New Window Cost by Frame Material
A major factor in calculating the cost of a new window is the material you choose. Popular choices include vinyl, wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and composite.
Expect to spend between $75 and $1,500 per window unit, not including labor. With labor, you’re looking at paying between $100 and $800 apiece, increasing your total costs to $175 to $2,300 per window unit on average. Custom, lavish, or extra-large projects can add between 25% and 50% to the total project cost.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows cost between $75 and $400 each, or an average of $275. Aluminum may not be as energy efficient as vinyl (and its appearance may work best with modern home styles), but aluminum is an affordable, strong, and lightweight material.
Vinyl
The average cost for vinyl windows is $550 or between $100 and $900 per window. These popular windows are more affordable than wood, fiberglass, and composite but are also less energy efficient. At the same time, many homeowners prefer this low-maintenance material for its long lifespan and resistance to corrosion and rot.
Composite
Composite windows cost around $300 to $1,200 per window or $900 on average. This material is a combination of wood fibers and thermoplastic that gives your windows the appearance of natural wood without the susceptibility to water damage that comes with wood. This material is double the strength of vinyl and more energy efficient, but these pros come at a higher cost.
Wood
The cost to replace wood windows falls anywhere between $150 and $1,300 per window or $800 on average. Wood windows offer a natural look that makes them favorable for historic homes. They’re also more energy efficient than vinyl and aluminum. At the same time, wood is susceptible to rot and mold and may require more maintenance and repairs than other options.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows cost between $500 and $1,500 per window or an average of $1,250 each. While the price might make you sweat initially, you get more bang for your buck with fiberglass windows, as they last longer than all other options and have higher energy efficiency than even composite windows.
Window Cost By Size
The size of your window can greatly impact the cost of your window installation. Most windows start at $100 to install with labor and materials, but larger windows can cost $1,200 or more. Additionally, standard window sizes are more readily available, so they cost less than custom window sizes.
Window Cost by Style
When calculating the cost of replacement windows, it's important to consider the window style, which can influence the final price. Depending on the style you choose, you may pay anywhere from $65 to $7,100 per window. Here’s a breakdown of the different styles so that you can best budget for your window installation.
Bay
Bay windows are some of the priciest windows on the market, with costs ranging from $900 to $7,100 each. These windows cost more because they contain three panes that surround a section of your home to let in natural light. Installing bay windows is a good investment for increasing your home’s property value.
Bow
A step up from bay windows, bow windows cost anywhere from $1,500 to $6,500 apiece. These windows function similarly to bay windows, only they contain five window panes instead of three. This adds even more light to your home and increases your curb appeal.
Casement
Coming in between $150 and $1,000 each, casement windows are commonly used in bathrooms and above kitchen sinks to help ventilate humid rooms. These windows have hinges on one side that allow you to crank them open.
Custom
With custom windows, the sky's the limit. Prices start at $1,000 apiece and go upwards from there, depending on what kinds of features you want. If your older home uses atypical window openings, you may need custom windows to accommodate the size difference.
Double-Hung
Double-hung windows cost between $150 and $650 on average. These are suited for second-story windows for increased air circulation. Since they have slightly more mechanisms than single-hung windows, you’ll find this option has a higher cost.
Energy-Efficient
Energy-efficient windows cost anywhere from $120 to $1,500 each. Those that are ENERGY STAR-certified will run a little higher than low-emissivity windows (low-E) that aren’t certified.
Fixed
The price of fixed windows falls between $400 and $950 each, on average. These windows don’t open, and they tend to have larger frames compared to picture windows.
Folding
Folding windows cost anywhere from $500 to $900 each. Also called a pass-through window, this window option contains several folding panels for added light.
Also called insert windows, pocket windows average a cost of $100 to $400. As the name suggests, pocket windows fit into an existing frame just like a pocket. This makes them slightly more affordable than most other window options.
Picture
You’ll pay between $65 and $700 for picture windows. These are some of the most affordable windows on the market. Picture windows don’t open, but they have side panels for added ventilation.
Single-Hung
An affordable and popular window style is the single-hung window, which costs between $100 and $400 on average. Also called a single-sash window, this option has one sash that you can move and another that’s fixed so that you can slide the bottom of the window up and down at your leisure.
Sliding
A sliding window costs between $150 and $800 on average. These windows open horizontally, and, like with casement windows, they’re common above kitchen sinks and in bathrooms.
Storm
Storm windows cost between $90 and $400 on average and are some of the smallest window options on the market. These windows go on the outside of your existing windows for added safety and energy efficiency.
| Window Type | Average Price* |
|---|---|
| Bay | $900 – $7,100 |
| Bow | $1,500 – $6,500 |
| Casement | $150 – $1,000 |
| Custom | $1,000+ |
| Double-hung | $150 – $650 |
| Energy-efficient | $120 – $1,500 |
| Fixed | $400 – $950 |
| Folding | $500 – $900 |
| $100 – $400 | |
| Picture | $65 – $700 |
| Single-hung | $100 – $400 |
| Sliding | $150 – $800 |
| Storm | $90 – $400 |
*Not including labor
Additional New Window Cost Factors
You’ll also encounter a handful of additional factors that could influence the final cost of your window replacement, like the number of panes, type of glass, energy efficiency, window location, home age, and more. Check out these additional cost factors before you press enter on your calculator.
Number of Panes
In general, the more window panes you have, the more it will cost to replace the window. That's because windows with multiple panes require more steps for installation to ensure all panes are properly insulated and sealed.
Single-pane: This is the most affordable type of window because it uses less glass than other types. However, it’s also the least energy-efficient option. You’ll typically pay between $100 and $350 per window, but you won’t lower your energy bills.
Double-pane: Double-pane windows offer better insulation than single-pane windows because of the layer of nontoxic gas trapped between the panes. Double-pane windows cost $280 to $1,500 per window with labor.
Triple-pane: Windows with three panes function similarly to double-pane windows but offer even better insulation thanks to their extra layer of glass and protective gas. The cost to install triple-pane windows ranges from $300 to $2,700 per window.
Type of Glass
The type of glass also affects the cost of new windows. For instance, tempered glass, which makes windows more durable, will cost more than basic glass windows.
Insulated glass: This glass is ideal for homes in warm climates because it’s finished with a special glaze that reduces sun glare and keeps home interiors cooler on hot days. On average, you’ll pay $10 to $20 per square foot for this window material.
Double-glazed: This type of glass provides insulation from noise and weather, and it’s relatively affordable compared to other energy-efficient options at about $3 to $6 per square foot.
Tempered glass: This is the strongest type of glass, which means it stands up well to elements like wind, debris, and extreme weather. On average, it costs $12 to $14 per square foot.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
You can invest in add-ons to make your windows more energy efficient. Energy-efficient windows cost between $120 and $1,500 per window, depending on your chosen upgrades.
Low-E coatings: Low-E windows have a special coating that makes them much more energy efficient. Though windows with these coatings can be pricey to install, they can also reduce heat loss by as much as 50%. Expect to pay between $300 and $1,000 per window for this extra feature.
Tint: Tinted glass can reduce the amount of heat that enters and leaves your home, cut down on sun glare, and block out UV rays. This option costs $7 to $110 per square foot.
Laminate: Laminated glass is functionally similar to double-glazed glass, but it’s a bit more expensive because of a few additional properties, like moisture protection. This option typically costs between $10 and $20 per square foot.
Weatherstripping: Want to improve the insulation on your windows? Weatherstrip them! Weatherstripping costs between $150 and $450, depending on how many windows you have and the type of sealant you use.
While these window upgrades come with higher up-front costs, they can also save you between 7% and 15% in annual energy costs, so in some cases, they pay for themselves over time.
Window Location
A window's location will impact the overall cost of replacements. For example, windows on the ground floor generally cost less to replace than ones on higher levels or those located slightly underground (like an egress window). Tough-to-reach windows might require additional tools and steps to install properly.
Home Age
Your home's age also plays a part in what you’ll pay for window replacements. Replacing a window on a newer property will generally cost less than replacing one on an older property. This price difference is often because the latter may require refitting, demolition, and potentially custom-made pieces to ensure the new installation is up to code. Pros may also need to remove or replace additional parts, like a broken or rotting trim, and the added labor and materials will increase your final bill.
Structural Repairs
In some cases, window replacements reveal the need for structural repairs in a home. For example, any cracks in the drywall or stone masonry that might have formed from replacing the window will require additional expenses and labor to repair.
Insulation and Weatherproofing
Though windows don’t need to be insulated or weatherproofed to function properly, these additions will save you money on both repairs and energy costs in the long run. On average, these kinds of window treatments range from $3 to $20 per square foot.
Project Cleanup
Although many professional contractors include the price of old window removal and cleanup in their final window replacement costs, some may charge an additional removal fee. In these cases, expect to pay an added $55 to $65 per hour for extra labor.
Whole-House Window Replacement Costs
Most homes average just under 10 windows, so replacing windows in a typical home will cost between $1,400 and $18,400. However, home sizes vary, so you could pay as little as $175 all the way up to $57,500, depending on the number of windows you have in your home and what kind of replacement you’re looking to get.
Below is a breakdown of how much a whole-house replacement could cost.
| Number of Windows | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 1 | $175 – $2,300 |
| 5 | $875 – $11,500 |
| 10 | $1,800 – $23,000 |
| 15 | $2,600 – $34,500 |
| 20 | $3,500 – $46,000 |
| 25 | $4,400 – $57,500 |
Full-Frame Window vs. Retrofit Window Replacement Costs
Whether or not you need a full-frame or retrofit window replacement can affect your overall cost. Generally, full-frame window replacements cost more than retrofit replacements.
Full-Frame Window Replacement
During a full-frame window replacement, a pro will remove the whole window frame along with its sash. This process requires more labor than retrofitting, so it will drive up your replacement costs. Full-frame replacements cost anywhere from $180 to $1,500 or more per window, depending on the window's type, size, and location.
Retrofit Replacement Cost
Retrofitting involves installing glass within an existing frame, so you won't need to remove your entire frame for this job, and you’ll save on costs. Retrofitted window replacements typically cost between $100 and $300 per window.
Cost to Replace Window Glass
If you don’t need to replace the whole window and just need to replace the glass, plan to spend about $270. Glass installers charge between $50 and $75 per hour, and glass typically costs $3 per square foot. Keep in mind that these prices don’t account for the window frame and trim replacements but do include the cost of a new window sash.
Window Labor and Installation Costs
If you pay a pro to install your new windows, you'll need to pay labor costs. These costs usually range from $100 to $300 per window, depending on the window's size, type, and location. However, more complex installations can cost as much as $600 or more per window.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
If you have a simple single-window replacement, you might be able to tackle the project on your own. In this case, you’ll only pay for the cost of the window itself and the tools required to install it.
Generally, you'll need a power drill, circular saw, level, and caulking gun. The circular saw and power drill will cost the most, usually ranging from $40 to $100 per item. You can often purchase a level and caulking gun for less than $20 each. However, without the proper experience and safety precautions, using these tools can be dangerous, so you might want to leave this one to the pros.
If you're replacing multiple windows or installing a custom or complex window, it's best to hire a window replacement company near you. Hiring a professional will help you avoid costly problems like mold, broken code regulations, cosmetic damage, and structural issues. Not to mention you’ll steer clear of a couple days’ worth of weekend labor.
6 Signs That Your Windows Need to Be Replaced
Before you tally replacement costs, inspect your existing window frames for damage or rot. If the window's frame is soft to the touch, cracking, or showing signs of wear, you should replace it. If it's still solid, you can simply install new glass.
Common signs that your windows need to be replaced include:
Your home feels more drafty than usual.
There's an increase in your energy bills.
Condensation and fog are building up on the windows.
There's visible damage to the windows.
Your windows are more difficult to open than they once were.
You're hearing more outside noise than you used to or want to.
Tips for Saving on the Cost to Replace Windows
One way to save on window replacement costs is to replace the window yourself, which can save you between $100 and $300 per window in labor costs. However, if you don’t have the tools and know-how, DIYing could actually end up costing you more, so only go it alone if you know what you’re doing.
Other ways to save include:
Getting estimates from multiple installers to find the best price
Choosing energy-efficient windows to reduce long-term energy costs
Opting for standard as opposed to custom windows
Taking advantage of potential tax credits for installing energy-efficient windows, depending on your region
Audrey Bruno and Kelly Weimert contributed to this piece.
