We talk about windows a lot. They’re used in lots of metaphors, for instance. They even say the eyes are the windows of the soul, after all.
The prevalence of windows in our daily language isn’t surprising. Windows are a vital part of the home. They let light in, they help us regulate the temperature of our home, and they let us look out at the world that surrounds us.
Since they’re such an important part of our homes, its important not to scrimp when we install our windows. Home repairs and installations can be pricey endeavors, and it can be hard to resist the urge to cut corners. But that’s never a good idea, for windows as much as anything.
But how much does it cost to get a well-done window installation? What is the average price of windows in America? And how do you know if you’re getting a good deal? Let’s take a look and answer those questions.
As with anything else related to home improvement, there are a lot of variables that affect the cost of window replacement. The national average is around $650 per window.
While this estimate is certainly a good baseline figure, it hardly gives us the full picture. This is a complex topic with a lot of variables, and it’s important to make sure that you approach the window replacement carefully.
Answer some of the following questions. What material is the window made of? This has an immediate effect on the cost of the window. Cheaper and more common materials, like aluminum and vinyl, tend to fall more in line with the national average. More expensive or difficult materials, like fiberglass, can cost much more. Depending on other factors, fiberglass windows can cost as much as $1500 per window.
And what type of window is it? Larger, more elaborate styles, on the other hand, can run over $1000 per installation. And bay windows can run as high as $5000. Knowing the material and type of window that you’re having installed or replaced is vital to getting an accurate estimate.
These are hardly all of the variables that need to be looked at when estimating replacement cost. Just about every aspect of the window can change things. Still, these are a good baseline to operate from. Keeping these in mind will help you get a good idea of what your installation will cost. Hiring the right person will figure into your installation cost.
Knowing when to spend the money on window replacement can be a difficult question sometimes. Still, there are some good ways to tell when your windows might need replacing. There are also some great reasons to consider doing it sooner, rather than later.
Physical damage is the most obvious sign that its time to install new windows. Cracks or seal failure warping in the glass or failure in frame are signs of a failing window. Damaged windows are less efficient in every way, and are likely to deteriorate further. If that happens, the window might damage other parts of the structure, requiring even more repairs.
Let’s not forget to address lead safety and windows. All homes built before 1978 are assumed to have lead paint in them. The shinier the finish equates to more potential for lead in the paint. Lead in windows is common in vintage homes. When wood rubs on wood it disturbs the paint which then falls on the sill into your home.
This brings us to the other point. Installing new windows can have a plethora of benefits. There’s the obvious ones, like the fact that new windows make any house more attractive to look at.
Because of their impact on the visual appeal of the house, new windows are a great way to try to squeeze a little bit of extra property value into your house. If you’re looking to sell a home, new windows may be a good investment before you do so. Also, consider the benefits of a new window versus an old one when a prospective buyer is looking at the property. The buyer is thinking that windows cost a good chunk of change and will bid lower as a result.
And new windows also make the house much more efficient, which saves you money in the long run. When they’re in good condition, windows can be a great way to regulate temperature within the home, eliminate hot or cold spots and eliminate condensation. Well-regulated temperature means you need to use air conditioning and heating less often.
New windows are also better at keeping out rain, drafty winds, and other unwanted environmental effects. They can also help keep your house quieter, as new windows tend to be better at keeping out noise. Plus, just having windows that work are great. Imagine having to open those old storm windows that break your nails.
Still, as with most other home improvement projects, window replacement can be daunting. After all, its a lofty proposition, and it can come with a similarly lofty price tag.
But to get all the benefits we’ve discussed so far, it’s important not to scrimp on window installation. Finding the right installer is important, to make sure that you get the best quality for your money. Remember, a good window replacement should last 50 plus years.
There’s plenty of examples of quality work done by Forde Windows and Remodeling; you can see the great benefits that the window replacement ultimately brought to the client. We think we’re the best choice in the Chicago region for window replacement.
If you’re looking to improve your home, Condo, office complex, or any other building you own, installing new windows is a great way to go about it. New windows increase property value. They regulate light, noise, and temperature more effectively. And they make the building more appealing to look at.
Remodeling magazine publishes a return on investment (ROI) for different areas of home improvement every year. Consistently, window replacement in the Chicago market has an average ROI of 72%. That means along with all the savings and comfort along the way, if you kept your home for about 5 years you would recoup all your money back on your investment.
The average cost of windows may seem high at first glance. But it’s worth every penny to make sure that your home functions the best it possibly can. And with our quality products and service, you can be confident that you’re getting the best possible results for your money.
So get in touch with us today. Schedule a window replacement, and transform your home into something that looks and feels like new again.
