How Much Does Basement Window Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average cost for basement window replacement is $700. Most homeowners spend between $400 and $1,000 per window, with labor running $150 to $600 per window—driven primarily by window type, size, and frame material. Foundation or framing repairs can push costs higher, so it's worth budgeting for those possibilities up front.

Basement Window Cost: Prefab vs. Custom

Basement windows typically conform to standard shapes and sizes, so prefab units are available at most hardware stores with prices ranging from $100 to $800 per window for the unit alone. Custom windows, ordered to fit non-standard openings, cost between $150 and $1,200 per window—a 25% to 50% premium over comparable prefab units. Custom orders also take more time to fulfill and can increase labor costs, since non-standard sizing often poses additional installation challenges. 

Here is a breakdown of typical cost ranges by window type:

Basement Window Cost Factors: What Affects the Price?

Several other factors impact the cost of replacing a basement window, including the type of window, the window frame material, the size of the window, and labor rates.

Type of Window

The type of window you choose is one of the biggest drivers of replacement cost, with prefab units ranging from $100 to $800 per window and custom units running from $125 to $1,200. Here is how costs break down across the most common basement window types:

Awning Windows

You’ll spend between $100 and $600 on a prefabricated awning replacement window for your basement, or $125 to $900 for a custom-made unit.

These windows are great for ventilation; you can easily open them at the bottom and swing outward.

Casement Windows

A new casement window for your basement costs from $100 to $750 at the store, but you’ll spend anywhere from $125 to $1,125 if you need a custom casement window made.

Casements often have a hand-crack feature to open them outward; they’re easy to open, and they offer energy efficiency. Just note, casement windows generally require a window well.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung basement replacement windows cost between $250 and $750, but the prices go up to $325 to $1,125 if they’re custom.

Double-hung windows are a type of sash window, with two sections that can move independently. They are generally easy to clean and open.

Egress Windows

Prefab basement egress windows cost from $100 to $750, but costs climb to $125 to $1,125 for custom-made windows.

By definition, egress windows are larger so a person can pass through them; building code requires the following basement egress window dimensions:

• At least 20 inches wide

• At least 24 inches tall

• No more than 44 inches from the floor

Glass Block Windows

You’ll spend between $100 and $400 on a prefab glass block window; custom options run from $125 to $600.

Glass block windows offer privacy and security for your basement, but they still let in natural light. While they don’t open, they may be available with vents.

Hopper Windows

Replacement basement hopper windows are among the most affordable types of windows for basements. Prefab units cost $100 to $300, while custom units can run from $125 to $450.

Hopper windows are popular for basements because they don’t require a well. You can open them from the top to ventilate the basement, and they’re a great source of natural light. Because of how they open, however, they’re not great for egress.

In-Swing Windows

A prefab in-swing replacement basement window costs $300 to $800. If you order a custom unit, expect to pay between $375 and $1,200.

In-swing windows are a type of casement window, but they open into the basement instead of out. This is ideal for small basement wells.

Single-Hung Windows

The cost to replace a single-hung basement window is roughly $175 to $525. Ordering a custom replacement raises the price from $225 to $800 for the unit alone.

Single-hung windows are a type of sash window with two glass panes, but you can only open and close the bottom pane. You’ll need to install a well for this window if using the window for egress.

Sliding Windows

Replacing your basement’s sliding windows costs between $250 and $625. If the window opening is an odd size and you need a custom-fit window, expect to pay between $325 and $950.

Sliding windows are super easy to operate (they slide horizontally—it’s in the name!), and they’re great for ventilation, light, and egress (when installed with a well).

Window Frame Material

The material of the window frame directly affects what you pay for a replacement basement window unit, with options ranging from $100 to $1,200. Vinyl and wood are the most affordable frame options, while fiberglass, aluminum, and steel tend to cost more. If budget is a priority, vinyl frames offer the lowest entry price, but they can crack or warp in extreme climates—so factor your local weather into the decision. 

Here is how costs compare across frame materials:

Aluminum Frame

A basement window with an aluminum frame generally costs from $300 to $675, though you’ll spend between $375 and $1,025 for custom options. Aluminum frames are incredibly durable and low-maintenance, but aluminum doesn’t offer as much insulation as other frame materials.

Fiberglass Frame

Budget to spend between $250 and $800 to replace a basement window with a fiberglass frame—or $325 to $1,200 if you need to order a custom window to fit a unique shape or size. Fiberglass frames offer incredible insulation and are quite durable, but prices can get high.

Steel Frame

Basement windows with steel frames cost from $275 to $800 prefab or $350 to $1,200 when custom-made. Steel is durable and secure, but it’s prone to rust, meaning it requires more regular maintenance.

Vinyl Frame

When replacing a basement with a vinyl frame, you’ll spend between $100 and $650 for a prefab window, depending on the size. Custom windows cost from $125 to $975. Windows with vinyl frames are the most affordable option, but the frame can crack and warp in extreme climates.

Wood Frame

Windows with wood frames cost between $175 and $800 for prefab units at the store or $225 to $1,200 when ordering custom sizes. Wood offers a timeless look, especially for charming historic homes. However, wood frames can have moisture issues and require high levels of maintenance.

Size

The size of your window directly affects the unit cost, with small replacement basement windows running $100 to $475, medium windows ranging from $325 to $575, and large windows falling between $525 and $800 per unit. 

Here is a summary of typical cost ranges by window size:

Labor

Local basement window installers typically charge $100 to $300 per window for labor, though rates vary by region. Custom windows with non-standard sizing or complex installation requirements can push labor costs up to $600 per window. These labor charges are separate from the cost of the window unit itself, and contractors may offer a lower per-window rate when you replace multiple windows in a single visit.

Additional Cost Factors

A few other factors can impact the overall cost of replacing basement windows:

• Changing size: If you’re creating a larger (or smaller) opening for your window when replacing it, the project will be much more involved. Expect significantly higher labor costs to cut out a new window opening or fill in the existing one.

• Brand: Some higher-end window brands, such as Boman & Kemp and Wellcraft, charge considerably more per unit than budget-friendly brands.

• Additional labor needed: If, during the window replacement, the contractor notices structural issues, or any other basement problems, you may need to set aside additional funds to address the issue.

Why You Should Hire a Basement Window Pro

Hiring a local basement window replacement pro costs more upfront, but you benefit from proper installation techniques, enhanced safety, and effective water- and weatherproofing. Pros bring the right equipment—such as specialized tools, lifting equipment, and high-quality sealants—and the experience needed to replace basement windows without damaging your home’s structure or compromising its safety.

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a basement window replacement pro:

• Pros know how to replace basement windows efficiently while avoiding damage to the surrounding frame, foundation, or siding, and ensuring the windows are properly sealed against water and air infiltration.

• They handle the installation in accordance with local building codes and safety requirements, which can be complex and vary by region.

• Hiring a pro reduces the risk of improper sealing, poor alignment, or gaps that could lead to leaks, drafts, or water damage in your basement.

• Many contractors can bundle services such as window removal, repairs to damaged framing or masonry, or additional waterproofing measures, helping streamline the entire project.

If you want to DIY parts of the project

• Clear the installation areas of any furniture, storage items, or obstructions to provide easy access for the professional installer.

• Mark any existing utility lines or areas that may require special attention (like damaged framing or masonry), even if you’re not removing the old windows yourself, to help the pro plan accordingly.

• Remove the old windows ahead of time to help reduce the workload for the installer when they arrive.

When to Replace Your Basement Windows

Your basement windows probably get a lot less use than windows throughout the rest of your home, but they still require maintenance, repair, and, eventually, replacement. Here’s how to know when it’s time to replace your windows in the basement:

1. Age of windows: Most basement windows last between 20 and 30 years. When you hit the 20-year mark, keep a close eye on them. If they are leaking or leading to regular temperature fluctuations in the basement, it’s time to replace them.

2. Leakage and temperature fluctuations: Windows can fail early. Even if you haven’t hit the 20-year mark, you should replace any windows that are leaking or not insulating your basement well enough.

3. Poor operation: If your windows are increasingly difficult to open—or won’t open at all—it’s worth hiring a window repair contractor near you to inspect them. They might be able to fix the issue, but if not, you’ll need to replace the windows.

4. Visible damage: Cracked and chipped windows aren’t the end of the world, especially in a basement. But if they are showing significant damage, or if the frame itself is damaged or rotting, you’ll need to replace the window (and potentially the frame).

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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