Window replacement costs are a substantial investment. To reduce upfront costs, homeowners should consider financing options and energy-efficient options.
Impact windows provide exceptional value in Florida, offering insurance discounts (15-45%), noise reduction and energy savings (250-600/year). They also increase home resale value. To maximize value, homeowners should look for high-quality frames and glass.
Frame Material
The window frame material can significantly impact your project’s cost. Wood is a popular choice because it offers great curb appeal and is an excellent insulator. Steel is another durable option that resists corrosion, but it doesn’t handle humidity as well as wood.
For homes in Florida’s coastal areas, impact windows are practically a necessity for protecting your home and belongings from the threat of severe weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms. These specialized windows offer added strength and safety with an aluminum or vinyl frame and shatter-resistant tempered glass.
Moreover, they typically recoup 70-90% of their costs at resale due to energy savings and insurance discounts. If you’re looking for a high-performance upgrade that increases your home’s value, consider impact windows. They meet strict Florida building codes and can withstand winds of up to 150 mph. In addition, they’re designed to flex under extreme pressure to reduce the risk of structural failure and roof collapse.
Glass
Many homeowners choose to upgrade their windows with energy-efficient glass. This investment pays off with lower household bills and a higher resale value for their homes. ENERGY STAR windows cut heating and cooling costs by 10% or more. These windows also qualify for property tax rebates through PACE programs in Florida and a federal tax credit.
The cost of window glass varies widely due to factors like style, type, and size. High-end glass that’s tempered or laminated will be more expensive than standard annealed glass. If safety and security are a concern, impact-resistant glass is an option.
Other factors that influence window replacement costs include frame material, installation complexity, and home design. Coastal cities and large homes with multiple windows typically require permits, adding to labor and material costs. Homeowners can reduce costs by choosing affordable frames and glass, and coordinating projects to maximize volume discounts. Replacing a single pane of broken glass is much less expensive than replacing an entire window.
Hardware
Window companies offer a wide range of hardware options to meet their clients’ needs. From windows and frames to shutters, they have all the essential products that homeowners need to make their home complete. They can also provide additional services, such as installing and repairing door sensors. They can even handle larger projects, like installing and repairing windows in multi-family homes or community facilities.
The number and size of windows being replaced affects costs. Larger windows require more glass and frame material than smaller ones, which drives up average pricing. Also, window replacement companies usually offer bulk discounts for doing multiple windows at one time.
Energy-efficient windows reduce heating and cooling costs by 25-30%, helping to offset installation expenses. Additionally, impact-resistant windows are rated to resist hurricanes and other high-velocity weather events, which can save homeowners’ insurance premiums by 15-45%. Ultimately, they can quickly pay for themselves in savings alone. Depending on the number of windows installed, permit fees and coastal building code requirements may add to overall costs.
Installation
Window installation costs vary widely, but a quality installer can save homeowners money in the long run. Premium frames and energy-efficient glass options add to costs, while custom sizes and installation complexity drive up labor expenses. Coastal building codes and hurricane protection standards also impact pricing, as impact-resistant windows must meet stricter requirements than standard models.
Energy-efficient windows reduce cooling costs by up to 13%, cutting household energy bills by $250-$600 per year. ENERGY STAR certified windows qualify for homeowner tax credits and homeowners insurance premium discounts, potentially recouping installation costs within 8-12 years through energy savings alone.
When choosing a window contractor, look for a company with a history of quality installations and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Reece Windows & Doors stands out for its decades of experience, in-house installers, premium Conservation Windows products, and double lifetime warranties. Additionally, the company provides flexible financing solutions including Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs available in select Florida counties.