If your windows have seen better days, it can impact the entire look and feel of your home. More so, when windows start showing signs of age; when heat and air conditioning escape from each window and your energy bill has increased.
New replacement windows can improve your home’s value and appeal, but they aren’t exactly a cheap and easy fix. We all know that there’s a cost associated with getting your windows replaced. Even though new energy-efficient windows can you save on utility bills, you want to know the upfront expense before you make any home improvement decision.
How Much Does Window Replacement Cost?
What Goes Into the Cost of Windows?
When you’re comparing windows, you’ll notice that even within the same window type, there are many price variations. That’s because there are many factors to consider for your window replacement project, including:
- Brand
- Quantity
- Size
- Material
- Glass
- Single or double pane
- Installation
- Warranty
Brand Matters When It Comes to Window Replacement Costs
Brands of windows can vary significantly in terms of price. Some of the most expensive windows are from brands like Marvin and Pella. Conversely, some of the least expensive windows are made by companies like Jeld-Wen and Simonton.
The manufacturer we prefer to work with is Milgard because we want the best for our customers.
RELATED: 5 Reasons Milgard Windows is Our Preferred Replacement Window Manufacturer
Quantity Can Impact Window Replacement Cost
Window prices can also vary depending on how many you buy at a time. Replacing all the windows in your home will be less expensive per window than only replacing one or two at a time. Not to mention, you'll want to make sure replacement windows are uniform throughout the home.
Window Sizes Matter, Too
Window size definitely affects the price. The larger your windows, the more you’ll pay for each window. If you have odd-sized windows or bay windows, you’ll likely pay even more than for a regular size window set.
Sizes and shapes to consider when you replace your windows:
- Casement windows
- Double-hung windows or double pane windows
- Garden windows
- Awning window
- Bay window
- Storm windows
- Picture windows
- Sliding windows
- Full frame windows
- Custom replacement windows or custom windows
Window Replacement Materials Make a Difference
The type of material also affects your window replacement cost. Vinyl windows are less expensive than wood windows. Aluminum offers an option that’s strong and cost-effective, but it is prone to corrosion. Fiberglass windows are less likely to rot or corrode and have the added benefits of being maintenance-free.
Fiberglass windows do cost a little bit more money than vinyl windows. You have to decide if the extra cost of fiberglass windows is worth it. For example, if you want more color choices and customizable features, it might be worth it to pay a little extra money for fiberglass windows. However, if you just want to increase the insulation in your home, it might be better to go with the less expensive option.
Here are some window frame materials:
- Vinyl windows
- Wood windows or wood frames
- Fiberglass windows
- Aluminum windows
- Composite windows
When considering window costs, you'll want to consider the window frame material.
Single vs Double-Pane Windows
Single-pane windows are made with a single layer of glass. They come in all of the same styles and materials that double-pane windows do, but they are not as efficient at keeping out noise or seasonal temperatures. Their initial cost is less, which makes them a good choice for those who need to stay within a strict budget, but over time, energy bills will be higher.
Double-pane windows, also known as dual pane windows, come with two panes of glass. These panes are separated from each other by a space filled with air – Milgard dual pane windows are filled with argon, which works even better for insulation. That air (or argon) traps winter’s colder temperatures or summer’s heat in between the two windows and forms a barrier that blocks the heat and cold from affecting your home.
The energy savings over single-pane windows can be as much as 24 percent in cold climates during the winter and 18 percent during the summer in hot climates. That results in lower energy costs and less noise, which can be an important consideration if you live on a busy street.
If you’re curious about which windows – a single-pane window or double-pane window – would look best in your home, come by our showroom to chat with one of our specialists. Window types can make a big difference in your window replacement costs.
Installation Expenses Can Vary – Hire a Professional
Every home is different. Replacing a window isn't simply about installing a standard-sized window in an existing opening in the wall. It's all about expertly fitting YOUR particular window into YOUR house, which is what sets us apart from the competition. Especially when you're looking at a specific window type.
We recommend using a professional for installing replacement windows because it ensures they are installed correctly and professionally for optimal performance. No matter the window type: double-hung, single-hung, wood windows, or bay windows. Whether you're using existing frames or installing aluminum window frames, a professional window installer can save money for your project in the long run!
Professional window installers are the key to lowering your average window replacement cost in the long run.
Energy Efficiency and Glass Types
Most windows have double glazing, which provides good insulation quality, as well as noise protection. As mentioned above, dual pane windows offer insulation and noise reduction and offer optimum protection when compared to other glass materials used at home. Also offered are triple-paned glass and laminated glass.
You’ll also want to be sure your windows have tempered glass. Learn more about what tempered glass is here.
Warranty
A lifetime warranty is a warranty on the whole or part of the product that could be for the length of your lifetime, but more often is the life expectancy of the product.
A warranty matters because it can really come in to save you later on. They can be better than a shorter-term warranty such as a one or two-year warranty simply because problems are more likely to happen over time with any product.
When beginning your replacement window and door project, make sure you are informed from the very start to keep surprises from popping up later on. Plus, make sure you select a reputable window and door company, who has been in the business for a long time and that carries quality products.
Learn more about Newman's Lifetime Warranty >>
How to Save on Window Cost Without Sacrificing Quality
Your window replacement investment will almost certainly be in the thousands, you might be tempted to cut costs by choosing the cheapest possible window. This is almost never a good idea. Quality windows are crucial to your home’s value and longevity.
There’s some good news in all this. There are still many ways you can save. Here are a few tips you can follow to make the most out of your window replacement purchase without spending the most money:
– Opt to complete the window replacement job all at once. When you buy all the windows at once, you may be able to save extra money because it’s a volume purchase. This is especially true if you have a large home.
– Inquire if there are any specials or savings. For example, seasonal or anniversary discount offers. You may be able to get a discount from brands that are offered by the window dealer.
– Inquire about home improvement credit card financing with your window replacement dealer. Although there’s interest, you won’t have to fork up too much upfront. Oftentimes, the credit card may offer an interest-free period. Don’t forget to check if you qualify for the HERO or Ygrene financing programs too.
– Work with a certified and experienced team that you can trust. Here you’ll have the reassurance of quality work, which goes a long way, and savings on unfortunate expenses.
Replacement Window Prices
For a general estimate, if you’re replacing mostly standard-sized windows, you can expect to pay in the lower range of $650 per window. With the average home in this area having 10-15 windows, replacing all of the windows in a home can average $7,500 for standard windows. Keep in mind, this average is for standard replacement windows. For high-end and/or custom work, expect an increase up to 50%.
It’s true that window replacement is an expense that will end up costing thousands, but it is an investment that will save you money in the long term. Take the first step to replace your old windows and you can increase your home’s value and reduce the overall energy consumption at the same time.
The costs listed in this post are for informational purposes only and are not indicative of the actual cost. Actual costs will be determined upon an in-person evaluation with a NWD window and door expert. Please call for details.
Call Newman Windows & Doors today at 877-7-NEWMAN for more information about our window options or to schedule a free in-home estimate.
