Are you fed up with drafty, noisy, old windows? Do they have you considering doing a window replacement project to upgrade your home?
In this post, you can find out what kind of investment is involved in getting new windows for your home. By the end, you’ll know about the costs associated with outfitting or refitting your house with brand-new windows.
The Cost Of Home Window Replacement Nationally
Generally, most homeowners can expect to pay between $300 and $1,200 per window for window installation and materials, with an average cost of $700 per window. In Northern Virginia specifically, prices tend to run on the higher end. For high-end brands like Pella and Andersen, many competitors charge above $1,000 per window—sometimes as much as $2,000 each.
Home Window Replacement Cost In Burke, Fairfax, And Centreville, VA
Including average labor costs, window installation can cost anywhere from $600 to $2,100 per window. The cost can change mainly based on window type, installation complexity, who you hire, and whether you choose triple or double pane.
*We find that if you buy windows for $600 per window, you’ll be getting a low-quality window that won’t be as energy efficient and may need replacing sooner.
Cost To Replace All Of Your House Windows
Window installation costs depend on how many windows you need to replace and what type of window you choose.
Generally speaking, new single-pane vinyl windows will cost around $800 per window, while more energy-efficient double-pane insulated glass will cost about $1,000 per window.
As such, most single-family homes can cost between:
- $4,000 to $8,000 for 5-10 window replacements
- $10,000 to $15,000 for 12-18 window replacements
- $18,000 to $40,000 for 22 high-end window replacements
New Window Frame Material Costs Nationally
*This is only for the material, not the installation. Prices will be higher in the Northern Virginia area.
Vinyl Windows Cost: $150 to $600 per window
Vinyl windows are one of the most cost-effective options on the market today. They offer excellent insulation properties, require little maintenance over time, and come in various styles and colors. Plus, installation is relatively straightforward since they don’t need to be painted or stained. However, vinyl windows can be easily scratched or dented if not handled correctly during installation. The average cost for vinyl windows is between $150 to $600 per window.
*90% of our clients ask us to install vinyl windows due to their price point and positive qualities
Composite Windows Cost: $400 to $1,300 per window
Composite windows are an attractive yet low-maintenance window frame material. These frames are made from wood fibers and plastic polymers, creating a strong but lightweight material that resists rot and warping. However, composite frames can expand or contract with temperature changes. The average cost for composite windows is between $400 to $1,300 per window.
Wood Windows Cost: $250 to $800 per window
If you’re looking for a classic style that never goes out of fashion, wood may be the right choice. Wood offers excellent insulation qualities and high resistance to wear over time if properly maintained. Unfortunately, wood frames are susceptible to rot if exposed to moisture. The average cost for wood windows is between $250 to $800 per window.
*We recommend using Pella or Andersen wood windows even if they’re more costly. Their quality is well worth the higher cost.
Fiberglass Windows Cost: $700 to $1,400 per window
Fiberglass window frames offer superior insulation qualities, strength, and durability compared to other materials, but they come at a higher price point than some other options available on the market today. However, their low maintenance needs should offset some of those upfront costs over time. The average cost for fiberglass windows is between $700 to $1,400 per window.
Aluminum Windows Cost: $80 to $500 per window
Aluminum frames have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years thanks largely to their lightweight design. This makes them so easy to install that even novice DIYers can without fear of damaging them. However, aluminum does not offer any insulation qualities whatsoever. If energy efficiency is important to you, you may want to consider another option. The average cost for aluminum windows is between $80 to $500 per window.
New Window Cost By Type Nationally
*This is only for the type, not the installation. Prices will be higher in the Northern Virginia area.
Egress Windows Cost: $1,500 to $5,500
Egress windows are designed for safety—they provide a means of escape in the event of a fire or other emergency. As a result, they must meet certain size and height requirements set by the International Residential Code (IRC). Egress windows typically cost between $1,500 and $5,500 per window.
Garden Windows Cost: $1,000 to $4,000
Garden windows are a type of window that projects outward from the house and is typically used in the kitchen. Garden windows provide extra space for plants or other small items and typically cost between $1,000 and $4,000 per window.
Bay Windows Cost: $1,100 to $4,800
Bay windows project outward from the house. However, bay windows have three panels instead of just one. Bay windows are typically used in living rooms or bedrooms and can cost between $1,100 and $4,800 per window.
Bow Windows Cost: $1,100 to $4,800
Bow windows are similar to bay windows, with the main difference being that bow windows have curved panels while bay windows have straight panels. Bow windows also normally cost between $1,100 and $4,800 per window.
Skylight Windows Cost: $850 to $2,500
Skylight windows are installed in the ceiling, letting natural light into the home. They can be either fixed (meaning they cannot be opened) or operable. Skylights typically cost between $850 and $2,500 per window.
Glass Block Windows Cost: $450 to $900
Glass block windows are made from—you guessed it—glass blocks! They provide privacy while letting natural light into the home. They typically cost between $450 and $900 per window.
Casement Windows Cost: $350 to $900
Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward like a door. They are usually used in kitchens or bathrooms because they allow for ventilation without sacrificing privacy. Casement windows typically cost between $350 and $900 per window.
Picture Windows Cost: $350 to $850
Picture windows are large, fixed windows that don’t open. They’re a great option if you want to let in lots of natural light or if you want to enjoy a great view, but not if you want ventilation. Picture windows typically cost between $350 and $850 per window.
Arched Windows Cost: $350 to $850
Arched windows are characterized by their curved tops. Like picture windows, they don’t open, so they’re not ideal for ventilation. Arched windows can add a touch of elegance to your home, and typically cost between $350 and $850 per window.
Awning Windows Cost: $300 to $900
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom. They’re a great option for ventilation since they allow fresh air in while keeping the elements out. Awning windows typically cost between $300 and $900 per window.
Sliding Windows Cost: $250 to $1,800
Sliding windows have one fixed pane and one that slides horizontally on tracks. They’re a great option if you want lots of ventilation since you can open them wide. Sliding windows typically cost between $250 and $1,800 per window (depending on size).
Circle Windows Cost: $250 to $800
Circle windows are exactly what they sound like—windows with a circular shape. Like other fixed windows, they don’t open, so they’re not ideal for ventilation. Circle windows can add an element of interest to your home’s exterior, and they typically cost between $250 and $800 per window.
Hopper Windows Cost: $200 to $700
Hopper windows are hinged at the bottom and open inward from the top. They take up less space than other types of windows when fully open, making them a great option for small rooms or tight spaces. Hopper windows typically cost between $200 and $700 per window.
Double Hung Windows Cost: $200 to $600
Double-hung windows have two sashes—one upper sash and one lower sash—that both open and close vertically on tracks. They’re easy to clean since you can tilt them in for easy access from inside your home. Double-hung windows typically cost between $200 and $600 per window.
Transom Windows Cost: $200 to $500
Transom windows are small, rectangular windows typically installed above doors or larger windows. They’re a great way to add natural light and ventilation to a space without sacrificing privacy. Transom windows usually cost between $200 and $500 per window.
Jalousie Windows Cost: $175 to $475
Jalousie windows are made up of several horizontal slats that can be opened and closed independently. They’re often used in tropical climates because they allow for good airflow while still providing some protection from the sun and rain. Jalousie windows typically cost between $175 and $475 per window.
Storm Windows Cost: $150 to $500
Storm windows are designed to protect your home from severe weather conditions. They’re typically made of heavy-duty glass or plastic and have metal frames. Storm windows typically cost between $150 and $500 per window.
Single Hung Windows Cost: $150 to $400
Single-hung windows have two sashes, with one being fixed in place while the other can be opened and closed. They’re a popular choice for homes because they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain. Single-hung windows typically cost between $150 and $400 per window.
New Replacement Windows Cost By Pane Number Nationally
*Prices may change in the Northern Virginia area.
Triple Pane Windows Cost: $500 to $2,000
Triple-pane windows are made up of three panes of glass with a spacer in between each one. They’re typically used in more extreme climate areas where energy efficiency is paramount. The downside to triple-pane windows is that they can be pretty heavy, so they’re not always ideal for older homes. As for cost, triple-pane windows typically run from $500 to $2,000 per window.
Double Pane Windows Cost: $450 to $1,000
Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes with a spacer between them. They’re the most common type of window on the market and can be found in homes nationwide. Double-pane windows are relatively energy efficient and are available in a wide range of styles and sizes. As for cost, double-pane windows typically run from $450 to $1,000 per window.
*99% of our clients request double-pane windows due to their energy efficiency and cost
Single Pane Windows Cost: $150 to $400
Single-pane windows are made up of a single sheet of glass. They’re often found in older homes and are less energy efficient than their double and triple-pane counterparts. However, single-pane windows are often less expensive—running from $150 to $400 per window on average.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of New Windows
Type of Replacement
One of the first things that you’ll need to decide when getting new windows is whether you want to do a full-frame replacement or a retrofit replacement.
A full-frame replacement involves removing the entire window—frame and all—and replacing it with a brand-new one. This type of replacement is typically more expensive than a retrofit because it requires more work.
Retrofit replacements, on the other hand, involve leaving the existing frame in place and simply replacing the window itself. In some cases, you may also need to do some work on the frame itself before installing the new window.
Number of Windows
Replacing just one window is typically much less expensive than replacing multiple windows—especially if those windows are located on different floors or in difficult-to-reach places.
Type of Window
Picture, single-hung, transom, and all the types of windows have various costs.
Weatherproofing/Insulation
You may also want to consider adding weatherproofing or insulation around them. Adding weatherproofing or insulation can help protect your home from damage and improve its energy efficiency by preventing heat loss through gaps around your windows. The cost of weatherproofing or insulation will depend on the materials used and the size/number of gaps that need to be filled.
Hiring vs DIYing
If you’re handy and have experience working with tools, doing it yourself can obviously save you money. But if you’re not confident in your ability to install them correctly, it’s probably best (and safer) to leave it to the professionals. Not only will hiring someone ensure your windows are installed correctly, but it will also save you time and hassle.
Your Location
If you live in an urban area, for example, labor costs will probably be higher than they would in a rural area. The part of the country you live in can change shipping costs.
Prices tend to be higher in the Northern Virginia area.
Who You Hire
If you’re looking for an experienced contractor with a reputation for quality work, then you should expect to pay more than if you hire someone without those credentials. On the other hand, hiring a less experienced contractor may result in lower-quality work and could end up costing you more money in the long run.
Window Brand
Generally speaking, higher-end brands tend to be more expensive than their budget-friendly counterparts, but they also offer longer warranties and better performance ratings.
Upgrades
Basic double-hung windows are typically less expensive than larger sizes or specialty shapes like arches or circles, so keep that in mind when making your selection. Other upgrades include:
- Low-E glass
- Argon gas
- Grids
- Patterns
- Locks
- Reinforced vinyl frame
If Your Home Needs Structural Repairs
If your home needs structural repairs in order to accommodate new windows—such as removing old siding or replacing the existing window frame— this will also increase the overall cost of installation since it involves additional labor.
How To Lower Your Window Replacement Costs
Shop In The Off Season
Buying during off seasons (late fall to early spring) can result in significant savings since manufacturers offer discounted prices during that time due to reduced demand. Home improvement stores may also have special offers or promotions during this period.
Buy Single Hung Windows Or Other Cheaper Styles
Single-hung windows are much cheaper than double-hung windows because they only open at the bottom, while double-hung windows open at both the top and bottom. Other types of windows, such as casements and sliders, are also cheaper.
Order In Bulk
If your home needs multiple windows replaced, it might be worth ordering them in bulk from a manufacturer or supplier since most will give discounts when customers buy larger quantities of their products.
Check For Local Incentives And Rebates
Sometimes local governments offer incentives and rebates for replacing old windows with new energy-efficient ones, which can help lower your costs significantly. Check with your city or county government to see if any local incentives could help offset some of the cost of window replacement for your home.
You may be able to get a federal tax deduction at the end of the year by installing low argon windows due to their EnergyStar compliance.
There are no local incentives in the Northern Virginia area at the moment.
Buy Now
There is a yearly price increase, so buying sooner is better than later.
FAQ
How long does it take to replace a window?
1 to 3 days on average.
What is the average cost for new windows?
About $700 per window, nationally. The average cost for a double-hung window in the Northern Virginia area is $850 per.
Which window is the most affordable?
The most affordable window is a single-hung, single-pane window with a non-reinforced vinyl frame.
Help Your Home And More By Upgrading Your Windows With Clifton Exteriors
Upgrading your home’s windows can provide a return on investment of up to 78%, making window replacement a cost-effective and rewarding solution for homeowners seeking an upgrade. Furthermore, the new energy-efficient windows available today do more than just save money—they help protect the environment, reduce energy bills, and conserve natural resources.
With Clifton Exteriors, you’ll get exceptional quality at competitive prices. Let us help you increase your home’s value while reducing monthly costs with our comprehensive selection of exterior products and services. Don’t delay—fill out our contact form today or give us a call to learn what we can do for you.