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Each custom window project varies, but homeowners can expect to pay $400 to $4,000. From intricate arch windows to panoramic picture windows, custom windows enhance your home’s ambiance and overall look. Many top window brands offer customized traditional styles and one-of-a-kind window shapes.
This guide covers the cost, factors, and installation process for custom windows.
Cost of Custom Windows
Custom windows can cost $400 to $4,000. Prices vary by window size, design, frame materials, and customization level. Custom windows are priced 25% to 75% higher than standard ones.
For example, double-hung windows typically range from $200 to $600, while custom double-hung windows could be $350 to $1,050. A more complicated installation, such as a bow or bay window, could cost more than $1,575.
Factors Affecting Cost
Here’s an overview of some significant factors that impact custom window cost.
Customizations
Many manufacturers allow you to customize interior and exterior colors, grille design, hardware, and trim options. These customizations will vary based on window style and frame material. For example, vinyl windows have fewer customization choices than wood windows.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Energy-efficient windows help reduce energy bills by maintaining your home’s indoor temperatures. These windows use special treatments, such as low emissivity (low-e) coatings, to retain heat in winter. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows with a low-e coating can reduce energy loss by 30% to 50%. Look for windows labeled with the official ENERGY STAR® certification to maximize savings.
Using windows with multiple panes of glass also increases your energy savings. Single-pane windows have no energy efficiency benefits. Upgrading to double-pane windows will improve your home’s insulation and prevent your HVAC system from working overtime, saving you money on energy bills. Many double-pane windows also include argon gas within the panes to provide added insulation. Triple-pane windows offer maximum energy savings but have the highest price tag.
Other important considerations include the U-factor and Solar Heat
Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The U-factor measures how well the window insulates, while the SHGC notates how much of the sun’s heat passes through. You should generally look for windows with U-factors between 0.2 and 1.2. A lower SHGC is better. The U.S. Department of Energy provides more specific guidelines for different climates and regions on its website.
Home Age
If your home is 30 years or older or in a specific home style, such as Victorian, you may have irregular window sizes. To replace your old windows, you’ll need to have new windows made to fit the old frame. You can select a different window style, but you’ll incur additional costs to change the existing window frame. It’s best to get a cost estimate from your contractor to determine if custom windows are the best solution for your home.
Labor Costs
Window installers typically charge hourly. Their rates usually range between $40 and $60 per hour, but installers will charge more for custom windows. You’ll also pay more for installations on higher floors since larger crews and special equipment are needed. Larger, complicated installations require more labor and planning.
Number of Windows
Installing many custom windows requires a considerable investment, especially if you’re installing new windows in a new home. You can lower your costs by installing more affordable replacement windows in bedrooms, bathrooms, foyers, or other private areas.
Save your high-end custom windows for rooms where you’ll entertain or where elegantly designed windows are seen often. These could include your living room, foyer, or kitchen. Picture windows, for example, are an excellent addition to rooms with expansive and picturesque views.
Size
Oversized windows cost more than smaller windows. Odd or unusual-shaped windows can also increase your overall budget. Window styles like bay or bow windows have a higher price tag than traditional single-hung or double-hung windows. Picture windows are always custom-size and come at a high price point.
Window Frame Material
Window frames generally cost between $80 and $1,300, but these prices will increase depending on your customization.
Durable, low-maintenance vinyl windows and composite windows are the most affordable. Many window manufacturers sell fiberglass and aluminum windows, which cost a bit more but offer more durability and style options.
Wood windows are a popular choice for window replacements but have the highest cost and require the most long-term maintenance. High-quality wood windows are aesthetically pleasing and offer the greatest customization of any window material.
Types of Custom Windows
You can customize virtually any type of window. Here are a few examples of customizable window styles.
- Awning windows: These windows have hinges at the top and open outward, allowing for excellent air circulation even during storms.
- Bay and bow windows: These windows have a multipanel 3D design that juts out from your home. Bay windows have an angled design, while bow windows are curved.
- Casement windows: Casement windows are hinged on one side and open to the left or right either manually or via a crank. They allow lots of fresh air in without taking up much wall space.
- Double-hung windows: This traditional window style has movable upper and lower sashes, allowing for better air circulation and easy cleaning.
- Egress windows: These specialty windows are required for basement bedrooms and serve as an emergency exit. Some states require them in all bedrooms, though almost any window type can be considered an egress window apart from fixed options. You should be able to tell the window manufacturer you need to meet egress requirements and they’ll direct you to the correct window type and size. Egress windows that are sold specifically for below-grade use may be less customizable.
- Hurricane/impact windows: Made for coastal homes prone to experiencing severe storms, hurricane and impact windows have shatter-proof glass and wind-resistant designs.
- Picture windows: Recognizable by their large, single panels, picture windows come in various styles requiring custom installation.
- Shaped windows: Shaped windows are accent pieces with distinctive shapes, such as circles, arches, and pentagons.
- Single-hung windows: Single-hung windows have a movable bottom sash but a fixed upper sash for added security. They’re often used on the first floor.
- Sliding windows: Also known as gliding windows, these windows slide horizontally on a track and work well in tight spaces.
- Skylights: These windows are great for rooms with limited wall space but are costly to install.
Professional vs. DIY Custom Window Installation
Custom windows must be purchased through professional window companies. Your installer will visit your home and discuss the plans for your window project. They’ll assess your current windows and check for any cracks or damage to the frames. This will determine if a full-frame or retrofit installation is the best option.
Retrofit installations use the existing window frame if it’s in good condition, making them less expensive. These installations are the best choice if you’re replacing your current windows with the same style.
You’ll need a full-frame replacement if your new windows are irregular or differ from your windows’ current shape. These installations require completely removing your window frame, involving more labor. Full-frame installation can increase your installation costs by 15% to 25%.
We recommend using a professional window installation company for custom window installations. These installations can be labor-intensive and too costly for a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. Depending on your selected manufacturer, you may need to hire a separate installation company. Many window companies have a network of certified installers and contractors trained to install their products. Some companies, such as Renewal by Andersen and Champion Windows, sell their own window products and provide installation.
Our Recommendation
Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind designs to add curb appeal or need irregular windows for a home upgrade, custom windows are the perfect accent pieces. These windows can be a pricey investment, so you must consider the number of windows you need for your design. Consider incorporating traditional styles in private areas and saving custom windows for rooms with more foot traffic and visual impact.
We recommend getting quotes from three companies to compare options and prices closely. Use the tool below to find window installers in your area.
Custom Windows Cost FAQ
Are custom-size windows more expensive than standard windows?
Yes. Custom windows can be 25% to 75% more expensive than standard, premade windows. The window size, style, material, and design can impact the price, even raising the cost by 100% more than standard sizes.
What is the average price for custom windows?
The average price of custom windows is $400 to $4,000. The cost varies based on window size, customization, labor, and installation method. A custom window project could cost up 75% more than a standard window installation.
Is it worth it to install custom windows in my home?
Yes, custom windows are worth the investment if you’re looking for an original design to add personality to your home. A window upgrade can also improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.
How We Chose the Top Window Brands
We researched and analyzed dozens of window manufacturers. We then crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard and energy-efficient product offerings.
We spoke directly to representatives at each company to learn how the installation process works and determine how each brand personalizes its windows for each home. We also closely analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
Finally, we assessed the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.