Window replacement costs can rise if trim, siding or drywall are repaired. These repairs can cost anywhere from $300 to $1100.

Insulation and weatherproofing. Weatherproofing involves the installation of insulation around a window. This work can cost anywhere from $450 to $3,000

Workplace. Cost of window replacement can be affected by the location of your house. The type of glass and frame required to replace windows in your area may be determined by local ordinances. Triple-pane windows with higher insulation are best if you live in colder climates. Double-pane windows are best if your home is in a warmer climate.

Disposal and Cleanup. Sometimes, contractors include disposal and cleanup costs in their estimates of labor costs. Other times they are charged separately. Window professionals can clean up all debris and work areas.