How Much Does a Wood Window Replacement Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $650 - $1,900
Installing a new wooden window costs $1,200 each, though you'll pay $650 to $1,900 for a range of materials and styles.
A double-hung, double-pane wood window costs between $650 to $1,900, or about $1,200 depending on the type of wood you choose and local labor costs. We'll also include the cost to paint, stain, or further customize wooden windows. Here's all you need to know about wooden window costs and how they can warm up your home with a cozy, rustic charm.
- Average
- $1,200
- Low end
- $150
- high end
- $3,000
Wood Window Cost Factors
The total cost of installing or replacing wood windows in your home will depend on a number of factors, such as the materials and wood species you select for your window and whether you want any additional finishing work done, such as staining or painting. Even if you're considering restoring your wooden windows, it's best to get a sense of each cost factor along the way.
Materials
The wood species used to construct your wood windows will affect the price of the window. In addition to aesthetic differences, different species of wood offer varying features. For example, some woods have higher degrees of hardness, while teak is more effective against moist environments, which makes it a great choice for coastal areas with high humidity.
| Wood Species | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pine | $650–$900 |
| Douglas Fir | $695–$970 |
| Oak | $700–$1,000 |
| Maple | $700–$1,100 |
| Cherry | $800–$1,100 |
| Mahogany | $800–$1,100 |
| Teak | $1,400–$1,900 |
Labor
The labor costs for installing a wood window can range from between $200 to $300 per window. That cost covers the entire installation process, beginning with positioning the wood window into its opening, leveling it with shims, then securing the window to the surrounding structure. Remember that wood windows are significantly heavier than vinyl windows (20 to 30 pounds, as opposed to eight to ten pounds for vinyl), and this can result in a longer installation process along with a higher labor cost.
Type of Glass
A crucial part of any window buying guide is how to choose the right window glass. You will come across nearly all types of window glass in wooden frames, from single-pane float glass to Low-E glass built to filter out UV and infrared sunlight. Single, double, and triple-pane wooden window costs will also vary, particularly if they contain insulating gas such as argon or krypton.
| Type of Glass | Cost Range Per Window |
|---|---|
| Single Pane | $225–$450 |
| Double Pane | $400–$800 |
| Triple Pane | $525–$1,500 |
| Low-E | $525–$2,000 |
| Gas-Filled | $550–$2,000 |
Size
Most U.S. homes of relatively recent construction incorporate standard-sized window openings fit for prefabricated windows. This simplifies things when you’re shopping for a wood window of any type for your home, whether for new construction or as a replacement. However, not all windows use those standard dimensions, particularly in the case of older or historic homes.
The good news is that you can get a set of custom windows made to almost any set of dimensions you need. The not-so-great news is that custom windows cost two to three times as much as the equivalent type of window in a standard size.
If you know you’ll need custom work done, make sure to get competitive quotes from more than one professional so that you’ll know you’re getting the best available price. While a pro can help with this, you can also measure for replacement windows yourself to get as accurate of a quote as possible from a pro.
| Window Size and Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small (Prefab) | $200–$700 |
| Small (Custom) | $600–$1,000 |
| Medium (Prefab) | $400–$900 |
| Medium (Custom) | $800–$1,200 |
| Large (Prefab) | $500–$1,800 |
| Large (Standard) | $1,000–$3,000 |
Cost to Install or Replace Wood Windows by Style
You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 per wood window, depending in part on the type of window frame style and any special features included in the design.
Fixed
Fixed windows are just what they sound like: fixed in position, and therefore meant solely for light and views. You can’t raise or open them to let in a little fresh air and they can’t be used to escape your home in an emergency unless you completely break the glass and framing inside. Because they’re basically “just for show,” fixed windows are the least expensive type of windows you can install, ranging from $150 to $700 (in addition to an average of $200 to $300 for labor).
Single-Hung
In most new construction, you’ll see single-hung windows, which consist of a fixed upper sash and a movable lower sash that slides up and down. While they’re not as tightly sealed against outside air as some other styles, they’re a fairly economical choice, costing anywhere from $200 to $900 plus installation costs per window.
Double-Hung
Double-hung wood windows are similar to single-hung models, except that both the upper and lower sashes can slide up and down. Even less airtight than single-hung windows, double-hung windows cost a bit more, with a per-window cost averaging between $300 and $1,200.
Awning
The awning window style is less susceptible to outside airflow than some other models, thanks to the way it’s constructed. They’re hinged at the top and open outwards at the bottom. They’re more commonly seen in basements than in other, more “lived-in” rooms in the home, and they cost between $300 and $900 per window.
Casement
A casement window is constructed using a single glass pane and a hinge on the frame’s exterior, plus a crank handle inside that’s used to open the window by raising the entire pane and frame towards the home’s exterior. Casement windows cost between $300 and $1,000 on average.
Bay
The bay window is usually found in central living spaces, such as a den, family room, or dining area. Created to be a visual focal point and to frame a particularly appealing view, the bay window uses a three-part construction of fixed windows, usually incorporating a large middle-framed window with smaller framed windows to the left and right. They’re the most expensive option, costing between $800 and $2,600.
Custom Window
Custom wooden windows cost anywhere from $600 to $3,000, particularly when you get into large picture and bay windows. Not only can manufacturers construct windows for oddly sized openings, but they can request unique types of wood and construct them into unique styles. On average, custom windows cost between 25% and 75% more than standard prefabricated window varieties.
Ongoing Costs of Wooden Windows
Sturdy wooden windows should last upwards of 60 years. Proper maintenance, repairs, and seasonal care, however, can ensure they never lose their efficiency as the years go on.
Maintenance
The cost to paint or stain wooden window frames falls between $2 and $7 per linear foot. It's best to keep an eye on both the inside and outside of your wooden window frames and stain them every two to three years. Additional maintenance may include cleaning the track of your wooden windows and, of course, the window glass itself. Cleaning your own window glass is a very simple DIY, though you can hire a professional for an average of $220 per visit.
Repairs
Wooden windows need the same type of repairs as other varieties, though they may need some extra TLC as the years go on. Window repair prices range from $400 to $1,600, though wooden window repair costs stick around $175 to $800. There are also plenty of small fixes you can do on your own for less. Adding a thermal window seal, for example, costs about $120, and fixing a window latch can cost just $75.
Winterization
Winterizing your home is always a smart move if you live in a very cold climate. Wooden window insulation and weather-proofing supplies cost $3 to $20 per square foot. Before sealing your windows for the winter, it's best to check them for leaks, caulking issues, and problems with the sash.
How Much Does a Wood Window Cost to Replace Yourself?
If you choose to DIY your own wood window installation, you’ll save between $200 and $300 in labor costs per window. However, you might want to consider leaving this job to your local professional window installer for a number of reasons, especially if you’re installing a statement window, like a bay window. They’ll be able to bring the right crew to the job so that lifting and positioning your new windows goes smoothly. They also have the requisite experience in using the specialized tools and equipment needed to get the job done right.
You’ll also need specific tools and at least another set of hands to help lift and position wood windows, which can be pretty heavy to maneuver into place. It’s best to start your replacement project in the spring if at all possible. The weather is usually more temperate, and you’ll experience fewer disruptions in the home environment while the work is being completed.
Cost to Install It Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor
While you can save money by DIY, you may also run into extra costs you wouldn’t have to pay if you hire a local window installer. For example, you’ll need to have tools like a level, a nail gun, a caulking gun, a power drill, and more. Your local pro will have all those items already on hand.
Common Wood Window Add-Ons
When you’re adding new wood windows, you may want to consider bundling the below additional projects to save money:
Painting window trim and other surrounding areas to match your newly upgraded windows.
Add weatherstripping to ensure your windows stay sealed during the cold months.
If your budget allows, it’s best to install new siding and windows at the same time to avoid any potential damage to either material.
Ways to Save Money on the Cost of Wooden Windows
The costs of installing several wood windows in your home at once can really add up if you’re not carefully keeping track of the various expenses involved. To help manage your budget, follow these tips:
Explore your options with respect to materials, as some woods will cost less than others without necessarily sacrificing durability or looks.
Stick to common window styles where possible and avoid custom sizes if you can.
Depending on the state of your current windows, it may be worthwhile to do some basic repairs than a full replacement.
Consider replacing only a few windows at a time over a full replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wood windows can be a bit more complex to install and might need some additional work for a finished look, including sanding and staining. By contrast, vinyl window replacement costs less on average, can be an easier job, and requires no additional finishing work.
However, given the longer useful life, wood windows might cost less over time. Many homeowners also tend to prefer the overall look and sturdiness of wood. The decision often comes down to aesthetic preferences and the homeowner’s budget.
It’s definitely possible in most cases to enlarge an existing window opening while you’re installing your wood windows. The average cost of enlarging a window ranges from $2,000 to $3,000 per window due to the complexity and intricacies of the project.
Wood window frames that are regularly exposed to moisture are susceptible to water damage and rot over time, the same as any wood structure or element of your home. If you spot leaks or water damage around your windows, don’t hesitate to repair rotted windows on your own. Letting the damage worsen over time will lead to much more expensive repair or replacement work.
When installed and maintained properly windows can last up to 60 years. Vinyl and aluminum windows should be replaced every 20 to 40 years, making wood windows a longer-lasting choice for any home.