How Much Does It Cost To Install A Window?

Cost factors to install a new window

Installing a new window in your home can completely change the look and feel of your house, from both interior and exterior points of view. Not only will new windows update the look of your home, but they can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of your HVAC system and help to reduce utility bills. 

If you’re wondering “How much does it cost to add a window?” the answer has a few influential factors. New windows cost anywhere from $100 to $650 and can go well into the thousands of dollars for larger or more high-end windows. Your cost will start with determining the size, type of glass, and material of the frame. Custom windows generally cost more in comparison with those that are pre-made. 

Location is also a factor since it may cost more for windows to be delivered to your area, or you may need a specific type of glass for hotter or colder climates.

Cost of materials to install a window

Your material cost to install a new window will depend on what type of glass you choose and what material your frame will be.

Single pane glass is the least expensive, but much less effective at blocking noise and heat or cold from coming into your home. Double pane or triple pane windows are excellent for their energy efficiency but are more expensive. In colder climates, double or triple-pane windows do an excellent job of keeping the winter chill outside where it belongs while at the same time reducing your energy bill. 

Window frames are the portion of the window that holds the glass in place and allows it to be mounted to your wall. The most common window frame materials are vinyl, aluminum, wood, composite, and fiberglass.

Window type

Window replacement cost varies based on the type of window you’re replacing. For example, a bay window will cost more to replace than a single-hung window. Not only does the window itself cost more, but the labor involved to install the new window is more involved.

Before replacing a window with the same type of window that you currently have, first consider the function of the room as well as the desired look. If you have an old bow window that needs to be replaced in a room that’s rarely used, you may be better served to save on the cost of an expensive bow window and replace it with a standard flat window.

Labor costs to install a window

The labor cost to replace a window can vary greatly from the labor cost to install new construction windows. According to Payscale, the average hourly rate for window and door installers is $21. This rate will vary based on location and the level of experience your professional has. 

The amount of labor required for your project will be based on the size and height of the window, and the complexity of the job overall. A simple ground-floor bathroom window replacement will likely only take a couple of hours for one contractor, whereas something like a large bay window in a living room can take two professionals a half day or more to install.

In addition, if the structure around your window needs upgrading or insulation, this will add time to your project and bump up the labor cost to replace a window.

Additional costs to install windows

When considering the question “How much do windows cost?” you’ll need to take into account other things that are specific to your home to give you a better picture of your final cost. Here are a few common things that might increase your window replacement cost:

• Structural improvements - If you’ve had water damage that has compromised the studs or header around your window, they’ll need to be replaced in order to provide a safe and secure place for the new window to rest.
• Location - Ground floor windows are much easier and less time-consuming to install than upper floor or basement windows.
• Age of your home - Older homes often have non-standard window sizes, so you’ll need to have a custom window made, or have the opening re-built to accommodate a standard size window.