Windows impact nearly everything in your home, from curb appeal to temperature, lighting, and aesthetics. While windows can last many years, efficiency of new windows improves every year. You can make a big difference in energy costs by upgrading to a more efficient new window. However, you also need to consider your personal style and budget. Window type, frames, and glass are the major factors that will affect your cost. Here’s a look at their pros, cons, and expense ranges. All costs are based on national averages from the Angi Cost Guide.
Window types and cost
- Double-hung: $150-$650. This common format allows both sashes to move up and down.
- Single-hung: $100-$400. In a single-hung window, only the bottom sash moves up or down.
- Fixed or picture: $65-$700. These single-pane windows do not open.
- Casement: $150-$1,000. Casement windows are opened with a hand crank.
- Sliding: $150-$800. Sliding windows work like double- and single-hung types, except side-to-side rather than up and down.
- Egress: $650-$2,500. These styles are often code-mandated for basement living areas to provide an escape route in an emergency.
- Bay: $600-$2,500. Bay windows include a large main unit with two smaller ones on either side.
- Bow: $1,000-$4,500. These use several separate windows for a curved look.
Glass types
Glass costs affect price differently based on your frame and window type, so instead of cost ranges, we’ve arranged these in order of least costly to most expensive.
- Single-pane: This is the least expensive option, but it’s also the simplest. Don’t expect much light blockage or efficiency.
- Double-pane: These will cost more, but offer higher efficiency. Gas filling between panes will invisibly block heat and rays.
- Triple-pane: For when two panes aren’t enough! These cost more but are even more efficient.
- Low-e: Low-emissivity glass treatment blocks ultraviolet and infrared rays without sacrificing visible light and keeps hot and cold air on the side where they belong. It falls into the middle of the price range.
- Tempered: This heat-treated glass is extremely strong, but it’s also costly.
- Laminated: Laminated windows are among the most expensive, but they’re also quite strong.
Frame types and cost
- Vinyl: $250-$600. Vinyl windows are low-maintenance, high-efficiency, and durable. However, they offer the least attractive look.
- Fiberglass: $600-$900. Fiberglass has similar properties to vinyl, but costs a bit more, so it’s less common.
- Aluminum: $400-$1,200. This material is uncommon because it’s less efficient, costs more, and isn’t easy to paint.
- Composite: $300-$1,100: Want the best of both worlds? Composite windows blend PVC with wood for a good-looking and robust frame that requires less maintenance.
- Wood: $600-$2,000. If not taken care of, wood frames can lose integrity and efficiency under pressure from the elements. If you’re willing to pay the price in both cost and maintenance, though, they look great!
