Replacing windows throughout a home can be a big investment. But it’s an investment with great payback.

Here are some basic guidelines for average-sized windows in an average home.

• You should establish your budget even before beginning your project. EnergyGuard Windows and Doors can give you a free ballpark estimate on how much it might cost to replace your windows. It’s hard to provide an accurate cost range as a house can vary greatly in the number and size of its windows.

• Expect to pay an average of $500-$800 per window for replacements placed inside structurally sound window frames. It could go as high as $1,000 per window depending on the frame material and glass options. Double- and triple-glazed windows, or those filled with argon gas, increase energy savings but bump the cost to the higher end of the scale.

• If an existing window frame is rotted or damaged in any way, the frame must be rebuilt. This can increase the cost and necessitate the use of new construction windows.

Other budgeting considerations:

• Make decisions based on value and quality
• Think about having the work done in stages to spread out the financial impact

Years of Great Payback
High-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows are annually demonstrated to be an excellent investment (Reduce energy consumption, drafts, improve natural light, etc.).

Today’s energy-efficient windows and patio doors also can:

• Reduce energy consumption.
• Reduce drafts and make your home more comfortable.
• Improve natural light and reduce glare.
• Help you take advantage of solar heat gain in cold climates or minimize it in hot climates.
• Provide years of easy operation and weather-tight seals.
• Drastically minimize care and maintenance (particularly if the windows are made of vinyl or aluminum, or have fiberglass exteriors).
• Reduce noise.
• Reduce window condensation.
• Protect draperies, carpets and upholstery from fading or discoloring.