How Much Does Window Replacement Cost? Top Brands and More

Home window replacement is a necessity when problems arise, such as air leaks, water infiltration, thermal leaks, fogged glass, or insect intrusions. When it's time to choose windows for your home, you have the choice of two types: new construction or replacement windows. New-construction windows have nailing fins that attach to the wall sheathing that's under the siding. Replacement windows do not have nailing fins and slip right into the existing frame without the need to remove the siding. The average price range to replace windows is $300 to $2,100 per window, depending on many factors and the scope of the project.

Read this helpful guide to determine what you need for your window replacement project.

Replacement Window Costs

The cost to replace your windows depends on factors such as locale, window materials, type of glazing, and type of window. Even though replacement windows may prove to be a major investment in your home, they tend to return decent resale value when it comes time to sell your house. Here are the average window replacement costs and the cost of replacement windows by materials, according to the latest figures from HomeAdvisor.

Average Window Replacement Cost

The average range per window is $300 to $2,100 to replace. The average cost of installation is $40 to $65 per hour. Complex installs can cost $600 or more per window.

Replacement Windows by Material

• Aluminum windows: Aluminum window replacement typically costs between $75 and $400 per window.
• Vinyl windows: Vinyl window replacement typically costs between $100 and $900 per window.
• Wood windows: Wood window replacement typically costs between $150 and $1,300 per window. 
• Composite windows: Composite window replacement typically costs between $300 and $1,200 per window.
• Fiberglass windows: Fiberglass window replacement typically costs between $500 and $1,500 per window.

What Is a Replacement Window?

A replacement window is a window that is smaller than the existing window and which replaces a majority of the existing window, such as the glass and moving parts. So, replacement windows are not a one-for-one, exact replacement. Replacement windows are sometimes called pocket windows or insert windows to reflect this.

In general, if the visible portion of your existing window is deteriorated or damaged, and its physical operation doesn't work well anymore, it's time to consider replacement windows.

Replacement vs. New-Construction Window

Replacement windows might seem like the only solution for your needs. But sometimes the areas around the window, such as window sills, are heavily damaged by rot or moisture and a replacement window can't be installed.

If the area around the window is very rotted and not structurally sound, then you likely need a new-construction window. This type of window comes with fins on the outer side of the window to allow it to be nailed onto the house. Replacement windows do not have any fins. This allows the window to slide into the opening, which would be fine if the area is not rotted.

Double-Hung vs. Single-Hung Windows

Both single-hung and double-hung windows have a lower sash (or pane) that slides upward. When the house gets too hot, you unlatch the window and slide the lower sash up.

But with single-hung windows, the upper sash is fixed in place and inoperable. Only the lower sash slides up and down. With double-hung windows, both sashes can move. This is especially valuable for upper-story windows because it allows you to clean windows from the inside. Also, it is safe if you have small children because you only need to open the upper sash for air.

If neither conditions apply to your home there is little reason to buy double-hung windows. You will save some money with the single-hung windows. Plus, with fewer moving parts, the single-hung windows have less of a chance of failure.

Fixing vs. Replacing Windows

If you have high energy bills you may think it's best to replace all of your windows. In some cases, this may be premature and a waste of money. Instead, you may need to fix a failed window seal.

The seals on the existing double-glazed windows may have failed, allowing cold or heat to more easily pass into the house because crucial argon or krypton gas has escaped. One indication that the glass has failed is fogging on the inside, between the panes of glass. In this case, it is possible to repair the window or replace the window sash.

Best Time to Replace Windows

Windows can be replaced in any season but it may be best done in milder weather. That's because caulking may not set all that well in very cold conditions. Moisture from inclement weather may also affect the tight tolerances needed for window installation. The only downside about scheduling during temperate seasons is that it's a popular time of year for this type of project and you may be on a waiting list to have your windows installed.

Do-It-Yourself Window Replacement

You can certainly save money by replacing your own windows. But you will find a limited selection at home centers that only stock a few new-construction windows and where it will be tough to find replacement types. You can, however, order replacement windows or go through a window replacement company for custom-made sizes. However, it may be beneficial to have professional window installers do this job since they have the necessary tools and skills needed to finish the job in a reasonable time.

Popular Window Brands

Prominent companies with visible brand names such as Pella, Andersen, and Marvin tend to have good follow-up customer service, robust warranties, and a rich selection of window types, sizes, and styles. Other notable and reputable window companies include Jeld-Wen and Velux USA.

Window Glazing: Single, Double, and Triple

Windows are considered energy-wasters compared to walls, which are more insulated. Windows and walls both have R-values, which is the standard by which energy loss is measured. For walls and attics, an R-value of 1 to 2 is poor, which is why these areas are typically filled with fiberglass batt insulation that has R-values of 13 or greater. You'll come across R-values when shopping for windows. When it comes to a window, anything above an R-value of 2 is considered good. Here's how single, double, and triple-pane windows stack up to help you choose.

Single-Pane

A single-pane window has an approximate R-value of 1, which does not offer much insulation.

Double-Pane

A double-pane window, or double-glazed window, consists of two sheets of glass with an air or inert gas such as krypton or argon in the middle. A double-pane window can increase your energy efficiency by almost 100 percent. Double-pane windows are standard, even in parts of the country that have temperate climates.

• A standard double-pane window has an R-value of about 1.5 to 2.0.
• A double-pane window with low-e glazing (a coating that reflects heat) has an R-value of 2.4 to 3.0.
• A double-pane window with a low-e glazing using an argon gas fill has an R-value of 2.7 to 3.6.

Triple-Pane

Triple-pane windows may potentially reach an R-value of between 5 and 8, depending on various factors. For extreme climates, consider purchasing triple-pane windows.

Tips for Buying Replacement Windows

Few homeowners who have been through the replacement window installation process will say that they care to repeat it. But for such an expensive purchase, it's well worth your time to get three or even more estimates from window companies.