6 Factors That Affect Replacement Window Costs
Window damage is a problem most of us face. And getting a new set of glasses and panes for the entire house is overwhelmingly expensive. One quick and easy solution to this issue is getting replacement windows specifically designed to avoid dismantling existing structures. But the cost is also a majorly decisive factor in this case. So, we’ve highlighted six factors that have a significant effect on the prices of these products:
Installation
There are two main ways to install windows in a house:
Full-frame
This process requires replacing the entire set, including the sill and trim. Such an installation job takes quite some time as touchups are often required even after completion.
Pocket
Pocket installation is much quicker as it simply involves sliding a new set into the existing frame. Also known as “insert window” or “retrofit,” such an installation job is typically chosen for better investment returns on upgrades.
Material quality
The material used for fabrication is a deciding factor as far as the quality and costs of replacement windows are concerned. For residential frame installation, wood and vinyl are generally used. While wooden frames are more aesthetically appealing than vinyl, they are expensive and more vulnerable. On the other hand, vinyl frames are more energy efficient as they require little natural resources for fabrication and are easy to install. Although wooden frames offer better insulation, foam-filled vinyl frames can keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Style and size
As replacement windows come in various styles and sizes, these factors are essential when it comes to replacement window prices. Added detail implies higher fabrication and labor costs. For instance, getting bow and bay styles installed will cost more than that of a double-hung type as the former consist of picture-framed windows at the center and on both sides. In contrast, a double-hung type simply has two operable slashes that slide upward and downward for ventilation. Apart from style, size will obviously determine replacement prices. Larger frames will have more fabrication and material costs, making them a costlier option.
Energy efficiency of the glass
Despite being quite a common factor that plays a role in getting replacement windows, most people tend to overlook it. Gases like argon and krypton are filled in the glasses as they act as good insulators to help maintain tolerable temperature levels despite weather changes. Apart from filling inert gasses, glasses are coated with a thin metal oxide layer called a Low-E coating to prevent floor and indoor furniture from fading. But having such work done on windows increases costs by almost 15%. While these additions may sound a bit pricy, installing windows with good insulation properties can lower your annual energy bills by hundreds of dollars.
Certifications and warranties
Warranty cover on replacement windows makes a big difference when it comes to cost. The extent of coverage and extra charges depend on the brand chosen. Products that come without a warranty cost less and might be manufactured from substandard materials. Although getting a warranty costs more, you are not only assured of quality, but replacements and repairs are also covered within a stipulated period. Moreover, compared to ordinary windows, the products that come with an ENERGY STAR certification are costlier but certainly more energy efficient. So, make sure that the product you choose is certified and comes with a warranty.
Choosing the product
Once the abovementioned factors are considered, it’s time to choose from the best replacement window brands and check their average prices. Remember that costs will change on the basis of your location in the country. Here are a few options you can choose from
Andersen
For more than a century, Andersen has been manufacturing top-quality windows. And you can gauge this brand’s caliber from the fact that it offers a generous 20-year warranty on the products. So, even if homeowners sell their house in those 20 years, the warranty will be automatically transferred to the new residents. Although Andersen is limited as far as its style options are concerned, the products are certified for energy efficiency as well as low volatile organic compound emissions.
JELD-WEN
This brand is known for its wood, vinyl, and aluminum window frames. The wood for its products, including pine, walnut, and mahogany, is sustainably sourced. JELD-WEN’s windows are energy-efficient, impact-resistant, and have a low sound penetration factor. You’ll love the multitude of window style and glass options on offer. But this brand doesn’t offer a lifetime warranty and is a bit on the expensive side. Even simple double-hung windows cost nearly $400.
Kolbe
Klobe has been in the windows and doors business for more than 75 years. Like Andersen, this brand also offers a 20-year warranty on its glass, as well as a lifetime warranty on non-glass materials. You won’t be disappointed with the wide range of exterior colors and window types on offer.
Pella
If you are looking for replacement windows with the most authentic certifications, Pella is the right choice. With almost 100 years of experience in the business, this brand is recognized by the Environment Protection Agency, has partnered with ENERGY STAR, and is a member of the U.S Green Building Council. Pella offers energy-efficient options with virtual and in-home consultations.
Harvey
Harvey is a leading wholesale company that sells directly to contractors and replacement window suppliers. Although this brand has limited interior colors, it has one of the best-selling double-hung vinyl windows that offer custom specialty shapes.
