How Much Does It Cost To Replace Windows?

$1,245

(48" wide x 48" tall wood frame sash window)

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Window Replacement Costs

Indoor Cost Guides Window Installations Window Replacement Costs

Windows that are exterior facing must close against weather and intrusion as well as satisfy personal taste. Window choice can help reduce energy usage, increase comfort, increase property value, and increase security.

The cost to install average windows depends upon type, material and finish grade, number of units, preparation and special needs, and the labor rate.

Material and cost summary

The common material choices are shown in the following table. The Cost relationship is based on the average window of the material indicated.

Material	Pros	Cons	Cost
Aluminum	No paint, no rust	Higher thermal transfer	Low or lowest
	Thinner frame	Lubricating maintenance
	Lighter weight	Difficult color matching
Vinyl	No paint, no rust	Wider frame	Low or lowest
	Low/no maintenance	Difficult color matching
	Scratches do not show
Wood	Stylish appearance	Surface maintenance	Higher
	Best color matching	Organic material rot
	No rust

Type and cost summary

The common type choices and their typical cost per single installed 48” wide x 48” tall (except Bay Window) wooden unit of good quality products with insulating glass include:

Type	Pros	Cons	Cost
Picture	Unobstructed view	Non-ventilating	$888
	Lower leakage	Clean from exterior
Sliding	Ventilating	Some view obstruction	$1,091
	Clean from interior
Sash	Ventilating	Some view obstruction	$1,245
	Clean from interior	Heavier opening
Casement	Highly ventilating	Outward opening	$1,489
	Clean from interior	Some view obstruction
Bay	Increase interior space	Exterior obstruction	$2,666
	Ventilating	Some view obstruction
	Clean from interior

Other considerations and costs

The window installation influences curb appeal directly and flaws are glaring ones.
Typical upgrades and accessories are reviewed in the related Cost Guide.
These prices are for service in the immediate area of the provider.
Taxes and permit fees are not included.
If the installation requires a new opening of a wood-framed exterior wall, that work will cost from about $900 to $1,200 per window unit of 4’ x 4’ (or $56 to $75 per square foot generally), depending mostly upon local labor rate.
During contractor inspection the homeowner should be informed of any repair concerns like rot, and the cost to adapt the existing window-opening structure.
A project to replace more than 2 windows should enjoy a unit price discount.
There may be local or national subsidy for energy efficiency improvements.

DIY considerations

This project may not be suitable to an able and prepared DIY person with typical contractor’s tools.
Skillful carpentry is required, and a critical closure deadline is common.

References

Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2015.
Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
Literature review of DIY Web sites.

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