How Much Does Window Frame Replacement Cost in 2023?

While windows are treated as seamless indoor-outdoor connections, there is more to their role than meets the eye. You can let in sunlight and fresh air when you want and keep your home insulated when you don’t. However, you can only do anything like that when your window frames are intact. Once you notice signs of decay, cracking, warping, or increased electricity consumption, replacement is the ultimate way out. Usually, the process involves the removal of the old frame, adjusting the opening, and installing a brand-new frame with follow-up sealing. The cost to replace a window frame can be $250+, depending on zillion factors like size, local labor rates, and selected treatments. 

Even though replacing window frames may feel like a costly burden, you can reap benefits from such an investment in the long run. A sturdy, new window frame allows you to forget about drafts, outside noise, and overwhelming energy bills. As a result, you can create a comfy indoor environment and increase your home value while doing so.

The Average Window Frame Replacement Cost

A window frame is meant to tie all window components together. If damaged, it may no longer anchor the sashes securely or keep the unit in the opening. 

How much does it cost to replace window frames? You should be ready to spend from $210 to $670. While the average price is $385, some homeowners shell out about $1,000 for high-end replacement. Your expenditures will depend on the frame’s type, size, and material. They can also increase if the surrounding wall needs to be fixed.

The price of replacing a window frame

National average cost	$385
Low-end cost	$67
High-end cost	$1,000
Average cost range	$210 - $670

The Average Cost to Replace a Rotted Window Frame

Stains, discoloration, and peeling paint combined with musty odor are telltale signs that your window frame is rotting. A simple repair can be enough if there is a small section of rot. It may cost you about $150. However, you may have to fork out from $160 to $500+ if the entire window frame must be replaced due to extensive rot. Materials alone can set you back $200. 

Want to consult a professional for an accurate quote crafted to your situation? Come to MyHomeQuote to locate the best one in your neighborhood. You just need to share your problems and concerns in the form below.

The price of replacing a rotted window frame

Minor repairs	$150
Total replacement	$160 - $500+

The Average Window Frame Repair Cost

Not every damaged window frame requires replacement. Sometimes, professional repair can be enough to postpone this moment. Thus, minor issues like small cracks or rotted patches can be fixed on a budget. You can expect to pay around $75 to $110 per unit. More severe problems can set you back $180 to $590. On the high-end, tricky or extensive repairs can total around $800+. 

The frame repair cost hinges on the material type first of all. However, it can also fluctuate based on the project complexity, contractor’s rates, and whether the glass replacement is required.   

The price of repairing a window frame

National average cost	$245
Low-end cost	$75
High-end cost	$800+
Average cost range	$100 - $590

Window Frame Repair Cost Calculator

If you have pinpointed more than one sign of a failed window frame or it’s obviously damaged, you can’t keep putting off the repair for ages. Don’t feel ready for such an upgrade? Discover how much the window frame repair services can cost in your case. With this info in mind, it’ll be easier to create a realistic budget.  

Window Frame Repair Cost by the Type of Repair

You won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach to repairing window frames or flat rates that can inform you how much you can spend on the project right off. First, a specialist has to inspect the unit to pinpoint the problem and suggest a suitable solution to restore the functionality and aesthetics of your window. It can be about repairing or replacing hardware elements like handles or cranks. Or they may recommend focusing on the part of the window that holds the glass panes, aka sash. In each case, your expenses can be different. How much does it cost to replace a window frame or repair its key elements? You’ll find the average price range in the table below.

The price of repairing a window frame by type of repair

Type of repair	Average cost
Hardware repair	$80 - $190
Window frame removal	$75 - $210
Window frame replacement	$380 - $1,000
Sash replacement	$100 - $400
Painting	$1 - $6 per linear foot
Caulking	$11 - $16 per linear foot
Lead paint removal	$8 - $16 per square foot
Crack and hole repair	$90 - $160
Window sash repair	$40 - $100
Fin repair	$100 - $155
Window resealing	$120 - $280
Dry rot repair	$170 - $280
Windowsill replacement	$145 - $380

Window Frame Repair Cost by Frame Material

When requesting an estimate of your window frame repair project, you have to specify the material your unit is made of, as it is the key cost-driven factor. Let’s take a closer look at each option to understand potential expenses better. 

Wood 

Even though wood windows are considered a premium variant to install, they can be repaired with no sweat. Your expenses here will depend more on the extent of the damage and the type of wood used. While filling cracks or repairing splits is cheaper, you can shell out a pretty penny on replacing rotten boards. Thus, the price range is anywhere from $180 to $370.

Aluminum

Unlike wood, aluminum windows don’t require careful maintenance. But they aren’t immune to issues. The metal can twist over time, resulting in damaged glazing and drafts and leaks. Aluminum window frame repair can set you back from $200 to $450 per unit for reglazing. 

Vinyl

Homeowners go for vinyl windows because they require reasonable investment and zero maintenance. However, this material is not weather-resistant, so cracks and sealant issues can develop through the years. You can fork out $290 to $540 to repair a unit. 

Fiberglass

The damage’s complexity and the repair’s difficulty often determine the repair cost of fiberglass windows. On average, you can spend from $300 to $550 per unit for minor or medium repairs. If the damage is severe, a replacement can be the only option.

Composite

On the list of windows that require repair most often, composite ones take the last place. Designed from a mixture of a few materials, these units have a longer service life. But if the need for repair occurs, its cost can be from $380 to $660.  

The price of window frame repairs by frame material

Material	Average cost
Wood	$180 - $370
Aluminum	$200 - $450
Vinyl	$290 - $540
Fiberglass	$300 - $550
Composite	$380- $660

Labor Cost to Repair a Window Frame

If a manufacturer warranty does not cover your windows or it’s expired, you’ll have to hire a contractor who is an old hand at window repairs. Depending on the scope of work required, you can pay from $100 to $300 per unit for labor only. However, as all projects have peculiarities, most professionals charge around $67 per hour. 

Want to discover the true-to-life cracked frame repair cost in your vicinity? MyHomeQuote is one click away from locating your ideal contractors. Specify your unit’s size, frame material, and problems in the form below, and we’ll connect you with reliable local specialists. 

Window Frame Replacement Cost Calculator

When issues with window frames occur, homeowners hope to get off with minimal expenses. While small cracks or dry rot can be successfully repaired in most cases, severe damages, like a broken sash or deformed frame, may not be ‘curable’ and require a costlier approach. How much does it cost to reframe a window? Let’s find out.  

Window Frame Replacement Cost by Material

The more energy-efficient the window frame is, the lower your energy bills are. However, its replacement may trigger the same financial stress as its initial installation. In the first place, the new window frame cost will hinge on the material it is made of. 

Wood

Known for their timeless appeal and insulating properties, wood windows have many admirers. However, they require constant maintenance to slow the tear and wear process. If you overlook it, you may have to fork out $150 to $700 for a new frame. Pine and fir are considered the most affordable materials.

Aluminum

Even though aluminum windows offer durability and strength and require low maintenance, they are considered a poor choice for cold climates. But frame replacement won’t break the bank, setting you back from $100 to $550 per unit. 

Vinyl

Homeowners looking for a budget-friendly yet effective option select vinyl windows. They offer good insulation and moisture resistance but are vulnerable to temperature swings. The average cost of replacement can range from $150 to $570. 

Fiberglass

Strong thermal performance, combined with durability and low maintenance, makes fiberglass windows extremely popular these days. But if the necessity for frame replacement arises, you should be ready to spend from $350 to $900+ per unit. 

Composite

Compared to other frame types, composite ones are the most long-lasting, so the likelihood of repairs or replacement is low. However, if you face it, you’ll have to fork out from $380 to $1,000+ per window. 

The price of window frame replacement by frame material

Material	Average cost
Wood	$150 - $700
Aluminum	$100 - $550
Vinyl	$150 - $570
Fiberglass	$350 - $900+
Composite	$380- $1,000+

Labor Cost to Replace a Window Frame

As window frame replacement is not a DIY project (unless you are a professional installer), hiring a specialist is inevitable. To replace window frame costs from $100 to $600 per unit, excluding the expenses on the materials. Please note that the above price is calculated for small and medium-sized projects. For more complex ones, your expenditures can go up to $1,000+.

Add-ons Affecting Window Frame Replacement Cost

Scheduling window replacement services is time-consuming by itself. Thus, you may decide to kill two birds with one stone by addressing other unit issues. Some of the possible options are provided below, with potential expenses that they may involve.  

Window Weather Stripping 

If you live in a cold climate with harsh winds, installing new weatherstripping can be a smart move. This won’t cost you a bundle – from $4 to $10 per unit but help maintain a stable temperature throughout your house.  

Stained Glass Repair

Minor cracks or spots on stained glass may not seem a big deal, even though they wreak havoc on your window aesthetics. Since you schedule unit restoration services, you can ask the specialist to handle these issues, too. On average, you may pay about $450 per window.

Window Glass Replacement

Whether your glass is damaged or broken, it’s worth replacing it to improve insulation and deal with always-there fogging. You can spend from $280 to $800 for a standard double-glazed unit.