Comparing Window Replacement Estimates is the Key to Low Costs

From Brittany on May 10th, 2011 in Window Replacement

Window replacement costs are the mystery numbers of home improvement. If you’re looking into replacement windows for your home, you’ve probably tried searching for prices—and then given up, frustrated. Why is there so little cost info online? Shouldn’t it be easy to check window prices and ballpark the cost of your own?

Unfortunately, no. Installing replacement windows can be a complex task for your installer. They need to gather specific data about your home, including:

• The number of windows to be replaced
• The size of your window openings
• Custom windows to be ordered/fitted
• Structural condition of your walls

Comparing Estimates is the Key to Low Costs

Yes, a contractor can say that replacements cost $300 to $700 per window, but that’s still a $400 gap you need to narrow down.

Plain and simple, the best way to figure costs is to get an estimate.

You can receive several cost quotes by clicking here.

Only then you can plan accordingly for your project. Thankfully, estimates are easy to come by once you’ve reached out to an installer. In fact, CalFinder estimates are always free.

Estimates include information for two to three local window contractors. Comparing those bids (and usually selecting the middle-range estimate) is your best bet for affordable window replacement.

Also, make sure to ask your contractor if they have any connections with window dealers. They may have a discount agreement that saves you even more on the ticket price of replacements, especially if you’re ordering a large number of windows.

Replacement Window Prices are Not Set in Stone

So why the lack of pricing information? The problem is that manufacturers are reluctant to post hard-and-fast prices for their products when customizations and add-on features affect most costs.

Just take a look at typical window installation costs. Andersen casement windows, for instance, vary from $326 to $1,009, and double hung-windows from $271 to $2,400. Not exactly a narrow range for estimate purposes.

There’s also the cost of installation, which fluctuates depending on rates in your area, as well as warranties or other added costs.

There are too many unknowns to accurately guess the costs of your new windows.

We only recommend getting estimates from licensed window contractors—multiple ones—and comparing them for the best bid.

Photo via dgblitwin