How Much Does Double-Pane Window Replacement Cost in Northern VA?

Double-Pane Window Replacement Cost in Northern VA

Double-pane windows can reduce energy usage by up to 24% in the winter months and up to 18% during the summer.

They also provide noise insulation for your home. The two layers of glass and insulating gas significantly reduce the outdoor noise pollution that typically enters your home and the noise generated within your home. This noise reduction feature is especially beneficial for homes located on busy streets or in loud neighborhoods.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the costs and factors to consider in your next double-pane window installation in Northern VA including labor.

• Average Cost
• What is a double-pane window?
• Benefits of double-pane windows
• Window insulation and R-Values
• Installation and labor costs
• Are double-pane windows worth the cost?

Average cost

A standard sized, double hung replacement vinyl double pane window cost $385-$850 per window. (modernize.com)

What is a Double-Pane Window?

A double-paned window consists of two glass panes set into a frame, creating a glass sandwich with an air pocket to help insulate a room. The two panes of glass are separated by a spacer that holds trapped gas like argon or krypton.

Considered an energy efficient window type, the spacer helps hold the two glass panes firmly in place even if subjected to pressure from the outside. A seal keeps gas from leaking out between the two layers, ensuring these windows insulate a home.

Double-pane windows are called double-glazed windows or insulating glass units (IGU).

Double-paned windows become common in homes in the 1970s, replacing their more dated single-paned counterpart. For extreme weather environments, triple-paned windows are an option for stronger insulation and protection from the elements.

Benefits of Double-Pane Windows

According to the US Department of Energy, energy loss from windows makes up nearly 25% of the annual heating and cooling cost for an average American home.

Lower condensation

-Separates warm interior pane and outer colder pane resulting in less cold transfer into your home

Insulation

-Added insulation comes from second layer of glass

-The gas or air trapped between the two panes of glass bears the brunt of insulating by slowing down the transfer of heat or cold away or towards the window

Reduce noise pollution

-Works as a sound buffer and is beneficial if you live in a loud neighborhood or environment

-Keeps internal noise in and external noise out

Save money

-A clear glass, double-paned vinyl or wood-framed window can lower energy usage up to 24% in colder climates during winter and up to 18% in hotter climates in summer

-Depending on which model you choose, you can expect energy savings from 30-50%

Reduced environment footprint

-Burn less fossil fuel creating lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Window insulation and R-Values

The R-value system measures a material’s resistance to energy transfer. In other words, the higher the R-value number, the greater insulating value of a window. Some windows have a low-E (low emissivity) insulating film on the glass that increase the R-value. This film adds another dimension to reflecting heat into or out of a home.

Additional considerations

Energy efficient gas fillers

Certain double-paned windows contain air between the glass layers.  Even though air helps insulate a window, dense gases like argon or krypton provide stronger insulation for your replacement windows.  Argon is the best gas to use because it is nontoxic, colorless, and odorless.

Double-paned window spacers

The spacers between the dual glass panes provide an added dimension to insulation in addition to the window frame material.  Look for “warm edge spacers” which work as insulators preventing heat from moving from one glass pane to the other.

Double pane spacers increase energy efficiency, lowering your utility bills in the long run.

Installation and labor costs

Labor can average $38/hour. Also, window type, brand and framing materials will affect your overall double-pane replacement costs.

Window options from most to least affordable are:

Aluminum $440-$800

Vinyl $450-$650

Fiberglass $588-$720

Wood $800-$1050

Are double-pane windows worth the cost?

Because double paned windows are energy-efficient and better at insulating homes than single paned windows, installing them can lead to significant savings over time. When you change out all of your single pane glass windows at once, you form an effective barrier that will help maximize your cost savings.

By upgrading to double paned windows, you will significantly improve your home’s insulation with cost efficient and long-lasting benefits.

Even with the many benefits of double-paned windows, there are window quality and installation issues that can reduce or decrease your target energy savings. So, keep the following in mind:

• Don’t Buy Just One: Installing windows individually vs. upgrading entire homes or floors will not bring your desired energy savings. Your energy savings come from purchasing multiple double-pane windows at a time.

• Quality Matters: From failed seals to improperly spaced glass, poorly constructed or mal-functioning windows can negate energy savings leading to other problems, such as condensation between the panes. Quality is key which usually means you’ll have to consider higher prices.

Call us at 571-297-1445 or Click here to schedule a free estimate.

Double-pane window replacement cost calculator links:

Dual Pane Windows Cost Calculators | Replacement Windows Prices

Window Replacement Cost Calculator (2022) With Installation Prices (remodelingexpense.com)

Double Pane Windows Costs | 2021 Buying Guide | Modernize

How Much Do Double Pane Windows Cost? | 5 Estimates

*Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, pricing for products and supplies will change based on availability and market conditions.