Prefab vs Custom Vinyl Window Cost
You will likely opt for a readymade or prefab window when you purchase a replacement window. They come in standard sizes and common shapes and types, such as casement, sash, and sliding. However, you may want to consider custom vinyl 1 windows. Custom windows are also called made-to-order windows, and they can be created in any shape or size. If you have an odd-sized window that does not fit standard sizes, a custom window can be ordered to fit. Also, order a custom window if you want a different color or specific arch or shape because vinyl windows are often white.
The pricing for custom windows has a wide range because they do not come in standard sizes. Therefore, the pricing is custom and generally tailored to the job. It is common for costs to be 30% to 100% higher than standard windows, depending on the options. Below are the average costs for an installed single prefab and custom double hung vinyl replacement window.
| Type | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| Prefab | $650 - $950 |
| Custom | $845 - $1,900 |
Vinyl Windows Cost by Type
Vinyl windows come in any configuration or size. Many homes have several window types throughout the home. You may have sash windows 2 (single or double hung) in the living room and bedrooms, casement windows 3 in the kitchen, and a picture or bay window 4 in the living room. Each window has a cost range based on the average size and operation. The more moving parts and glass panes a window has, the higher its costs. All types can be found in prefab and custom sizing. Custom costs have much higher ranges because they are made to order. Costs for custom windows can be 30% to 100% higher than prefab windows, so keep in mind that you need an exact quote based on your window needs. Below are the average costs associated with each vinyl replacement window.
| Type | Prefab Cost (Materials Only) | Custom Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Egress | $100 - $200 | $130 - $400 |
| Transom | $100 - $250 | $130 - $500 |
| Storm | $150 - $300 | $195 - $600 |
| Skylight | $150 - $1,000 | $195 - $2,000 |
| Single Hung | $150 - $1,400 | $195 - $2,800 |
| Casement | $200 - $750 | $260 - $1,500 |
| Arched | $200 - $900 | $260 - $1,800 |
| Picture | $200 - $1,500 | $260 - $3,000 |
| Sliding | $200 - $1,700 | $260 - $3,400 |
| Double Hung | $210 - $2,000 | $275 - $4,000 |
| Block | $250 - $900 | $325 - $1,800 |
| Awning | $260 - $1,100 | $340 - $2,200 |
| Garden | $500 - $2,000 | $650 - $4,000 |
| Bay | $600 - $2,950 | $780 - $5,900 |
Egress
The cost of a vinyl egress window is $100 to $200 for prefab and $130 to $400 for custom. Egress windows are most commonly installed in the basement. This is a window you can use to exit your home in an emergency. Technically, any window that opens wide enough to fit an adult can be considered an egress, but most people use the term for the basement. Basement egress windows frequently must be installed to give you space to climb out. This can mean the installation costs considerably more than the window.
Transom
The cost of a vinyl transom window is $100 to $250 for prefab or $130 to $500 for custom. They are small windows installed above another window or door. They may be rectangular or arched, and they may be fixed or operational. Some transoms can be propped open for added ventilation or used to bring in extra light. Transom windows are generally small. Adding an arch can help bring in more light, but it raises the cost.
Vinyl Storm Window Prices
The cost of a vinyl storm window 5 is $150 to $300 for prefab or $195 to $600 for custom. Storm windows are not the same as other windows. They are fastened over your existing windows from the outside. This helps insulate the windows and protect them from high winds and impact. They can be fixed or operational, and some may be permanent, while others may be removed during the warmer months. Costs vary based on the storm window you choose.
Skylight
The cost of a vinyl skylight is $150 to $1,000 for prefab or $195 to $2,000 for custom. Vinyl is a popular material for skylights. It is lightweight and can be found in many types, including fixed, ventilated, curb mount, and deck mount. This gives you many options for using and installing the material. Vinyl is a great option for skylights because it is moisture-resistant and not impacted by the roof’s moisture. Vinyl skylights are also easy to install, helping keep costs down.
Cost of Single Hung Vinyl Windows
The cost of a prefab single hung vinyl window averages $150 to $1,400. The cost of a custom single hung vinyl window is $195 to $2,800. They are a sub-type of sash windows. The bottom section moves up and down while the top remains fixed. They are inexpensive and come in many sizes. They are harder to care for than double hung sash windows because it is harder to clean the exterior of the upper section.
Vinyl Casement Window Cost
The cost of a prefab casement vinyl window averages $200 to $750. A custom vinyl casement window costs $260 to $1,500. They come in several styles. They open outward by push or crank. They can be single or double and offer an unobstructed view while having roughly the same dimensions as sash windows. This is because the window has a single pane of glass rather than being broken into two sections.
Arched
The cost of an arched vinyl window averages $200 to $900 for prefab. The cost of a custom arched vinyl window averages $260 to $1,800. They are usually fixed windows of several sizes. While the bottom and sides are straight, the top has a curve or arch. This can make the window more visually appealing while allowing slightly more light in. They are often installed at the top of another window or group of windows, but they may be installed alone.
Picture
The cost of a prefab vinyl picture window averages $200 to $1,500. The cost of a custom vinyl picture window is $260 to $3,000. They are large fixed windows made of one glass pane. Without mullions or divisions in the glass, they let in the most light and frame the view outside. They are often installed in living rooms, bedrooms, and areas with a nice view. Picture windows have no moving parts, so they are relatively inexpensive to purchase and install despite their large size.
Cost for Vinyl Sliding Windows
The cost of a prefab vinyl sliding window is $200 to $1,700. The cost of a custom vinyl sliding window is $260 to $3,400. They are large windows that open horizontally. One or both sides may be operational. They slide on a track and come in several styles. This is a good option if you want a large window and the ability to let in fresh air. The larger the sliding window, the more costly it is. Likewise, a single side being operational is less costly than both.
Cost of Double Hung Vinyl Windows
The cost of a prefab double hung vinyl window averages $210 to $2,000. The cost of a custom vinyl double hung window is $275 to $4,000. They are a subtype of sash windows. They are also a popular style for homes in most areas. It is operational from the top and bottom sections. This provides the most versatility for positioning. Many double hung vinyl windows also tilt inside to make cleaning the top section easier.
Block
The cost of a prefab vinyl block window averages $250 to $900. The cost of a custom vinyl block window ranges from $325 to $1,800. A vinyl block window means the blocks are framed in vinyl to create a more tightly sealed window. The blocks can have several sizes or styles, and the window can come in many configurations. Prefab block windows with a vinyl frame are usually designed for quick installation. A few can be operational, with the blocks being able to move in a group outside of the frame with side hinges.
Awning
The cost of a prefab vinyl awning window averages $260 to $1,100. The cost of a custom vinyl awning window is $340 to $2,200. They are generally smaller rectangular windows. They may be installed in basements or at the top of a door or another window. They are operational windows and open up and out from the bottom, hinging at the top. They can also be used as transom windows for ventilation or egress windows.
Garden
The cost of a prefab vinyl garden window is $500 to $2,000. The cost of a custom vinyl garden window is $650 to $4,000. They extend outward from your home like a small glass box. They are made of multiple glass panes to create a top, bottom, front, and sides. They are designed to place plants inside to maximize the amount of light and heat they receive. The window comes in many sizes and configurations. These are non-operational, and the cost is mostly due to the number of required panes.
Vinyl Bay Window Prices
The cost of a prefab vinyl bay window is $600 to $2,950. The cost of a custom vinyl bay window averages $780 to $5,900. They come in many styles and configurations. Typically, this type is made of three parts - a large window in the center with two smaller windows on each side. The three sections meet at angles so that the window extends outward from the home. This can create extra space indoors for storage or seating. They can be very stylish and may be operational or fully fixed, depending on the style.
Vinyl Window Cost by Size
Vinyl replacement windows come in a wide range of sizes. Typically, sizes are associated with window types, but you may have a range of sizes even within a specific type. It can be easier to group windows into sizes, such as small, average, and large, to get a rough estimate of costs. There may be multiple types and sizes in each category. For example, a small window may be an awning window, transom, or below-average sash window. There can be a range of costs for various sizes and overlap in costs in some areas. For example, a small casement window may cost more than a larger transom window. Below are the average costs for the different sizes.
| Size | Prefab Cost (Materials Only) | Custom Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Small | $100 - $900 | $130 - $1,800 |
| Average | $150 - $1,500 | $195 - $3,000 |
| Large | $200 - $2,950 | $260 - $5,900 |
Small Vinyl Window Cost
The cost of a small vinyl window averages $100 to $900 for prefab and $130 to $1,800 for custom, depending on the type and glass. Small windows typically include transoms, some single and double hung small sash windows, and some small arched windows. Typical sizes include 12”x24”, 18”x18”, 18”x24”, 24”x24”, and 18”x36”. Small windows may be added in conjunction with larger windows or used to add ventilation. For example, you may add a small window to a bathroom or basement. Costs vary depending on the window style and if it is operational.
Average-Size Vinyl Window
The cost of an average-sized vinyl window ranges from $150 to $1,500 for prefab and $195 to $3,000 for custom. Many sizes can be considered average for vinyl windows. That is because there are many window types to choose from. The most common vinyl windows include sliding, double hung, casement, and picture. Each type has a range of sizes considered standard or average. They range from 24”x36” to 48”x60” in some cases.
Large Vinyl Window Cost
The cost of a large vinyl window ranges from $200 to $2,950 for prefab and $260 to $5,900 for custom, depending on the type. Many windows are considered large. These include picture, bay, some arched, and many sliding windows. You can also find some oversized casement and garden windows. Sizes for large windows start at 48”x60” and go as large as 72”x96”. Large windows may also have higher installation rates than smaller windows, depending on the window type, because some require additional support or labor.
Average Cost of Vinyl Windows by Type of Pane
The frame of your window is just one consideration. The glass is also an important part. There are many types of glass for vinyl replacement windows. The most simple is a single pane of untreated glass. However, most people updating their windows for energy efficiency opt for double-pane glass at a minimum. There are also specialty coatings like gasses between the panes and different glass types.
You can layer different glass types in one window to meet your specific needs. Below are the average costs for a single vinyl replacement window with different types of glass, with costs encompassing the most common styles, including casement, sash, and bay windows.
| Type of Pane | Prefab Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Single-Pane | $100 - $1,200 |
| Laminated | $125 - $1,500 |
| Double-Pane | $150 - $1,700 |
| Low-E | $250 - $1,650 |
| Spectrally Selective Coating | $350 - $1,950 |
| Argon-Filled | $375 - $2,000 |
| Triple-Pane | $400 - $2,050 |
| Krypton-Filled | $600 - $4,000 |
Single-Pane
The cost of a vinyl window with single-pane glass averages $100 to $1,200. Single-pane windows are relatively uncommon. The single-pane means the windows are not as energy-efficient as double or triple-pane glass, which can trap air between the panes to help insulate. However, you can purchase an inexpensive or small window if you need it. You can also laminate or add a coating to the single pane, increasing costs.
Laminated
The cost of a vinyl window with laminated glass is $125 to $1,500. Laminated glass has been treated with resin on both sides. This means the glass is stronger and less likely to break. The glass cracks inside the resin if the glass breaks rather than shattering. This makes it safer to have around the home. Thermally treated laminated glass is called impact-resistant glass, and it is used in areas like Florida with hurricanes and high winds.
Double-Pane
The cost of vinyl double-pane windows average $150 to $1,700. Double-pane vinyl windows are one of the most common types. Double-pane glass means two glass panes are used with air between them. The air acts as an insulator, making the windows more energy efficient. You can also add argon or krypton gas between the panes to increase this efficiency. Double-pane glass can also be given different coatings to make it more efficient.
Vinyl Window Cost With Low-E Coating
The cost of a vinyl window with low-E coating on the glass averages $250 to $1,650. Low-E coating is a microscopic metal coating that helps reduce the UV rays entering the home through the window. This can help stop your carpets and furniture from fading and makes the light better for your eyes. Low-E coatings are mostly used in northern areas because they can also help increase heat in the winter. However, there are low-E coatings designed for hot areas, preventing heat from building inside.
Spectrally Selective Coating Glass
The cost of vinyl windows with spectrally selective glass is $350 to $1,950. Spectrally selective coating helps block heat from entering your home with the sun’s light. In a hot area, spectrally selective coating can reduce heat by 40% to 70% without decreasing light. This makes spectrally selective coatings popular in southern states and states like Arizona that see many hot, sunny days. This coating can be added to single or double-pane glass. It can also be combined with gas-filled panes for better insulation.
Vinyl Windows With Argon Gas
The cost of a vinyl window with argon gas averages $375 to $2,000. This is a double-pane window with argon between the panes rather than air. Argon is denser than air, creating a better thermal break between the glass. Less heat can transfer through the window, making the area better insulated. If you are hoping to lower your energy bills with replacement windows, argon-filled vinyl windows may insulate better than standard double-pane windows.
Cost of Triple-Pane Vinyl Windows
The cost of a triple-pane vinyl window averages $400 to $2,050. Triple-pane windows use three panes of glass, each with air or gas. This increases the insulation for the window by essentially doubling the thermal break. Heat has difficulty passing through the two cushions of air, so your home is better insulated. You can further increase the insulation by adding argon or krypton gas to the spaces between the panes. You can also add a specialty coating.
Krypton
The cost of a vinyl window with krypton gas averages $600 to $4,000. Krypton is a non-toxic, colorless, and tasteless inert gas that can be used between double or triple-paned glass. This very dense gas can provide better insulation than air or argon. Adding krypton to your windows may help make your home more comfortable if you live in an area with high energy bills. The dense gas means less heat can transfer through the glass. This means your home loses less heat in the winter and gains less heat in the summer to stay at an even temperature.
Vinyl Window Average Cost by Brand
There are many reputable brands for vinyl windows. Most brands carry a range of vinyl windows with many types, styles, and efficiencies. Some brands specialize in specific types, such as PGT, which makes high-impact windows. Others like Jeld-Wen and Simonton make affordable and high-end custom windows. Most companies also make windows in various materials and door lines. For example, Pella and Anderson make full ranges of windows and doors to match your patio doors and windows.
Other companies like Milgard and Loewen specialize in more luxury and architectural styles. These companies emphasize energy efficiency and luxury, with Milgard focusing primarily on custom windows and doors. This is a good choice if you have oddly sized windows and want a better fit.
If you are looking for a company specializing in vinyl, Alside makes only vinyl windows, while other companies make a range of products. By specializing, Alside can offer more choices for styles and colors with vinyl that may not be available elsewhere.
Each company offers a range of warranties for their products, depending on the product line. Some companies, such as Andersen, require you to have your windows professionally installed by an installer certified by the company. Installing them otherwise voids the warranty. Below are the average costs of the different brands offering vinyl windows for the most common vinyl windows, including casement, sash, and bay.
| Brand | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Jeld-Wen | $125 - $2,365 |
| Simonton | $125 - $2,665 |
| Milgard | $140 - $2,495 |
| Loewen | $150 - $1,800 |
| Pella | $155 - $2,950 |
| Harvey | $250 - $1,325 |
| Alside | $250 - $1,500 |
| PGT | $225 - $2,620 |
| Andersen | $300 - $2,300 |
Vinyl Window Replacement Cost
Many people replace the windows in their home for several reasons. The windows may be older and less energy-efficient than newer models. They may be older windows that are no longer operational, such as sash windows with a broken sash or stuck section or a casement window where the hardware has worn out, leaving it unable to open or close.
If you live in an area with high winds and hurricanes, you may want to replace your windows with impact-resistant options. Vinyl windows are great for these scenarios because they are low cost, easy to install, and offer energy efficiency and impact resistance, depending on the window.
When replacing the windows in your home, the costs of $100 to $200 per window are for replacing between 1 and 4 windows at once. Typically, the more windows replaced, the lower your per window labor cost becomes. This is because larger jobs can mitigate travel and hourly labor costs. So, while the average number of windows to replace at one time is 10, you could save more by replacing all the windows in your home. Below are the average costs to replace the windows in your home by the number of windows.
| Quantity | Average Replacement Cost per Window |
|---|
| 1 - 4 Windows | $100 - $200 |
| 5 - 9 Windows | $90 - $180 |
| 10 - 19 Windows | $85 - $165 |
| 20+ Windows | $80 - $140 |
Cost to Replace All the Windows in a Home
If you replace all your windows with new vinyl windows, you get the best labor and material costs. Most homes have roughly 22 windows, but this ranges from 15 to 40. With an average of 22 windows, you are more likely to get the best costs to replace all the windows at once than by replacing them one by one. Ordering materials at this rate likely gives you discounts on the windows because you are ordering in bulk. This means the cost to replace all the windows in your home is lower than if you do it one by one.
Assuming your home has a mix of sizes, the cost ranges from $5,250 to $28,500, depending on the windows and the total number you replace. Below is the breakdown of costs for vinyl windows installed if you replace them at once using the most common prefab window types.
| Quantity | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|
| 15 Windows | $5,250 - $14,250 |
| 20 Windows | $6,000 - $19,000 |
| 30 Windows | $9,000 - $28,500 |
New Vinyl Window Cost in an Existing Wall
While the labor costs for replacing an existing window are $100 to $200 per window, they can be much higher when adding a vinyl window to an existing wall that does not have a window currently installed. This involves removing the siding from that section, cutting the wall, framing for the window, and then installing the new window. It will need a frame or casing, raising the cost of the window itself, because this is not the case in replacement windows, which can use the existing casing. Depending on the siding type, wall location, and size, this can cost $500 to $1,500 per window in labor. This makes the total cost of adding a new vinyl window to an existing wall between $1,000 and $3,000 on average, depending on the type. Very small windows may have lower costs, while larger windows and adding windows in a home with brick or another difficult to work with siding may have higher costs.
Cost to Add a Vinyl Window to New Construction
When adding onto your home or building a new home, the cost of adding a vinyl window can be different. This involves framing the wall for the window as it is built. Costs can still vary for the labor depending on the size. Keep in mind that the window will need its own frame and casing, while most replacement windows do not. This can raise the window cost and labor cost. Expect labor costs of between $125 and $1,400 per window, depending on the size and type. This makes the average cost of adding a new vinyl window to new construction between $525 and $2,400 on average.
Average Cost of an Energy-Efficient Vinyl Window
Many vinyl windows are considered energy efficient. The vinyl frame is insulating and better than aluminum or steel window frames for energy efficiency regardless of the glass.
However, you need energy-efficient glass options with the vinyl frame to truly make the window efficient. This can be a double-pane window, a double-pane window with argon or krypton glass, and a spectrally selective coating to stop heat transfer in hot climates.
This makes the average cost of an energy-efficient vinyl window between $150 and $4,000, depending on the window and glass type.
Energy Star Vinyl Window Cost
Many vinyl windows can receive an Energy Star rating. This rating means the windows conform to climate and region standards in insulating properties and energy efficiency. There are options available for vinyl frame windows in all styles with the Energy Star label. Their costs range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the window type and size and glass type.
Look for the Energy Star label on the windows you purchase. If you are not purchasing your windows locally, check to ensure they are Energy Star rated for your climate because this can change depending on your location’s needs.
Pros and Cons
Vinyl windows have been around for more than 50 years and comprise a good percentage of the window market. The frame is made from polyvinyl chloride, a plastic with color going all the way through. This means the window does not require painting or scraping. Vinyl windows are among the least expensive replacement windows and are fast and easy to install. They come in all the same window types as other replacement windows and can have a range of glass types, including energy-saving options.
Vinyl warps and expands and contracts with heat and cold, so it may develop air leaks. The windows have a lifespan of roughly 20 years, which is lower than other window frames. Some vinyl frames without a UV-resistant coating may yellow with age. All vinyl replacement windows reduce the size of the “view” through the window because they are installed inside your old window frame.
Vinyl Replacement Window Cost for Mobile Homes
Most mobile homeowners replace windows because they are not energy efficient or outdated. Windows may also need replacing if there are leaks, rust, damage, or failure to function. Replacing old and leaky windows lowers electric bills, improves the comfort level, and prevents further damage.
Older mobile homes built in the 1960s and 1970s have glass slat windows, known as jalousie windows, that are inefficient and leak, not to mention aesthetically unappealing. While modern mobile homes have standardized sizes, installing replacement windows can still be challenging.
Vinyl windows make for less costly replacements while improving energy efficiency and visual appeal. For standard mobile home sizes, expect to spend $100 to $350 per window. Most mobile home windows are smaller than a stick-built home, so the cost is less to replace mobile home windows
Comparing the Cost of Vinyl Windows With Other Materials
Vinyl is only one of many materials that can create a frame for windows. Other materials include aluminum, steel, fiberglass, and wood. Of these, aluminum is the least expensive. It is also one of the least popular because it does not insulate and can allow thermal transfer around the frame.
Fiberglass is often considered the gold standard for window and door material. It is a very good insulator that does not warp, fade, or chip, so it is low maintenance and lasts longer than vinyl. It can also have a more realistic-looking wood grain.
Steel is another fairly uncommon material for window frames. It is very durable and long-lasting, but it rusts, requires regular painting, and is fairly expensive. It is also a poor insulator, so it is not as energy-efficient as vinyl, wood, or fiberglass. However, it can be good for very large windows because the frame is extremely stable.
Wood is another fairly popular but expensive material for window frames. It can come in many options, styles, and finishes and is a better insulator than vinyl. However, it can warp and requires more maintenance. Below are the average costs per window installed for each material.
| Material | Cost per Window (Installed) |
|---|
| Aluminum | $430 - $1,100 |
| Vinyl | $650 - $1,900 |
| Fiberglass | $675 - $2,000 |
| Wood | $750 - $2,225 |
| Steel | $950 - $2,500 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Old Window Removal
Most replacement window costs will include the cost of the old window removal and disposal. However, if you are also removing the frame, you can expect to pay an additional $50 for this service.
Decorative Window Trim
When installing new windows, you may want to install new trim. Decorative trim can make your vinyl window fit with older and historic homes that may have had wood windows previously. Adding decorative window trim costs $125 to $275 per window.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Resale value. Vinyl windows have a resale value of over 68.6%, making them a good investment for the home.
- Warranty. Many quality windows have a double lifetime warranty, which is one option to look for when shopping for good quality.
- Permit. You will likely need a permit for window installations, so check with your town or City Hall for more information.
- Payment plans. Many manufacturers or installers offer payment plans due to the expense of installing multiple windows.
- Location. Bear in mind that the location where you want to install your window can influence the cost. Each space have a different window need and this can have an impact on the size and even the type of the window you require.
- Maintenance. Vinyl windows are considered low maintenance because they do not require painting, but they still require some care. They must be cleaned periodically, and because they can warp in extreme temperatures, you need to periodically inspect the caulking around the windows, replace it as needed, and seal air gaps to maintain the window’s energy efficiency. Vinyl windows may occasionally crack or break and require repair, but this is a fairly easy job that can be done quickly.
FAQs
- How long are vinyl windows supposed to last?
Vinyl windows can last up to 20 years when properly maintained.
- What is better, aluminum or vinyl windows?
Vinyl windows are better for energy efficiency, while aluminum options may last longer.
- Should I replace all windows at once?
You generally get a discount on the per-window cost if you install multiple windows at once. If you can afford to replace all the windows at once, your per-window cost is lower than if you do it piecemeal.
- How much does a vinyl window cost?
The average double hung, double-pane vinyl replacement window costs $750 installed.
- When should vinyl windows be replaced?
Replace it if the frame is extremely warped or cracked.
- Can you paint vinyl windows?
Yes, you can paint vinyl windows, but you must cover the vinyl with a material that allows the paint to stick. Never paint vinyl windows a dark color because vinyl absorbs and is damaged by heat.
- Are vinyl windows considered cheap?
Vinyl windows are considered more affordable than many other materials. However, they are not the cheapest material. That is aluminum.
- Are vinyl windows cheaper than glass windows?
Vinyl windows use glass panes. The vinyl refers to the frame around the glass rather than the glazing material.
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