How much does it cost to install or replace vinyl windows?
Vinyl windows (or PVC) are usually exterior facing and so must provide the desired level of security, appearance, and weather sealing properties including the window glass.
Average vinyl window replacement costs vary by size, labor rate, and decorative quality of the window frame finish.
Cost breakdown
The Labor Cost figures in the following table are what the DIY person could save by performing the work.
Vinyl window replacement: to remove and dispose of a window and replace it with a vinyl window. Include costs for insulating glass, equipment, miscellaneous material, waste, hardware, all trim and sealing, and final touch-up.
Item | Unit Cost | Quantity | Line Cost | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Picture window: 48" wide x 48" tall set, not opening; no-paint surfaces. | $450 | each | ||
Sliding window: additional cost for a 48" wide x 48" tall sliding-set; no-paint surfaces. | $20 | |||
Sash window: additional cost for a 48" wide x 48" tall sash-set; no-paint surfaces. | $60 | |||
Remove and dispose: existing window; include transport and non-hazardous dump fees. | $40 | per CY | ||
Material Cost | $570 | |||
+ Labor Cost (remove) | $30 | per hour | ||
+ Labor Cost (replace) | $38 | $190 | ||
Total Cost | $820 | each |
Enhancement and improvement costs
- Casement window: additional cost for a 48" wide x 48" tall casement-set; no-paint surfaces - 0.
- Bay window: additional cost for a 97" wide x 54" tall bay-set; no-paint surfaces; including bay roof section, wood framed, insulated, and asphalt shingles - $1100 plus 3 hours of labor cost 0, for a total cost of $1210.
Additional considerations and costs
- Each related Cost Guide reviews typical upgrades and accessories.
- The prices here are for provider service in their immediate area.
- Not included are taxes or permit fees.
- If neccesary, the opening of a wood-framed exterior wall will cost around $55 to $75 per square foot.
- The homeowner should be informed during provider inspection of any repair or structural modification issues.
- The replacement of 3 or more windows should result in a reduction of these unit prices.
- In some localities a subsidy for efficiency upgrade may be available.
Do it yourself (DIY)?
- Window replacement may not be suitable for DIY as it requires high carpentry skills, and typically comes with a critical closure deadline.
References
- Craftsman Estimator Costbook, 2015.
- Vendor Web sites of the Home Improvement sector.
If you want it replaced by a professional, take it to an auto glass repair shop. If you are looking for glass, visit a junkyard. Urethane for auto glass can be purchased at most parts stores.
You can replace the insulated glass without replacing the entire window assembly and it would be much less expensive. Contact several local glass companies for estimates.