2024 Window Replacement Costs – What is the Average Cost to Replace Windows?

Are you wondering how much new windows cost to replace?

Picking out new windows is similar to picking out the features of a new car. You have a lot of bells and whistles to choose from, which can ultimately determine the price of your window replacement costs.

Today, in our window replacement cost guide, we will help you nail down a rough estimate for your potential window replacement and help you answer the “How much do windows cost?” question.

Average Window Replacement Costs in 2023

The average window replacement cost is roughly $300 to $800 per window, according to a recent Forbes article. Now that same article also mentioned a window replacement cost could be as low as $150 all the way up to $1,500 or more (you get what you pay for the type of deal).

Breaking down window replacement costs for a standard vinyl double-hung window is as follows:

1. Window Itself = $300-$500
2. Labor Costs = $100-$200

Window prices are estimated based on a few factors in which we will cover, starting with the material and size of your window. Generally, contractors will include the labor price per window and quote everything together.

How much do windows cost estimate:

Multiple articles state that the average home has eight windows. However, we are willing to bet if you count the number of windows in your home right now, the real number is somewhere in between 10 and 20.

The first step to estimating your window replacement cost is to count how many windows you would be replacing (usually, it is all of them). Next, take the number of windows and multiply it by the average cost of $400 to $600 per window.

For example, 10 windows would be $4,000 to $6,000 to replace. This gives you a reasonable budget range for your window replacement cost.

Window Costs by Product & Window Type:

Vinyl Window Replacement Cost

One of the most common windows Americans trust is the double-hung vinyl window. These are generally considered the most affordable windows, and they look great. Technological enhancements have made vinyl more energy-efficient windows, and customization is simple.

Composite Replacement Windows Cost

Composite windows are a blend of PVC with a wood interior that gives the look and feel of wood windows. Many homeowners have steered clear of wood windows due to rotting issues; however, composite offers the same look with more durability. They are slightly higher in price on average compared to vinyl.

Single-Hung Replacement Windows vs. Double-Hung Windows:

Chances are you have single-hung or double-hung windows, and understanding the difference can be confusing at times. There are pros and cons to each, but to understand how they work, you can read below:

• Single-hung windows only slide up and down on the lower half. Also known as a single-sash window.
• Double-hung windows have two operable parts – the top and the bottom – which is ideal for cleaning and also for dictating airflow.
• Single-hung windows cost less than double-hung windows.
• Most window replacements are double-hung, with new builds typically coming outfitted in double-hung styles.
• The price comparison between the two for a standard window replacement is between $50-$100 more for double-hung on average.

Single Pane vs Double Pane Windows:

Window panes are simply the number of pieces of glass your window is comprised of. Knowing this, single-pane windows have just one piece of glass and are generally smaller in nature (think of a rectangular window above a shower for example).

Double-pane windows are made with two layers of glass, usually with a layer of argon or krypton gas between them. This makes them better for insulation purposes and energy efficiency.

Of course, when looking at window replacements, double-pane windows cost more to replace per window compared to single-pane windows.

Sliding Replacement Windows

Replacing sliding windows can be expensive if you’re talking about large sliding windows/doors. On the flip side, they can be affordable if they are smaller in nature and can cost around $200 per window.

Bay and Bow Window Costs

Bay windows can cost over $1,000 to replace due to their size and labor costs. Three windows make up bay and bow windows, so window installation costs for them is typically on the higher side compared to standard double-pane windows.

How Much Do Different Window Framing Materials Cost?

When pricing windows, the material that makes up your windows will significantly impact the replacement costs. Most window manufacturers produce vinyl windows which are all the most common selection for homeowners. The available materials for windows are as follows:

• Aluminum Windows – $250 average cost
• Vinyl Windows – $350 average cost
• Wood Windows – $450 average cost
• Composite Windows – $650 average cost
• Fiberglass Windows – $1,000 average cost

Each window offers upsides, and the more expensive options tend to be on the more durable and energy-efficient windows side of things. However, you can expect to pay more for nicer windows.

Factors That Affect Window Replacement Costs

Window Type

Bay windows are going to cost more to replace compared to standard double-hung windows. Custom windows with multiple panels and panes can rapidly increase the price of your window replacement cost(s).

Window Frame Material

As we alluded to earlier in this guide, the material that makes up the window frame will significantly impact the price you pay to replace your home’s windows. Vinyl windows cost less to replace compared to wooden windows.

Window Size

Just like replacing your roof or purchasing new gutters, replacing windows is similar in nature in that it is based on the size of your windows. Large windows and bay windows cost more to replace compared to standard-sized windows.

How Many Windows You Replace

Sometimes the cost per window will go down if you are replacing all the windows in your home. For example, a lot of companies offer a “Buy 4 get 1 free” offer with new windows or will discount each window over ten. Replacing just one or two windows still means overheard for the window company, so sometimes, replacing all your windows is better.

Energy-Efficient Options for Replacement Windows

More and more homeowners are electing to replace their existing windows so that their home is more energy efficient. The older home’s were often built with single-pane windows and the frame technology was not as advanced as these days.

If your existing windows are not energy efficient, you could actually save money on your energy bills over the course of a few years (new windows can have up to an 85% ROI). Double-hung, double-pane windows offer more energy efficiency.

How to hire a professional for your Window Replacement project:

When you decide to move forward with your window replacement project, it is not a small decision. However, your window replacement cost should not be the only determining factor in your window purchase – the install team should also factor in your decision-making.

Replacing windows is not a DIY project because of the necessary components of installing and sealing the window properly and safely. You can expect to pay roughly the same for labor from company to company depending on where you live. However, the quality of the installation matters the most.

Also, you want to make sure you install Energy Star Certified Windows in your home.

FAQ:

Do you have a window warranty?

Window warranties can vary from company to company. However, most windows will come with a standard manufactures warranty and a labor warranty of 3-5 years.

How much is window glass replacement?

If you need to replace a few window panes of glass, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars. A full window replacement cost will be more than replacing the panes. Most of the time it is easier to replace your windows if they were to break fully, etc.

What is an egress window?

Typically, egress windows are windows installed in areas like a finished basement that allow for emergency exiting.

Should I hire a Professional vs. DIY window replacement?

Unless you have an extensive background in construction projects and window replacements, you should not try to replace your own windows. A full frame window replacement needs to be done by a team of window installers. Larger windows cost more and require even more expertise.

How much does it cost to replace a window with a larger or different-sized window?

If you want to take a smaller window area and replace it with a larger window, the price can increase and can sometimes be based per square foot. Unlike simply replacing your existing windows, adding more windows or shrinking the area of your windows can cause architectural adjustments to supports etc. This will affect window replacement cost and you should expect to pay more for this.