Window replacement costs vary based on the type of window.  Vinyl windows are generally the most affordable, ranging from $300 to $700 each for average sizes. Wood windows are typically more expensive, ranging from **$600 to $1,000 each**. Factors like window size, style (single-hung, double-hung), and material influence the final price.

Beyond the cost of the windows themselves, you'll need to account for labor costs associated with the installation. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

• Typical Installation Time: 2-4 hours per window (includes removing the old window and installing the new one, along with any necessary trim work)
• Average Labor Rate: $50-$75 per hour for a qualified carpenter or general contractor
• Estimated Labor Cost per Window: $100-$300 (with a solid average budget of around $200 per window)

Important Considerations:

• National Chains:  Hiring a national window installation company can often be significantly more expensive than purchasing windows directly and having your own carpenter or general contractor install them.
• Window Size and Modifications: Larger windows or windows that require modifications to the rough opening will generally take longer to install, resulting in higher labor costs.

On a 1,500sf rehab project you will likely have between 10 to 15 windows that need to be replaced. Replacing each window typically takes between 2 to 5 hours, so a window crew can usually complete an entire home window installation in 2 to 3 days.

The prices in the table are based on standard window installations in an average suburban area. Window costs can vary substantially by location. If you are located in the East or West Coast, you could expect to pay 15% to 50% more than the recommended price provided.

Consult our location multiplier index for more accurate pricing in your market.

Contacting local window installers or contractors is the best way to get accurate pricing. Explain that you are a real estate investor who needs a rough budget for replacing windows. Be specific about the types of windows you're considering (e.g., vinyl, wood) and the number of windows you need to replace. This will help them provide a more accurate estimate.

Tips for contacting contractors:

• Be upfront about your needs:  Let them know you are gathering preliminary estimates.
• Don't pressure them for a firm quote:  Explain that you will contact them for a formal quote when you have a specific project ready.
• Get multiple quotes:  Reach out to several contractors in your area to compare pricing.

Several factors can influence the final cost of your window replacement project:

• Type of Window Material: The type of window material you choose significantly impacts the cost. For example, a standard vinyl window might cost between $100 and $300, while a custom wood window could range from $300 to $1,000 or more.
• Window Operation: The functionality of the window also affects the cost. A fixed window (one that doesn't open) might cost $200, while a comparable operable window (single-hung or double-hung) could cost $300 or more.
• Number of Windows:  The more windows you replace at once, the lower your per-window cost might be. For instance, replacing a single window might cost $500, but replacing 10 windows might only cost $3,000 total ($300 per window), thanks to economies of scale.
• Size of Windows: Standard window sizes (roughly 2 to 3 feet wide and 4 to 5 feet tall) are generally less expensive than larger windows. A standard-sized window might cost $250, while a larger window (over 3 feet wide) could cost $400 or more. Custom window sizes will also come at a premium.
• Window Rough Opening Modifications: If you need to change the size of the window openings, this will add to the overall cost. For example, enlarging a window opening might involve $100 in framing materials, $50 in siding materials, and $75 in labor for a painter to touch up the siding.
  

Estimating window replacement costs is relatively straightforward. The primary measurement you need is the number of windows that require replacement.

1. Walk through the property: Carefully inspect each window, noting those that need replacement due to damage, inefficiency, or aesthetic reasons.
2. Count the windows: Tally the total number of windows you plan to replace.

This count will be the basis for your cost estimation. You'll multiply this number by the average cost per window for your chosen window type and features to arrive at a rough budget.

While window sizes can vary, focusing on the count is generally sufficient for initial estimates. If you have a mix of standard and larger windows, you might consider creating separate counts for each category to refine your estimate.

Now that you've counted the number of windows to be replaced, you can calculate a rough budget for your window replacement project. To do this, multiply the number of windows by your budgeted price per window for the type of window you want to install.

For example, if you need to replace 10 windows and your budgeted price for each window is $287.50, your estimated budget would be:

• 10 windows x $287.50/window = $2,875

Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate. The actual cost may vary depending on factors such as the type of window material, the size of the windows, and whether you need to make any modifications to the window openings. Always consult with local window installers or contractors for accurate pricing in your area.

For a typical 1,500 square foot house with 12 windows that need to be replaced with vinyl, double-hung windows:

• Number of windows: 12
• Average cost per window: $287.50
• Total estimated cost: 12 windows x $287.50/window = $3,450

This gives you a rough budget of $3,450 for replacing the windows in this house.