Sash Window Cost

National average

$830

(vinyl sash window replacement)

Low: $310

(aluminum sash window - DIY)

High: $1,240

(wood sash window replacement - upgraded)

Cost to install or replace sash windows varies greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Get free estimates from window installers in your city.

How much does it cost to install or replace sash windows?

Sash windows are made of various materials and are usually exterior facing and so must provide the desired level of security, appearance, and weather sealing properties including the window glass. The sash window has two separate window sections that may slide vertically and moving past one another.

Average sash window¹ costs vary by material, size, labor rate, being single or double-hung, and decorative quality of the window frame finish.

Cost breakdown

In the following table the Labor Cost figures are what the able DIY person should expect to save by performing the installation.

Sash window¹ replacement: remove and dispose of existing window and replace with a single-hung sash window¹; include costs for insulating glass, miscellaneous material, equipment, waste, mounting² hardware, trim, sealing, and touch up.

Item	Unit Cost		Quantity	Line Cost
Aluminum window: 36" wide x 38" tall; painted white.	$310	each	1	$310
Upgrade: additional cost for a vinyl window; 48" wide x 48" tall, no-paint surfaces.	$230	each	1	$230
Remove and dispose: existing window; include transport and non-hazardous dump fees.	$40	per CY	1	$40
Material Cost	$580	each	1	$580
+ Labor Cost (remove)	$30	per hour	2	$60
+ Labor Cost (install all scenarios)	$38	per hour	5	$190
Total Cost	$830	each	1	$830

Enhancement and improvement costs

Upgrade: additional cost for a wood window; top grade 48" wide x 36" tall, prefinished natural interior, no-paint exterior clad - $410.

Additional considerations and costs

Each related Cost Guide reviews typical upgrades and accessories.
The prices here are for provider service in their immediate area.
Not included are taxes or permit fees.
If neccesary, the opening of a wood-framed exterior wall will cost around $55 to $75 per square foot.
The homeowner should be informed during provider inspection of any repair or structural modification issues.
The replacement of 3 or more windows should result in a reduction of these unit prices.
In some localities a subsidy for efficiency upgrade may be available.

Do it yourself (DIY)?

Window replacement may not be suitable for DIY as it requires high carpentry skills, and typically comes with a critical closure deadline.

References

Craftsman Estimator Costbook, 2015.
Vendor Web sites of the Home Improvement sector.
Popular DIY Web sites.

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Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.
See full cheat sheet.

¹ Sash window: A wall opening made of one or several movable panels (referred to as sashes) that serve as a frame for holding glass panes

² Mounting: A support on which something is attached or hung

How much does it cost to install or replace sash windows in my city?

Cost to install or replace sash windows varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.