Window replacement costs are affected by several factors, ranging from the type of window you choose to the installation process. Some windows require a lot of new materials beyond just the glass, such as trim boards, frames and anchoring bolts. The size of your home also affects replacement cost as larger windows usually take longer to install.
Your location will affect replacement cost as well because some parts of the country may not have window installation companies available in their area or homeowners may be prohibited by law from installing them on their own.
One of the most significant considerations when replacing windows is the overall size of the window you are looking to replace. Depending on where you live, your home’s size and local building codes, you may have to have a certain minimum number of windows in order to meet your home’s minimum insulation requirements and avoid having to apply for special permits.
Also, all replacement windows are measured by their dimensions in inches from left to right and top to bottom. This should include any trim boards that go around the outside edges and top inside edge as well as any hardware (i.e., locks) that come with them.
There are three main window styles:
- Casement;
- Awning;
- Double hung.
Each of these has their own advantages and downfalls for replacement cost.
Awning windows rely on an awning ring to support the window, typically made from wood or fiberglass and attached to the window frame with pins. The awning ring will also have more weight bearing on it than casements as it is holding up the entire upper portion of the window. This can vary from around 1/3 to 2/3 of the weight bearing on each side depending on your location.
Casement windows are supported by two casement stays on each of the two sides. The third side is supported by the hinges, which are inside the window frame. This means that the casing on these windows is not as strong as on a double hung window and will not support as much weight, typically only 1/3 of the weight bearing.
Double hung windows use two stay-bars on each side (though they are not visible) that help support its weight. On this type, the entire window hangs from hinges that are installed into a track that opens outwards instead of lifting up like with a casement window. This means that it will support the same amount of weight as a casement window.
There are also several different kinds of frames available that can be used to replace your existing windows. This includes styles of windows with metal frameworks, metal clad frames, wood clad frames and fiberglass clad frames. Each style has its own unique benefits and downsides, which you will find is outlined below.
Metal Framed: Metal framed windows are similar to wooden framed windows in that they use a wooden framework in addition to the glass itself. This provides extra structural support while maintaining visual appeal, especially if stained and painted to match your existing window colors.
Metal Clad: This is a similar frame to metal framed, except the wood frame is not exposed and instead a more sturdy plastic or fiberglass shell is used. These are quieter than wood cladded windows as they do not have to deal with the weight of glass and it lasts longer as they can be insulated and sealed easily.
Wood Clad: The most popular choice of window replacement, this is a vinyl-coated wooden frame that serves as a decorative outer and supports the glass itself with wooden struts on both sides. This type of window will expose the wooden framework for aesthetics but will also look better than non-wood framed windows if stain or paint are used to match your home’s existing colors.
Conclusion
In summary, it is important to do your research into the types of windows you are looking to replace as well as what you can afford. This will help determine the best window replacement cost range for your situation. Once you have made your decision, ensure that any window replacement company you use has a Nationwide Contractor License so they can work on both sides of the country and provide better customer service in regards to issues and repairs.