Most people don’t realize it, but their windows can waste up to 30% of their home’s energy use and run up bills.
Drafty windows that are old and damaged will leak cold or hot air into your home. These leaks may not be an issue at first, but they will increase energy use in the house, which doesn’t come at a free price.
If you want to save money on your utility bills, you should start looking at window replacement costs. Keep reading to learn about the most important factors that’ll affect your cost of a window replacement!
Your Location
One of the biggest factors determining window replacement costs is your location.
If you’re in the middle of nowhere, and contractors have to drive hours, you’ll have to account for increased costs. Try to look for window replacement companies in your community and gather a list of all your options. Use this list to make contact and discover more about their installation costs.
Don’t forget to give the company your address so they can come to quote your services and decide on transportation fees.
Weather Conditions
If you live somewhere that is at risk of hurricanes, tornadoes, or flooding, you need to consider your options.
Although you can cut costs and save some money with cheaper windows, you will likely have to replace them when the next storm comes through. Investing in high-quality windows and frames will increase your initial bill but prevent you from having to replace them so soon.
You should also consider sunlight exposure for your home. If you live in a warmer climate with a lot of sunshine, you can save on bills by heating the home with sunlight.
If you need to fix hail damage to windows, fiberglass is the best material to invest in.
Window Material
Not all windows are made the same or even with the same raw ingredients.
Vinyl and fiberglass windows are the most popular choices. Fiberglass is commonly found in homes and businesses since they are affordable and offer excellent quality. Fiberglass is durable, energy efficient, and offers the best views.
If you’re looking for a cheap window solution, vinyl is your next-best choice. Vinyl windows are inexpensive and don’t require much maintenance. If you own a rental, for example, this could be an option to consider.
Unfortunately, vinyl windows aren’t as durable as fiberglass.
Installation Fees
Aside from transportation costs of materials, you’ll also have to pay for the labor.
Installation fees will depend on how many people you hire. If you hire a team versus a single contractor, you’ll pay more per hour, but it will get completed faster. There are benefits to saving money and spreading the project out or getting it done in a day.
Think about your needs. If you aren’t currently using the home, you can quickly get them replaced and move on.
The best contractors will request higher payments. It may be tempting to go with cheaper alternatives, but you get what you pay for. If you want a contractor that pays close attention to detail, you need to pay for that type of person.
Size of Windows
The size of your new windows will be a significant factor in your overall costs.
If you have a lot of large windows in your home, you should expect your bill to be above average. As windows get larger, they require more tools and care for transporting. There are also more risks involved with installing large windows.
Replacing medium and small windows shouldn’t be too expensive. Small teams and contractors can handle these projects without additional equipment and manpower.
Depending on your situation, you may have an opportunity to cut out new windows in the walls. To make the most of each window, consider where the sun rises and sets.
Shapes of Windows
Most windows are in the shape of a rectangle or square, but other shapes are common in households.
Circles, triangles, and oddly-shaped windows can be more expensive to replace. Since they need meticulous cuts and extra care, you should expect to pay more for them than standard pieces.
Often, front doors and attics have windows in unique shapes. Although these add character to the house, you need to account for their additional costs during replacement.
Window Warranty
It’s common for people to overlook warranty costs when they are gathering quotes.
Warranties and certifications can cost extra, but you’ll get help if something happens to the windows. Warranties provide coverage for windows that break, crack, or waste energy. Depending on the window’s conditions and how the damage happened, you may have a chance to get things replaced for little to no cost.
Looking at online reviews will help you discover more about the value of window warranties. Each company offers unique policies, so make sure you review each contract carefully.
Time of Year
The seasons will influence how much you pay for new windows.
Replacing glass windows in the winter can be dangerous and increase the risk of errors and damage. Although you may have to pay more because of the higher demand, it’s best to get windows in the spring. Extreme temperatures can impact the glass and other installation processes.
Start Calculating Your Window Replacement Costs
New windows can be an expensive project, but they are worth the investment.
Understanding window replacement costs can help you prepare for your next project. By installing newer and more efficient windows, you can prevent having to replace them as often and ultimately save money. Keep in mind that unique custom windows will cost more than standard projects.
If you want to learn more about home windows and home improvement projects, check out our page for the latest content!