How Much Do Double Hung Windows Cost? A Comprehensive Price Guide

Understanding Double Hung Replacement Windows Prices: What You Need to Know

Double hung replacement windows prices typically range from $950 to $2,600 per window installed, varying by location, material, and installation method. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect to pay:

Quick Price Overview:

Note: Exact pricing requires a free, on-site quote. Final costs vary based on window size, complexity, material tier, local permits, access challenges, and regional labor rates.

Double-hung windows are a popular choice for homeowners, featuring two independently operating sashes that slide vertically. This design offers superior ventilation by allowing air to circulate from both the top and bottom, easy cleaning since both sashes tilt inward, and a classic style that complements both traditional and modern homes.

However, with numerous material options, installation methods, and quality tiers, understanding the final cost can be challenging. This guide will break down what drives double hung replacement windows prices, from frame materials and glass packages to installation methods and energy-efficiency upgrades, helping you invest wisely.

I'm Carter Joyce, Director of Marketing at Ridge Top Exteriors. From our experience from over 45,000 exterior projects across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida, this guide provides the real-world pricing information you need to make an informed decision.

Average Double Hung Replacement Windows Prices: A Complete Breakdown

While national averages for double hung replacement windows prices hover around $800 per window installed, the actual cost can range from $325 to over $2,500. The material, quality, installation method, and your location all play significant roles in the final price.

For our customers in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida, most projects fall within the ranges in the pricing table above. These figures include the window unit, professional installation, and all associated labor.

Window Unit vs. Professional Installation Costs

The total cost consists of two parts: the window unit and installation labor. The window unit itself can range from $175 for an entry-level vinyl model to over $700 for a high-end wood or fiberglass unit with advanced features. Professional installation typically accounts for 30% to 50% of the total project cost, with labor ranging from $75 to $300 per window, or more for complex jobs.

Proper installation is critical. It ensures an airtight seal, maximizes energy efficiency, prevents water damage, and validates your warranty. DIY attempts often lead to costly mistakes like drafts, leaks, and voided warranties. Our factory-certified teams at Ridge Top Exteriors have completed over 45,000 projects, ensuring your windows are installed for optimal performance and longevity.

Cost by Quality Tier: Entry-Level, Mid-Range, and High-End

Understanding quality tiers helps clarify price variations.

• Entry-level windows ($225–$350 installed) are a budget-friendly choice, typically made of vinyl with basic double-pane glass. They offer a significant upgrade over old single-pane windows but lack advanced features.
• Mid-range windows ($375–$650 installed) provide the best balance of cost and performance. This tier includes higher-quality vinyl, composite, or entry-level fiberglass frames with energy-efficient glass packages featuring Low-E coatings and argon gas fills.
• High-end windows ($1,800–$2,500 installed) are the premium option. They feature durable fiberglass or wood frames, triple-pane glass, advanced coatings, and superior hardware. Brands like Andersen, Pella, and Marvin are prominent in this category.

The right tier depends on your budget and long-term goals. A higher initial investment often pays off through energy savings and increased durability.

Installation Method Costs: Retrofit vs. Full-Frame Replacement

The installation method also impacts your double hung replacement windows prices and performance.

Retrofit replacement (or pocket replacement) involves placing a new window into the existing frame. It's faster and less expensive, with labor costs around $100 to $300 per window. This method is suitable only when your existing frames are in perfect structural condition.

Full-frame replacement is a more comprehensive approach where the entire window and frame are removed down to the rough opening. While more labor-intensive ($150 to $800 per window), it allows us to inspect for hidden damage, add new insulation, and ensure a perfect, airtight seal. We typically recommend full-frame replacement for superior long-term performance, better insulation, and durability. Our Midwest full-frame installations range from $1,050 (vinyl) to $2,600 (wood), while in Florida, vinyl full-frame runs $1,500 to $2,000 per window.

Key Factors That Influence Your Window Replacement Cost

Your final window replacement cost is shaped by a combination of choices. Understanding these variables allows you to balance your budget with performance, style, and long-term value.

Frame Material: The Biggest Cost Driver

The frame material is the most significant factor affecting your double hung replacement windows prices, influencing cost, performance, and maintenance.

• Vinyl windows are the most popular choice due to their affordability, durability, and low maintenance. They offer excellent thermal insulation and come in various colors. In the Midwest, our vinyl full-frame installations range from $1,050 to $1,400 per window. In Florida, they run from $1,500 to $2,000.
• Wood windows offer timeless elegance and outstanding insulation but require regular maintenance (painting or staining) to protect against moisture. For our Midwest customers, wood full-frame installations range from $2,300 to $2,600 per window.
• Fiberglass windows are incredibly strong and stable, resisting warping and rotting in extreme temperatures. Their durability makes them a smart long-term investment. In the Midwest, our fiberglass full-frame installations typically range from $1,500 to $1,800 per window.
• Impact-resistant vinyl windows are essential for our Florida customers, especially in coastal areas. Engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds, they provide critical protection and may lower insurance premiums. These robust windows typically range from $1,800 to $2,400 per window in Florida. You can learn more about Protecting Your Orlando Home with Hurricane Ready Windows.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades and Their Impact on Double Hung Replacement Windows Prices

Your glass package is key to energy efficiency and can significantly lower utility bills. While most modern windows feature double-pane glass, upgrading to triple-pane glass offers superior insulation, especially in colder climates like Wisconsin. This upgrade can add 15% or more to the cost but provides greater comfort and energy savings.

Other valuable upgrades include:

• Gas Fills: Argon and krypton are dense, inert gases used between glass panes to slow heat transfer, improving insulation. Argon is a common, cost-effective option, while krypton is denser and more expensive.
• LoE coatings: These microscopic, low-emissivity coatings reflect heat, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. They are one of the most effective upgrades for comfort and energy savings.

Look for windows with low U-Factor (measures heat loss) and SHGC (measures solar heat gain) ratings. Energy Star certified windows can lower household energy bills by an average of 12% annually. Learn more about How Energy Efficient Windows Can Lower Your Utility Bills.

How Size, Brand, and Customizations Affect Your Final Price

Several other factors influence your final double hung replacement windows prices.

• Size and Complexity: Larger or custom-sized windows cost more due to increased material and labor. A standard double-hung window may cost $40 to $140 per square foot. Hard-to-reach windows (e.g., on upper floors) also increase installation fees.
• Brand Reputation: Established manufacturers like Andersen, Pella, and Marvin often have higher prices but are known for quality, durability, and comprehensive warranties, offering long-term peace of mind.
• Customizations: Features like decorative grilles, upgraded hardware finishes, custom colors, and specialty glass (privacy, tinted, tempered) can add up to 20% to your project cost but allow you to personalize your windows and improve your home's beauty.

Maximizing Value: How to Save on Your Window Project

Replacing windows is a significant investment, but you can manage your double hung replacement windows prices without sacrificing quality. Strategic planning can help you get the best value for your money.

Bulk Replacement & Off-Season Scheduling

Replacing multiple windows at once is more cost-effective than doing them one by one. You benefit from bulk material pricing and greater labor efficiency, as our crews are already on-site with their equipment. A whole-house replacement of about ten windows might range from $7,500 to $15,000, often resulting in a lower per-window cost. This also ensures all your windows match perfectly, creating a cohesive look.

Timing can also play a role. While spring and fall are peak seasons, scheduling your project during the summer or winter can sometimes lead to better availability and potential pricing flexibility. Our teams work year-round in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida and can discuss scheduling options that fit your budget.

Leveraging Rebates and Tax Credits

Don't miss out on government incentives for energy-efficient home improvements. The current federal tax credit allows you to claim 30% of your installation costs, up to $600, for installing Energy Star-certified windows in your primary residence. This credit is available through December 31, 2032. For details, visit the ENERGY STAR's Windows & Skylights Tax Credit website.

Additionally, many states, cities, and utility companies offer their own rebates. Check with your local providers to see what's available, as these can sometimes be combined with federal credits for even more savings. We can help you identify qualifying window options during your consultation.

Understanding Long-Term Value and ROI

Look beyond the initial price tag to the long-term return on investment. New, energy-efficient windows can cut heating and cooling costs by 10-15% annually, adding up to thousands in savings over their lifespan. Quality windows also increase your home's value and curb appeal, making your property more attractive to future buyers. Check out our guide on How to Enhance Curb Appeal with New Windows and Doors.

Modern windows also improve home security with advanced locking mechanisms and durable frames. This added peace of mind is invaluable. Learn more in our article on How New Windows Can Improve Home Security. When you consider all these benefits, quality windows are an investment that pays dividends for years.

Frequently Asked Questions about Double Hung Window Costs

We've helped thousands of homeowners with their window replacements. Here are answers to the most common questions we hear about double hung replacement windows prices.

How do double-hung window costs compare to other styles like casement or single-hung?

• Single-hung windows are more budget-friendly, typically costing $50 to $150 less per window than double-hung. However, only the bottom sash opens, limiting ventilation and making cleaning more difficult.
• Casement windows, which crank outward, offer excellent energy efficiency and unobstructed views. They generally cost more than double-hung windows, ranging from $250 to $2,000 installed. Their outward swing makes them unsuitable for areas next to walkways or patios, where double-hung windows are a better fit.

For most homeowners, the versatility and easy cleaning of double-hung windows justify the modest price difference over single-hung windows.

What is the typical lifespan of a double-hung window?

With proper installation, a quality double-hung window should last 15 to 20 years on average, though some can last much longer. Lifespan depends on several factors:

• Material: Premium vinyl and fiberglass frames can last 25 to 50 years, while wood frames may need replacement sooner without diligent maintenance.
• Climate: Harsh weather in the Midwest or intense UV exposure in Florida can affect longevity. Our impact-resistant windows for Florida are built to handle these challenges.
• Glass Seal: The seal on an insulated glass unit typically lasts about 20 years before it may fail, causing condensation between the panes.

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, double-pane windows have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. Investing in quality from the start ensures you get the most value over this period.

When is it time for new windows?

Old, failing windows can increase energy bills and reduce comfort. Here are clear signs it's time for a replacement:

• Drafts or air leaks around closed windows.
• Condensation between the glass panes, indicating a failed seal.
• Difficulty opening, closing, or locking the window.
• Warped, rotting, or damaged frames (cracked vinyl, soft wood).
• A noticeable increase in your energy bills.
• You still have old single-pane windows.

Addressing these issues promptly saves money and prevents further damage. If you notice these warning signs, it's time to explore your options. Learn more about the Signs It's Time to Replace Your Windows.

Conclusion: Get a Precise Quote for Your Home

This guide has provided a solid overview of double hung replacement windows prices, from frame materials and glass packages to installation methods. However, the only way to get a truly accurate cost is with a professional assessment, as every home is unique.

Your final price will depend on window sizes, material choices, the condition of your existing frames, and local market factors. That's why exact pricing requires a free, on-site quote.

Investing in quality windows and expert installation is an upgrade that makes your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, secure, and valuable. With over 20 years of experience and 45,000 completed projects, Ridge Top Exteriors is the partner you can trust in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida.

Our 4,000+ verified 5-star reviews and 98% customer satisfaction rating reflect our commitment to excellence. Our factory-certified teams deliver superior craftsmanship and stand behind our work with industry-leading warranties.

Ready to take the next step? Our team will visit your home, assess your needs, and provide a transparent, accurate estimate custom to your budget—with no pressure.

Don't guess what your project will cost. Get the facts. Contact Ridge Top Exteriors today for your free, no-obligation instant windows quote. Let's make your home everything you want it to be.