Five factors driving the cost of home windows

Size and style of your new windows the major factor in price

You know that updating your windows will improve the appearance and efficiency of your home, but understanding just how much that will cost is a little harder. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a look at five factors that will drive the cost of your window projects:

1. Style.

Windows come in a variety of shapes and styles. Simple designs like casement, double-hung and single-hung windows — which range from $175 to $800 per window — are easiest to install and usually retail at the lowest prices. More elaborate options, such as garden, bay and corner windows, typically cost more than traditional styles and may also require structural modifications. More complicated installations will come with a bigger price tag. And in a basic replacement scenario: the bigger the window, the higher the cost.

2. Materials.

Most windows are made of vinyl, wood, composite or aluminum. Composite, wood and fibreglass windows are the most expensive. But they also offer the widest variety of esthetic options. Lower-cost materials like vinyl and aluminum will satisfy homeowners looking for low-maintenance windows at an affordable price.

It’s important to note that some window materials perform better in certain climate conditions than others. Wood, for example, may deteriorate in wet climates, quickly requiring expensive repairs. It’s worth paying more for window materials rated for your local climate.

3. Upgrades.

Add-ons like extra panes, insulating glass coatings and noisecancelling glass come at a premium price. But many of the benefits are worth the extra cost. Argon-insulated glass, for example, can block up to 95 per cent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This will increase comfort and decrease cooling costs. And installing energy-efficient windows can save you up to 31 per cent on your utility bill alone. Aesthetic extras like decorative panes, stained glass, special hardware and custom frame colours will also add to the overall cost of your window project.

4. Size and scope.

The cost to replace the windows in a single-storey home will range from $3,000 to $7,000. And this cost can easily double for two-storey homes. Similarly, costs will vary depending on whether you’re replacing an old window or creating a new opening:

— Replacement installations. Replacement windows, also known as inserts, fit directly into existing window openings. In many cases, these installations don’t require siding or exterior trim removal. This is the cheapest option for adding new windows.

— New construction installations. New construction windows are installed in a new opening. This will require measuring and roughing in a window frame. New construction methods are sometimes necessary even in older homes — particularly if existing window frames or studs are damaged. New construction windows cost more to install than most replacement options.

5. Installation.

Installation costs will vary based on the size and scope of your project. One pro can usually handle smaller replacements, but you may have to hire a team of window professionals for larger projects. It’s always best to hire professionals for window replacement projects. Doing it yourself may be cheaper, but it can also result in some pricey mistakes.