Window Costs: What to Expect

Replacing your windows can instantly improve your home in many ways, like enhancing interior and exterior design and increasing energy efficiency. But which windows are right for your home? And how much should you expect to pay for professional window installation? Homeowners spend an average of $5,000 to install windows, according to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide, with most spending between $2,500 and $8,000. Understanding the cost factors involved will help you get the most out of your budget – and find the perfect windows for your home.

How much does window installation cost?

Window installation costs vary widely depending on size, options and materials. Here’s a look average rates:

• Standard: $200 to $1,300 per window if the frame is intact. Rate includes tear out, disposal and window installation.
• Custom: $500 to $5,000 per window with installation.
• Frame Replacement: If you need to replace the window and frame, you can expect to add 10 to 15 percent to your budget.

What determines the cost of a window project?

What makes some window projects more expensive than others? And what makes a more expensive project worth the investment?

Materials

The most expensive windows are often the highest quality and made of the most durable, efficient and attractive materials. But that doesn’t mean that lower-cost windows won’t perform! Talk to your window installer to determine the right material for your needs.

Frame: High-end frames are typically made of wood or fiberglass, though aluminum and composite options can also range into higher price points.

• Vinyl: $250 to $600 with installation
• Wood: $600 to $2,000 with installation
• Fiberglass: $600 to $900 with installation
• Aluminum: $400 to $1,200 with installation
• Composite: $300 to $1,100 with installation

Pane: The best panes are triple-glazed with low-E coatings and either an argon or krypton gas filling to better insulate the window. (A “low-emissivity” coating deflects heat from the sun and keeps it from transferring from the glass into the home.) Windows with a low-E coating will add 10 to 15 percent to your cost. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to over $1,000 to install energy-efficient windows.

Style

Another factor driving cost is window style. Large, complex installations and custom windows will come at a higher price point than standard products.

• Single-Hung Window: $175 to $600 with installation
• Double-Hung Window: $350 to $850 with installation
• Custom Window: $500 to $5,000+ with installation
• Bay Window: $1,500 to $7,000 with installation
• Basement Egress: $2,500 to $5,000+ with installation
• Bow Window: $2,000 to $10,000 with installation

Scope

The number of windows involved in your project will determine the final price tag.

• 5 Windows: $1,500 to $3,500 with installation
• 10 Windows: $3,000 to $7,000 with installation
• 15 Windows: $4,500 to $10,500 with installation
• 20 Windows: $6,000 to $14,000 with installation

Installation

A final cost driver is the rate for installation. Higher-quality window installers with solid reputations and busy schedules will cost more, but you’ll guarantee yourself a job well-done. Window installers typically charge between $30 and $50 an hour.

To replace or not to replace?

Are you unsure whether your windows really need to be replaced? If you answer yes to any of these, it’s definitely worth considering.

• Do you have issues with drafts?
• Are your current windows single-pane?
• Are the frames in poor condition, rotting or malfunctioning?
• Do you have issues with condensation in the panes?
• Do you see an opportunity to improve energy efficiency with new windows?
• Do you plan on staying in your home for the next 10 years?

Inoperable windows pose a safety hazard, especially if there’s a fire. And old, inefficient windows run up your utility bills and reduce indoor air quality and home value.

But before you splurge on the most expensive windows, consider whether you’re making the right investment. In making your decisions, consider what’s expected in your neighborhood and region, what will best complement your home and what will meet your needs when it comes to efficiency.

If you’re ready to move forward with your window project, be sure to get quotes from at least three window pros in your area, and always ask for references. Hiring a quality installer is an essential step in ensuring a successful project!