A typical window replacement costs between $400 and $1,000 per window, but that number can swing lower or much higher. The final price depends on the window type, frame material, brand, and installation complexity.
Basic vinyl single-hung windows start around $200, while custom-sized bay or specialty windows can run $5,000 or more.
Replacing a whole house full of windows isn’t cheap, but if your windows are drafty, difficult to open, or just plain outdated, it’s time for an upgrade. It’s one of the smartest home improvements you can make—especially if your old windows are driving up your energy bills or hurting your home’s curb appeal.
This guide breaks down what impacts window replacement costs, what materials and styles to consider, and how to get the best value for your money.
- Price Range: $1,200+
- Glass and Hardware Warranty: 10–20 years
- Labor Warranty: 2 years
- BBB Rating: A+
- State Availability: 47 states
- Installs its own patented Fibrex framing
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on nonglass materials
- Holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
- Doesn’t carry aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frames
- Can have long wait times between consultation and installation, according to customer reviews
You can purchase the following window styles from Renewal by Andersen:
- Awning
- Bay/bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding/gliding
- Specialty windows with geometric shapes
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Key Takeaways
- The national average price of replacement windows falls between $400 and $1,000.
- The main determinants of your window replacement costs are window type, material, glass, and brand.
- You can save money on window replacements by replacing all of your windows simultaneously.
Cost of Window Replacement
Although many replacement windows land in the $400 to $1,000 price range, some projects may be cheaper than $400 or can far exceed $1,000. To prepare for the cost of your specific project, consider several factors that play a role in lowering—or driving up—the cost of what could be a cheap window replacement.
| Cost Range | Average Prices |
| Low-End Cost Range | $200–$400 |
| National Average Cost Range | $400–$1,000 |
| High-End Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 |
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Window Replacement?
Replacement windows aren’t one-size-fits-all. You can explore a variety of window sizes, materials, types, and brands that suit you. As with any home improvement project, your choices determine the heft of your bill.
Cost of Window Replacement by Window Material
One of the primary choices that affect your replacement window costs is the material. Vinyl windows are typically the cheapest option, followed by aluminum, according to Jeff Ludy, owner of Houston Window Experts. Wood is the most expensive window frame material and is aesthetically pleasing.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are the most prevalent and least expensive frame material option for replacement windows. In fact, many companies only offer vinyl frames as replacements. The material is low-maintenance, highly energy-efficient, and comes in various colors.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows have middle-of-the-road costs compared to vinyl and wood options. Aluminum is highly durable, making it a top choice for homes in severe weather climates. However, aluminum and other metal-material windows don’t provide high-quality insulation, a drawback for homes in ultra-hot or cold climates.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass windows are strong and durable while also providing optimal insulation, a smart choice for homeowners in severe weather climates with extreme temperatures. Their strength allows for thinner, sleeker frames. However, they may be a drawback for homeowners seeking a traditional look in replacement windows.
Composite Windows
Composite windows contain a combination of recycled polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and wood fibers, making them an eco-friendly frame option. The material is low-maintenance, durable, and highly customizable, making it a popular choice for residential replacement windows. The main drawbacks are that they’re more expensive and not as widely available as other materials.
Wood Windows
Wood windows are usually the most expensive because of their high-cost sourcing and manufacturing processes. But they’re worth the investment for homeowners who want a luxurious and traditional aesthetic. Wood windows also need more long-term upkeep than vinyl or composite models.
Vinyl and aluminum windows cost the least, while wood, composite, and fiberglass windows are more expensive. Despite the clear price differences, assess the benefits and drawbacks of each material before choosing.
| Window Material | Low-End Cost | High-End Cost |
| Vinyl | $450 | $800 |
| Aluminum | $400 | $850 |
| Fiberglass | $500 | $1,000 |
| Composite | $500 | $1,200 |
| Wood | $600 | $1,500 |
Related reading: Best Window Repair Companies
Cost of Window Replacement by Window Type
The type of window you replace is a key determinant of price. Standard double-hung, picture, and casement windows fall on the lower end of the price range, though their size and material can drive costs higher.
Structural options like bay windows, egress windows, and skylights typically cost more, sometimes exceeding $2,000 per replacement window. These special windows integrate with your home’s foundation, siding, and roofing, which calls for extra materials and a more involved installation process.
Explore the table and descriptions below for more information on the cost and benefits of each type of window.
| Window Type | Low-End Cost | High-End Cost |
| Storm | $100 | $400 |
| Single-hung | $200 | $400 |
| Double-hung | $430 | $915 |
| Awning | $430 | $830 |
| Egress | $300 | $1,500 |
| Glass block | $500 | $1,000 |
| Casement | $500 | $1,000 |
| Skylight | $500 | $2,000 |
| Picture | $700 | $1,300 |
| Bay | $1,000 | $7,000 |
| Bow | $2,000 | $4,000 |
Check out the cost of materials and installation of vinyl replacement windows here.
- Storm windows are removable window panels added to the inside or outside of existing windows. They improve energy efficiency, impact resistance, and overall durability. Because storm windows aren’t installed directly into the home’s siding, installation and labor costs are much lower. Many homeowners opt for DIY storm window replacement to save time and money. Materials also cost less, between $100 and $400 per window. Read our complete storm windows cost breakdown for more information.
- Single-hung windows consist of two sashes, or movable panels, arranged vertically within a frame. The bottom sash is the only one that opens or closes, while the top sash is stationary. This simple structure, plus a standard installation requirement, makes single-hung windows one of the most affordable replacement windows.
- Picture windows are inoperable, meaning they don’t open. They frame your outdoor scenery and allow maximum natural light to flow into your house. Picture window replacement prices depend on the frame and glass you choose, both of which can drive replacement costs.
- Double-hung windows look like single-hung windows but have one big difference: both sashes are operable, yielding greater functionality and ventilation. Some double-hung windows have tilt-in sashes, allowing for easy cleaning of the interior and exterior window surfaces from inside the home. Double-hung windows are the most common type of residential window. Costs range from $430 to $915.
- Casement windows open outward on a hinged side, like a door. Because they open so easily, they provide a lot of ventilation. When closed, they seal tightly, preventing air leaks and improving insulation. Casement windows are another mid-range cost option to consider when replacing your windows. You can combine them with other window types to improve the functionality of different spaces in your home. If you’re considering purchasing casement windows, read our article to get a casement window cost estimate, to help you plan your budget.
- Awning windows open up and out on a top-hinged sash. They’re usually smaller and work well closer to the ceiling to improve ventilation without sacrificing privacy. Their top-hinged design makes them functional even when it’s raining. The affordability of awning windows depends on their size and material: the bigger they are, the more they cost. Many retailers have prefab options to help consumers keep the price down.
- Egress windows are typically installed as emergency exits in below-ground living spaces. While replacement of the window falls on the lower end of the price range, egress window replacement costs get expensive if the project requires upgrades outside the residence, high-end framing, or repairs to the home’s foundation.
- Glass block windows consist of multiple solid glass bricks stacked into a wall. While replacing an entire glass-block window will cost between $500 and $1,000, these windows can be repaired or replaced on a block-by-block basis. In this case, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for materials and labor fees to replace a damaged block.
- Skylight windows sit on a home’s roof, delivering natural light without sacrificing privacy. Skylights are popular in bathrooms and closet spaces where privacy is key. Skylight window replacements cost around $500, but the price moves up if the project requires roofing work. Even traditional installations cost more because of the specialized labor needed.
- Bay and bow windows project outward, creating an alcove inside a home. Bay windows have three window panels in a curved design, while bow windows feature four or more panels, yielding a more sophisticated look. Bay and bow windows cost far more than other window types because they require multiple window panels and structural work to the home’s siding.
Cost of Window Replacement by Window Brand
Often your bottom-line price for window replacement depends on the brand you select.
While shopping, you’ll find that a vinyl double-hung window of the same dimensions will land at various price points based on the manufacturer and retailer. For this reason, retrieving estimates from the many different window companies on the market is crucial before buying.
Here are some of the most popular replacement window companies.
| Window Brand | Low-End Cost* | High-End Cost* |
| Menards | $200 | $600 |
| Alside | $300 | $900 |
| Milgard | $300 | $700 |
| Universal Windows Direct | $350 | $550 |
| JELD-WEN | $400 | $700 |
| Simonton | $400 | $900 |
| Window Nation | $550 | $850 |
| Window World | $550 | $850 |
| Castle Windows | $550 | $850 |
| Pella Windows | $450 | $1,300 |
| Champion Windows | $700 | $1,200 |
| Renewal by Andersen | $1,200 | $2,000 |
Cost of Window Replacement by Glass Type
The type of glass you want affects the cost of any window replacement project. Before selecting the least expensive option, consider how different glasses improve a window’s functionality, energy efficiency, and overall comfort of your home. Although multi-pane windows cost more, they improve insulation and soundproofing.
Learn more about window glazing costs and types below.
| Glass Type | Low-End Cost | High-End Cost |
| Single-pane | $200 | $400 |
| Double-pane | $300 | $800 |
| Triple-pane | $700 | $1,000 |
| Argon gas-filled | $400 | $1,500 |
| Impact-resistant | $800 | $2,800 |
- Single-pane windows have one layer of window glass within the frame, making them the cheapest, simplest glazing option. Despite their attractive price, single-pane windows provide poor insulation, and you’re likely to pay more in future energy bills. They’re also more prone to leaks and condensation, which can lead to water damage and mold in the home.
- Double-pane windows, sometimes called insulated glass windows, have two glass panes separated by a layer of air or gas. Double-pane windows are the most popular glazing option because of their mid-range cost and improved energy efficiency.
- Triple-pane windows have three panes of glass instead of two, allowing them to block outdoor temperatures and sound and provide better impact resistance than their double-paned counterparts. However, these benefits come at a higher price.
- Argon gas fills are often included in multi-pane windows to improve insulation and energy efficiency on Low-W windows. Argon is a dense, harmless gas that reduces thermal transfer through the window panes, improving the window’s year-round performance. Argon gas-filled windows cost more than single-pane or air-filled windows, but they save you more money on energy bills.
- Impact-resistant windows, sometimes called hurricane windows, withstand high winds, severe weather, and flying debris. They have multiple layers of tempered glass, making them one of the most expensive glazing options on the market. Although their high window prices deter some buyers, they provide lifesaving benefits for coastal and severe climate homeowners.
In our survey of 1,500 homeowners, 26% said energy efficiency was their top priority when buying new windows — and for good reason. Drafty windows can account for up to 30% of your heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can lower utility bills, increase home value, and improve comfort — making the investment well worth it.
Cost of Window Replacement by Window Size
The larger the window, the more expensive it will be. This is because larger windows require more materials to produce and are more labor-intensive to install.
The table below shows the starting prices from Home Depot for wood double-hung windows made by Andersen Windows & Doors. These windows feature the same low-emissivity glass and are Energy Star-certified.
| Window Size (Inches) | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 24 x 36 | $249 |
| 28 x 36 | $259 |
| 32 x 36 | $299 |
| 32 x 48 | $329 |
| 36 x 48 | $349 |
| 36 x 57 | $399 |
If budget is a concern, you should consider purchasing a smaller window size.
What Are the Additional Costs of Window Replacement?
You should consider more than just window types and materials when budgeting for your replacement windows. The other factors I’ve detailed below can drive up your overall costs.
Labor and Installation
Labor and installation add around $40–$60 per worker per hour to replacement window costs. Many replacement teams use two workers, so you can expect to pay around $100 per hour for their services. Intricate styles such as bay windows and egress window installation may require additional labor and time, ultimately increasing your overall expenses.
Some window brands, such as Marvin Windows & Doors, don’t have an in-house installation team, so you’ll need to hire a third party to install them. These third parties have varying pricing structures and rates. This is one of the many reasons we suggest getting multiple estimates before working with an installer. You may land a better rate by shopping around.
Project Scope
The number of windows you want to replace also affects project costs. Obviously, replacing one or two windows will be less expensive than replacing every window in your home. But some companies offer bulk discounts if you replace more windows at once, making the extra money a wise investment.
Window Location
The window’s location in the home can affect labor costs. Easily accessible windows on ground-floor levels will likely cost less than those on second or higher levels. Second-story (or higher) windows sometimes require hoisting, craning, or scaffolding, depending on the complexity of the installation. The more equipment and the more installers needed, the higher the installation cost.
Retrofitting Vs. New Construction
Retrofit and new construction windows also have different price points. Full-frame window replacements—also called new constructions—cost about 10 to 15% more than retrofit installations. Full-frame replacements require the removal of the entire window frame and sash, while retrofits only require the replacement of the window sash. The surrounding frame and trim are left intact. For this reason, full-frame replacements cost more for labor and materials than retrofit window replacements.
Window Removal
Window removal, cleanup, and disposal may add to your price, depending on your installer. According to RSMeans, window demolition and removal costs anywhere from $20 to $170, depending on the window material and type. Cleanup affects your final bill on a per-window basis, along with any added fees for the disposal of the old windows. However, many window replacement companies include cleanup and disposal costs in their initial quotes.
How Do Window Replacement Costs Compare to Window Repair Costs?
If one of your current windows is damaged or broken, you may consider window repair as an alternative to full replacement. In some cases, repairs resolve minor issues and save you money. In other situations, repairs put a temporary bandage over an issue that will resurface soon enough, leading to eventual replacement needs.
Window repairs generally cost between $175 and $605, depending on the type of repair needed. Low-cost issues include stuck latches or small leaks. You may also be able to complete these repairs on your own to save on labor costs.
More serious problems, such as cracked window panes or warped frames, are more difficult (and expensive) to repair. In these cases, I recommend replacing the window instead of repairing it. Such repairs can cost the same or more than you’d pay to replace the whole window. Plus, a replacement will save you from sinking money into an already-deteriorating window.
Is DIY Window Replacement Worth the Cost Savings?
Although replacing windows yourself might seem like a reasonable way to save on labor costs, sacrificing quality for upfront contractor fees will only leave you paying more in the long run. If you don’t have installation experience, replacing your own windows can lead to structural damage, water infiltration, reduced energy efficiency, and future repair costs.
This is particularly apparent with replacement garden windows. For example, if you install them incorrectly, garden windows protrude out, leading to unwanted puddles and leaks in cracks.
I strongly suggest hiring a professional to replace your windows. In addition to the expertise and high-quality materials you’ll receive with a professional installation, you’ll avoid a handful of extraneous costs, like dumping and haul-away fees. If you go the DIY route, you must handle the costs and trouble of these tasks on your own. You also won’t have a labor warranty to fall back on should your installation go awry.
7 Ways To Save on Window Replacement Costs
Window replacement is a major financial investment, but it’s often a worthwhile home improvement that will save you money and provide a nice return on investment. Here are some shopping tips to help you save on your replacement windows without cutting corners.
1. Plan Your Project for the Off-Season
Many homeowners opt for spring window replacements because the home will be exposed to milder weather while the window openings are empty. But the popularity of this season for window replacements means you may find limited availability and higher pricing from popular window companies. Consider booking your replacement during the off-season for better availability and lower prices— the best time to replace your windows depends on your climate.
2. Replace All of Your Home’s Windows at Once
This tip may seem counterintuitive because replacing more windows ultimately yields a higher price. However, it may help you save money in the long run. You can take advantage of bundling deals—plus installation costs and haul-away fees—if you replace multiple windows at the same time.
3. Install Standard Window Sizes
Your replacement windows are likely to need the same dimensions as your current windows. But if you have any leeway when selecting your replacement window sizing, go with standard or prefab sizes to save money. Custom-size windows almost always cost more because of specialty manufacturing processes. Standard sizes often get built-in bulk and come at a lower price.
4. Avoid In-Depth Customization
Some brands let you customize your replacement windows, offering options from the glass, Low-E coatings, and grilles down to the hardware and exterior finish. While custom windows are must-haves for some homeowners, they’re more expensive. Cut down on the average price per window by selecting basic window design options.
5. Choose ENERGY STAR-Rated Window Products
According to the Department of Energy, prioritizing energy-efficient window features can save homeowners anywhere from $125 to $465 per year in utility expenses. The best way to ensure the energy efficiency of your replacement windows is to seek out ENERGY STAR and National Fenestration Rating Council-rated products. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) backs these energy performance labels and their promises to lower utility costs and improve home comfort. Plus, you may be able to claim a 30% (up to $600) tax credit if the windows you buy are Energy Star-certified.
6. Negotiate Your Quotes
Always negotiate after you get a quote. Most window company representatives expect some negotiation and build that number into the initial price estimate. Plus, you have nothing to lose by asking for a lower price. A little haggling is always worth a try.
7. Get Quotes From Multiple Window Replacement Companies
Collecting window estimates from multiple highly rated companies is one of the best ways to weigh your options and save big. If you like the services of one company but the price is higher, you can sometimes negotiate a price match to guarantee you get the lowest price and best services possible.
When Should I Replace My Windows?
Before collecting quotes from window companies, double-check that you need window replacement. In some cases, opting for window repairs rather than replacement is a better option. Here are the most common signs you need to replace your windows:
- Higher energy bills: If your current windows have air leaks or poor insulation, your utility bills will continue to rise. Properly sealing new windows will reduce cold drafts during winter and expel heat and humidity during the summer.
- Damaged frame: A damaged frame can cause moisture buildup, leading to water damage, mold, and rotting. It can also pose a security risk.
- Difficult to operate: If your windows keep getting stuck, they may have a warped or rotten frame, have been improperly installed, or be suffering from your home’s foundation settling.
- Condensation: The seal of your window may be broken if you spot water droplets building up on the window’s surface or in between the panes.
- Broken glass: This is an immediate safety concern and decreases your home’s insulation.
- Noise infiltration: Old windows may not have enough sound insulation to absorb external noise.
Is Window Replacement Worth It for Your Home?
While the initial cost of replacement windows may seem high, the long-term benefits will typically make the expense worth it. Replacing old or damaged windows with newer, more energy-efficient models can help you save on heating and cooling bills.
Meanwhile, newer window frames and glazing will improve your home’s value and overall appearance. If you’re overwhelmed by window replacement costs, I suggest finding a company that offers custom financing options. A payment plan will help your budget, making the project a more manageable investment.
Now that you know the factors of window replacement costs, you’re ready to start getting quotes from multiple window installers. Fill out the quick form below to find top-rated window companies in your area.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs: Cost of Window Replacement
If your windows are old or damaged, you should consider replacing them for improved functionality and curb appeal. Otherwise, you can look for signs to determine if your windows are due for replacement. Those signs include drafts (air leaks), poor functionality (they don’t want to go up or down), visible condensation, cracking, warping, or rotting.
I recommend Champion Windows for residential window replacement projects. The company has decades of experience replacing a dozen window types with multiple customization options. I like that Champion offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty on all of its window products, providing buyers the peace of mind they need to make the investment. Plus, the company provides full-service installations, meaning a certified window replacement technician will handle the process from start to finish.
Learn more about this top-rated company in our full Champion Windows review.
On average, standard residential windows last 15 to 30 years. If your windows are approaching the 20-year mark, it’s time to consider replacing them. Upgrading your old windows will likely improve your home’s insulation and water tightness.
Replacing old windows can increase your home’s value and curb appeal. Window replacements also increase the comfort of your home and its energy efficiency. If you choose a window provider with a transferrable warranty, this can boost your home’s value as the window warranty will protect the new owner.
The good news is that you don’t need to save up large sums for new windows—many window brands we’ve researched offer financing for their projects. If that’s not the case, consider getting a home equity loan from your bank or credit union.
We spoke with Herbert Pupo, a Renewal by Andersen project manager, who said that approximately 60% of his customers finance their windows through Renewal by Andersen or a third-party lender.
Note that a window brand’s financing options vary from customer to customer for various reasons, including your credit score.
Customers need to be wary of predatory financing and pay attention to the total project cost, monthly payment and loan length. What may seem like a “cheap” monthly payment can add up over time, and it may take years to finally pay off your windows.
Paying whatever you can afford for the best quality windows is in your best interest. Cheap products have a shorter life span than higher-quality windows, which means you’ll need to replace them more frequently, and you may run into issues like sagging and warping.
If you’re a cash buyer and the costs are more than you budgeted for, it might be better to wait or finance the difference rather than compromise on quality.
