How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Window Frame?

Window frames are an important part of your home, but they’re often overlooked because they blend right in with the windows. Window frames can be vital to the insulation and comfort of your home. When frames are broken, cracked, rotted, or otherwise in disrepair, they may need to be repaired or replaced. This could involve filling in cracks or repairing broken frames, sashes, or sills. Regardless, it should be addressed immediately by hiring professional window repair services.

The average cost to repair a window frame is between $170 and $600 per window, with the average homeowner paying about $480 to repair a single-window frame made from mid-range aluminum materials.

Window Frame Repair Cost

Window Frame Repair Cost by Material

The material that the window frame is constructed from will impact the cost of repair or replacement. As shown in the project example above, aluminum is an example of a mid-range material. Other common materials used for window frames include wood, vinyl, composite, and fiberglass. Below, we’ll discuss the issues with each and the average repair cost.

Of course, the type of repair that needs to be done will also affect the cost, but we’ll discuss that later on. First, let’s look at the average cost of window frame repair based on the material.

Wood Window Frame Repair

Wood is fairly easy to repair, but it’s also one of the most common window frame materials to need repairing or replacement over the years. Wood is porous and can be affected by the elements. It can even become dried out by the sun and heat, leading to splitting and other issues. Repairing a wood window frame could involve simply filling in some cracks that have appeared as things have settled, or it could require removing and replacing the wood frame boards entirely.

If you paint or stain your wooden frames, they can last much longer and require fewer repairs over the years. Typically, a professional patch job on wooden frames will average between $175 and $300 per window, with a cost of about $700 per window, on average, for a full replacement.

Aluminum Window Frame Repair

Many people choose aluminum window frames because they don’t require maintenance like wood. They are also much more resistant to the elements. However, the expanding and twisting of the metal over time can lead to broken glazing, which is what makes the window weatherproof. Fixing this common issue typically costs between $250 and $500 per window for a complete re-glazing.

Vinyl Window Frame Repair

Vinyl window frames also require little to no maintenance beyond regular cleaning, but again, temperature changes from the seasons can cause cracking over time. This can easily be repaired with a simple fiberglass gel patch. In some cases, the sealant may break, which can be seen by the fog building up on your window. This calls for a sealant replacement. Most vinyl window frame repair costs are between $300 and $600 per window.

Fiberglass Window Frame Repair

Fiberglass window frame repair is similar to vinyl window frame repair in terms of cost and work involved. In some cases, replacement may be the only option. Typical repairs of fiberglass frames include filling cracks or repairing small damage done to the frame. Color matching can also be done for an additional charge, and most jobs take about three hours per window. The national average runs between $300 and $600 per window for fiberglass window frame repair.

Composite Window Frame Repair

Repairing composite window frames is slightly more complex and limited. However, these frames are designed to be durable in the first place and therefore much less likely to need repairs. Some composite materials may crack or split over time, which can be fixed with simple repairs in many cases. Patching frames made from composite material typically costs between $400 and $650 per window and takes 3-4 hours per window.

Window Frame Repair Cost by Type of Repair

There are several repairs that may need to be performed on a window frame. The type of repair that you need will impact the total cost, so it’s important to consider that in addition to the material of the window frame and its size. Below, you’ll see a list of the most common window frame repairs and their average costs.

Cost to Repair a Window Frame

Window frame repairs are typically performed by a window installation and repair expert. Homeowners who have purchased windows with a warranty should rely on the company that installed the windows to ensure that they don’t void their protection in any way. Repairs to window frames typically involve using filler to fill cracks, gaps, and splits in the frame or removing and replacing parts of the frame that have been damaged in some way.

Window frame repair costs are determined by a few different factors. First, the size of the window and its frame, as well as the material that the frame is constructed from, will impact the overall project cost. The other factor, which we just discussed, is the type of repair that needs to be done. Typically, the more detailed and labor-intensive the repair, the more expensive it will be.

The average window frame repair takes between two and four hours to complete, with most professionals charging by the hour for labor with an additional charge for materials needed to complete the project. There are some companies that will charge per window or offer a discounted project rate for repairing multiple windows, so be sure to inquire about that when seeking out repair services. Labor for this type of work typically costs around $65 per hour, on average.

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Common Window Frame Issues

There are several common issues that happen with window frames that result in a need for professional repair. Typically, these are minor and can be fixed without much effort, since professionals are used to dealing with them on a regular basis. Below, you’ll see the most common issues and their causes.

• Broken hardware. Hardware is durable, but it isn’t invincible. When handles or locks break, you will need to repair or replace these parts. Broken hardware repairs include things like replacing screws that are missing and fixing damaged locks and handles. Some may be easier to replace than repair, which still won’t cost much more than a few dollars for the hardware and the cost of professional replacement.
• Broken sash interlock. Newer windows have a sash interlock that is designed to lock the sash and window to each other, creating a strong seal. If this interlock breaks, the seal won’t be as strong and the window could become inefficient. Left unrepaired, it could lead to bigger issues and eventually require a full replacement.
• Broken/Leaking nail fin. Nail fins are used to attach window frames to studs. They can corrode or break over time, leading to a need for repair or replacement. Depending on where on the frame the fin is leaking or broken, the window repair expert will advise on the best course of action. Typically, the old fins will be removed and replaced.
• Rotting wood. Rotting wood is a serious issue that can happen due to exposure to moisture over time. Unfortunately, there is no real “repair” for rotting wood-- the wood in question will need to be removed and replaced with dry, treated wood that is designed to withstand the elements. You may be able to do a partial replacement if the entire frame isn’t rotting to save some money.
• Leaking seals. When your windows have gaps or leaking seals, you will be able to feel the outside air coming in through the frame. This is bad for a number of reasons, but primarily because it’s affecting your heating and cooling costs and could be causing even more damage to the frame with the constant airflow.
• Cracks or holes in the frame. The extreme heat and cold, along with the exposure to the sun, wind, and other harsh elements, can take their toll on window frames, resulting in cracks and holes that can develop over time. These can lead to serious issues if not promptly addressed. However, they are fairly easy to fix. A professional can seal cracks and holes in a single-window frame quickly.
• Foggy glass. If the glass seal or window frame has separated enough or been damaged, it could lead to condensation on the inside or outside of the glass. Anytime that your windows have condensation, you can assume that there is an issue with the seal or frame that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Once the problem has been identified, your window installer will advise as to the best repair solution. Usually, it involves resealing the windows, and discounts may be offered for multiple window repairs in a single job.

Window Frame Painting Cost

Painting or staining a window frame can be considered a repair or upgrade for a couple of reasons. First of all, paint can add a protective barrier to the window frame, giving it a longer lifespan and less risk of damage over time. Another benefit of window frame painting is that it adds a touch of style and can increase the home’s value. The cost of painting window frames typically averages between $1.50 and $3.50 per linear foot or between $175 and $425 per window.

Window Frame Replacement Cost

There are some instances, as we have mentioned, where it will be better to replace your window frames than to repair them. In the event that the damage is too extensive or that the issue isn’t something that can be repaired, a full replacement could be your only option. Below, you’ll find the cost of replacing window frames based on material type, along with why each is most commonly replaced and the typical lifespan for the different materials.

Aluminum Window Frame Replacement

With a lifespan of 20-25 years, aluminum window frames are fairly durable. However, when they do become damaged to a point where they can’t be repaired, a full replacement isn’t that expensive. The average cost of an aluminum window frame replacement is about $150-$300.

Vinyl Window Frame Replacement

Vinyl windows typically last a long time without a lot of need for repairs or maintenance. However, if the frame does become damaged or the seals are breached beyond repair, a replacement of the entire frame may be required. The average cost of vinyl window frame replacement is between $300 and $500. Vinyl windows, including their frames, have an expected lifespan of 20 to 40 years.

Fiberglass Window Frame Replacement

Fiberglass windows are a slight upgrade from vinyl, offering a lifespan of 40 to 50 years. If the frame becomes cracked or damaged and needs to be replaced before the window, a professional can do the work for you. The national average cost for fiberglass window frame replacement is $300-$500.

Wood Window Frame Replacement

When wood frames start rotting or splitting, it is time to replace them. Depending on the type of wood that you choose, you will find different costs involved in replacing these frames. On average, however, you can expect to spend $600-$800 per window for a full wooden frame replacement. 

Composite Window Frame Replacement

 Composite windows are designed to last up to 50 years or more, but there are some extenuating situations where window frame replacement may be required in the meantime. If you do find your composite frames damaged beyond repair, the average cost of replacement is about $800-$900 per window frame.

Cost to Replace Rotted Window Frame

In many cases of wood or other material rotting, a replacement is actually the better option. This will allow you to completely remove the rotting material so that it doesn’t cause further damage to the window or the structure of your home. With wood frames, a typical full replacement of rotted wood, including removal of the old frame, costs about $700, on average.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Cost to Repair Stained Glass

Stained glass repair is another service that you might find yourself in need of when it comes to something like window repairs. Stained glass should be handled by professionals that understand its delicate nature. A repair project usually includes repairing minor cracks, cleaning, replacing cement, and tightening cames, and averages a cost of $500 per window to repair stained glass.

Window Glass Replacement Cost

In some instances, you may need glass replacement along with window frame repairs. For example, if the frame is so damaged that it has damaged the seal and your windows are now fogging, you might want to upgrade the window glass or replace the entire window in order to resolve the issue. Replacing the glass only in a standard double-pane window has an average cost of $300 to $450.

Window Weather Stripping Cost

Weatherstripping is a critical element to help balance the climate in your home. In addition to repairing window frames, you should check on the weather stripping around all of your windows. Having new weatherstripping installed is a fairly inexpensive process, with a cost range between $75 and $250, depending on how many windows are in the home.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY window repair. There may be some minor issues that come up with the window frames that you can handle yourself. Something as simple as patching a small crack, for example, could be a matter of spending $10 or $20 at your local home improvement store on a sealant. However, some jobs are better left to the professionals. Remember how important your windows are to your home and never take on more than you can handle.
• Estimates. You should always get at least 3-5 estimates from different window repair services. This will guarantee that you get the best rates on service and also find a reputable company to work with. If you only get one estimate and then hire that company, you’re not really getting a full look at your options and you could be overpaying for window repairs.
• Lead paint. Homes built prior to 1978 may have issues with lead paint. Typically, homeowners are required to be informed about this issue but they also sign a Lead Paint Disclosure at the time of purchase. If you worry that your window frames may contain lead paint, you need to call the professionals to have things tested before any work is done.
• Licensed contractors. You should always employ licensed, certified, and experienced contractors for all of your window frame repairs. Some local handyman might offer a good rate because he isn’t as highly trained or doesn’t have as many professional certifications, but really you can’t sacrifice quality when it comes to your windows. Always choose licensed window repair services.
• Emergency repair fees. If you have a window frame repair that needs taken care of immediately or during a time outside of normal business hours, you may be charged emergency fees or premium rates for service because of the nature of the urgency. Be sure to inquire about this when you are calling for emergency window frame repairs so that you know what to expect.
• Ladder or roof access. The more complex the work, the more expensive it will be. Such is the case with this repair, in the event that the contractor needs to use ladders or be on the roof to repair the window frames in question. You may pay a higher charge for the increased risk and effort involved as opposed to having first-floor and ground-level windows repaired.