House Window Prices

Individual prices range from $85 to $2,500 or more with installation adding an additional $150 to $800. The price depends on several factors including accessibility and the total number in a project.

Material type is the largest cost factor. On the lower end of the spectrum is a vinyl, single-hung, replacement unit. On the highest end of the price spectrum is a solid mahogany-framed, triple-pane, low-E picture style.

Window Costs for New Construction

New construction windows run anywhere from $85 to $1,400. Designed for new construction and during remodels where the stud-framing is exposed, they attach directly to the studs via a flange called a nail fin frame.

They're a poor choice for existing homes. Materials are 10% to 15% cheaper than retrofit styles. However, they run 50% to 100% more to install due to extensive construction needs.

Window Prices by Size

There are hundreds of common sizes available, but brand, design and material play a more significant role in pricing. Unless you purchase a very large, pre-hung type such as a bay or picture style, size only impacts the material price, not installation.

The units come in different dimensions depending on where they're needed. Major manufacturers can customize them to any dimensions but be aware that you may pay more for odd sizes.

• Living rooms typically have larger picture windows hung in multiples ranging from 3 by 4 feet to 6 by 6 feet.
• Standard bathroom styles are quite a bit smaller, ranging from 2 by 1.5 feet to 2 by 3 feet.

Replacement Window Prices

Replacements run $300 to $1,200 depending on size, installation requirements and material. Specialty types, such as glass block and large picture styles, can run upwards of $2,500 or more. Replacing existing windows costs less than cutting walls for new ones.

Unlike new construction, replacement or retrofit styles have no nail fin frame. They are designed to fit directly into the existing hole without requiring removal of any siding or trim. This less invasive method keeps added costs, like wall or trim repair, out of the equation.

Full Frame vs. Inserts or Retrofits

Full frame windows are about 10% to 15% more than a retrofit style. You'll also need to add an additional $50 to $100 per unit for installation prices.

• Retrofit, also called inserts, use the existing frame and trim for a quicker job.
• Full-frame types require removing the old frame and putting in a new frame and trim. New trim requires staining after the job is finished to match your current trim.

Window Installation Price Comparison by Type

The two main factors in pricing are the design and the materials used. Designs range from simple single-hung and fixed varieties to sliding, casement and double-hung types. Most types can come in any materials, which we discuss in more detail below.

Double-Hung Window Prices

Double-hung sash types range from $150 to $650. This design allows both the bottom and top sashes to move up and down. Some higher-end models also allow the sashes to swing inward for easy cleaning.

Single-Hung

A single-hung sash window runs $100 to $400. Single-hung means the top sash is fixed in place and only the bottom sash moves up or down.

Fixed or Picture

Fixed or picture windows range anywhere from $65 to $700 depending on size. Fixed types have one pane of glass and do not open.

Casement Window Estimates

Casement types run anywhere from $150 to $1,000 depending on material type. Vinyl styles are far less expensive than wood. They open from the left or right with a hand crank, allowing a full opening for maximum ventilation or egress.

Sliding

Sliding sash varieties commonly range from $150 to $800. These work like a single- or double-hung type but only move horizontal rather than vertical. They come in styles allowing one or both sides of the unit to move.

Custom Windows

Installed, they run from $500 up to $13,000 or more. Your contractor orders custom windows directly from the manufacturer in custom sizes to meet your specific needs. Contractors take care of all measurements, ordering and installation, though you can order custom sizes for DIYing.

Basement Window Installation

Basement windows range from $50 to $650. These alone are some of the cheapest available at about $250, installed. Though it's tempting to make this a DIY project, unwanted water in the walls from poor installations can end up costing far more than using a professional would have.

Egress Windows

Egress windows cost anywhere from $650 to $2,500. Placing an egress type in a basement comes with numerous challenges raising the total price to $2,500 to $5,000 or more on average. Egress styles allow an additional escape route in case of a fire or natural disaster. These are most commonly required by code for basement bedrooms.

Bay & Bow

Bay windows cost $600 to $2,500 while bow styles average $1,000 to $4,500. Both units protrude outward from the wall. Both require framing, flashing and roofing above the extrusions.

• Bay: $600-$2,500. Consists of three windows including a large picture unit sandwiched between two smaller sash or casement styles.
• Bow: $1,000-$4,500. Made up of fix or more individual units creating a curved effect.

Window Frame Material Price Estimator

The material you choose affects price as much as the style. Vinyl is the most common type, closely followed by wood. Other types include composite, aluminum and fiberglass.

Vinyl falls at the lowest end of the price scale with wood at the top. Which one will you choose? Compare vinyl vs. wood windows to find which suits your needs best.

Vinyl Windows Costs

Vinyl windows cost $250 to $600 and require little maintenance. They're also extremely durable; changes in humidity don't cause them to swell or shrink. Most manufacturers stand behind their products with strong warranties, sometimes even lifetime warranties. Their greatest drawback is that they're not as sturdy or attractive as wood.

Wood Windows

Wood frames cost $1,300 on average and require regular maintenance. If you fail to repaint and finish wood units, they become susceptible to the elements.

The work and money can be worth it for the classic, authentic, architectural appeal of wood. That's why some historical neighborhoods have covenants requiring wood framing.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass units cost about 10% to 20% more than vinyl, or an average of $750 each, including installation. Fiberglass is more durable than vinyl with similar insulation properties. Because of the price difference, it is less common.

Aluminum or Metal

Aluminum can range anywhere from $400 to $1,200 or more for large or high-end varieties. Though aluminum is still available, it's far less popular than other types since it's tough to paint, doesn't insulate well, and typically costs more than vinyl or composite.

Composite

Composite windows cost between $300 and $1,100. This style attempts to capture the best of both worlds by mixing PVC polymers with wood fiber to create a strong, attractive frame.

Home Window Pricing by Glass Pane

New windows can save you considerable money on your utility bills and make your home more comfortable. Windows are rated by the U-factor. The lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient and higher the price.

Experts say double-pane windows can save up to 24% in cold climates during the winter and up to 18% in hot climates during the summer. You'll pay more for double-pane types, but they will pay for themselves over time. A triple-pane runs 15% to 40% more than a double-pane type but reduces heat loss even further.

Impact Window Cost Calculator

Impact-resistant varieties, also known as hurricane or inner-membrane windows, run between $250 to $750 for a single-hung, or about $25 to $55 per square foot, plus an additional $30 to $50 per hour for labor. A layer of polyvinyl butyral sandwiched between two layers of impact-resistant or tempered glass creates this commonly used coastal type.

Insulated, Energy-Efficient Window Costs

Thermally-insulated, energy-efficient types run anywhere from $120 to $1,200 or more. Labor adds $200 to $800 each. Usually, the higher the price, the more energy-efficient. Depending on your climate, the higher initial investment is offset by long-term savings.

Replacing windows for better thermal insulation with Energy Star-rated varieties helps you save on your utility bills and may help you qualify for local or federal energy rebates.

• Windows account for 25%-30% of your homes heat loss.
• Low-e coatings add 10%-15% to the cost but reduces infrared heat in the summer, lowering your air conditioning bill.
• Vinyl, wood and fiberglass are much better insulators than aluminum.

Any frame material type or design can include high-efficiency glass and Low-e coatings. Talk with your contractor to find out which type is best suited for your climate.

Average Labor Cost to Install New Windows

Labor runs $30 to $50 per hour. Most contractors bid at a flat rate with labor included but estimate 1.5 hours for each basic project. Complex configurations, custom work and old homes might require up to 6 hours each.

Cost to Add Windows by Amount

Installation estimates include the price of materials, labor and overhead expenses. Because of overhead expenses like delivery time, gas and tools, professionals will charge less per window if you do several at the same time.

If you're thinking about only replacing a couple of windows, it might make sense for you to talk to your pro about the cost of putting in multiple units at one time. It may save you money in the long run.

Cost to Install Vinyl Windows vs. Wood or Aluminum

Prices of vinyl, wood and aluminum options run in the same ballpark. The construction processes are very similar and most install in at about the same rate. Labor for each is going to average $40 per hour. The price differences are mostly due to the material type.

• Vinyl: $250-$600. Among the most popular and cheapest available.
• Wood: $600-$2,000. Extremely popular but among the most expensive varieties.

Price to Put in Large Units or Window Walls

Window walls range from $700 to $1,600 per linear foot for the materials and installation. These are excellent additions to highlight views and scenery but require the right structural supports.

Second or Third Floor Window Installation Cost Calculator

Be aware that units above the first floor may be more expensive because of access issues. Second floor and higher require additional equipment such as scaffolding, ladders and safety harnesses. Not only does equipment cost increase the price, but it also increases the duration of the project.

Other Pricing Factors

• Custom security bars costs $1,000 on average. This is an option you can discuss with your installation contractor or another security firm. Don't forget to check with your homeowners' association to make sure you are allowed to install tehse types of security bars.
• Post-installation window tinting costs $600 on average. It can improve the energy efficiency of your home and provide privacy.

Average Cost to Install a Window in an Existing Wall

While you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more per window, no two projects are the same. This type of work requires a combination of framing, siding, finishing work and sometimes electrical and plumbing rerouting.

Factors that affect new installations in existing walls:

• Rerouting electrical pricing runs $150-$500.
• Framing costs $1,000-$2,500.
• Insulation installation costs $450-$3,000.
• Trim repair costs range from $300-$1,000.
• Siding repair pricing runs $300-$1,100.
• Drywall installation costs $1.50 per square foot.

Changing a Door to a Window Cost

Converting a door into a window ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. You will need to consider the price of materials, framing, insulation and drywall.

Remove & Move During a Remodel

Removing a window and moving it during a remodel is going to vary considerably in price from project to project. The best way to determine the price of removing and moving is to get multiple quotes from local contractors.

Exterior Siding

When cutting a new hole in the wall, siding repair costs $300 to $1,100. This includes adding new flashing and making sure the exterior wall meshes seamlessly with the new opening. The type of siding you have can affect the price.

Cost of Pella vs. Andersen Windows Installed

Andersen and Pella windows range from $250 to $1,800 with an additional $100 to $500 each. These are done by professionals in the same fashion as any other types. However, warranties are only issued when Pella or Andersen authorized dealers perform the installation.

Both brands offer lifetime limited warranties on their products and authorized services.

*Fibrex is Anderson's proprietary composite material.

FAQs

What's best for south-facing windows?

The best type for south facing depends heavily on your climate. Someone in the North may want large, triple-panes to let as much natural heat in from the sun as possible. Those in a southern, desert environment may want smaller, low-e-coated, high-efficiency types to keep as much heat out as possible.

What are the best options for cheap window installation?

The best option for cheap installations is to bundle your projects together. See if a neighbor or friend is looking to renovate to get lower bids. Be wary of $300 or less per window bids as they could be poor quality windows, a scam or a recipe for shoddy workmanship.

What is the cost of adding a window to a brick house?

Adding a window to a brick house will be on the high end of installation costs. It can run anywhere from $2,000 up to $10,000 depending on size, accessibility, age of the home, and the type of framing and glass materials you use.

Can I DIY add a new window to my house?

Check with your local code enforcement agency to see if this type of project is allowed in your area. While most jurisdictions allow you to DIY windows in your home, it may not a good idea. Incorrectly installed windows can allow water into your home's walls, floors and basement. A DIY installation can end up costing you more than a professional installation in the long run.

How do I know if I need a replacement or entirely new window installed?

The best way to know if you need a replacement or new construction window is to ask a contractor to inspect your home. Over 80% of replacements are done with retrofit or slide-in types. But if there is significant damage to your walls, framing or siding exists, you may be better off installing a new construction unit.

How do I get a free quote from an installer near me?

There are so many variables in window installation that it should always be left to a professional. Quotes are always free, and you get at least three before proceeding. Find a window installer near you today.