How much does window replacement cost? 2024 pricing
The cost of window replacement can vary significantly, with homeowners typically spending between $488 and $1,678 per window. While these estimates do include materials and labor, there are a lot of factors that play a role in this average.
In this guide, we’ll answer how much window replacement costs as well as break down those factors so pricing is crystal clear. Here’s what you need to know.
Summary
- The average cost of window replacement is around $1,080, with most homeowners paying between $488 and $1,678 per window
- Several factors impact price, including window type, size, material, and the home’s location
- If you can, waiting until you need a few windows replaced may yield a better price per window
What is the average window replacement cost?
We’ve found that the average window replacement cost is around $1,080, with the majority of homeowners paying between $488 and $1,678 to have a window replaced.
That’s a wide range, and even at its lowest price, it’s still an investment you’ll want to research and ensure is right for you and your home. After all, if you don’t need your windows replaced, you might not see the return on investment in terms of energy efficiency or curb appeal to make it worth it.
A few signs that it might be time to have your windows replaced is if your windows are:
- Drafty or leaky. The seals have probably failed, driving up your energy costs as your HVAC equipment works harder to regulate the temperature.
- Visibly damaged or decaying. Warping, cracking, rotting, or water damage around the frame could lead to water damage inside the wall.
- Condensing or fogging between the panes. This is a sign that the seals around the glass unit have failed and energy efficiency is failing.
- Single pane. Single-pane windows are typically very inefficient as they don’t stop heat transfer nearly as well as double-pane IGUs (insulated glass units).
- Sticking, rattling, or not locking. Several different issues can cause these symptoms, some of which could be signs that your windows need replacing.
If you’re dealing with any of those issues with your windows, it might be time to consider replacing them. But, as you’ll find out later, it might be more cost-effective to wait until you’re ready to replace several windows, rather than one at a time. Let’s dive even further.
Window Replacement Cost by Material
Window material plays a fairly significant role in the cost of a replacement window. Not only does the material itself determine the manufacturer’s cost to construct the window (ultimately impacting the retail price), but the amount of labor involved can also vary.
Here are some average costs associated with each material type, including the labor.
| Material | Low Price | High Price | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | $550 | $1,556 | $1,003 |
| Fiberglass | $461 | $1,499 | $1,068 |
| Wood | $481 | $1,616 | $1,083 |
| Vinyl | $287 | $1,081 | $745 |
| Aluminum | $239 | $794 | $462 |
Composite
The cost to replace windows with a composite window is between $550 and $1,556, with an average cost of around $1,000. While this is certainly not the lowest price on the list, composite windows are extremely durable, energy efficient, and low maintenance, making them a great option for replacement windows.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a great option, as these windows are durable and low maintenance. They’re also very effective at reducing energy consumption. Homeowners can expect to pay between $460 and $1,499 to install a fiberglass replacement window, with an average cost of around $1,068.
Wood
Wood offers timeless appeal, with replacement costs ranging from $481 to $1,616 and averaging around $1,083. While they typically require more maintenance, wood provides superior thermal efficiency. Many homeowners choose wood for historic homes or when seeking traditional craftsmanship for their property.
Vinyl
Replacing a window with a new vinyl window generally costs between $287 and $1,081, with an average cost of $745. Vinyl windows might not be the most attractive option, but their affordability, low maintenance needs, and energy efficiency are desirable to many.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are generally affordable to replace, costing between $239 and $794, with an average cost of around $462 per window. They can be more energy efficient than older, single-pane windows, but they’re typically not the best in terms of insulation value.
What is the cost by window type?
| Window Type | Low Price | High Price | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding | $182 | $1,150 | $1,000 |
| Double-hung | $357 | $1,248 | $750 |
| Picture | $316 | $1,461 | $800 |
| Storm | $93 | $463 | $200 |
| Bay | $1,303 | $4,738 | $2,500 |
| Casement | $427 | $1,709 | $900 |
| Single-hung | $200 | $1,099 | $400 |
| Egress | $557 | $2,383 | $1,200 |
| Hopper | $200 | $700 | $450 |
| Skylight | $357 | $1,917 | $1,650 |
The type of window is another major factor in the cost of having a window replaced. Some window types are more expensive than others, whether it be the additional materials or because of the hardware and engineering required to ensure they work over and over again.
Sliding
Sliding windows generally cost between $182 and $1,150 when it comes to window replacement. These windows are fairly simple in construction, making them one of the more affordable options.
Double-hung
A double-hung window replacement will cost between $350 to $1,250, though the average is around $750. Double-hung windows are simple in design but have more moving parts than single-hung or fixed windows. They’re also the most common types of replacement windows found.
Picture
Picture windows are typically simple in design but can feature large insulated glass units. For this reason, they’re slightly more expensive, with the average being around $800 and most homeowners paying between $315 and $1,461 to have a replacement picture window installed.
Storm
There aren’t a lot of complexities or design variables with storm windows, so they’re usually quite affordable. They’re also not the stereotypical replacement window, as they’re just installed on the exterior side of an existing window to protect it from impacts during storms. They typically cost between $90 and $460, with an average cost of around $200.
Bay
Bay windows are large, feature expansive glass panes, and have complex construction to guarantee that they’re strong and secure. As a result, they’re expensive, costing between $1,300 and $4740, with an average cost of around $2,500.
Casement
Rather than having sliding panes like sliding, single-hung, or double-hung windows, casement windows feature hand cranks that open and close the glass. The crank’s design needs to be durable and operate in various conditions, requiring quality hardware. As a result, casement windows generally cost between $430 and $1,700, with an average cost of around $900.
Single-hung
Single-hung windows are simple in their design, with just one pane sliding up and down. With the minimal moving parts and seals, they’re typically very energy efficient. They cost between $200 on the low end and $1,100 on the high end to replace, but the average homeowner pays around $400 for replacement.
Egress
Egress windows are designed to allow a person to escape a room, and they’re common for basement window replacement projects. Since egress windows are safety-related, they’re built to specific standards and must operate no matter the circumstances. They typically cost between $550 and $2,400 to install a replacement egress window, with the average cost being around $1,200.
Hopper
Hopper windows are a unique design, with a single sash that tilts into the home to open rather than sliding or swinging outward. They lock at different angles and allow a lot of air to flow into the room. They’re usually fairly affordable, too, with a low price of around $200 and a high of $700, with an average price of $450.
Skylight
Skylights aren’t typical replacement windows, but window replacement companies can usually handle their removal and replacement. Their typical price range is between $360 and $1,900, with the average cost to have them replaced skewing toward the higher end of the range at $1,915, largely due to the specialty labor cost associated with skylights.
What are the factors that determine window replacement costs?
Aside from the material and style, there are a few other factors that impact the cost of having replacement windows installed. If you’re considering replacement windows, it’s worth knowing how the following factors can impact your quote.
Size, Material, and Style
The size, material, and style of the replacement windows are the main factors to consider. Large windows will cost more than smaller windows made from the same material and of a similar design.
Similarly, a premium material like composite or fiberglass will make for a more expensive window than a window of a similar style and size in a material like vinyl or aluminum. You can also bet that complex window designs like casements or bay windows will cost more than simple double-hung windows.
Labor
The amount of labor involved in installing a replacement window will have a direct impact on the cost. A window on the first floor will be easier for a crew to replace than one on the second floor, which might require ladders and more expensive contractor insurance. Some windows can be installed by a one-person crew, while others might require a second person, costing more in the long run.
Number of Windows
Remember how we mentioned that waiting to have several windows replaced might be best?
Generally speaking, having more windows replaced is cheaper per window than having just one window replaced. The reasons being:
- Window brands and installers typically give discounts for larger orders
- The mobilization costs (the costs associated with getting the crew and material to the job site) are spread out over multiple windows rather than just one
- The labor involved in setup and breakdown is spread out over multiple windows rather than just one
Therefore, having one double-hung window replaced might cost $600, while having five of the same type of window might cost $400 each.
Geographic Location
Labor and the cost of materials might be more or less expensive where you live. For example, the cost of having windows replaced in the Northeast is generally more expensive than having them replaced in the Southeast.
Also, homeowners who live in remote locations are likely to pay more for their replacement windows than those who live within the window replacement company’s service area.
Another factor that might come into play is the specific needs of homes in your region. Extremely cold climates might require windows with triple-pane IGUs, while windows in hot climates might require specific glazing to cut down on the amount of heat gain experienced.
All of these factors can impact the cost of the windows.
Other Considerations
There might be some additional unexpected costs associated with your replacement windows.
Windows with specific energy efficiency needs might cost more than those that are simply ready to go off the shelf of a store. Also, custom orders will cost more than stock sizes.
It’s also worth noting that most window replacement quotes will include the cost to dispose of the old windows as well as the permits to complete the project.
FAQs
What is the cheapest time of year to replace windows?
The cheapest time to have windows replaced is winter. Contractors are typically slower during this time and may offer discounts to entice customers to use their services. Fall is also an attractive time, while spring and summer are generally more expensive.
How many years should house windows last?
The average residential window should last 15 to 30 years, with regular maintenance allowing the window to last longer. The type of window can also impact the window’s lifespan, with simple windows made from composite or fiberglass lasting up to 45 years.
What type of window lasts the longest?
It’s generally accepted that fiberglass windows last the longest, as they can easily last more than 40 years. The simpler designs, like double-hung or single-hung, will also last longer than casement or hopper windows.
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