Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Nadeem Ahmed
Did you know that new windows can save you as much as 20% on energy bills? If you have old, drafty windows, it may be time for an upgrade.
The windows in your home are likely letting in cold air because they’re not opening or closing correctly. If this is the case, it could be time to install new windows. You don’t want to delay tackling this project since your heating costs can go through the roof while this is happening.
That said, you may be wondering what’s the average cost to replace a window these days.
Window replacement costs can vary depending on several factors. These include the window type, frame material, and if you want energy-efficient windows.
Read below to learn about what you can expect to shell out for this home improvement project.
Table of Contents
The Average Cost to Replace a Window
The average price of replacing a window is about $600 for a typical double-hung, mid-range vinyl window. This figure includes labor costs, ranging from $100 to $300. You might pay anywhere from $200 to $2000 or more for a single-window replacement.
Below are some of the factors affecting the overall window replacement cost.
Window Frame Material
Popular choices for the frame include vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite, and fiberglass. The material will often have the most significant impact on the cost. The frame material decides your window’s aesthetics, durability, and energy efficiency to some extent.
Aluminum windows are generally the least expensive, but they don’t insulate as well as other materials. While vinyl frames are the most popular with a price range of $100 to $850, you might want wooden frames if you have an older home for a more classic look.
Composite and fiberglass are both robust options, more durable than vinyl, but come with a higher price tag. They offer similar insulation and aesthetic flexibility as vinyl.
Window Size and Type
It’s unsurprising that the bigger the size of the window, the higher the price becomes. There are hundreds of sizes available, but you may encounter a problem if your house is on the older side. It may have a non-standard size which requires custom windows that are a bit more pricey.
The type of window you want to be installed will also affect the replacement cost. The somewhat “old-fashioned” single-hung window is usually the cheapest. Other window types include the double-hung, picture, custom, casement, sliding, skylight, and storm.
Glass Type
If you’re dealing with broken glass only, window glass replacement may be enough. But the cost of window replacement, frame and all, also considers the glass that comes with the frame.
Take advantage of this opportunity to replace the old glass with energy-efficient models.
Instead of the inefficient single-glazed, you can opt for a double or triple-glazed unit. You can also choose glass with low-emissivity (Low-e) coatings that can reduce energy loss by as much as 30 to 50 percent. While more expensive, it saves you money in the long term by lowering your energy bills.
Calculating the Cost of Window Replacement
The overall cost to replace a window depends on different factors. The wide price range is due to the vast number of options you have available for window replacement. Depending on the frame material, glass type, and other factors, this project can either be affordable or a big drain on your wallet.
Overview
Replacing a window can be a necessary expense for homeowners, whether for aesthetic purposes, energy efficiency, or structural integrity. The cost of replacing a window can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of window, the size of the window, and the location of the window.
Generally, the cost of replacing a window ranges from $300 to $1,500 per window. For a standard-sized, double-hung window, the cost can be around $450 to $600. However, larger windows, custom windows, or windows located in hard-to-reach areas can be more expensive to replace.
The type of window can also impact the cost. Vinyl windows are typically the most affordable option, ranging from $300 to $800 per window. Wood windows are more expensive, averaging around $800 to $1,000 per window. And fiberglass or aluminum windows can cost even more, ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per window.
In addition to the cost of the window itself, there may be additional expenses such as labor costs, installation fees, and disposal fees for removing the old window. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor them into the total cost when budgeting for a window replacement project.
For more home improvement tips, please feel free to check out the other articles on this site.
Read also: Purchasing Window Blinds: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
