WINDOW REPLACEMENT COST: HOW TO REPAIR AND REPLACE WINDOW GLASS

Can you imagine a building structure without windows? Definitely NO, it’s a no-brainer. Right?

Windows and doors are an extremely important part of every construction project. They serve as the perfect outlets for the outside world and provide natural ventilation. Windows improve the flow of light and air through the interior space.

Investing in high-quality windows is worth it. They will help you save big bucks on utility bills, boost the level of safety and increase the property value. However, updating or replacing the windows can be a challenging process. You have to choose from dozens of different types of windows, select the glass types, consider the budget and think about the budgetary need. All these things can easily overwhelm you. Considering the matter, we have put together a comprehensive guide on window replacement costs. 

Factors That Affect the Overall Window Replacement Costs

There are some elements that influence the total window replacement costs. 

• Window Type
• Frame Type
• Size of the Window 
• Energy Efficiency value 

Now let’s break down each element and explore its impact on the overall window replacement costs. 

Window Type

You will find tons of glass replacement windows to fit your home design and project specifications. Each type of window corresponds to a different set of requirements.  Let’s understand different types of windows, their uses, and their installment costs. 

1. Single-Hung Windows 

Single-hung windows are a common type of window. They are vertically operating windows. The top panel or sash of the single hung windows is fixed in its place while the lower panel can be moved up and down to open the window. When the window is opened, the lower panel covers the upper one from the inside. 

Including the installation costs, single hung windows come in $170 to $600.

2. Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are very popular among homeowners. They are an improved version of single-hung windows. This window design supports the movement of both upper and lower panels. These windows allow better airflow through the home. Double-hung windows can be cleaned easily by tilting out the glass panels. 

The double-hung windows cost around $400 to $850.

3. Awning Windows

This type of windows have hinges attached to the top sash. They are horizontal windows and operate by swinging outward. These windows allow air circulation while keeping the rainwater out. Awning windows usually serve as the ventilation outlets in bathrooms, offices, campers, and other such spaces. 

Based on the size and material, awning windows are available in the range of $420 to $1100.

4. Bay Windows

Bay windows serve their purpose best in rooms, cabins, or buildings with a view. These windows bulge out of the wall creating a small space for sitting by the window. The protrusion requires proper farming, flashing, and roofing. Bay windows are usually made of three panels at 25°- 45° angles. These windows are fairly large and require experts for installation. 

Including installation, the bay windows cost around $1200 to $3500.

5. Bow Windows

Just like bay windows, bow windows protrude outwards. Depending on the projecting area, bow windows consist of three, four, or more window panels positioned at an angle of 10°- 15°. Due to more window panels, bow windows can sometimes cost more than bay windows.

The estimated cost value of bow windows is $1400 to $4500. 

6. Casement Windows

Casement is a common window style and comes with a left and right window pane.  They are vertical windows with hinges on one side. Casement windows operate by moving outward like a door. They provide a clear and open view. 

Along with the installation, casement windows are worth around $380 to $ 750.

7. Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are widely used in homes due to their convenient operation. These windows are usually rectangular in shape and consist of two sections. One section slides over the other one to operate. Both the sections can slide from side to side.

Installing a sliding window costs around $450 to $1300.

8. Custom Windows

If you have some specific requirements, you can ask the contractor to design custom windows for you. You have to communicate your measurements, design specifications, and unique style to the contractor to get custom windows. 

Based on the design specifications, custom windows can cost as low as $500 and as high as a whopping $15000.

Frame Type

The frame is a significant part of windows, both functionally and aesthetically. Different types of window frames are available in the market. The price of the window, as well as installation, varies for each frame. Let’s discuss some prominent window frames and their effect on the total price value. 

1. Wooden Frame

It’s the most common type of frame. Wooden frames have been in use for centuries. The classic feel of wood is cherished by everyone. Wooden frames are strong and offer an exceptional architectural appeal. These frames are susceptible to damage due to exposure to moisture and changes in weather. However, if maintained properly, wooden frames last for a considerable amount of time.

Wooden frames cost around $1300. 

2. Vinyl Window Frames

Vinyl window frames are made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). These window frames are quite affordable and extremely durable. Vinyl is a good insulator and requires little to no maintenance. However, vinyl frames are not as visually appealing as wooden frames. Moreover, they are not as strong as aluminum or fiberglass frames. 

Vinyl window frames are an economical choice. They cost around $250 to $600.

3. Fiberglass Frames

Fiberglass window frames are more durable than vinyl frames but it’s a relatively less popular option. Fiberglass has weather-resistant properties and counters the temperature changes better than any other window frame. It resembles vinyl window frames in appearance but costs more than vinyl. 

The average cost of fiberglass frames is around $750.

4. Aluminum Frames

Aluminum window frames are a very popular choice among homeowners. Aluminum is long-lasting and renders a sleek and modernistic look to the building structure. It is a low-maintenance and heat-insulator, therefore, a perfect option for window framing. 

Aluminum frames cost more than fiberglass and vinyl but less than wooden frames. You can expect to pay around $400 to $1200 for aluminum windows. 

Energy Efficiency Value 

Energy-efficient windows are highly valued among homeowners. The windows are designed in a way that they keep the heated or cooled air inside and maintain a perfect temperature inside. The window replacement costs vary high, depending on the energy efficiency value.  Some major types of energy-efficient windows are discussed below. 

1. Multiple Pane Windows

Multiple panes of glass are combined together to achieve a high degree of energy efficiency. The glass panes are held together with layers of adhesives. The multi-layer structure keeps the air inside and doesn’t allow the outside weather to affect the temperature inside the house. 

The cost value increases with the increase in the glass panes. For instance, the average price of double-pane windows is less than triple-pane windows. The double-pane glass replacement windows cost around $600 to $1000 with installation.

2. Low-E Glass Coated Windows

The low-emissivity coating is done on the window glass to achieve thermal resistance. The low-E coated windows prevent the UV or infra-red radiations that cause the unwanted heat to enter the house while allowing the sunlight to illuminate the interior. Low-E windows are specially employed in colder areas to trap the heat energy inside the house.

Low-E windows cost around $800 to $1200.

3. Gas-Filled Windows 

Another practice to achieve better thermal insulation is by filling an inert gas inside the window panes. These gases are non-toxic, odorless, and colorless and serve as the perfect thermal insulators. 

The gas-filled windows installation can be done for $750 to $1300.

Size of the Window

It’s a known fact that the size of the window affects the installation cost. You will have to pay less if your windows are smaller than the standard size. Similarly, expect to pay more than the average installation cost if your glass replacement window is larger than the standard window size. 

The standard size chart of different types of windows is different so follow the respective size chart to find the standard window size.

Procedure

• Put on your safety gear first and remove the broken glass from the frame. The best practice is to remove the frame first and bring it to the worktable in order to remove the glass. Wiggle the broken glass a little and pull out the glass. 

Pro tip: use a grid of duct tape to remove the stubborn pieces of glass from the sash. 

• Use a chisel or scraper to remove the putty, pieces of glass, and metal glazing point from the frame and pull out the pane. Make sure to remove all the bits and pieces from the grooves. The frame must be completely smooth for installing the new glass pane. 

Tip: Use a heat gun to soften the old putty. 

• Now that the frame is free of any extra unwanted shreds, prepare it for the new glass pane. Use a wire brush to clean the frame. Wipe it clean with a damp rag and apply a coat of linseed oil to set a base for the putty to stick perfectly. 
• Take the measurements of the frame carefully. Double-check the measurements and acquire a glass pane corresponding to the measurements. Check the glass pane by test-fitting it in the frame.

ADD Table here for glass type

• Apply putty in the frame bed with a putty knife.
• Now take the glass panel and fit it in position. Press a glazing point into the frame after every 6 inches.  Gently set the glass pane in the frame.
• Apply putty to the glass and smooth it with a putty knife. Smooth the putty. The glass pane is fixed. 
• Now, remove the vinyl stops from your window with the help of pry bars. Scrape off the old sealing tape from the window and clean the surface. Put in new sealing tape and then carefully place the glass pane in position. Press the vinyl stops back in place and secure the glass panel.   

Your window glass repair project is done!

Final Words! 

The window glass repair projects are pretty common as ordinary glass windows get damaged easily. You can avoid such issues by going for impact-resistant window glass replacement. A wide array of windows are available in the market that are not only immune to hard impacts but also effectively withstand harsh weather conditions. You can choose the windows according to your requirements and budget. Update your windows and boost your property value!