Windows are one of the most important features of a house. They allow you to let light into your house while protecting the inside of your house from the elements and critters outside. They also give houses a unique look, serving as one of the defining features of the design.
However, you need to replace your windows periodically to keep them working the way they should. And with many different types of windows, window frames, and glass packages, it can be hard to figure out how much window replacements should cost.
In this article, we’ll go over the average cost to replace windows and the things you should consider when replacing your windows.
Replacing Windows: Average Cost
When it comes to the average cost of replacing windows, most homeowners can expect to spend between $100 and $700 per window. To put that number in perspective, an average-sized home will require anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 to replace the windows. On larger homes with more windows, homeowners can spend anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 on their window replacement.
However, many different factors affect the cost of window replacement, including the type of window, the window frame material, and the type of glass package in the window.
Types of Windows
When it comes to the types of windows on the market, there are three main categories: picture windows, double-hung windows, and casement windows.
Picture Windows
A picture window is a window that does not open or shut. It remains stationary and is meant to bring light into the house. Picture windows are the cheapest type of window since they do not have any moving parts.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are the most traditional style of window. These windows have a bottom and top sash, or sections of the window. On a double-hung window, the bottom sash will move up and down, allowing you to open or shut the window.
On some window models, the top sash will also move. Some double-hung windows also have a “tilt-in” feature, which allows the sashes to tilt into the house. This allows the homeowner to clean the outside of the window from inside the house.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are windows that open and close using a hand crank. They hinge on one side of the window, opening toward the outside of the house.
These windows are usually the most expensive since they have the most moving parts.
Types of Window Frames
Window frames are one of the most important parts of the window. They are largely responsible for the lifespan of the window and will determine its effectiveness and appearance.
Aluminum Frame Windows
Aluminum frames are the most affordable and durable type of frame. They can cost as little as $100 per window, and their metal frame is very durable and can be painted.
However, aluminum windows are also the least energy efficient. The aluminum conducts heat and cold very well. This means that the frame will leak heat into your home during the summer and let the cold in during the winter.
Vinyl Frame Windows
Vinyl frame windows are more expensive than aluminum frames, but they are still very affordable. Vinyl frame windows are durable and aren’t easily scratched. They can’t be painted, but they do come in a wide range of colors.
Vinyl doesn’t conduct heat or cold very well, which makes them more energy-efficient than aluminum frames.
Fiberglass Frame Windows
These are more expensive than vinyl frame windows, but they aren’t the most expensive option. Fiberglass windows can be painted, and their strong but flexible material resists temperature transmission.
However, fiberglass can’t be welded like vinyl, which can lead to seal failure at the places where the pieces connect.
Types of Glass
When it comes to replacement windows, the type of glass in your window will determine its energy efficiency and your comfort level in your home.
Single Pane
Single pane windows are made of one layer of glass. These are the cheapest type of window glass.
Unfortunately, glass is not a great insulator, which means that these windows are not energy efficient at all.
Double Pane
Double pane windows are the most common type of glass in a window. This type of window has two panes of glass that are separated by a small gap. This small gap is usually filled with air or a thick inert gas, which slows down the transmission of heat and cold through the window.
These types of windows are usually standard in most homes. This means they won’t be extremely expensive but will be more expensive than single pane.
Triple Pane
Triple pane windows are by far the most expensive type of window. These have the same design as double pane windows, but with an extra pane of glass between the two panes.
These windows are the most energy-efficient, but they are also a little bit wider than standard windows.
Low E Coatings
You can also buy windows with a “Low E” coating to improve their energy efficiency. Low E coatings are usually applied to double and triple pane windows to increase their energy efficiency and the homeowner’s comfort. This coating makes the window more expensive, but also makes it more energy efficient.
A Low E coating is a coating of reflective material that is sprayed onto the outside and inside surface of a window. The particles in this coating are so small that they aren’t visible to the human eye. This means you can’t actually see the reflective coating.
The Low E coating reflects heat and cold. On the outside of the window, it reflects the heat or cold away from your home. On the inside portion of the window, it reflects heat or cold back into your home. This means higher energy efficiency and less temperature change inside of your home.
Learn More About the Cost to Replace Windows
The only way to get a good estimate for the cost to replace windows is to talk to the experts. Make sure to do your own research and speak to local window companies to get an estimate and the best possible price.
If you have any more questions about window replacement or how to replace your windows, please visit our blog.
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