How much do you have to pay for your window replacement? That’s often asked when the existing windows are in bad shape, just old, or completely damaged and must be replaced. Actually, when finding a replacement window becomes a quite pressing matter, it may stress us a lot.
Why?
Because we cannot do without good windows for long. Even if we set the aesthetic part aside for a moment, damaged windows, windows that cannot lock well, windows that allow air drafts in, all constitute a threat to our security and pocket.
And when it comes to getting new windows, who doesn’t want the best? But since not all windows are alike, and neither our homes and personal needs and tastes, the money we each spend varies.
All in all, there are several things that concerns us all. Why? Because there are some standard factors that affect the window replacement cost.
Window material
The materials used for the construction of windows range from wood and aluminum to vinyl, fiberglass and composite. Wood is expensive and although durable and long-lasting, also susceptible to the elements. Vinyl costs less and lasts longer; no wonder high in demand lately. Fiberglass is also a good choice. But it’s more expensive than vinyl without being aesthetically pleasing. Aluminum is a great option for high-humidity areas, but it costs more than fiberglass and vinyl. Composite windows are affordable and long-lasting.
So, you see when it comes to the material, there are two things to consider: the initial price and also, the maintenance requirements.
Window type
If you’d ask a window replacement contractor how much a new window will cost you, the first thing he’ll ask will be what type of window you want! There are plenty of window types on the market. Typically, most households seek single or double hung, casement, and hopper windows. Hung windows are cheaper than their hopper and casement counterparts, with the single hung being cheaper than the double hung. Naturally, special windows, like skylights are far more expensive than the standard types. Sliding windows cost pretty much too, considering that they usually come out in big sizes.
Window quality
Not all windows are created equal. Just like it happens with everything else, the quality of the home window replacement varies. There are poor-quality windows and high-end ones, with the latter costing much more but also lasting more and offering better protection and insulation than the cheap ones.
Window size
A small window is always cheaper than a big window. That’s natural. But don’t rely on this factor alone. A small window with an energy efficient glass, double pane, and a sturdy frame may reach or even exceed the cost of a larger window. But the size affects the price as well.
Number of windows
It makes a difference whether you want to replace one or ten windows. Or if you want a window screen replacement to go with it. Or if you want some windows to have better locks than others. It just makes sense to say that the more windows you need to replace, the more money you’ll spend. This is common sense but we often fail to consider it when we evaluate our budget.
Energy efficient or not
The window glass replacement is also a determinant of the price. There are qualities and qualities. And the price will be different if you want single or double glass pane windows. Naturally, the price goes up if the windows are energy efficient but they will save you money in the long run. So, that’s worth considering too.
Window grids or not
Many windows have grids. And they look great for traditional and modern homes. And then, not all grids are the same. Some windows have exterior grids, some have the grids between glass and in some, the grids protrude on both the external and internal sides. All such things also affect the price, without necessarily making it exorbitant though.
Window installation
Last but not least, you should consider the cost of the window installation. This is also something we often forget to include in our budget when planning a window replacement service and how much we pay depends on the company, the location, and the job we want.