Calculating Your Home Window Replacement Cost

Calculating Your Home Window Replacement Cost

August 11, 2020
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
window replacement cost

Did you know that the heat gain and loss through your windows account for 25% to 30% of the energy used in cooling and heating?

It would be best to upgrade your windows to improve energy efficiency. You might also need a window upgrade if you need adequate lighting, ventilation, warmth, or a better appeal.

For most homeowners, home window replacement cost is a concern. The unknown costs make it hard for homeowners to consider window replacement.

Are you wondering about the realistic cost of replacing your home’s windows? This guide will help you budget wisely.

Please reach out for a free estimate* to get a final price on your unique installation. The prices below are estimates for product and service costs can vary widely depending on the required installation for your home.

Home Window Replacement Costs

Windows are a critical part of a comfortable home. If they have become fragile or inefficient, a replacement should be non-negotiable. Typically, replacing a window will cost you about $200 to $1800, depending on the window type, location, and the contractor.

Calculating how much it will cost to get new windows is somehow tricky. You must factor in several aspects to get a correct estimate. The prices vary based on the number of windows, size, quality, and styles. Given the wide range of options available, you’re sure to find replacements that will fit within your budget.

Where you’ll purchase your windows can make all the difference in terms of costs. Big-box stores are often the first that homeowners think of but can’t compare to the expertise and support you get from working with a qualified Milgard dealer.

Cost of Window Replacement by Type of Frame Material

When replacing windows, you’ll have a variety of options for the material. Each material has different features, which makes the prices vary. You can choose the window material suitable for each of the spaces you want to have it installed.

Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most popular materials for windows. It costs about $100 to $900 for the product. If you want a window with a larger bay or a decorative aspect, it can go as high as $1500 to $2500.

For homeowners looking for an affordable yet durable window frame material, vinyl won’t disappoint and it has a variety of energy-efficient options that will interest you.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass costs more than vinyl. You will have to part with $500 to $1500 for a fiberglass window not including install. The material is durable, and the insulation properties are commendable.

Milgard Ultra Fiberglass Windows

Wooden Windows

If you want to achieve a rustic theme for your home, wooden window frames can do the magic. The wooden frame products will cost you about $150 to $1300 depending on the size and style. Wooden windows give a home a classic look that plays a central role in maintaining a home’s value.

Composite

Composite involves a mix of wood fibers and PVC polymers. Composite windows costs start from $300 to $1200. The material is appealing and maintenance-free. In comparison to wood or vinyl, composite is more durable.

Aluminum

Aluminum windows will cost you between $75 and $400, with high-end options costing more than $1,200. Aluminum doesn’t have the best insulation properties. As such, the choice is less popular and is also more difficult to install.

Replacement Cost by Type of Window

You can choose a window type based on preferences or the climate in your region. The different windows have varying attributes. Consequently, the costs will differ.

Single-hung windows are likely to cost you less than $400 each. These types of windows open vertically. They are ideal for the ground floor as cleaning them on other floors can be risky.

Double-hung windows prices are between $280 and $360+. The cost depends on the frame and glass quality as well as the size. Double-hung windows open from bottom or top and are a perfect option for the areas that you’d find hard to reach.

If you’re hoping to increase the circulation of air within your home, double-hung windows are unbeatable. More importantly, the home window replacement cost with this window type can be quite affordable.

Double-pane windows, commonly known as double-glazed, are popular due to their energy-efficiency. The cost is, on average, $115 to $250+. You’ll have to incur more based on the type of encasement chosen.

double pane or triple pane windows

Tilt-out windows tilt in and out, making it possible to access the exterior part of the glass. These windows are appealing and easy to clean. With an average cost of $250 to $500+, you can have tilting windows for your home.

The list is not exhaustive as the types of windows available are several. You might want to research extensively on your desired option based on their attributes.

Cost of Labor

A 2017 survey reported that more than 36,338 people succumbed to falls. While you may want to try some DIY when renovating your home, fixing windows requires a professional touch. Working on windows, especially on higher floors, puts you at risk of falls, among other home injuries.

A professional contractor knows the best practices and has the skills and experience to guarantee a spectacular outcome. The cost of labor depends on the type of window installation and your location. For a regular-sized window, the price will be on average, $38-60 per hour and often have multiple team members working on one at a time to speed up the process.

In instances where you need to create an additional opening for a window, the cost will be higher as more time and expertise is required. Labor cost is higher in areas where the cost of living is high like here in San Diego.

You can try to keep the rates of labor down by contracting high-volume jobs. Instead of paying a contractor to install your windows on different periods, make the installation a one-time project. You’ll save on contractors’ travel time, fuel, cleanup, setup, and disposal charges.

The Home Window Replacement Cost Depends on Several Factors

Window replacement is a project that homeowners need to consider if their windows start malfunctioning. Yet, many people are uncertain about home window replacement costs, making them less enthusiastic about the project.

Rates on a window upgrade will depend on your state, the type, size, and style of the window you want. You need to identify a contractor near you to help assess your home and guide you in determining the best option. Whichever window type you select, safety and energy efficiency should be a priority.

Our website has a range of articles on windows and doors, home improvement, real estate, and construction. Keep exploring for a variety of informative content or contact us at US Window & Door for more information on window or door replacement costs and get a free quote to learn more about your options today.