Home improvement projects can be quite time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, it’s easy for most homeowners to put off window replacements until it’s completely necessary. Your house is one of your biggest investments, and functioning windows are an essential part of that investment.
While replacing old and worn-out windows should be your number one priority, it’s also essential to know how much it costs to replace them.
Read on below to understand how much it will cost to replace home windows.
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How Much Is Window Replacement?
Have you noticed that the windows in your home aren’t closing and opening as easily as they should? Or do they keep letting in cool air from outside? Then, it may be time to replace your windows.
The first step to replacing your windows is knowing how much it costs. This will help you better plan for the overall expenses of the project and avoid any unwanted surprises down the road. Generally, the cost of replacing a typical window ranges from $200 to $1800 for each window.
On the other hand, the average national cost of replacing a window starts from $100 to $650. However, this cost depends on the type of glass and the window frames.
The installation and labor costs may also add to the overall cost of the window replacement. Labor costs may run up to $100 to $300 for every window.
However, the size of the window, energy efficiency, and frame material used will also determine the overall cost of replacing your windows.
Factors to Consider When Calculating Your Window Replacement Cost
There are numerous factors that you should consider when calculating the cost of replacing your windows. One major factor is your geographic location and the position of the window in your home. Other major factors are included below.
1. The Material of Your Window
When purchasing new home windows, you will have numerous window frame material options to choose from. Most individuals prefer purchasing wood, vinyl, composite, and aluminum window frames. The ordinary vinyl windows cost around $100-$900 for each window.
Vinyl window frames are the most popular option for many homeowners. That’s because they are energy-efficient, durable, and more affordable than other materials in the market.
On the other hand, wooden frames are slightly more expensive, and the price range from $150 to over $1,300 per window. Wooden frames will give your home a classic and beautifully finished look. They are also more affordable than fiberglass windows.
Fiberglass material is the most expensive of the three options, and it costs around $500-$1,500 for each window. They have the same insulation properties as vinyl, but fiberglass material is more durable.
2. The Window Type
Windows come in different types, shapes, and sizes. The type of window you have will determine the overall cost of your window replacement project. Before starting the project, ensure you measure the window size and consider the function as well as the design.
Different types of windows have varying purposes. Some of the most common types of windows include double-hung, storm, sliding, picture, pocket, bow, custom-made, and single-hung windows. Keep in mind that the larger your window is, the more expensive it is to replace.
3. The Location of Your Window
Window replacement prices vary depending on where your window is located. Replacing a basement window will cost you up to $1,000, while the egress window may cost up to $5,000 per window. The egress windows will provide your family with additional exits in case there is an emergency.
Foyer, dining area, bedroom, and bathroom windows may cost around $300 to $700 per window. However, the cost of these windows could triple if you have bow, bay, or picture windows. Additionally, it’s more expensive to replace an upper-floor window in a house because it increases the installation time and requires extra labor and equipment.
4. The Type and Size of the Glass
When replacing your windows, the type of glass you choose is an essential factor in considering cost and energy efficiency. Good quality glass will reduce your utility bills while boosting your home’s energy efficiency.
Most homeowners prefer installing tinted glass to reduce the penetration of hazardous UV sun rays into their homes. You can also consider installing impact-resistant windows depending on where your home is geographically located. Additionally, the law also requires that homeowners in certain states install safety or tempered glass windows depending on the house’s age.
Some older houses often have customized window openings, which require you to remove the whole frame during a window replacement project costing you more.
All these different types of glasses are priced differently. Therefore, it’s essential to research more about the kind of glass you would like to install and check its pros and cons and its pricing in your local area.
5. The Age of the House
When replacing windows for your home, it’s essential to consider the age of your house. Homes built at different times have different window styles, which also affects the pricing. For example, homes built in the 50s and 60s often have custom-made windows, which significantly increases the price of purchasing your materials for the project.
Older houses have unique problems, including unusually large window sizes and rotting or damaged trim. Replacing the windows of such a house will require double the effort and purchasing custom-made windows, which increases the window installation time. You may also need to upgrade the home to align with the current local building code and insulate the windows.
Now You Know What You Need to Replace Home Windows?
Window replacement projects are costly, time-consuming, and quite challenging, especially if you’re not an expert. However, as soon as your window shows signs of damage and inefficiencies, you’ll need to replace it.
Your windows will prevent intruders and thieves from accessing your home and protect your household members from environmental elements such as dangerous UV sunrays and extremely cold temperatures. Our guide above will help you know what to consider when calculating the cost to replace home windows.
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