Window Replacement Cost

What Is Window Replacement?

Window replacement involves removing your existing windows and installing new window units. This can be done as a full-frame replacement (removing the entire window including frame) or as an insert/pocket replacement (installing a new window inside the existing frame). Understanding window replacement cost helps you budget for this significant home improvement that affects energy efficiency, comfort, and curb appeal.

Modern replacement windows offer dramatically better energy efficiency than windows from even 15-20 years ago, with improved glass coatings, better frame materials, and superior weathersealing.

Window Replacement Cost by Material

Vinyl Windows

Cost: $300-$700 per window installed

Pros:

• Most affordable option
• Excellent energy efficiency
• Virtually maintenance-free
• Never needs painting
• Good color options
• Won't rot, rust, or corrode

Cons:

• Limited color choices (can't be painted)
• Can warp in extreme heat
• May look less traditional
• Lower resale appeal in high-end homes
• Not repairable if damaged

Best for: Most homeowners seeking value and efficiency, especially in moderate climates.

Wood Windows

Cost: $600-$1,200 per window installed

Pros:

• Classic, timeless appearance
• Can be painted any color
• Excellent insulation properties
• Ideal for historic homes
• Increases home value
• Can be refinished multiple times

Cons:

• Highest maintenance requirements
• Must be repainted every 3-5 years
• Can rot, warp, or swell
• Most expensive option
• Vulnerable to insects

Best for: Historic homes, high-end properties, homeowners who prioritize aesthetics.

Fiberglass Windows

Cost: $700-$1,500 per window installed

Pros:

• Strongest frame material
• Excellent energy efficiency
• Can mimic wood grain
• Very low maintenance
• Won't warp, rot, or corrode
• Paintable
• 30-50 year lifespan

Cons:

• Higher cost
• Limited manufacturer options
• Less common (harder to find installers)
• Color options more limited than vinyl

Best for: Homeowners seeking durability and efficiency with wood-like appearance.

Aluminum Windows

Cost: $400-$900 per window installed

Pros:

• Sleek, modern appearance
• Strong and durable
• Thin sight lines (more glass area)
• Low maintenance
• Won't rot or warp

Cons:

• Poor insulator (conducts heat/cold)
• Can corrode in coastal areas
• Condensation issues in cold climates
• May not meet energy codes without thermal break

Best for: Modern architecture, mild climates, commercial-style aesthetics.

Window Replacement Cost Comparison Table

Per-Window vs Whole-House Pricing

Per-Window Costs

Individual window replacement makes sense when:

• Only one or two windows are damaged
• Testing before committing to whole-house
• Budget constraints require phased approach

Typical per-window pricing:

• Small windows (24x36"): $250-$600
• Standard windows (32x54"): $350-$800
• Large windows (48x60"): $500-$1,200

Whole-House Replacement

Replacing all windows at once offers significant advantages:

Average whole-house costs:

• Small home (8 windows): $3,500-$7,000
• Medium home (12 windows): $5,000-$12,000
• Large home (18 windows): $8,000-$20,000

Energy Efficiency Impact on Cost

Understanding Window Ratings

Energy Efficiency Cost Premium

Regional Recommendations

Northern States (Zones 5-7):

• U-factor: 0.27 or lower
• SHGC: 0.35+ to gain solar heat
• Consider triple-pane

Southern States (Zones 1-3):

• U-factor: 0.35 or lower
• SHGC: 0.25 or lower to block heat
• Low-E coating essential

Mixed Climates (Zone 4):

• U-factor: 0.30 or lower
• SHGC: 0.30-0.40 balanced approach
• Double-pane usually sufficient

Brand Comparison: Pella vs Andersen vs Marvin

Pella Windows

Price Range: $400-$1,500 per window installed

Pros:

• Excellent customer service
• Wide range of price points
• Good warranty (limited lifetime)
• Available at home centers and dealers
• Innovative features (between-glass blinds)

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• Some lines only through dealers
• Mixed installer quality at retail locations

Best Lines:

• 250 Series (vinyl, $400-$700): Best value
• Lifestyle Series (fiberglass, $700-$1,100): Durability
• Reserve Series (wood, $1,000-$1,500): Premium aesthetics

Andersen Windows

Price Range: $500-$1,800 per window installed

Pros:

• Most recognized brand
• Strong warranty (20 years, transferable)
• Consistent quality
• Wide dealer network
• Excellent resale value

Cons:

• Higher pricing
• Long lead times on custom orders
• Less selection at entry-level

Best Lines:

• 100 Series (Fibrex, $500-$800): Budget-friendly
• 400 Series (wood/vinyl, $700-$1,200): Best seller
• E-Series (wood, $1,200-$1,800): Architectural grade

Marvin Windows

Price Range: $800-$2,500 per window installed

Pros:

• Highest quality construction
• Unlimited customization
• Excellent for historic homes
• Superior hardware and operation
• Best aesthetics

Cons:

• Premium pricing (highest of major brands)
• Long lead times
• Dealer-only sales
• Overkill for average homes

Best Lines:

• Essential (fiberglass, $800-$1,200): Entry point
• Elevate (fiberglass/wood, $1,000-$1,500): Most popular
• Signature (wood, $1,500-$2,500): Ultimate quality

Brand Comparison Table

Rebates and Tax Credit Information

Federal Tax Credits (2026)

Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit:

• 30% of costs up to $600 annually for windows
• Must be ENERGY STAR Most Efficient certified
• Primary residence only
• Claim on Form 5695

Requirements:

• U-factor and SHGC meeting ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria
• Manufacturer certification statement
• Save all receipts and documentation

State and Utility Rebates

Common rebate programs:

How to find rebates:

1. Check dsireusa.org for comprehensive database
2. Contact your utility company
3. Ask window contractors about available incentives
4. Check manufacturer websites for promotions

Maximizing Your Savings

1. Stack incentives: Federal credits + state rebates + utility rebates
2. Time purchases: End-of-year tax planning, off-season installation discounts
3. Choose qualifying products: ENERGY STAR Most Efficient unlocks best incentives
4. Keep documentation: Manufacturer certification, receipts, photos

Factors That Affect Window Replacement Cost

1. Window Size and Type

2. Installation Type

Full-Frame Replacement:

• Removes entire window including frame
• Required when frame is damaged
• Allows for size changes
• Cost: +20-40% over insert

Insert/Pocket Replacement:

• New window fits in existing frame
• Faster installation
• Frame must be in good condition
• Most common approach

3. Glass Options

4. Geographic Location

5. Number of Stories

Window Replacement Cost by State

Prices for standard double-hung window, including installation.

How to Save on Window Replacement

1. Replace All Windows at Once

Bulk orders qualify for 10-20% discounts and reduce contractor setup time.

2. Choose Off-Peak Season

Late fall and winter (November-February) often have lower prices as demand decreases.

3. Consider Vinyl Over Wood

Vinyl offers 40-50% savings with comparable energy efficiency and no maintenance costs.

4. Skip Unnecessary Upgrades

Between-glass blinds, decorative grids, and exotic hardware add cost with limited value.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Prices vary 20-40% between contractors. Get at least 3 quotes.

6. Stack Incentives

Combine federal tax credits with state/utility rebates for maximum savings.

7. Choose Standard Sizes

Custom sizes cost 30-50% more. Standard sizes often fit with minor adjustments.

Signs You Need Window Replacement

Replace Now

• Visible rot or water damage
• Windows won't open, close, or lock
• Cracked or broken glass
• Significant condensation between panes (seal failure)
• Drafts you can feel with hand test

Replace Soon (1-2 Years)

• Difficult to operate
• Condensation on inside of glass
• Peeling paint or visible wear
• Noticeably cold near windows in winter
• High energy bills

Can Repair or Wait

• Minor weatherstripping issues
• Single pane just needs reglazing
• Hardware needs replacement
• Frame needs paint touch-up

What to Expect During Installation

Day Before

• Clear area around windows (inside and outside)
• Remove curtains, blinds, and decorations
• Move furniture away from windows
• Cover nearby flooring

Installation Day

1. Removal (15-30 min/window): Old window and trim removed
2. Preparation (10-20 min/window): Opening cleaned, checked, prepped
3. Installation (30-60 min/window): New window set, shimmed, secured
4. Sealing (15-20 min/window): Insulation and weathersealing applied
5. Finishing (20-30 min/window): Trim installed, caulked, cleaned

Timeline

• 5-8 windows: 1 day
• 10-15 windows: 1-2 days
• 15+ windows: 2-3 days

Conclusion

Window replacement cost ranges from $300 to $1,200 per window depending on material, size, and efficiency level. For most homeowners, quality vinyl windows at $400-$700 installed offer the best combination of value, efficiency, and longevity.

When planning your window replacement, consider total cost of ownership including energy savings and maintenance. A vinyl window at $500 with no maintenance may be more economical than a wood window at $900 requiring painting every 3-5 years.

Take advantage of available incentives—the federal tax credit alone can save up to $600 annually. Combined with state and utility rebates, your effective cost can drop significantly.

Most importantly, invest in quality installation. Even the best windows will underperform if poorly installed. Choose experienced installers with good reviews, and verify proper weathersealing before final payment.