When setting a budget for the installation of a new window, you’ll normally want to account for every single detail. Be it the type of window, the material of the frame, or the glass unit, a number of factors are involved in the pricing. Installing a window complete with double-panes and high-quality wood framing, for instance, will obviously cost more than a single-hung vinyl unit.
Of course, it doesn’t end there; other factors like labor cost and location of the project also fall into the equation. Taking all of these factors into consideration will come in handy when crunching the numbers for your new window installation.
Cost of New Window Installation by Type
Home window installations are available in a slew of sizes and configurations. That being said, the pricing will naturally differ according to each type such as single-hung, sliding, or casement.
Single-Hung Windows
Also referred to as sash windows, single-hung windows are characterized by a fixed upper sash and a movable lower section. Depending on the features, such as the number of pane layers, expect to pay $100 to $400 for installing a new single-hung window.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows look a lot like their single-hung counterparts from a distance. As opposed to the latter, however, both the upper and lower sashes are movable. The average homeowner will normally spend $150 to $600 to install a double-hung window. Bear in mind that the price also varies according to frame material, size of window, and the glass unit.
Casement Windows
Casement windows attach vertically to the side of the frame via hinges, and normally open outwards using a crank handle. The cost of casement window installations can be anywhere from $150 to $1000.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are designed to offer a substantial view of outdoor spaces while incorporating natural light. Typically featuring a single pane, these windows are often fixed and don’t have any mullions. Due to their simple design, picture windows are one of the least expensive to install, costing as little as $65 for small units and up to $700 for larger ones.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are no different from other varieties in that they are available in a range of sizes, styles, and of course, prices. The windows consist of two sections, one or both of which slide horizontally. You can expect to pay $150 for installing a standard sliding window and up to $800 for high-end varieties.
Bay and Bow Windows
A common element in Victorian houses, bay windows still maintain their popularity to this day. The window features three separate frames with the middle one larger than those on each side. When it comes to installing bay windows, you’re looking at an average of $600 to $2,500 per unit. As for bow windows, which are similar to bay windows but with five sides or more, the pricing ranges between $1,000 to $4,500 for a new install.
Cost of New Window Installation by Frame Material
The window frame material you choose for your new window is one of the biggest factors that impact not only the pricing, but also the aesthetic appeal. That being said, it’s always a good idea to replace your windows with those of the same material or of better quality in order to maintain (or increase) home value.
Vinyl Windows
It comes as no surprise that vinyl is the most popular frame material as it’s both affordable and low-maintenance. This sought-after material offers a good deal of energy efficiency while lending a timeless aesthetic, with trims and profiles that can be made to resemble wood. The cost of installing new vinyl windows ranges from $250 to $600 (including the price of materials) and varies from one manufacturer to another.
Aluminum Windows
You can expect to spend anywhere between $400 to $1,200 for aluminum frames, materials included. Although the material is still available as an option for installing windows, it tends to lack in the efficiency and insulation department, making it less of an ideal choice if that’s what you’re looking for in a window. However, the material is lightweight, making it ideal for large units.
Wood Windows
Wood is among the most expensive options for frame material, ranging between $600 to $2,000 per window installation and averaging at $1,300. Besides other factors such as window size and design, the price also depends on the type of wood being used. Oakwood, for instance, is relatively costlier than pine. Pricing aside, however, wooden window frames offer a unique aesthetic to just about any interior. Certain historical neighborhoods even have codes that require wood framing for both window replacement and new construction windows.
Fiberglass Windows
Although fiberglass window frames share the same benefits as their vinyl counterparts in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic value, they tend to be more sturdy. Regardless of this extra advantage, however, fiberglass isn’t all that common as it tends to average upwards of $750 per new window.
Composite Windows
Composite frames consist of a mix of PVC polymers, offering the same aesthetic versatility of wood as well as the durability of vinyl. Although they can cost up to $1,100 on average, they are incredibly easy to maintain after installation. Windows with composite frames are also energy efficient, meaning that you can save money down the line.
Cost of New Window Installation by Glass Type
Windows tend to alter how homeowners can see the outdoor world, and the type of glass in a window plays an important role in that regard. Window glass often varies by number of panes, energy efficiency, and light or heat reduction.
Single-Pane Windows
Single-pane windows consist of one glass layer that you can find in various hues, styles, and treatments such as tinted, tempered, and shatterproof. As the least expensive window glass option, single-pane glass ranges from $100 to $400.
Double-Pane Windows
An upgrade from single-pane windows, the double-pane variety features two layers of glass with nothing but air in between. This layer of air allows the window to be more energy-efficient and reduces the chance of condensation. Double-pane windows will sometimes contain argon gas to boost efficiency — but more on that later. Double-panes naturally cost more than their single-pane counterparts, but not too much more, averaging between $150 and $600 for basic window designs.
Triple-Pane Windows
If two panes aren’t enough for your home, you can always go for triple-pane windows for maximum energy efficiency, condensation prevention, and noise reduction. Due to the high cost of construction, triple-pane units aren’t a standard option and are often manufactured on demand. Triple-panes may cost anywhere between $400 and $950 for a simple window installation.
Reflective Window Coating
Coating on windows is meant to minimize glare and prevent UV damage to furniture. Reflective window coating also reduces heat entering the home, helping to keep indoor temperatures cool during the summer. Depending on the type of coating, size of window, and how complex the design is, window coating prices can range from $225 to $550.
Spectrally Selective Window Coating
Spectrally selective coating, or tinting, allows for as much light to pass through while blocking up to 70% of the heat. This option is especially ideal for areas with hot and sunny weather. The prices vary according to the window design, size, number of panes, and type of coating. Spectrally selective coating on windows costs an average of $350 to $850.
Argon Windows
An alternative to standard glass windows, the argon upgrade applies to double and triple-pane units. The space between the panes is basically filled with argon gas and sealed. Since argon gas is six times denser than air, it offers a great deal of energy efficiency by blocking the flow of heat — all for the price of $375 to $850 on average per window.
Low-E Windows
Low-E windows, short for low-emissivity, contain a microscopic sheet of metal on the inner side of double or triple-pane glass. This not only helps in blocking UV rays, but is also useful in maintaining a moderate indoor temperature. Regardless of window size, you can apply low-E coating to just about any glass pane. Depending on your window’s size and design, expect on average to spend $250 to $650.
Other Factors to Consider
A number of other factors can impact the pricing of new window installations. These include the labor cost, the brand, and the location of the project.
Window Installation Labor Cost
In most cases, the cost of labor for a window installation service ranges between $30 and $50 per hour. Bear in mind that many window installers will charge a flat rate, with each project taking an estimated 1.5 hours depending on the complexity of the install. Custom designs, for example, may take up to six hours; the same goes for installing windows in old homes.
Window Brands
Although a window’s frame material, type, and glass unit are the main factors in determining the cost of a new install, the pricing may also vary across brands. Pella’s Architect Series 850, for instance, ranges from $850 to $1,500 whereas the Architectural Collection E-Series by Andersen runs from $900 to $1,400 — keeping in mind that the two product lines are similar in design and frame material.
Where You Live
The location can not only impact the pricing of the window’s installation, but the duration of the process as well. Installing a unit on the second floor, let’s say, would take more time and resources than installing one on the first floor.