On average, windows that were installed correctly and that homeowners maintain should last about 20 years. Regardless of how old your windows are, however, you want to make sure that they’re up-to-date, protecting your interiors, and preventing the loss of heating or cooling.
Whether you’re a brand new homeowner or it’s simply your first time replacing your windows, you’re probably wondering about the average cost to replace home windows.
In the end, there are a variety of factors that can affect window replacement costs. These range from the number of windows you need to be replaced to the types of windows you’re looking for.
Read on for our guide to home window replacement and find out more about how much you can expect to pay.
A Quick Glance at the Average Cost to Replace Home Windows
So, if you’re looking for the quick answer to your question about window replacement costs, here it is. On average, window replacement can cost anywhere between $200 and $1,800 per window–a median price of about $650.
As you can see, this range is pretty massive. It’s difficult to nail down a true average because properties can be so different and homeowners’ needs and desires for their windows vary.
Breaking Down the Factors That Affect Window Replacement Costs
A better way to get a sense of how much you can expect to pay is to unpack the factors that can affect the cost of home window replacement. Some of the biggest factors that will affect cost include materials, types, sizes of your new windows, as well as the labor required to install them.
Window Frame Material
The frame material you choose will come down to the function and appearance you expect from your new windows. Popular window frame materials include wood, vinyl, composite, aluminum, and fiberglass.
One of the most durable and affordable options is vinyl. On the low end, windows with vinyl frames can cost about $100 per window. However, on the higher end, they can cost up to $900 a window.
Fiberglass, aluminum, and composite windows are more durable than vinyl, but also more expensive. Windows with wood frames run in the middle, although they may lead to more structural issues in the long run. Most homeowners who opt for wood window frames either prefer the appearance or own a historical home with specific architectural requirements.
Window Type, Glass Size, and Glass Type
Window types refer to the style of your windows as a whole. Common window types include single-hung, double-hung, picture, storm, and bay windows. The type of windows you choose won’t affect cost nearly as much as the size–particularly the glass size.
A good rule of thumb is that the larger the piece of glass per window, the more you can expect to pay. In fact, one large, single-pane window can cost more than a double-pane window of the same size. Additionally, if your windows are not a modern, standard size and require custom-cut glass, you can expect to pay more per window.
Glass type will also affect the cost. The more your window does for you–for example, blocking UV rays or providing extra resistance to harsh weather conditions–the more it will cost.
Labor Costs
When you’re having replacement windows installed, you aren’t just paying for the materials. You’re also paying for the labor required to install them.
That means that things like the location of your windows can impact the overall price. For example, installing windows on the second or third floor tends to require more time and equipment. That means that replacing windows higher than the ground floor will cost you more money.
Does that mean that you should try to install windows yourself and cut the labor costs? Not exactly. Installing windows improperly–a more likely problem when going DIY–comes with a high cost, given that you’re likely to lose energy through your windows and require replacement far sooner.
Signs You Need Window Replacement
You may not know exactly how old your windows are, but you don’t always have to hit the 20-year mark to know that it’s time to replace your windows. Signs you need window replacement include:
- Cracks in the frame or glass
- Warped frames
- Windows that no longer open or close properly
- Windows that let in a draft or let out heating and cooling
- Windows that do not provide the protection you’re looking for from UV rays, severe weather, pollution, and more
In some cases, window replacement is necessary when you simply no longer like the style of the windows you have!
Choosing the Right Window Professionals for You
How do you choose the right window professionals? There are a few things you’re going to consider.
First, make sure that your window professionals are local to your area. That way, you can rest assured that they understand the particular climate-related needs your windows must fulfill.
Second, make sure that your window professionals are well-reviewed. If you have neighbors who recently redid their windows, ask them about how they hired and whether or not they’d recommend that company to you.
Finally, make sure that your window professionals can take care of everything from start to finish–and then some. The last thing you want is to hire a company that can only do part of the job or won’t come back to maintain your windows in the future. A good example of what you want is Renewal by Andersen Windows–one-company accountability is crucial.
Invest In Your Windows and Preserve Your Property
The average cost to replace home windows will vary widely from property to property. Our best advice is to start with a free estimate from a local company. In the end, the cost to replace your home windows is worth it!
Looking for more ideas, guides, and tips for your next big renovation? Take a look around to learn everything you need to know from DIY tips to signs that it’s time to call in a professional.
