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Picture Window Installation Cost
National average
$1,000
(6 x 4-foot wood window with energy-efficient glass and oversized frame)
Low:
$400
(vinyl window with plain glass and standard frame)
High:
$2,000
(wood window with a custom curved top, thickened safety glass, and Low-E coating)
Cost to install or replace picture windows varies greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Get free estimates from window installers in your city.
The average cost of installing picture windows is $1,000.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Picture Windows?
Picture windows 1 give an unparalleled view of the outdoors. With minimal frames and expansive glass, a picture window 1 lets in a lot of light as well as providing a more open feeling.
Picture windows 1 come in many sizes, frame types, and glass styles, which leads 2 to a wide range of associated costs. A 6 x 4-foot picture window 1 with a wood frame and energy-efficient glass has an average cost range of $500 to $1,200, with most homeowners paying around $1,000 for the job.
Picture Windows Installation
| Picture windows 1 installation costs | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $1,000 |
| Average range | $500 - $1,200 |
| Minimum cost | $400 |
| Maximum cost | $2,000 |
Pros and Cons of Picture Windows
Picture windows 1 are unique because they are designed solely for the view and not for ventilation. A picture window 1 does not open, so it does not allow air to circulate throughout the home.
A picture window 1 is usually large, made of a single sheet of glass. It may be installed alone or with smaller windows on either side. Using a picture window 1 maximizes the amount of light in a room while providing a better view of the outside. If you have a view or landscape that you want to see, a picture window 1 allows you to do that.
Picture windows 1 are simply a large sheet of glass in a frame. So, unless you are using thickened and energy-efficient glass, this large window can have drawbacks. It may allow UV light and heat to enter the home if the sun is directed at it and may not insulate as well as a solid wall unless you are using insulated glass. Large picture windows 1 that do not use oversized frames or thickened glass may also crack or break easily, becoming a security hazard. If you choose to use insulated, thickened glass and an oversized frame, the cost of the window can rise drastically.
Size
Picture windows 1 are usually large, creating a “picture” of the area beyond. It is possible to purchase custom picture windows 1 in any shape or size you desire, but most are either rectangular or square and come in sizes of 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 feet in width and heights ranging from 1 to 8 feet.
Costs for a 2-foot wide picture window 1 start at $50, while prices for a 4-foot window begin at $100. Windows 6 to 8 feet in width start closer to $500 to $600 because the weight of the glass and size of the frame need to increase to accommodate the size.
Material
Like all windows, picture windows 1 have frames that can be made of different materials. Each material has its own attributes and cost. Below are some of the considerations for each material, along with material costs without installation.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ($50 - $500) | Inexpensive Fast installation Low-maintenance Provides some insulation | Wider frame, which means a smaller view May warp with heat and cold Requires caulk 3 to prevent air leaks |
Aluminum ($75 - $700) | Durable Lightweight Inexpensive Resists corrosion | Not energy-efficient Requires periodic painting Limited options |
| ($100 - $800) | Very strong, good for oversized windows Does not warp Paintable | Not energy-efficient Requires repainting periodically Limited options |
| ($200 - $1,500) | Very popular material Insulates well Many sizes available Can be given many finishes and styles Suitable for older and historic homes | Expensive High-maintenance Longer installation time May warp or rot over time |
Installation Process
Installation for a picture window 1 varies depending on size and material, but most proceed in relatively the same way. The old window and window frame are removed, unless using a vinyl 4 picture window 1, in which case the old frame remains. The new window will be lifted and fit into place. The frame will be nailed into studs, and adjustments made as necessary for a tight fit. The frame is caulked 3 into place, and the outer trim installed over it to hide the gap and provide a finished appearance. For a small picture window 1, this can take less than an hour, but a larger picture window 1 may take longer - usually one to two hours because the glass and frame are heavy and may require a more exact fitting.
Labor Costs
Window installers charge an average of $75 to $100 an hour for installation. This cost increases with larger windows because they may need two or more professionals to lift and steady the window during the installation process. Smaller picture windows 1 can be done more easily in less time, so they cost less in labor, while a larger picture window 1 can cost significantly more.
For a 6 x 4-foot window, installation takes roughly two hours plus another hour for fitting and finishing, making the labor cost around $300 out of the $1,000 total.
Maintenance
Picture windows 1 do not need more maintenance than other windows and, in many cases, require less. Because there are no moving parts, only the glass and the exterior of the frame need to be cleaned. There are no sliding tracks to clean and maintain and no locks or gears to repair.
In most cases, the maintenance is simply keeping the glass and frame clean and making sure that the caulk 3 around the frame remains intact. You may need to scrape and repaint the exterior frame, particularly if this is a wood frame, every few years to keep it looking its best.
Enhancements and Improvements
Energy-efficient Glass
Because the picture window 1 is so large, it is recommended that you opt for energy-efficient glass, either with Low-E coating, reflective coating, full spectrum coating, or argon-filled glass panes. Expect to pay an additional 15% to 25% more for these glass upgrades.
Window Removal
Many companies roll the cost of removing the old window into the total cost of the project, but some do not. It costs between $50 to $200 additional, depending on the size of the window, to remove an old picture window 1 and dispose of it.
Window Inspection
If you are unsure of the type and size of your window and whether it needs to be replaced, have a window inspection done. They will examine the frame, glass, and installation so that you have a better idea of how efficient it is and what shape it is in. This costs $100 in most cases but may be rolled into the cost of the new window if you purchase and install it using the same company.
Glass Upgrades
The larger your picture window 1, the thicker the glass typically is for durability. You can also opt for tempered glass, safety glass, or impact-resistant glass if you live in an area that is prone to things like hail or other natural disasters.
Additional Costs and Considerations
- Replacing three or more windows at one time can lower the installation cost.
- Picture windows 1 can be installed in different rooms. They are most likely to be installed in rooms with high ceilings and in areas that provide a nice view.
- You can combine picture windows 1 with other window types, such as casement windows 5, that provide ventilation. It is common to flank a picture window 1 with other windows on either side.
- The type of window material and glass you choose may be influenced by the area where you live. For example, very sunny climates may need a reflective coating on the glass.
- You may need a permit for this job. Check with your local town or city hall before proceeding.
- Most new windows come with a warranty. The installation is usually guaranteed for one year while the window itself may be for 10 years. Always ask about the available warranties.
FAQ
- Can you open a picture window 1?
No, picture windows 1 are not meant to be opened, but they are often flanked by windows that can be.
- What is a picture window 1?
A picture window 1 is a large, single-paned window designed to maximize the view outside.
- How much does a picture window 1 cost?
Picture windows 1 have a wide range of costs from $500 - $1,200, depending on the size, material, and glass type. Most people pay around $700 for the window - $1,000 installed.
- What is the standard size of a picture window 1?
There is no standard size. Standard widths include 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 feet while standard heights range from 1 to 8 feet.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.See full cheat sheet.
1 Picture windows: An opening in the wall consisting of one large pane of glass that does not open
2 Leads: A naturally occurring heavy metal that is highly toxic to humans, and has been used in paint, gasoline, piping, and other applications
3 Caulk: A chemical sealant used to fill in and seal gaps where two materials join, for example, the tub and tile, to create a watertight and airtight seal. The term "caulking" is also used to refer to the process of applying this type of sealant
4 Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others
5 Casement windows: A window that is attached to the frame by hinges on the side of the window, allowing them to open like a door.
How much does it cost to install or replace picture windows in my city?
Cost to install or replace picture windows varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
Labor cost by city and zip code
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Labor cost in your zip code
Last modified: See change history
Methodology and sources
