How Much Does it Cost to Install a Window?

Window Installation Costs

Window installation costs $6,175 total, or between $2,950 and $9,447. Labor costs $150 to $800 per window, or about $40 per hour. A single window unit runs $300 to $1,200 for standard sizes. Custom and bay windows cost $2,000 on average. Compare quotes from local window installers for the best price.

Windows enhance your home's natural light and make it more enjoyable to live in. Good quality window units are an important investment. They will save you money on utility bills and keep your home safe and comfortable year-round.

House Window Prices & Major Cost Factors

1. Window Installation Cost 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: $150-$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: $100-$400. Single-hung means the top sash is fixed in place and only the bottom sash moves up or down.

• Fixed or Picture: $65-$700. Fixed types have one pane of glass and do not open.

• Casement: $150-$1,000. Casement windows open from the left or right with a hand crank, allowing a full opening for maximum ventilation or egress.

• Sliding: $150-$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: $500-$13,000+. Your contractor orders custom windows directly from the manufacturer in custom sizes to meet your specific needs.

• Basement: $50-$650. 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: $650-$2,500. 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: $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 five or more individual units creating a curved effect.

2. Window Cost by Frame Material

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.

a. 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.

b. 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.

c. 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.

d. 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.

e. 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.

3. 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.

4. Cost to Install Windows by Glass Type

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.

a. 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.

5. Insulated, Energy-Efficient Window Costs

6. Average Labor Cost to Install New Windows

7. Other Window Cost Factors

a. Brand

Andersen and Pella are two of the most common brands, with costs ranging from $250 to $1,800. 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.

b. Second or Third Floor

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.

c. Large Units & 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.

d. New Construction vs. Replacement

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.

Replacement windows cost $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.

e. 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.

f. Installing 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.

FAQs

a. 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.

b. 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.

c. 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.

d. 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.

e. 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.