How much does a picture window cost to install or replace?
How much does a picture window cost to install or replace?
$300 – $1,300 average cost per window installed
Picture window replacement cost
Picture window replacement costs $300 to $1,300 on average, depending on the window size and material. Large stationary windows are more expensive and cost more in labor to install, while small or standard sizes cost less. Replacement picture windows cost $20 to $50 per square foot with installation.
| National Average Cost | $1,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $200 |
| Maximum Cost | $3,200 |
| Average Range | $300 to $1,300 |
Picture window sizes and prices
Picture windows cost an average of $20 to $50 per square foot installed. Large picture windows are typically installed in living and dining rooms, allowing more light into the main living areas and giving unobstructed views of the outdoors.
| Window dimensions | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| 24"x36" (6 SF) | $120 – $300 |
| 36"x48" (12 SF) | $240 – $600 |
| 36"x60" (15 SF) | $300 – $750 |
| 36"x72" (18 SF) | $360 – $900 |
| 48"x48" (16 SF) | $320 – $800 |
| 48"x60" (20 SF) | $400 – $1,000 |
| 48"x72" (24 SF) | $480 – $1,200 |
| 60"x60" (25 SF) | $500 – $1,250 |
| 72"x48" (24 SF) | $480 – $1,200 |
| 72"x72" (36 SF) | $720 – $1,800 |
| 96"x48" (32 SF) | $640 – $1,600 |
| 96"x60" (40 SF) | $800 – $2,000 |
| 96"x72" (48 SF) | $960 – $2,400 |
| 96"x96" (64 SF) | $1,300 – $3,200 |
Picture window prices by material
Picture windows can be made with a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
| Frame material | Average installed cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | $250 – $875 |
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| Vinyl | $200 – $900 |
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| Fiberglass | $550 – $1,600 |
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| Wood | $600 – $2,000 |
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Picture window cost calculator
Picture windows tend to be less expensive than functional windows since there are no working parts to manufacture.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Window unit | $200 – $800 |
| Installation labor | $100 – $500 |
| Total installed cost | $300 – $1,300 |
In addition to the material and labor costs, other factors that affect the cost include:
Size – Larger picture windows are heavy and require additional laborers and special equipment to install, increasing costs.
Style and shape – Standard square picture windows are cheaper to manufacture than arched, round, or custom shapes.
Frame material – Aluminum and vinyl frames are cheaper than wood and fiberglass frames.
Glass type – Single-pane windows are cheaper to install but are less insulated and typically used in garages and sheds. Many states require better insulated double-pane windows for new construction and replacement windows.
Insulated windows cost $400 to $3,000 per window installed.
Double-pane windows cost $400 to $2,000 per window installed.
Triple-pane windows cost $450 to $3,000 per window installed.
Window coatings:
Low-emissivity (low-E) glass has a thin coating of metal that reflects infrared light, keeping the heat in during the winter and blocking it out during the summer.
Window tinting costs$5 to $8 per square foot for a thin film of tint added to reduce heat and glare, block UV rays, and provide a bit of privacy.
Insulation:
Air-filled glass spacers between the panes are cheaper than gas-filled spacers. Krypton gas is the most expensive fill, while argon gas fill is the least expensive.
Weatherstripping costs $5 to 10 per window with professional installation to prevent air leaks around the windows.
Permits – Building permits cost $50 to $300 for small jobs like replacing windows.
Labor cost to install a picture window
Labor costs to install a picture window average $100 to $500 per window, or $40 to $65 per hour for a professional window installer, depending on the job complexity. Some installations may require additional repairs to the area around the window.
Installation difficulty – High windows and second-story installations requiring scaffolding are more difficult and costly. Windows blocked by kitchen and bath fixtures take longer to install, increasing labor costs.
Other labor options:
Handyman rates are $50 to $80 per hour.
Contractor rates are $50 to $150 per hour, when replacing windows as part of a larger home remodel project.
Additional repairs:
Window frame repair costs $150 to $600 per window.
Drywall repair costs$100 to $400 per hole or crack.
Siding repair costs $2 to $14 per square foot.
Stucco repair costs $8 to $50 per square foot.
Trim installation costs $6 to $20 per linear foot.
Picture window price by brand
Picture window prices vary depending on the brand and size, with standard picture windows falling at the low end and larger windows with special features falling at the high end.
| Brand | Average unit price* | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Andersen Window cost | $200 – $1,000 | Easy-ordering and installation |
| Pella window cost | $400 – $1,500 | Energy-efficient vinyl and fiberglass |
| Marvin window cost | $500 – $1,500 | Low-maintenance fiberglass sold through local dealers with showrooms |
| Window World cost | $250 – $900 | Very affordable vinyl windows |
| Champion | $400 – $800 | Great options for financing and discounts |
| Harvey | $475 – $1,000 | Good hardware customization options |
| JELD-WEN | $400 – $800 | American-made windows available through retailers and home improvement stores. |
| Kolbe | $250 – $800 | Good quality, long-lasting windows |
| Milgard | $300 – $850 | Start-to-finish window manufacturer, making their own components. |
| Simonton | $400 – $600 | Energy-star, low-maintenance options |
*Unit price does not include installation.
Picture window pros and cons
Window replacement costs $400 to $2,000 per window, depending on the window type and size. Picture windows fall below that average price and offer the advantage of more light and better views, but no ventilation.
| Pros | Cons |
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Picture window FAQs
What is a picture window?
A picture window is a fixed pane of glass that does not open. Also called fixed or fixed frame windows, picture windows maximize light and views of the outdoors.
Are picture windows cheaper than other types of windows?
Picture windows are often cheaper than other types of functional windows because the fixed windows have no moving components, making them easier to manufacture.
Will a picture window increase home value?
Picture windows increase your home's value by improving the energy efficiency and aesthetics of the home. Picture windows are attractive to potential buyers since they look modern and showcase the outside views.
Do picture windows open?
No, picture windows are stationary windows that do not open.
How long does it take to install a picture window?
A standard-sized picture window can be installed in about 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the condition of the existing window. Installation takes longer if the old windows are difficult to remove or the window frames need additional repairs.
Getting estimates from picture window installers
Follow these guidelines when selecting a window installation services near you:
Select a licensed, bonded, and insured window installer with experience installing picture windows.
Get two or more estimates with the same material product for comparison.
Avoid the cheapest estimates that may indicate poor workmanship.
Check online reviews from past customers on HomeGuide and Google.
Request the estimate, contract, and warranty details in writing before the project begins.
Arrange a payment plan with a minimal deposit and the final payment due when the work is done.
Questions to ask
Here are some important questions to ask when choosing a window installer:
How long have you been installing picture windows?
Which brand of picture windows do you recommend for my budget?
How long will it take to install a picture window?
How do you protect the surrounding surfaces from damage during installation?
Do you offer financing options?
How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?