Installing a new picture window costs $650 on average, or between $200 and $1,900, depending on the size and scope of the project.
If you want to install a picture window to add extra light or frame a scenic view outside, you can expect to pay around $650, with costs commonly ranging from $200 to $1,900 or more. Various factors like size, material, and customization can change your picture window cost, so take a look at some of the common aspects that can affect the price.
A picture window is a type of window with a single panel of glass that usually overlooks a scenic view. Picture windows don’t open, so the view isn’t compromised with window screens. This window type is popular in living rooms or other shared spaces.
Picture windows cost anywhere from $200 for a small window without any extra features to over $1,900 for a large window with add-ons like insulating glass. Labor costs make up about $100 to $300 of the cost per picture window, and you may need to spend more to have a contractor remove and dispose of old windows.
Replacement picture windows cost about $20 to $50 per square foot, so the larger the window, the more it will cost. Larger windows may also mean you’ll pay more in labor costs, as these can be heavier and more difficult to install. Standard-sized windows will cost less than custom sizes.
| Window Size (Inches) | Average Cost per Window |
|---|---|
| 24-by-36 | $120–$300 |
| 24-by-40 | $170–$425 |
| 32-by-48 | $220–$550 |
| 32-by-62 | $280–$710 |
| 48-by-60 | $300–$750 |
| 60-by-36 | $400–$1,000 |
| 72-by-48 | $480–$1,200 |
Picture windows may range from around $100 for aluminum frames to around $1,900 for a large, wood frame. Different window materials provide different levels of durability and insulation, and some materials require more maintenance than others. Before buying new windows, decide what material will work best for your home.
| Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $80–$875 |
| Vinyl | $140–$900 |
| Wood | $200–$1,900 |
| Composite | $350–$1,500 |
| Fiberglass | $550–$1,600 |
You can upgrade your picture windows for about $120 to $1,200 each for the cost of energy-efficient windows, depending on if you opt for a low-E coating, window tinting, or multiple panes of glass. You can also purchase windows with gas fillings between panes to make windows more energy efficient.
| Double-pane glass | $200–$650 |
| Triple-pane glass | $425–$925 |
| Window tint | $315–$925 |
| Low-E glass | $300–$1,000 |
| Argon-filled glass | $400–$900 |
| Krypton-filled glass | $525–$1,200 |
The type of glass you choose for your picture window can affect the cost, ranging from as low as $6 per square foot for double-glazed glass all the way up to $50 a square foot for thermopane insulated glass.
| Type of Glass | Average Cost (per square foot) |
|---|---|
| Double-glazed | $6–$12 |
| Tempered/impact-resistant | $8–$30 |
| Laminated | $10–$25 |
| Thermopane | $8–$50 |
| Frosted | $12–$18 |
Window manufacturers offer a wide range of picture window options, including Pella windows, which range between $400 and $1500 per window, or the more budget-friendly vinyl Window World windows, which average between $250 and $900 a window.
| Brand | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Andersen | $200–$1000 |
| Pella | $400–$1500 |
| Champion | $400–$800 |
| Window World | $250–$900 |
| Harvey | $475–$1000 |
Installing a picture window costs about $100 to $300 per window, or contractors may bill about $30 to $60 per hour. For windows that are difficult to access, such as windows on an upper floor, you may pay more for professional installation.
In addition to the standard installation costs for a picture window, you may need to pay more for prep work, like enlarging a window opening to fit a bigger picture window or creating a new opening in an existing wall. Creating a new window opening or enlarging a window costs $800 to $5,000. If you’re replacing a window, you’ll also spend about $50 to $200 on the cost to remove and dispose of the old window, although some contractors may already build this cost into the project total.
The cost of a building permit to install a new window is about $50. You typically won’t require a permit to install a window in an existing opening, but if you need to create a new opening, you may have to get a permit to start the construction. Your window replacement contractor can help determine whether you’ll need a permit and can even help secure it.
The total picture window cost may range from $100 to over $1,900 based on the type of window frame material. Some frames are less expensive, lightweight, and easier to install, but they aren’t as long-lasting or durable. Other frames, like wood and fiberglass, may cost more upfront, but they can withstand extreme temperatures and will last many years with proper maintenance.
Vinyl picture windows cost about $140 to $900 for materials and installation. Vinyl is popular because it is a less expensive material and is extremely easy to maintain. This frame just needs to be wiped down from time to time. However, vinyl doesn’t hold up well to extreme hot or cold temperatures, which can cause the material to warp.
Aluminum windows, which cost $80 to $875, are a great option for homes in regions with mild temperatures year-round. Aluminum can withstand extreme temperatures, but it isn’t a great insulator. This material offers a modern look to homes and is durable against strong winds, but it is vulnerable to corrosion.
Wood has long been a popular window frame material, and this type of picture window can range from $200 to over $1,900. Wood is highly attractive and durable, but it’s also high maintenance. You’ll need to repaint or seal wood window frames every 3 to 10 years to protect the wood and minimize risk of rot.
Fiberglass, which costs about $550 to $1,600, may be a more expensive material, but it does offer a lot of benefits. It’s easy to maintain like vinyl, but far more durable. This material won’t warp, crack, or rot with extreme temperature or moisture exposure. However, it can be more difficult to install.
Composite picture windows cost about $350 to $1,500. This material is designed to be strong and durable like fiberglass, but it looks like natural materials, such as wood or stone. This is another material that is easy to maintain, but it does come at a higher price point.
Over time, picture windows may need maintenance and repairs that can add to their long-term costs. Fortunately, because picture windows don’t open, they have fewer parts to take care of, so they may cost less to maintain than other types of windows.
Window repairs cost $175 to $615, depending on the problem. With picture windows, you’ll typically be dealing with broken glass or damaged frames. Fixing a cracked window costs about $70, while replacing a broken glass panel ranges from $200 to $400. Replacing a window frame costs $180 to $600.
All windows will need a little TLC, but some windows need more attention than others. You’ll need to keep the window and its frame clean, which is easy to DIY and can save you money. If you install a picture window with a wood frame, you’ll spend about $50 to $110 for the materials to refinish the wood frame with new paint or sealant every few years.
To install a picture window, you’ll spend about $80 to $1,500 just for the window materials. If your toolbox isn’t sufficiently equipped, you can expect to spend another $200 to $800 on the following tools and supplies:
Putty knife: $5–$10
Screwdriver: $5–$20
Hammer: $5–$25
Caulk gun: $5–$25
Pry bar: $5–$50
Power drill: $20–$150
Ladder: $150–$500
Installing a window isn’t easy, especially if you need to create a new or bigger opening in the wall. Even if you decide to DIY parts of this project, you may still need to hire some help, like structural engineers or electricians, to finish the job safely.
Hiring a local window contractor is the best way to install a picture window. Because they already have all the tools and supplies necessary to complete the work, it may even be a better deal to spend an additional $100 to $300 per window for professional installation, rather than going out to buy all the materials to install the window on your own.
Not only that, but proper installation is key to an energy-efficient and secure window. If you attempt to DIY but don’t install the picture window correctly, you may be stuck with drafty windows. Rain can also get into the window this way, leading to mold growth and rot. This project is best left to the pros.
Maybe you want a big picture window with a comfy bench underneath for reading on sunny days. Or perhaps adding some shutters will help you achieve the modern farmhouse look of your dreams. There are many ways to customize your picture window to suit your style. Some common additions and their prices include:
Window treatment cost: $150–$1,650
Window seat cost: $500–$8,000
Soundproof window cost: $300–$1,500
Window cleaning cost: $150–$300
Window shutters cost: $1,350–$4,700
Picture windows are often less expensive than other window types, like big bay windows or sliding windows. Still, installing any new or replacement window can be a big cost. Fortunately, there are several ways to stick to a tight budget when buying picture windows.
Look for tax credits: If you decide to install energy-efficient picture windows, you may be eligible for up to 30% tax credits, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Wait for seasonal discounts: In winter, retailers and installation companies may offer off-season discounts on windows.
DIY window removal: Handy homeowners can save money on prep costs by removing and disposing of old windows themselves.
Skip upgrades: Picture windows don’t open, so they are actually quite insulative and energy-efficient. You can save by skipping on added energy-efficient upgrades.
Paige Bennett contributed to this piece.
Picture windows last about 20 to 50 years, depending on the material, your location, and how well you maintain the windows over the years. Materials like vinyl and aluminum may not last as long, while fiberglass can last many years. Wood will last decades if you keep up with maintenance. Homes in areas with harsh weather throughout the year may cause windows to have shorter lifespans.
Picture windows are still in style, even though they are one of the oldest types of windows. Other windows, like single- or double-hung windows and casement windows, have increased in popularity because they can open up for fresh air. But homeowners still love the way a picture window can frame their lush outdoor garden or other pleasant neighborhood views.
A double-hung window features two operable sashes, meaning it has an upper window part and a lower part that can both open to let in fresh air. A picture window has one fixed glass panel that doesn’t open. Double-hung windows cost about $200 to $2,500, while picture windows cost about $200 to $1,900.
