How much does it cost to replace windows?

Reviewed by Carol J Alexander remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

If you have old, drafty windows, you're probably wondering how much it costs to replace them. The cost depends on the type and number of windows you have. Though it can seem like a big expense, the energy savings and the average 65% return on investment are worth it. 

On average, replacing ten existing average-sized windows with new double-hung, double-pane windows costs between $6,408 and $11,659, depending on the material. Most homeowners pay around $7,840 for ten double-pane prefabricated double-hung vinyl windows. At the low end, a homeowner can pay a handyman to install one single-hung window for $465. At the high end, a whole-house replacement of 15 wood-frame windows of various sizes and styles could cost as much as $24,485.

This cost guide discusses the cost of installing replacement windows based on several factors, including material, size, style, and glass.

Costs to install windows

Key takeaways

• The cost of window replacement depends on the style, material, and size of the windows.
• Experts agree that specialty add-ons are only necessary for those who live in extreme climates.
• DIYing a window installation could cause damage, void a warranty, and cost more in the long run.

Factors that influence window replacement cost

Your window replacement cost will depend on several factors, primarily material, size, style, and type of glass. Other factors include the number of existing windows, window brand, and labor cost. Let's dive into the particulars here.

Material

The material your window frame is made of plays a huge role in how much the window costs. Which material you choose will depend on budget, maintenance, and looks. "It all depends upon the priority parameter," says Jay Sanders, a licensed contractor and owner of Maryland Contractors. Some window frame materials are more energy efficient than others, some last longer, and some have a higher price point. 

The most prominent window materials are vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. However, the average cost per window depends largely on the size and style.

• Vinyl – The average cost of vinyl windows is from $846 to $1,539 each.
• Aluminum – The average cost of aluminum windows is from $878 to $1,598.
• Wood – The average cost of wood windows is from $1,403 to $2,552.
• Fiberglass – The average cost of fiberglass windows is from $559 to $1,017.

Window size

Obviously, the larger the window, the more expensive it is. Windows come in standard sizes, which will be cheaper than custom windows, as custom sizing will add to the labor cost. Also, bay and bow windows are both large and require multiple windows to complete. So, the product and installation cost of these types is higher than that of other styles.

Style of window

There are many different styles or types of windows intended for different locations and applications. One style may open vertically while another slides horizontally. Some, like picture windows, don't open at all. Most windows are rectangular, but some are arched, hexagonal, or circular. Each window style has a range of costs, depending on its size, material, and glass type. Let's look at the most popular styles here.

Double-hung

• Most common window style
• Both sashes move vertically
• Preferred for upper stories to protect children from falling out
• Sashes may tilt in for cleaning

Single- hung

• Second most common style
• Only lower sash moves vertically
• More difficult to clean than double-hung

Horizontal sliding

• Sashes slide horizontally
• Provides more airflow
• Lack of horizontal rail provides a better view
• Available in two or three sashes
• Often used for pass-through to a patio area

Picture

• Don't open
• Provides large, unobstructed view
• Provides plenty of natural light
• Found mainly in living and family rooms

Awning windows

• Hinges at the top and cranks open
• Typically wider than tall
• Commonly used high on a wall in mid-century modern homes
• Also used as a transom window above a door

Casement windows

• Hinges on the side and cranks out, like a door
• No horizontal rail to obstruct your view
• Taller than wide

Bay/Bow 

• Consists of numerous windows side by side
• Bay window will have a picture window with a double-hung on each side
• A bow window will have multiple double-hung windows in an arch
• The most costly style of window

Less common window types

• Arched windows have a rounded top.
• Circle or hexagonal windows are crafted in those shapes.
• Garden windows protrude from the wall to provide a place for potted plants.
• Jalousie windows include multiple horizontal panes that rotate in unison when cranked.
• A transom window is installed above a door.
• Egress windows are used for emergency exits in basements and attics and must be a minimum of 20 inches wide by 24 inches high and no greater than 44 inches from the floor.

Type of glass

The term glazing refers to the glass in a window, and glass isn't as simple as it used to be. There are several upgrades you can make, and those upgrades will affect the overall cost.

"The customizations that can be made to the glass are valuable to some and not as much to others," says Niki O'Brien, operations manager with Custom Exteriors in Colorado. "For most customers, the standard window replacement will be a substantial upgrade. However, for those who have specific energy goals or are in a location where extreme heat or cold is a factor, the additional cost for extra protection may be worth the cost." Here are the most popular options.

• Low-E coating: Low-E glass minimizes harmful ultraviolet rays, protects your furnishings, and reduces energy loss. Upgrading to Low-E glass typically costs around $5 per square foot.
• Single-pane: This is the most affordable glass option, but it's no longer used in new construction due to its poor energy efficiency. 
• Laminated glass: Ideal for storm-prone areas and in glass doors, laminated glass offers impact resistance. The average cost for this upgrade is approximately $12 per square foot.
• Multi-pane: Double-pane or triple-pane windows are popular among homeowners for their insulating and soundproofing capabilities.
• Krypton gas-filled panes: Triple-paned windows have narrower spacing between panes where argon gas won't fit. So, manufacturers fill the spaces with krypton gas to add insulation. Windows with krypton gas are the most expensive option, but they provide the highest level of insulation.

Choosing the best windows for your home

When choosing the best quality windows for your home, you want to consider your goals. Are you looking to increase energy efficiency? Perhaps you want something stylish for improved curb appeal. "The first thing to consider in all of this," says Andrew Prchal, co-founder of Gunner Roofing, "is the budget."

Window replacement pricing tiers

Window replacement is a costly home improvement project. To help you see the options that align with your budget, we've divided the window costs into three pricing tiers and included the options that fall into each tier here.

The budget-friendly option

The replacement cost for two to three damaged, average-size windows ranges from $497 to $2,452 for materials only, depending on your location.

DIY installation of just a few windows can save roughly $150 per window on labor costs. However, DIY-ing this home improvement project is risky business. If you’re unskilled in the trade, you take the chance of future leaks that could cause water infiltration. So, we don’t recommend it. If you're on a strict budget, only replace damaged windows rather than the entire home. You won’t reap a volume discount, but you’ll spend less out-of-pocket. Other ways to save include choosing the least expensive glass type or frame material.

The mid-range option

The cost to replace ten mid-size windows with new double-hung, double-pane windows with vinyl frames ranges from $5,644 to $10,270.

If you have a bit more money to spend, a professional can replace about ten of your windows with new vinyl ones. This mid-range pricing tier represents most homeowners' window replacement budgets. If you have fewer windows to replace, you may be able to afford to upgrade the glass.

The high-end option

Depending on your location, the total cost to replace 15 average-size windows with new wood-frame double-hung, double-pane windows and one picture window with insulated, low-E glass is $13,458 to $24,485.

A high-end budget provides you with many more options. Custom colors for vinyl, fiberglass, or metal frames, glass upgrades, and gas insulation are common upgrades that homeowners with more to spend opt for. With a high-end budget, you can replace all the windows in a larger home and install larger windows. 

Top window brands to consider

Pella

Pella is one of the largest and most recognized window and door brands in the country. It makes a wide range of products, with some lines available through Lowes. Pella offers all styles of windows, including wood, vinyl, and fiberglass, and many are Energy Star certified. 

Andersen

Andersen is another household name when it comes to windows. It offers a wide range of products for every budget, from its budget-friendly 100 series made of composite material to a luxury wood product. Some Andersen products are available through The Home Depot.

Marvin

Marvin offers nine styles of windows made of wood, extruded aluminum, and fiberglass in a multitude of colors to fit any budget. Marvin products are considered high-quality and are therefore not available at the major building supply retailers. 

How to know if your windows need replacing

Typically, windows last 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials used. Most homeowners choose to replace their windows due to age. They may have an older home that still has single-pane windows with or without storm windows. If your windows aren’t very old, what would you look for to determine whether they need replacing? Here are a few things to check.

• Obvious damage
• High energy bills
• Can hear outside noise
• Leak air or water
• Broken seals
• Home has single-pane windows

DIY vs. hiring a pro

The average cost to repair a window is from $185 to $337, depending on the nature of the repair and your location.

A skilled homeowner may attempt a window replacement on their own, but we don’t recommend it. "Things like working on second-story windows or not having the correct tools can cause damage to both the window structure and the homeowner," says Prchal. Improper installation could cause a window to leak air or water or even crack. He also points out that if the homeowner mismeasures the opening, their home will be exposed to the elements for an extended period of time while adjustments are made. 

Also, a DIY installation could void the window manufacturer’s warranty. In the end, the cost of hiring a professional to fix your mistake negates the cost savings of doing it yourself in the first place.

Paying for your window replacement 

If you don't have enough cash to replace your windows, you might be searching for ways to finance this project. Many homeowners use funds from a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). If you've been living in the house for several years and the market conditions are favorable, you could consider a cash-out refinance option. This kind of loan lets you refinance for a higher amount than what you currently owe, incorporating additional funds into the deal to cover the project costs.

Money-saving tips

• Choose EnergyStar-rated products–include stat from search result
• Look for tax credits, rebates, and incentives
• Ask for a quantity discount if you do the entire home
• Shop around for the best prices
• Repair vs replace

Other considerations

• Geographic location – The cost of new windows varies by region. Always check with a professional in your area for local costs.
• Local climate – The type of window you install should be an energy-efficient window for your climate.
• Permitting – Building permits will add to the cost of the project.
• Unforeseen circumstances – If the contractor reveals hidden wall damage when removing the old windows, that damage will need to be repaired, adding to the overall cost.
• Warranties – When shopping, always compare warranties. You may want to spend a few dollars more on the windows to get better warranty coverage.

Sunshine and breezes for a happier life

When your windows operate as they should, allowing in the sun and breeze while protecting you from the elements, you'll have a happier, more peaceful life.

FAQs

How much should you spend on replacement windows?

The average nationwide cost for a whole-house window installation is $7,840.

Is it cheaper to replace all windows at once?

You will save money per window if you replace all the windows at the same time.

Should I replace 20 year old windows?

That depends on the windows. Wood windows are known to last for 30 years. If your windows are in good condition and your energy bills remain within the average range for your location, there's no need to take on a window replacement project.