Window prices

It’s easy to experience sticker shock when looking at window prices. Depending on the number of windows you need, a complete installation could make up 3% to 10% of your home’s value. See what other BuyerZone users paid for their windows projects.

Instead of focusing on initial window prices, many homeowners prefer to look at the expense as an investment in their homes. New, professionally installed windows can make homes more visually appealing, increase the total value of the property, and contribute to long-term energy savings. And depending on your state and federal tax situation, installing new windows could make you eligible for significant tax savings.

In general, expect to pay $300 to $1,000 for each window. This wide range in prices depends on a variety of factors:

• Number of windows
• Type and style of windows
• Installation costs (labor, materials)
• Replacement or new
• Custom design features
• Special glazing or other insulated coating
• Removal of old windows (if necessary)

Window prices: Examples
At the low end, a standard installation could include vinyl double-hung windows with a low U-factor and no additional glazing for $300 to $400 each. As an example, a four-bedroom house requiring a total of 30 windows would cost $9,000 to $12,000.

Window prices get considerably higher as you add features or increase energy efficiency. Purchasing fiberglass windows with Low-E coating for the same four-bedroom house could push the cost of each window to $500 to $800 each, or $15,000 to $24,000 for the complete project. Add soundproofing or a premium brand name and your costs could reach $1,000 per window.

Dealers may be able to provide a volume discount depending on how many windows you need. However, additional customization or energy efficiency options will still add to your costs.

Installation costs
The largest percentage of your costs will be in the installation. If you see a price far lower than expected, it may cover only the glass and the frame, which means you’ll pay extra for installation costs, materials, and even delivery.

Professional installers base their rates on the difficulty of installation. They’ll measure every window in your house down to 1/16" and submit the order to a factory that custom builds them to your specifications.

A homeowner whose windows have rot or damage around the frames could pay 50% to 100% more than one whose frames are in good condition. If you need odd-shaped windows to accommodate an older building, or to fit in tight spaces or walls with strange angles, you could add 50% to 100% to your total costs.

If you’re purchasing windows for a new home or add-on room, you’ll likely pay a little less for installation. Since the installer won’t be confined to working with a fixed amount of wall and frame space, he’ll have a lot more flexibility to build out your window setup from scratch.

You also want to find out if your rate includes removal and disposal of existing windows. Old window styles using weight-and-pulley systems can weigh hundreds of pounds and can be difficult and expensive to get rid of separately. If your installer includes this as part of the overall price, it will save you money and headaches.

Regardless of what pricing structure your installer uses, make sure to get a clear breakdown of all costs before you sign anything. There shouldn’t be any hidden fees or additional charges once the project begins. Once you agree to the contract, you may have to put down a 25% to 50% deposit, with the balance due upon project completion.