Before you begin to compare replacement window costs, you should examine your current windows and determine the main reason for new house windows. These reasons may be important in selecting the best replacement windows for your home. Common reasons for needing replacement windows include:

• Air drafts
• High energy bills
• House renovation
• Operational ability (difficult to open or close)
• Repair/painting difficulties.

Cost Factors in New House Windows

As you choose replacement windows, many factors will affect these window costs. For example, following is a list of various framing materials that will influence a window’s replacement cost, in order of price, from the least expensive to the most expensive:

• Vinyl is cheap, but not all homeowners like the look of the material. If window costs are your primary concern, then vinyl is the best option. Consider how long you plan to live in your house, as vinyl replacement windows usually don’t last longer than five years or so.
• Fiberglass window costs are higher than what you’ll pay for vinyl, but these replacement windows have better insulation than other options and are virtually maintenance free.
• Fibrex is a composite material made up of wood fibers and thermoplastic polymers. These replacement windows are stronger than vinyl, require little maintenance and provide better insulation. Although Fibrex is expensive, the green material may make these window costs eligible for tax rebates or credits.
• Aluminum replacement windows suit modern-style homes the best, but don’t provide the best insulation for houses in cold climates.
• Wood is more expensive than other options, and goes best with traditional architecture. It requires constant maintenance, but may last longer than other options.

Other Factors of Window Costs

Other factors to consider when looking for new house windows are the following:

• Brand names: Brand names often increase products’ prices, and new house windows are no exception. While there are big names in the window world, some homeowners choose generic replacement windows to save money. You may be able to find replacement windows with the same features as the brand name product at a lower cost. Make sure to consider features as well as the new house window’s cost.
• Installation: Although professional window installers often come with a high price, they also have extensive experience. DIY window replacement is often difficult and not feasible for homeowners. Some people choose to buy the replacement windows and hire a handyman to install them. However, remember that handymen charge by the hour when installing replacement windows.
• Energy efficiency: An energy-efficient window’s cost will likely be more than a traditional window’s replacement cost, but these models will save energy over time. To help alleviate some of the initial sting, many energy-efficient windows, including Energy Star® replacement windows, are eligible for tax credits or rebates.
• Size: A replacement window’s cost is directly related to the window’s size: the bigger the window, the higher the window’s cost. Furthermore, if you choose new house windows that are larger than the existing ones, structural alterations may increase the window’s replacement cost.