What Does it Cost to Replace Windows in an Old House?

Owning and maintaining an older house is a big investment, and replacing worn-out windows  can quickly and effectively improve the look, energy efficiency, and overall comfort of your home. When you’re ready to replace, it helps to fully understand the costs both of time and money to expect before the work begins.

Let’s break down the costs that go into replacing a window in an old house, including different window styles, the installation process, and tips for making the most out of your investment.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Window Replacement

Let’s take a look at a few scenarios that can not only affect the final cost of replacing your windows in an older home, but also how far your investment will go in the long run.

1. Window Material

Part of the cost of your new window will come down to the type and material of the window itself. The most common types of windows are:

• Vinyl: Vinyl windows are affordable, very low-maintenance, and they offer excellent energy efficiency. They are often the most affordable option when it comes to window material. For example, Pella offers vinyl picture windows starting at just $264.27. You will find a more limited selection of colors and styles, and it may be difficult to match to a classic or antique style, but for affordability, vinyl can’t be beat.
• Wood: Wood windows have a nice, classic style which make them easy on the eyes, but they tend to require more maintenance. On average, wood windows sit right in the middle in terms of cost. Pella’s wood windows start at $682 for picture windows.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows tend to be long-lasting and more energy-efficient, but that also means that they come with a higher price tag. Pella’s fiberglass windows can range from $679.03 (picture windows) to $968.46 (sliding).

2. The Type of the Window You Want

The type of your new window will also have an effect on the cost. Some of the most common window types include:

• Casement: Casement windows open outward with the turn of a handle, providing effective ventilation. They also tend to be on the lower end of the cost spectrum. Pella’s single-wide casement windows average cost is $722.77 in wood and $935.80 in fiberglass.
• Sliding: Sliding windows are accessible, easy to use, and don’t take a lot to maintain over the years. They generally fall within the mid-range cost. Pella’s sliding windows average cost starts around $468.83 for vinyl and $968.46 for fiberglass.
• Picture: Picture windows are large, fixed windows that don’t open, usually with a similar price range to sliding windows. Pella’s vinyl picture windows average cost starts around $264.27 and $682.40 in wood.
• Double-Hung: Double-hung windows are popular and practical. They usually sit at a mid to higher price range. Pella’s double-hung windows start around $484.63 for vinyl and $942.07 for fiberglass.
• Bay and Bow: Bay and bow windows are preferred for creating more space and bringing in more light, but they tend to be some of the most expensive window options out there due to the size and materials needed to make up the window. The cost starts at around $1,000.

3. The Size of Your Window

It’s also important to know that the size of the window that you want will directly affect the cost.

Larger windows take more materials and labor, which increases the price. Custom shapes and sizes will also affect the final cost of materials, manufacturing, and installation.

4. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient windows can save you a lot of money on heating and cooling bills in the long run, but in exchange, plan for a higher upfront cost. Be on the lookout for these features:

• Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are ultra-thin layers that are applied to the glass itself. The point of the coatings is to reflect infrared light, which keeps heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer. This helps you maintain the indoor temperature that you want and can help reduce the need for heating and cooling and, as a result, lower your energy bills.

• Gas Fills: Gas fills, like argon gas, can be used between window panes to make for better insulation. Argon gas is denser, or “heavier,” than air, which means it provides you with more insulation by blocking more heat from passing through the window. The end result? Your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer—another win for home comfort and energy savings!

5. Complication of the Installation Process

How complicated or simple the installation process will be can impact the overall cost in a big way. With older homes especially, you might find yourself encountering these issues:

• Structural Issues: Rotting wood, uneven frames, or old construction methods can make installation tricky. Fixing these problems usually means extra work and materials, which can bump up the cost.
• Custom Work: If you need custom-sized windows or special labor for preserving a historical look of your older home, the job gets more complex. Making sure that your new windows fit perfectly with the existing style sometimes requires additional hands-on labor.
• Accessibility: Windows that are hard to reach or that are spread between multiple stories might need special equipment for installation. This can lead to higher labor costs and longer installation times.

Making the Most of Your Investment

No matter the cost of installing new windows in an older home, at the end of the day, you want to be sure that you’re getting the biggest bang for your buck. Use these strategies to get the most out of your window replacement journey:

• Choose Quality Windows: High-quality, energy-efficient windows don’t just look great—they can save you money on energy bills and even increase the value of your home over time.
• Professional Installation: Make sure that your windows are installed by experienced professionals so that you can avoid future problems (and unneeded repair costs).
• Maintain Your Windows: Regular maintenance, like cleaning and inspecting the window seals, will make your windows last longer and work the way they should.

Replacing Windows in an Old House: Done Right with Pella

Replacing windows in an old house is no easy task—but it doesn’t have to feel impossible, nor does it have to break the bank! By knowing the factors that go into the cost of replacing your old windows, and by planning accordingly, you can make the best decision that balances your budget with the benefits of having beautiful new windows in your gorgeous old home.

And with Pella’s exclusive financing we can help make the vision of your home a reality, without causing you a financial hardship. Our financing options are easy to utilize, and can make your dream home a reality.

With Pella Windows and Doors of Omaha and Lincoln, you can trust that you’re in good hands. Not only can we help you find the right window to fit your needs, but we can also make sure that you’re set up for success with proper installation and skip out on unneeded repair costs down the road.

In addition, we offer some of the best warranties in the industry. Thanks to our Pella Care Guarantee, we make sure that your new windows are taken care of for years to come!

Schedule a free consultation today and learn more about how we can help you take your old home into this century the right way.