How much does window seal repair cost?
How much does window seal repair cost?
$75 – $150 average cost per window (seal repair)
$100 – $250 average cost per window (seal replacement)
Average window seal repair cost
The cost to fix a window seal is $75 to $150 per window on average, depending on the window type, size, location, and damage severity. If the project requires a full window seal replacement, you'll pay $100 to $250 on average. Repairing or replacing the seal is less expensive than replacing the sash, glass, or entire window.
| Service | Average cost per window* |
|---|---|
| Window seal repair | $75 – $150 |
| Window seal replacement | $100 – $250 |
| Sash replacement | $150 – $400+ |
| Defogging (double or triple pane) | $100 – $200 |
*For standard double-pane windows
Window seal repair
Repairing a damaged or compromised window seal costs $75 to $150 per window on average. This job involves using caulk or partially replacing the gasket material. The cost to fix standard, easy-to-access windows falls on the lower end of the range, while repairing custom or hard-to-access windows may cost more.
Window seal replacement cost
Completely removing and replacing broken window seal costs $100 to $250 per window, or a little more than repairing it with caulk. This pricing reflects higher material costs and labor charges, but it's worth it if your window has multiple sealing failures or the seal is old.
Sash replacement
Window sash replacement costs $150 to $400 or more per window, depending on the material. Wood sashes cost more than vinyl or aluminum, as do large, historic, or custom windows.
A window sash is a frame that holds the glass panes inside the main window frame; it can be stationary or sliding. Replacing the sash involves unlocking and detaching it, being careful not to damage the glass. Then repair techs install the new sash and seal it.
Defogging
Window defogging costs $100 to $200 per window and involves drilling small holes in the glass of a foggy double-pane window, injecting a cleaning solution to remove moisture or debris between the panes, then drying the inside and sealing the holes to prevent future fog or condensation.
Many professionals give discounts when fixing multiple windows, so you may save money overall by tackling multiple repairs or windows at once.
Cost to seal windows by type
Different window styles and constructions affect how much you'll pay for repairs. The table below shows the cost to repair the seals on common window types.
| Window type | Seal repair cost (per window) |
|---|---|
| Single-pane | $40 – $120 |
| Double-pane | $75 – $150 |
| Triple-pane | $100 – $700 |
| Bay / Bow | $250 – $1,000 |
Single-pane window
Repairing the seal on a basic single-pane window costs $40 to $120 per window. Single-pane windows are less common in newer homes but are easier and less expensive to repair than other window types.
Double-pane window
Fixing the seal on a double-pane window costs $75 to $150 on average. This is the most common modern window type and provides more insulation than single-pane windows. However, they're more prone to fogging and drafts if the seal is compromised.
Triple-pane window
Triple-pane window seal repairs cost $100 to $700. Triple-pane units are much more complex, and many repair jobs require replacing argon gas between the panes once they're done repairing the seal.
Bay / Bow window
Repairing the seal on a bay or bow window costs $250 to $1,000. Due to the size and configuration, this window type is far more costly to repair. However, bay or bow windows are technically 3 to 5 windows positioned next to each other, so the price per window is about the same as a normal double-pane window.
Broken window seal repair cost factors
These factors can affect the window thermal seal repair cost:
Window size and type: Larger or specialty windows cost more to repair or reseal.
Extent of damage: Minor moisture can mean a simple fix, while heavy damage can require full insulated glass replacement.
Accessibility: Second-story or hard-to-reach windows may raise labor costs due to the added safety equipment required.
Number of windows: Fixing several windows at once often triggers a volume discount, reducing the per-window price.
Age and brand: Older, discontinued, or custom windows may require made-to-order parts or seals, limiting options and increasing expenses.
Labor rates: Local labor rates also affect the repair cost, with higher contractor fees in urban or high cost-of-living areas.
Additional repairs: Work on the sash, frame, caulking, or extra weatherstripping adds to the final total.
How to spot damaged window seals
Damaged or broken window seals cause visible changes and affect your window's performance. Spotting the signs early can save you money and discomfort from drafts or moisture damage. Watch for these common indicators:
Moisture trapped between the panes that causes fogging that won't wipe away
Water droplets, frost, or persistent dampness inside the sealed glass area
Distorted, warped, or blurry glass
Unusually hot in summer or cold in winter compared to other windows
Dust, dirt, or small debris trapped between panes, even after cleaning
Visible mold, wood rot, peeling paint, or cracked caulk around the window
Increased energy bills or drafts
If you notice any of these signs, your window seal likely needs repair or replacement to restore energy efficiency and prevent further damage.
Other window projects
If your seal is damaged beyond repair or there are cracks in the glass itself, you'll need additional services. If the damage is extensive, you may save money in the long run by replacing the glass or the window altogether.
The table below shows the average cost of the most common window-related repair jobs:
| Project | Average cost per window |
|---|---|
| Window sill replacement cost | $250 – $800 |
| Window frame repair cost | $150 – $600 |
| Window repair cost | $175 – $600 |
| Window screen replacement cost | $100 – $350 |
| Window replacement cost | $450 – $1,500 |
Window seal repair or replacement FAQs
What is a window seal?
A window seal is the rubber, foam, or composite strip that creates an airtight and watertight barrier around the edges of insulated windows. It keeps moisture and drafts out and helps maintain any insulating gas between the panes.
Do windows with broken seals need to be replaced?
Pros can repair most broken seals or replace the insulated glass unit (IGU) for far less than the cost of a whole new window. In cases of severe frame damage or old windows, full replacement may be the best choice.
What does a broken window seal look like?
Signs of a broken window seal include fogginess, condensation, or mineral deposits between the glass panes that won't wipe off. Drafts or rising energy bills could also mean failed seals.
Does homeowners insurance cover broken window seals?
Insurance does not cover window seal failure due to standard wear and tear. If a covered event (like a storm or accident) causes the seal damage, coverage is possible. Check your specific insurance policy to confirm coverage.
Getting estimates from window seal repair companies
Get accurate, reliable estimates from window seal repair companies near you with these tips:
Gather and email clear photos showing the condensation or damage.
Describe each window, noting any size, brand, or unusual shapes.
Check window repair company reviews on sites like HomeGuide or Google.
Request itemized bids with clear pricing for labor, materials, and any disposal fees.
Find out if your windows' warranties might cover the repairs and ask if the repair tech offers a warranty on their labor.
Questions to ask a window repair technician
When you contact a contractor for window seal repair, use these questions to find the right match:
Are you licensed and insured for this work?
Do you offer free, itemized estimates?
What is your experience with my specific window type and brand?
What caulking or material do you use for repairs?
How long would a repair vs. a replacement last?
Will you repair, replace the IGU, or recommend full window replacement?
What warranties or guarantees do you provide on your work?
How soon can you schedule the repair?
How long will the repair take?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.