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In short, it depends. After 20 years, the glass in your windows is less energy efficient, which can cause increased electricity bills. You might also see signs of water damage or natural wear and tear over the years. However, with proper maintenance, some window frames can last up to 50 years, so you may only need to replace the glass to save on energy. 

At the same time, window replacement is a major investment, so replacing the glass in rooms most impacted by outdoor temperatures is one way to avoid going all-in to replace your windows.

Installing energy-efficient windows costs between $325 and $2,000, averaging about $400 per window. You’ll have to consider cost factors like the window’s size, frame material, and type. Labor costs in your area will also impact the overall cost of the project, with window installation professionals charging about $40 per hour on average. Different types of energy-efficient windows include:

• Single-hung: $150–$2,500

• Casement: $150–$600

• Double-hung: $250–$3,000

• Picture: $200–$650

• Bay: $480–$1,920

Picture windows last about 20 to 50 years, depending on the material, your location, and how well you maintain the windows over the years. Materials like vinyl and aluminum may not last as long, while fiberglass can last many years. Wood will last decades if you keep up with maintenance. Homes in areas with harsh weather throughout the year may cause windows to have shorter lifespans.

The differences between a bay window versus a bow window involve the number of individual windows and the angle at which both windows extend from the home. A bow window has four to six individual windows that form a curve outside the exterior wall. A bay window usually has two small windows on the edges that angle outward from the exterior wall and a large window in the middle that’s parallel to the home’s exterior wall.