Window Replacement Cost

man carrying window

Replacing windows is something every property owner must do from time to time. But let’s face it, the cost of replacing windows in Toronto can be high, especially if you have to replace windows in more than one room. That’s why taking the time to find a window company that sells affordable window replacements can make all the difference. While the general consensus is to place an order on discounted windows, sometimes, saving money means investing big in the present to spare yourself the headache of a shoddy window in the future.

In this article, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of window replacement costs and how you can find the best quality windows for your home without breaking the bank. Continue reading.

Understanding Window Installation Costs

window replacement cost toronto

There are ways to reduce the amount of money you spend on replacement windows. People involved in construction often look for inexpensive windows to help them save money on their building projects since they have to purchase them in bulk. This may help you if you are looking to save some money on affordable replacement windows for your home.

Builder Grade vs. Premium Grade Windows

window replacement vaughan by milano windows & doors

Architectural-grade windows (aka premium grade windows) are used for more expensive projects while selecting a builder-grade or contractor-grade window style often gives you great replacement window deals, allowing you to say some extra dollars. This means that you can still expect a good quality window even though you are not buying a window with a higher grade.

Builder-grade/contractor-grade windows come in the form of many common types of windows like fixed windows, single or double-hung, slider and casement windows. Other qualities you may be able to find that affect the price of windows are features like Low-E film on the glass, which protects against UV rays.

What about Window Upgrades?

Many window installation and manufacturing companies offer additional features or add-on that enhance the window. These are nice to have but not necessary. Since these additional window features tend to drive up the cost, think about what you really need and leave out those you can do without. This will help you stay within your budget. Some of the add-ons include:

photo of window frame - window replacement toronto
  • Between-glass shades – these windows have blinds integrated between the glass. These have become quite popular in the last decade because they do not collect dust as typical blinds do. This makes them a better fit for people suffering from allergies.
  • Laminate exterior glass – this glass is formed when heat and pressure are used to bond glass layers together using a resin called PVB (polyvinyl butyral). This makes the glass stronger.
  • Trim supplied – this is when the window company installs a window trim to cover the space between the window frame and the wall.
  • Company-supplied hardware – this typically includes items like coverings and other materials to install the window.
  • Integrated grilles (muntins and mullions) – this a metal or wooden strip used to hold glass panes of a window in place.

It’s now up to you to decide the window installation upgrades most essential to you and which ones you can do without.

Negotiate for Replacement Window Deals

exterior door installation contract

What many people may not realize about window replacement companies is that they are willing to negotiate their prices. In fact, negotiation is expected and factored into the initial price. To beat off competition, many window replacement companies will give you great window replacements deals or even a price match to lock down your business.

This is because window companies buy windows at wholesale prices from a manufacturer. While you will have some wiggle room in your negotiations, remember each company will have a cutoff point where negotiations end.

Nonetheless, realizing you have the upper hand when it comes to negotiations can help you save more on your purchase.

Window Material Prices

window frame color choice - windows and doors mississauga

Wood window frames are considered the highest-grade material for windows. It is classic and has been used for centuries. So window frames made from wood are expensive.

Fibreglass frames are a good alternative and cost less than wood. An even cheaper option than fibreglass is vinyl. Interestingly, it’s hard to tell the difference between these three types of materials. The most distinct difference is the price. When you think of it since it is very difficult to differentiate between wood and the other two types of materials, why pay more? If you want to reduce your window costs, you can do so quite easily by selecting a cheaper material.

Common Window Styles Save You Money

casement with picture window -window replacement toronto

Sticking with regular or common styles of windows can save you big dollars. Some of the uncommon window shapes are curves, hexagons, circles, bays, and bows. The uniqueness of these windows will make them more expansive. You should also note that the more complex the window design is, the more challenging it will be to install. And that’s something you have to factor into your window installation costs.

Some of the more inexpensive window styles are casement windows, single- or double-hung, sliders and fixed windows.

Window Supplier Have Limited Options

Windows Options - window replacement toronto

An authorized dealer will only be permitted to sell a particular brand of window. This doesn’t automatically mean their prices will be the highest on the market. What it does mean is that you will only have the option of buying the brand they carry. The lack of other brands takes away the ability to compare prices and features other brands have to offer. In other words, it limits the competition, which you need to keep prices competitive.

At Milano Windows and Doors, we have a wide variety of brands for you to choose from. Comparing the benefits of different window installation contractors gives you a greater chance of purchasing better windows.

Compare Window Quotes

Compare Window Quotes- window manufacturers toronto

A common mistake many customers make when buying replacement windows is settling on the very first quote they receive. You can ask for quotes from as many window replacement companies as they are out there, however, et at least 3 quotes from different companies to give you an idea of what you can expect to spend on replacement windows.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Windows?

Cost to Replace Windows

When considering window replacement, expenses are the main concern for most people. If you are ready to replace your windows, you need to be aware of the project scope and its actual costs, so that you have an idea about what to expect in terms of prices.

Generally speaking, window replacement projects cover either all the windows in the house or all the windows in a single floor. Nevertheless, most contractors will offer you special deals the more windows you decide to replace and install in your home.

What Do You Need to Look for When Replacing Windows?

Shopping for windows is an exciting step seeing as there are a lot of modern window designs and varieties out there to choose from. When people look for window replacements, they are searching for a product that is durable, has great structure, and aesthetic appeal. So, it is essential to keep in mind the following window features:

window frame color choice - windows and doors mississauga
  • High-quality frames that will not rust, warp, or peel over time
  • Choice of colors for the frames
  • Double panes to lower energy loss and soundproof your home
  • Easy to open and close
  • Shatterproof glass
  • Window Replacement Process

Now that you have found the perfect replacement windows, it is time to hire a skilled window installation expert. This step is important because it will guarantee your old windows are properly replaced and the new ones are correctly installed.

For the most part, the whole window replacement project will take 4 to 6 weeks to complete after you have hired a window installation team. It is the contractor’s responsibility to take window measurements and check whether the new windows immaculately fit into their slots. If the new windows are going in the pre-existing window frame, the whole process will, of course, take less time and cost less money.

Additionally, the contractor’s responsibility when installing home windows is to remove and dispose of old windows and replace unusable older frames. Although the initial window replacement price estimate may be quite accurate, it is only when the old frame is taken apart the contractor might see the full scope and cost of work.

City of Toronto’s building permit guidelines

building permit guidelines - exterior doors toronto

According to the City of Toronto’s building permit guidelines, you will need a permit to replace your windows in cases where there will be structural or material alterations such as:

  • Enlarging an existing window opening
  • Changing the location of a window
  • Altering the shape of an existing window opening
  • Installing a new window where there were none before

Home Window Replacement Costs

single picture window installation by milano windows & doors

On average, the cost of replacing a window is anywhere between $300 and $700. Obviously, it is a rough average that is based on the type and size of the windows. Generally, to replace windows in a typical one-storey home—say, with three bedrooms and approximately 10 windows—, the total window replacement costs will range from $3,000 up to $7,000. In a two-storey house, however, you can expect the price to double.

Factors that Affect the Cost to Replace Windows

Although it can be tricky to calculate window replacement costs, there is a number of factors that go into the overall calculation:

window replacement mississauga
  • The condition of the existing frame
  • The type and size of windows installed —double-hung windows, single-hung windows, sliding windows or casement windows
  • Exterior elements such as window awnings and window frames
  • The overall size of the project and the number of windows to replace
  • Alterations to the pre-existing frame and new window cut-in

Although the cost of an average window replacement project can be substantial, it is beneficial in the long run. With the variety of window designs and features on the market, replacing your windows means cutting down on your energy bills, making your home soundproof and safe, and adding value to your house, should you wish to sell it in the future. Contact us to get a FREE estimate on your window installation cost.

Windows Cost by Type

Casement Windows

Casement replacement window

Casement windows utilize a crank mechanism located on the inside of the window to open and close the window. Most casement windows have a hinge on the side of the window that allows it to be open outward, like the way a door opens. The cost to install casement windows largely depends on the size and the materials selected. Typically, it costs between $250-$1,850 to install these types of windows.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • One of the most energy efficient windows. This is because the sash creates an airtight seal when the window is closed.
  • A popular choice with homeowners because they are versatile and can be used anywhere in your home.
  • Since casement windows open outward, they provide good ventilation.
  • The interior crank can also be used as a lock. However, It’s important to note that some models do come with a separate lock attached to provide additional security.
  • The crank mechanism makes it possible for the window to be held in position when opened without the concern of the window closing

Disadvantages

  • Since casement windows open outwards, it’s impossible to install screens.
  • Casement windows don’t come in as wide a variety as other windows.

Double Hung Windows

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows look very similar to single hung windows but have two moveable sashes that can be slid up and down. This additional feature is responsible for a slightly higher cost range of $200 – $850 each.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • The double sashes provide increased ventilation.
  • Windows are very easy to clean.
  • Offer additional safety features since both sashes lean inward. This is particularly important on higher floors.
  • More modern models do require less maintenance particularly those with frames made out of vinyl or fiberglass.

Disadvantages

  • More expensive to install than single hung windows since two sashes create a more complex design
  • Windows need to be cleaned and dusted regularly.
  • The crank mechanism may need to be lubricated from time to time to prevent rust or windows becoming too stiff.
  • They do not provide an airtight seal when closed, which may result in higher energy costs.

Single Hung Windows

Single Hung Window

Single hung windows are also called fixed windows. These types of windows have a simple design and slide up to open and down to close. The moveable pane is called a sash. The best place to install these windows is on the ground floor because you may need to lean out to reach the exterior part of the upper sash. The cost to install single hung windows is roughly $250-$525 each.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • Popular mostly because of their costs.
  • Simple installation.

Disadvantages

  • They have limited functionality.
  • You can only open the lower sash which means that your home would receive less ventilation. Decreased ventilation in a home increases the chances of mould particularly in rooms that are prone to moisture.
  • Difficulty cleaning these windows. To ensure the exterior surfaces are clean you need to go outside which is why these windows are best for lower levels of your home.

Sliding Glass Windows

Double Slider replacement window

These windows are also known as slider or folding windows. These can be compared to double pane windows, however, the difference is that they open horizontally and have one movable sash that slides over a fixed pane. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$1,500 for each window. Custom windows can increase that price to between $760 and $1,190 each, including labor.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • Low maintenance and consist of fewer parts than most types of windows.
  • The simple design makes these windows easy to use.
  • You can clean the windows easily by removing the top pane, however, doing so is not recommended if this window is installed on a higher floor since removing the top panel requires you to lean outward, which can be dangerous.
  • They are durable.

Disadvantages

  • Cleaning the inside of the window is easy, however, the outside is more challenging, particularly during colder months.
  • These windows cannot be tilted or lifted for easy cleaning like some other types of windows.

Awning Windows

Awning windows Toronto

Awning windows are similar in appearance to casement windows but one of the main differences is that the hinge is located on the top of the window instead of the side. Awning windows are typically preferred for lower floors in the home, particularly basements. Most models open outward and they use an interior crank mechanism coupled with a latch that locks the window. The cost to install awning windows is close to that of casement windows and is typically between $350 and $1,850.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • The crank mechanism holds the window up against gravity.
  • They provide good ventilation.
  • They are attractive windows and offer a very stylish look to your home.
  • They offer a level of privacy
  • Can be fitted high on the walls in a room.
  • They are a great choice where space is limited like half bathrooms

Disadvantages

  • Since they open out and upwards, they require more cleaning
  • If they are installed on higher floors, you will need a ladder to clean the outside of the window.

Bay Windows

End vent slider window

Bay windows open outward and are very popular in many homes. They have a large central fixed pane with smaller side panes. They usually consist of three panes and cost about $2,960 to replace.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • Having bay windows greatly increases the value of your home.
  • They provide good ventilation.
  • Due to their size, they allow a lot of natural light into a room.

Disadvantages

  • While many people love the amount of natural light bay window windows afford, this can be a disadvantage during the summertime because the additional light may result in your air conditioner working even harder to keep the room cool.
  • Bay windows may need to have custom draperies to cover them
  • Require the foundation of your home in great condition.

Bow Windows

marvin window design

These windows are similar to bay windows and open outward, which adds to the square footage of your home. They usually contain four or five panes and cost between $1,150 to $5,900.

What Do You Get for The Price (benefits)

  • They provide unobstructed panoramic views.
  • Allow more natural light into a room than most windows.

Disadvantages

  • They are a more expensive choice and installation is complex.

10 Factors that Affect Windows Replacement Costs

The cost of replacement windows is often one of the determining factors that influence the type of windows a homeowner may install in their home. With window installation costs varying quite drastically, it’s important to know exactly what affects window replacement costs so you can make the best decision for you and your home.

amazing home with custom windows and doors - windows and doors vaughan

1. Number of Windows

Many homeowners choose to replace their windows due to damage or the need to upgrade them to higher quality or more energy efficient options. The number of windows that need to be replaced will affect the overall cost of the installation project. So whether you are installing two windows or 10 makes a huge difference. This is one of the main factors that influence the cost of the window replacement.

basement window replacement by milano windows and doors

2. Type of Windows

Replacement windows may have a simple design or more complex features that require more time to install them. Casement windows, for example, are popular in part because they have a simple design and are easy to install. The most common types of windows are double hung windows, sliding windows and single hung windows. The other types of windows tend to be less common because of their complex design that makes installation more complicated, therefore, you can expect to pay more for their installation.

window replacement mississauga

3. Type of Frames

The type of material used for your window frames will affect the price. So whether you go with wood window frames of vinyl window frames, you can expect to see a variation in cost. Additional features like the type of wood used or enhanced features like insulation will also impact the cost of the replacement windows.

While wood and vinyl are the most common materials used for window frames, other options include stainless steel, aluminum and composite. Wood frames are the most expensive and the most durable, making them a good fit for various types of climates.

Wood window frames can cost up to twice as much as vinyl wood frames but are a preferred choice because they last longer than vinyl window frames if they are cared for properly and well-maintained during the life span.

Another advantage of wood frames that they provide great insulation around windows and can be customized by Painting them in your colour of choice. Composite is a mixture of PVC and wood fibres and is an affordable material, which makes it a good choice if you have a lean budget.

man carrying a window - window replacement companies

4. Additional Components

Labour is a large factor in pricing and can account for up to 40 percent of the total window replacement cost. Typically, the labour involved in replacing windows includes removing the old windows, framing, installing and caulking the new windows and then clean up afterwards. If your window installation project requires additional labour in order to complete the job, for example, installing new sills or casings around the new window frames, it will increase the cost of the window installation.

Photo of luxury Home with custom windows toronto

5. Your location

Where you live affects the cost of your window replacement because access to materials and how much it costs to transport the materials will be factored into the cost. How far window replacement contractors need to travel to get to your home also affects how much you will pay. If you live in a remote area that requires a longer commute, you typically pay more for the installation cost.

Modern 8 panel window - window replacement brampton

6. Size of The Windows

Many homeowners love the idea of large windows in their home to usher natural light in the room, but it’s important to consider the cost of installing large windows. General, the larger your replacement windows are the more it will cost you to install them. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider the size of your replacement windows, especially if you plan on installing many windows. Since other factors come into play like the type of glass and other materials used, the size of your windows should not be the sole fact you consider when thinking about the best choice for your home. But knowing window prices by size can be of great help.

Markham bow windows replacement by milano windows & doors

7. Type of Glass

There are a number of options when it comes to the type of glass you choose for your replacement windows and each affect the price. So whether you opt for double or triple pane glass, laminated glass, tinted glass or any of the other options for window glass, the overall price will be impacted by your choice. The glass may be tempered, insulated, thermal or double glazed.

3 panel window painted black - windows and doors markham

8. Insulation

Many windows come with enhanced features on the frame that make them more energy efficient. These features improve the value and quality of the windows. In general, single pane windows offer the least energy efficiency. The most energy efficient options are double and triple pane windows. Triple pane windows are more expensive than double pane windows and cost roughly $200 more per window.

Insulation can reduce your home’s energy consumption by more than 25 percent. Features like extra installation may increase that cost of your replacement windows by an additional $50 per window. Since glass is a poor insulator, many replacement windows have features that improve the weather-resistance of windows and the overall performance.

milano windows & doors team carrying window

9. Labour

Replacing windows requires great skill. The amount of labour involved in your home’s window replacement project will impact the cost. If the window is larger and is comprised of more features, you may end up paying more for the installation.

windows and doors mississauga

10. Warranty

If the windows you are installing in your home come with a warranty, it may result in additional costs. Many window replacement companies offer a one-year labour warranty which goes a long way in protecting your investment.

FAQs

Is replacing your windows worth it?

Certainly. It’s not a task that needs to be done frequently unless there is damage, but not replacing a window when it is necessary will lead to problems like poor ventilation and increased energy costs.

Should I replace all windows at once?

The cost of replacing windows can be quite hefty. Depending on the reason for replacing the windows and how much restriction you have on your budget. If you have a limited budget, replacing your windows one at a time may be the best option for you. However, if you have more flexibility with your budget, replacing them all at once would be a good idea.

What is the best time of year to replace windows?

The best time to replace your windows is late spring and all through the summer and into early fall.

To learn more about how you can save money on your window installation, contact us. The Milano team has the skill and knowledge to give you all the details you need.
CONTECT TODAY!

RELATED ARTICLE: Window Buying Guide

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedinmail