How Much does it Cost to Replace Windows in Northern VA?
Window replacement | March 18, 2022
Window Replacement Cost in Northern VA
Your windows aren’t just features to accent your home from the outside in. They also serve a functional purpose in heat and cold insulation and maintaining the structural integrity of your house.
Replacing your windows requires thinking about and deciding which features and factors are most important in the functional and aesthetic aspects of your overall home maintenance and repair.
With that in mind, we’ll provide you with a no-frills guide to begin thinking about your window(s) replacement journey and to figure out how much does it actually cost to replace windows in Northern VA:
- Average cost
- Window framing materials
- Cost of different window types
- Additional window replacement cost factors
- Reasons to consider window replacement(s)
- When to call a professional
You’ll also get pointers on how to calculate the cost of a window replacement to equip yourself with the right combination of information and knowledge to help you make the best decision when you’re ready. You’ll never look at windows the same way again after this article.
Average cost
Per window the national average is $650 or between $200-$1,800. For a 3-bedroom home, the average price to replace windows ranges from $3,000-$10,000 (bobvila.com).
Factor in labor and you’re looking at an additional $100-$300 per window.
Window replacement costs also vary based on the location of your home on whether you’re in warm or cold climate.
Window framing materials
Window framing material determines the look a window, ease of maintenance, and energy efficiency. As the name suggests, it’s the frame between the window glass and surrounding walls.
Standard Vinyl
-Durable and budget friendly
-Energy-efficient
Per window average: $100-$900
Aluminum
-Strong and lightweight
-Less energy-efficient
Per window average: $75-$400, some up to $1,200
Wood
-Functionally heat resistant
-Can peel, crack, or warp
Per window average: $150-$1,300 or more
Composite
-Among most durable
-On par with vinyl in energy efficiency
Per window average: $300-$1,200
Fiberglass
-Energy efficiency of vinyl
-Sturdiness of aluminum
Per window average: $500-$1,500
Cost of different window types
Picture
-Also known as fixed windows
-Made of one sheet of glass with a frame that does not open
Price range: $80-$800
Single-Hung
-Popular, low-cost
-Usually found only on ground level
Price range: $100-$400
Double-Hung
-Similar to single hung
-Top sash slides down or swings open
Price range: $150-$650
Bay and Bow
-Bay windows typically consist of 3 large panes of glass
-Due to glass size, more expensive to replace
-Bow windows consist of 5+ panes
Price range: $500-$2,500 for bay and $1,000-$4,500
Casement
-Open with hand crank usually on left-to-right axis
-Comes in variety of sizes
Price range: $150-$1,000 and $420-$760 for awning window (casement window with hinge at top)
Glass Block
-Most common in bathrooms
-Let in light while allowing for privacy
Price range: $400-$1,100
Sliding
-Single or double-hung windows than open horizontally
-Comes in standard or full-size
Price range: $150-$800 (standard), $1,000-$2,500 (full)
Skylight
-Relative difficulty of installation adds to cost
Price range: $900-$2,400
Storm
-Installed inside or outside existing windows to add protection and additional insulation
-Permanent or removable
Price range: $50-$300 each, $5000+/- for all home windows
Additional window replacement factors
In addition to window framing materials and window types, there are several additional factors to consider in your window replacement planning and budgeting in Northern, VA.
These include:
Window location
-Basement window replacements $250-$1,000+
-Basement egress windows $2,500-$5,000
-Bathroom/bedroom windows $300-$700
-Foyer/dining room windows $300-$700
Large picture, bay or bow windows can double or triple replacement costs while upper-level windows require more installation time and additional equipment adding to labor costs.
Glass size and type
The right glass type can boost energy efficiency lowering utility bills. Tinted glass helps reduce harmful UV rays, and depending on a home’s geographical location, impact-resistant glass might be an appropriate choice.
In other instances, depending on the location and age of a home, tempered or safety glass might be a requirement by law.
Number of glass panes
The more panes in a window, the more it will cost as a general rule.
Age of house
Older homes come with special challenges like windows requiring custom orders or repairing and replacing rotting and damaged trim.
Full-frame window cost vs. retrofit replacement
The difference is a nail fin, a flange around the edge to attach to the frame directly to the studs found in new construction. Retrofit (replacement) windows cost 10-15% less than new construction and don’t require as much labor.
Labor costs and cleanup
Labor costs average $40/hour ranging from $30-$65/hr. You can save by replacing more windows at once rather than one by one. Also, if you live in an area with a higher cost of living, your labor costs will also reflect that difference.
When a contractor estimates labor costs, disposal and cleanup are sometimes factored in or added separately.
Structural repairs
This includes repairing trim, siding, or drywall adding $300-$1,100+.
Insulation and weatherproofing
This involves adding insulation in the gaps around a window and can cost $450-$3,300.
Location of job
Your home’s geographical location can significantly affect your window replacement cost(s). For example, local codes and ordinances can determine the type of frame and glass required for window replacement in your area.
More expensive triple-pane windows are best for cold climates because they provide the most insulation and energy efficiency while double-pane windows typically provide adequate insulation and protection for warmer climates.
Reasons to consider window replacement(s)
- Difficulty opening and closing
- Visible damage
- Higher energy bills
- Poor outside noise insulation
- Leaky windows
- No double glazing
- Decaying frames
When to call a professional
There are several reasons to call a professional when you’re ready to replace your windows. These include:
- Mold growth (can be a serious health hazard)
- Window damage and structural problems
- Accurate window measurements
- Age of your home and local ordinances/codes
So, there you have it! We hope you found this article helpful in discovering what goes into a window replacement giving you more confidence and direction in how and where to look once you decide it’s time to give your windows and home a fresh new outlook.
Call us at 571-297-1445 or Click here to schedule a free estimate.
Window replacement cost calculating links:
Window Replacement Cost Estimator (remodelingcalculator.org)
2021 Home Window Replacement Cost Calculator | Modernize
Window Replacement Cost Calculator (2022) With Installation Prices (remodelingexpense.com)
*Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, pricing for products and supplies will change based on availability and market conditions.