How Much Does It Cost to Install Windows in Northern VA and D.C. Area?

Windows offer a lot to both the function and style of your home. They should keep the cold and heat where they belong, let in plenty of natural light, aid in your home’s energy efficiency, and provide needed security. Your home’s windows should also be in great condition and add to your home’s curb appeal rather than bring it down. 

When windows and the seals become broken or the frames begin to look worn, warped, or cracked, your windows are no longer doing their job. That’s when it’s time to consider replacing and upgrading your windows. After you decide a window replacement is in order, you’re likely wondering how much you should budget for new windows. Let’s consider all the factors that go into how much replacement windows will cost.

How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?

Replacing your windows is an investment that can enhance your home’s comfort and beauty in several ways, with costs dependent on two main factors: products and labor.

Products 

As for product costs, the material you choose for your windows will greatly affect the overall cost of your project. The order of material cost, from lowest to highest is as follows: aluminum, vinyl, wood, composite, and fiberglass. Fiberglass is also the most durable with the longest lifespan. So, you’ll have higher upfront costs but won’t have to replace your windows for up to twice as long, or about 50 years. 

If you are looking for an average cost per window, it helps to explore the specific type of unit you want to install in your house in the D.C. metro area. For example, a single-pane vinyl replacement window will cost significantly less than a large, custom, triple-pane window. Are you interested in ENERGY STAR windows that improve energy efficiency and insulation? After all, the Department of Energy estimates that homes will lose 30% of heat through their windows. This has a huge impact on how much you’re paying for utilities. 

Quality features in windows like these will garner a higher price tag but could be well worth the investment. Prices also fluctuate based on external factors that impact the construction industry, like inflation. 

Labor

Of course, each of these elements is based on a number of factors of their own. Will you also need to replace the framing or cut a larger opening for a different-sized window? Are you creating a whole new opening? 

Labor can also include disposal of all the old windows, framing materials, and site clean-up. You’ll want to be sure to check with your window installation company, though. If these items aren’t included in basic labor costs, you could end up paying out of pocket for these services if you don’t budget for them from the start. 

Window Costs by Style

To help you plan ahead for your project, here is a look at the average cost per unit, without labor, for replacement windows in Northern Virginia and the D.C. metro area:

• Single-hung windows: $150 to $400

• Double-hung windows: $200 to $600

• Casement: $350 to $900

• Fixed and Picture Windows: $350 to $850

• Sliding: $250 to $1800

• Basement Egress Windows: $1,500 to $5,500

• Bow/Bay: $900 to $2,200

How Much Does Labor Cost for Window Installation?

The cost of labor will depend on the scope of the project. For example, if you're replacing your window with a different size unit, more labor will be needed to alter the opening. Or, you may be creating a new window opening. On average, however, you can expect labor alone to cost around $100 to $400 per window. Your unique project could fall outside of this average range. To find out more about a cost estimate for your project, you will want to schedule a consultation so you’ll know how much you should budget for replacement windows. 

What You Should Not Do When Replacing Your Windows

If you’re concerned about cost, you may be thinking about replacing the windows at your home in Northern Virginia in phases. Breaking your window replacement into smaller projects means your installation team will have to visit your house multiple times over the course of several months or years. 

Companies generally charge more for labor for smaller projects that involve only two or three windows, whereas you may be able to get a better deal on a cost-per-window basis if you replace 10 or 20 windows at once. Prices also change over time due to changes in the market or other reasons. What you pay for replacing five windows now could easily increase two years from now. 

You may also be thinking that replacing 15 windows would fit into your budget more easily if you choose the most inexpensive option. If the budget doesn’t allow for a higher quality window right now, we would suggest waiting, if you can, to make the investment later. The quality of the window you choose can affect how soon you’ll be in the same position and how your window choice can affect your home’s energy efficiency.

Installing Your New Windows in Northern Virginia

Budgeting for replacement windows on your Northern Virginia home is challenging because of how many variables are involved. While it’s helpful to do preliminary research and have a rough budget in mind, the best source for getting a more accurate price range for the materials and labor is an installation expert. 

At Window and Door Showplace, we provide a free virtual consultation and window replacement quote. You simply send in pictures of the windows you want replaced, along with rough measurements, and we will provide you with a firm price that we can guarantee for six months.