Replacing all the old windows in a home can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If your windows show signs of wear, you could wonder how you would ever afford it. Thankfully, there are cheaper alternatives.
On average, the cost of a window replacement in a home is around $10,000. Or $1,500 to $2,000 per window, according to Brandon Walker, reconstruction manager at ASAP Restoration in Mesa, Arizona. Of course, the cost depends on the window brand, the style and number of windows you have, and the materials they're made of. In this guide, we'll walk you through the least expensive options for getting your home the energy efficiency you need at an affordable price.
Though we'll look at ways to lower that cost for the cash-strapped homeowner, remember that the potential energy savings and the possible 65% return on investment make up for the initial investment.
Cheap window brands you can afford
Most window brands offer a variety of styles and materials that are outside your budget. So, here are a few brands that offer affordable options. Many are available at major retailers like Lowes, The Home Depot, and Menards. Some aren't. Also, keep your energy bills in mind when shopping. Energy-efficient windows typically come at a higher price point than some of these listed. For an efficient, quality window, look for an ENERGY STAR rating.
Champion
As part of the Great Day Improvements family of brands, Champion designs, builds, and installs every style and size of replacement window for your home, including custom windows. The company has showrooms across the country and provides installation services in at least 230 cities nationwide. It offers ENERGY STAR-certified vinyl windows in numerous interior and exterior colors. Prices for Champion windows fall within the average window price range of $425 to $2,100 but include installation.
Milgard
As part of the MITER Brands family, Milgard windows are available in vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass. You’ll find Milgard® windows and patio doors throughout the western United States and parts of Canada. Available in six styles and two colors, the Milgard aluminum windows are designed for replacement and new construction. And, they include a thermal break for optimal energy efficiency.
Jeld-Wen
Jeld-Wen's vinyl V2500 series is also available at Lowes and in limited sizes at The Home Depot. These economical windows are constructed with high-quality extruded vinyl frames and feature low-E insulating glass with argon, a block and tackle balance system, and quality weatherstripping. You can purchase this window in white for an average cost of $362. Jeld-Wen's manufacturing facilities are located in North America and Europe.
Performax
For the most budget-conscious homeowner, Menard's has a line of affordable windows at an even lower price point. Performax double-hung vinyl windows start at $127 for a white 24"W x 36"H model. This window features Low-E glass with argon gas, a steel-reinforced frame, and an aluminum-reinforced sash. Performax windows are made in China.
Don't be surprised by the level of work. Most people expect a pull out/put in. But often, a window replacement includes stucco repair and trim and drywall repair.
What is the most affordable window replacement?
Many factors contribute to the cost of a window, which we'll discuss in more detail below. So, it's tough to tell which is the cheapest option. However, when comparing frame material alone, vinyl and aluminum are the two least expensive. So, here we compare the cost of average-sized double-hung, double-pane windows with low-E glass in both vinyl and aluminum.
Cheap vinyl replacement windows
The average cost of an average-sized double-hung, double-pane vinyl window with low-E glass is from $366 to $665 each.
Vinyl is a popular replacement window material because it's easy to find, low maintenance, and inexpensive. However, not all vinyl windows are created equal. "Cheap vinyl windows tend to be made of lower-quality, mechanically joined vinyl," says Sam Brubaker, vice president at Champion Windows at Great Day Improvements. "Premium vinyl is thicker, chambered, insulated, and has welded joints."
Cheap aluminum replacement windows
An average-sized double-hung, double-pane aluminum window with low-E glass costs from $564 to $1,026 each.
Aluminum windows are made from a durable aluminum alloy that provides a maintenance-free, weather-resistant exterior. Aluminum can withstand extreme temperature changes without warping or cracking. And, aluminum windows come in a variety of colors to increase your curb appeal.
As far as cost goes, aluminum windows are more affordable than some other materials. "We have found vinyl and aluminum are the most affordable window options," says Walker. However, the cheapest windows may reduce energy efficiency because aluminum transfers heat and cold more easily. So, when shopping around, look for windows that include a thermal break to improve insulation, thereby reducing energy costs.
Additional factors that influence window replacement cost
As mentioned, various factors influence the cost of your new windows. Let's look at them in more depth here.
Window material – Aluminum and vinyl window frames are less expensive than wood, composite, or fiberglass.
Window style – Numerous types of windows exist to give your home the aesthetic it deserves–awning and casement windows, picture windows, and bay windows. However, the more complicated the window construction is, the higher the cost. The average home has primarily single- or double-hung windows. To save a few dollars, go with single-hung.
Type of glass – Single-pane windows are virtually nonexistent in residential windows, and for good reason. Standard windows come in double or triple panes. Triple-pane windows will be the most expensive option. You can save on double-pane windows by avoiding options like low-E coatings, gas-filled panes, and specialty glass where it's not required by code.
Window size – The larger the window, the more expensive it is. Ask your window installer if it warrants the expense of resizing an opening to offset the cost of a larger window. Also, stick with standard sizes if possible.
Brand–Let's face it, some brands are more expensive than others. If you want a budget-friendly window installation, stick with brands sold in the big box stores.
Can I install my own windows to save money?
Installing your own windows is a risky way to save a few bucks. First, a DIY installation could void the manufacturer’s warranty on your windows. Also, the slightest error could cause damage to a window, leading to poor performance, cracks, or leaks. "Because the damage caused can be severe and include mold and other water issues, we generally don't recommend window replacement as a DIY project," says Niki O'Brien, operations manager with Custom Exteriors in Colorado. In the end, the cost of having a professional fix your mistakes could negate the savings of your DIY installation.
What are other ways to save on an inexpensive window replacement?
Besides the cost of the windows, you want to save as much as possible on this home improvement project. Here are a few ideas that may help.
Shop around. Always get several quotes and compare notes before hiring a window installer. "Selecting the right company and asking questions when comparing window companies is imperative," says Brubaker. "A reputable window company that covers every step of the process … is often able to provide quality product at fair pricing because they eliminate the middleman markups."
Repair over replace. The average cost to repair a window is from $185 to $337, depending on the nature of the repair and your location. If you fix the windows that aren’t operating as they should, you buy yourself the time to save enough money to replace them.
Pay with a high cash-back credit card. Of course, you want to pay it off as soon as possible, or you'll spend more. But if you have a credit card that offers 1.5% to 3% cash back on services, that's savings in your pocket.
Take advantage of rebates. Check for manufacturer's rebates, says Walker. And if you're making energy-efficient improvements, see if you qualify for IRS tax credits.
You can often find great deals on replacement windows through seasonal offers.
How can I pay for new windows?
If you're reading a buyer's guide to cheap window replacement, chances are you need to finance this project. Here are a few ideas.
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) allows you to withdraw funds against the equity in your home.
A cash-out refinance option allows you to refinance the home for more than what you owe, leaving you with money left over for a project.
Are you doing it yourself? Purchase the windows from a big box store using the store credit card that gives you a discount or interest-free for two years.
Let the sunshine in
When you have operable windows for a great price, you elevate your home's curb appeal and make it a more comfortable, enjoyable place to live. And, if you sell your home, you'll enjoy a 67% ROI, according to Remodeling's 2024 Cost vs. Value Report. Once you've chosen the best window for your budget and are ready to schedule that installation, we can help you hire a professional for the job.
Frequently asked questions
Single-hung windows are the least expensive operable windows to install. The average vinyl single-hung window costs $274 to $499.
Replacing ten existing average-sized windows with new double-hung, double-pane windows costs between $6,408 and $11,659, depending on the material. Most homeowners pay around $7,840 for ten double-pane prefabricated double-hung vinyl windows.
For a budget-friendly window replacement, shop around, look for seasonal specials, and choose economical brands like Pella, Jeld-Wen, and Performax.
You can save money on your window replacement by choosing a low-cost frame material like vinyl. Also, purchasing standard sizes is less expensive than custom.
Sometimes. According to Sam Brubaker, vice president of Champion Windows, many companies can offer bulk discounts. "It can be more cost effective for the contractor to replace many windows at a single residence rather than doing a fewer number of windows at several locations. Therefore, some of these cost savings could be passed down to the customer."
Carol J Alexander is a home remodeling industry expert for Fixr.com. For more than 15 years as a journalist and content marketer, her in-depth research, interviewing skills, and technical insight have ensured she provides the most accurate and current information on a given topic. Before joining the Fixr team, her personal clients included leaders in the building materials market like Behr Paint Company, CertainTeed, and Chicago Faucet, and national publications like This Old House and Real Homes.