If well-maintained, window frames can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. However, sooner or later the time will come to replace the windows in your home. If you’ve recognized that it’s time to replace a window in your home, you might be wondering how much it costs. While it’s not the most expensive home update that you can make, a window installation can seem pretty pricey. However, the exact price will vary based on a variety of different factors.
In this guide, we’ll tell you more about how much a residential window replacement costs.
Average Cost Of Home Window Replacement
Generally speaking, a window replacement will cost between $300-$2100, with an average of $850. However, the actual cost of a residential window replacement will vary based on many different factors.
The window itself could cost as little as $75 or could cost $1,500 or more. Labor could cost several hundred dollars extra.
When estimating the cost of a window replacement, you’ll need to think about the window size, material, and type. You’ll also want to compare costs if you decide to hire a contractor to handle the replacement.
Should You Replace Windows Yourself?
One of the decisions that you’ll need to make when installing a window is whether you’ll hire a professional to do the work or attempt a DIY installation. Hiring a professional will make things much more convenient for you, but you’ll pay more for the installation overall.
Particularly if you only have a single window to replace, you might want to consider making a DIY installation. Doing so is possible as long as you have the right tools on hand.
However, be sure that you know what you’re doing. Do a thorough job when making a replacement to ensure that you don’t suffer the consequences later.
With a non-professional installation, you’re more likely to experience mold problems or structural issues later on. Make sure that you get your DIY installation right if you decide to do the work yourself.
Factors That Affect Window Replacement Costs
If you need to replace a window in your home, there are various factors that can affect the cost. Here’s what you should take into consideration.
Size
One of the main things that you’ll want to think about when estimating the cost of a window replacement is its size.
Remember that larger windows will be more expensive than smaller windows will be. In addition to the cost of the materials and the labor, larger windows may also require more home preparation and changes to the structure of your home.
Panes
The number of window panes on the window will also influence its overall cost as well.
Single-pane windows are more affordable but are also less energy efficient. These windows could cost as little as $100.
Double-pane windows have better insulation than single-pane windows and triple-pane windows are even more insulating. However double-pane and triple-pane windows are more expensive. Triple-pane windows could cost as much as $3,000.
Labor
Another thing that will affect the cost of replacing a window is the labor costs. Typically, a window installation company will only charge around $100-$300 per window installed, but this varies by quite a bit.
More difficult installations and larger windows could cost more than a standard window installation.
Frames
The window frame material is also an important thing to consider and can affect the cost of replacing windows.
Aluminum and vinyl windows are economical options. Fiberglass, wood, and composite windows are considerably more expensive.
Glass
The type of glass on your windows will also affect their cost. Stronger glass options such as tempered glass will be more expensive while options such as double-glazed windows will be better for those on a budget.
You’ll want to consider your choice carefully. Make sure that the glass you choose will do a good job of providing insulation while also working for your budget.
Window Styles
You should also consider the window’s style. Casement windows, energy-efficient windows, sliding windows, double-hung windows, pocket windows, and Wood Clad Windows all vary in cost.
You’ll need to do some research or speak with a window installation company to get an idea of what you can expect from the materials and the installation costs.
Location
The location of the window in your home can also affect the price of labor. If your window is located in a hard-to-reach place such as on the second floor of your home, then you may pay more in labor costs.
On the other hand, easy-to-access windows on the first floor of your home will be more affordable to install.
Energy-Efficiency
Energy-efficient upgrades are one thing that could add to the cost of the window installation. If you get low emissivity coatings, tinted glass, or laminated glass it could cost extra.
Weatherstripping your windows can help to improve insulation, but can lead to additional costs as well.
Additional Costs
There are some non-window costs that may also play a part in a window installation or replacement.
In some cases, structural repairs may be necessary during a window installation. You might need to fix drywall cracks or make other changes to the structure of your home to accommodate the window installation.
Some window contractors may also charge additional fees for certain activities. They might charge an additional project cleanup fee if they’ll be cleaning up after the window installation is complete.
Estimating Residential Window Replacement Costs
If you need to make a residential window replacement, you’ll need to get some quotes from contractors to determine the exact cost of your installation. However, the information above should give you an idea of what you can expect from a window installation. Be sure to consider all of the features of a window, its style, and other specifics when estimating the cost.
Need more home renovation and home improvement information? Browse our blog now to find more useful guides.
Image by Moshe Harosh from Pixabay.
