When it’s time to get new windows, you’ll literally see the signs that you need them. Old, worn windows impede your view of the outdoors and limit natural lighting. They also make your home less energy-efficient and can lead to a greater risk of break-ins.
But homeowners often hesitate to make the investment in new windows for one reason—they’re not sure what they’re getting for their money. Wonder no more! Here we let you know some of the major things that go into the cost of new windows so you can make the right choice for your home.
What Goes Into the Cost of New Windows?
While each house is unique (including yours!), there are several common factors that impact the cost of replacing your windows. Here’s what will influence the investment you’ll choose—one you’ll be so glad you made, because new windows will help you love your home all over again.
1. Type of Frame Material
Windows are made from several materials, and each has its benefits (and its related price points). You’ll want to consider the merits of each and what your main goals are before making your selection.
Vinyl windows are an affordable, low-maintenance choice that are fantastic for rental properties or first-time homebuyers who want budget-conscious upgrades. Lightweight and easy to care for, they don’t need painting—but their color options are limited and can fade over time. Of the three materials, vinyl is the least costly.
Fiberglass windows are a superb option for those who want to achieve attractive looks while also enjoying long-lasting results. Fiberglass is extremely durable, and it’s excellent at standing up to the harsh weather in St. Paul and Minneapolis. It’s more of an investment than vinyl by about 10-30%, but it’s often less than wood.
Wood windows are commonly used for historic home upgrades, as they lend authenticity to the style you’re seeking to match. Many homeowners also appreciate their natural, organic look, which can be painted or stained in a multitude of colors. A limited resource, wood costs as much as 30-50% more than vinyl, but less than or similar in price to fiberglass depending on brand, style and features.
2. Number of Windows (and Size of Overall Project)
Once you start researching window replacements for your home, you may be surprised by the variety of houses requiring different styles of windows and materials. Some homes have a lot of windows to replace. Others have specialty windows that need extra attention. You may have a new addition that doesn’t need updates, while the older part of the home does.
As a result, you may need all your windows replaced—or maybe just some of them need replacement. Perhaps you’ll want to just update one room’s windows, or invest in a lovely new bay window for your living room or master bedroom, while leaving your other windows as-is for now.
Ultimately, the size and scope of your window replacement project will become a major factor in its overall price. Some people choose to replace all their windows at one time, while others will do so on a predetermined schedule.
3. Style of Windows (and Size of Each Window)
In addition to the frame material and number of windows you need, you’ll also want to think about the type of windows you desire. The simpler the style, the less pricey it tends to be. For example, a single-hung window (which has only one sash that opens) costs less than a double-hung window (both sashes can be opened).
There are many other styles beyond single- and double-hungs—such as:
- Sliders (opening side to side instead of up and down)
- Egress windows (large enough for safe exit in emergencies)
- Awning and casement styles (which are opened with cranks)
- Picture, bay and bow windows (which tend to be large and sometimes intricate)
Depending on how large the window is and whether it’s a common size that’s easy to get or whether it needs to be custom-sized, your overall replacement cost will reflect these elements.
4. Special Features and Options
Today’s windows can be customized, depending on factors such as the color you want, the type of windowsill (or even whether you want sills or not), hardware material and type of locks you choose.
For the panes, some windows come with shatterproof glass or other safety options to make them harder to break and less likely to create shards if they do. Stained or beveled glass can be options in places like above your front door. Noise-reducing glass is also a great option.
Energy-efficiency options are also available—including glass that is great at reflecting sunlight, or with insulating argon gas between the panes to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
In a nutshell—the fewer options you choose, the less your overall price point, while the more specialty features you request, the more it boosts overall cost. However, keep in mind that many of these features add up to savings in electric bills, greater convenience, and more peace of mind, so they’re worth investing in.
Beautify Your Home with New Windows—Perfectly Installed by Our Team
Serious about updating your home with gorgeous new windows? Take the first step and contact us for an estimate so you can begin planning for the investment, which will be well worth it, especially when you have the right team like Beissel do the installation.
At Beissel Window & Siding, we have over 70 years of expertise installing windows for the St. Paul-Minneapolis area. Learn more about our window installations, and call on us to get lovely, lasting windows to grace your home.
