When looking to replace your old windows, you may be curious as to how much this might cost you. As the phone here at our company, Texas Home Exteriors, rings with homeowners on the other end looking for replacement windows estimates, I thought it would be nice to provide an article offering information about cost expectations when looking into new replacement windows and what to expect in an estimate.

Our local Houston Texas metro homeowners will often ask, “what will it cost to replace my windows?” I provide the best answers I can to the question but keep in mind the many variables that need to be considered in replacement window cost. Below, in this post, I have put together information to help you on your way to understanding what this home improvement may cost you.

What should I expect for Replacement Window Cost price range?

A very quick and general answer is $350-$950 + per window opening on average is what you should expect to pay for new energy efficient replacement windows. This is what we are experiencing here in the Houston Texas metro area market as homeowners just like you are requesting several bids from a variety of local window contractors. Below, we provide a list for you to reference of factors that will directly affect your cost.

Five Factors Directly Affecting Replacement Window Cost:

1 – Size of the Window

When receiving estimates for your home, the estimator should be measuring your existing window openings to determine the total united inches (ui) of each window as this is how a window cost is priced out. The measurement calculates as follows per window: width + height = united inches. So let’s say that an existing window you are considering replacing measurers, 30″ wide and 60″ high,  add those two numbers together to get the total united inches like this 30 + 60 = 90 total united inches. Then, take the total united inches, in this case 90 united inches (ui) and multiply the cost of the window materials and installation, (I am using $6.00 per united inch (ui) for this example) 90 x 6 = $540 for the cost to replace that size window. This same method would be repeated for each window you are considering replacing in your home. Once all the windows have been calculated, add them up for a total of window replacement cost of all the windows.

2 – Window Shape

The shape of the window you are considering replacing will most certainly affect the cost. Standard square-edge windows are simple enough to manufacture, however; when you get into different window shapes (such as an eyebrow), this is an entirely different story. If your home has any of the following types of windows, the cost will be higher due to the increase in cost to manufacturing that window. Some of the custom shapes are as follows: octagon, trapezoid, pentagon, quarter round, triangle circle, circle top, circle top with extended legs, eyebrow, and eyebrow with extended legs. There is also more cost on the installation side as these types of windows are more difficult to install requiring more skill for custom windows.

3 – Window Options Selected

There are several replacement window options that will affect the overall cost of the windows including the following: color, locks, grids, number of panes and designer glass. New replacement windows come with exterior colors options for the jams such as, white, tan, bronze and brown. Interior options can be a bit more extensive with the same colors offered as for the exterior as well as additional options such as: woodgrain finishes (like pine, oak, cherry and pecan). When choosing a different color for the outside than what is selected for the inside will increase the cost of the window price as the manufacturing process is more extensive in producing a two color window jam (frame).

Window locks/latches are often color coated to match the color of the window jam selected. When selecting a color that is different or a finish such as  bronze, nickel or brass, again will increase cost of the window as the standard locks will be replaced with a custom finish “specialty” lock/latch.  Grids are yet another factor that can increase the cost of the windows. Some of the grid options and patterns available are as follows: colonial, diamond, perimeter, prairie and standard light. For the most part, white on white windows with no grids or grids in the front of the home only are the most popular due in order to lower cost.  Also keep in mind that some Home Owner’s Associations HOAs or POAs may require window with grids for the front of the home.

4 – Quantity of Windows Replaced

From time to time, we receive calls from homeowners who would like to replace just a few of their home windows due to various reasons such as available budget. The fewer windows replaced, the higher the cost will be per window as the window company will be sending out a crew to replace just a few windows vs a larger job thus driving up the coast per window. For instance, 5 windows at a cost of $700 each will end up costing you $3,500 as apposed to 15 windows at a cost of $600 each will only cost you $9,000 saving you $1,500 over the entire job.

5 – Other Related Work

Often times when replacing windows, there are other aspects to the job that the homeowner may not think of right away that may have a direct affect on the overall cost of replacing the windows.  For instance, one example of the other related work that may be involved in a project like this is what type of siding is installed on the exterior of the home. When the old windows are being replaced, there is often a 1″x4″ trim or window trim that will need to be removed to allow the old window to be removed and the new window to be installed in its place. If the home is need of siding repair, this is the best time to get this done, during window replacement, as the two go hand-in-hand. In reality, it is much easier to install a new window when the siding is also being installed as the trim and siding will have already been removed.

Helpful Replacement Window Cost links

Simonton Windows – How Much Do Home Replacement Windows Cost

Angie’s List – How Much Does It Cost To Replace Windows

Home Advisor – Doors and Windows Install Cost

Anderson Windows – Window Replacement Cost

Fixr – Cost Window Replacement 

Window Price Guides – Anderson Window Prices Cost

Remodeling HW – Windows Cost vs. Value Project

Getting What You Pay For

If you have received several replacement window estimates, you will most certainly notice that there is a difference in price (cost). Beware of the low bidder of your windows as there are a few competitors that are selling a cheep window disguised as a good deal. These companies pay their workers less and they definitely take shortcuts that will cost you more in the end. A few higher quality replacement windows that we will suggest are Simonton and Texas built NT Window.

There is a lot of information here in this blog that you can use when considering new energy efficient replacement windows for your home. Click around on the links above for more insightful information. For energy efficient window ratings, review this web page.

I hope that you have found this article helpful in determining your replacement window cost as you can see, there are several variables to consider. Should you have any questions, please feel free to ask us at Texas Home Exteriors, we are here to help!

Greg Kapitan

NFRC Window Replacement Label

Who is the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) and what do they provide?
This is an organization that is a non-profit independent labeling and rating company that rates the overall performance of replacement windows and products alike. They work to provide accurate window ratings performance information for contractors, builders, homeowners and code enforcers alike.

When considering replacing your windows there are a lot of vinyl replacement window options such as Low-E Glass, Argon Gas, Window Colors and Grids. Energy Star recognizes NFRC Label Window Testing as an Independent and Certified Energy Performance Window Rating Agency. Texas Home Exteriors provides to guide Texas homeowners in making the best choice when replacing their windows with NFRC window rating information.

The NFRC Rating Label Four Categories

The NFRC Rating Label is broken of into four window rating categories, U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, Visible Transmittance and Air leakage. At Texas Home Exteriors, we provide the NFRC replacement window label (see above) and information to help Texas homeowners better understand replacement window performance as well as replacement window ratings better to help with your new window selection.

U-Factor

This rating shows how much Heat is Transferred by the entire window (frame, sash and glass). One might call this, invisible insulation. For instance, the smaller U-Factor would mean a window would provide more comfort to sit next to on colder winter days.

Visible Light Transmittance

This rating how how much outside Visible Light enters the room through the window. This measurement is not a percentage but a rating between .0 and 1.00 with .0 blocking out all visible outside light and 1.00 allowing all visible outside light to enter the room.

Solar Heat Coefficient

This rating shows how much Heat Energy is Entering the home through the entire window. A lower SHGC will reduce AC Cost and provide a more comfortable window to sit next to on Hot Summer days.
SHGC of 0.30 = 30% of Solar Heat enters the room from the outside.

Air Leakage

This rating shows how much Outside Air enters into a home through the window. Good Air Leakage rates typically range between 0.1 and 0.4. The Lower the Air Leakage, the better the window is at keeping the Outside Air out of our Houston Texas metro area homes.

Conclusion

With this information you are better educated to make a replacement window decision that will provide you with energy efficiency and comfort year after year. It is important for you to be an educated and informed homeowner when it comes to replacing your windows because this will ultimately affect your utility bills usage. Simonton Vinyl Replacement Windows and NT Vinyl Replacement Window are excellent replacement window choices that we recommend and have a long history of great customer service.

From my heart to yours. I truly hope that you have found this post must helpful in making an informed and educated decision when it comes to replacing the windows in your home. If you like what you have read, follow my, Kapitan The Siding Man Blog  of Texas Home Exteriors which is full of great content to help provide you with information and insight into many home improvement decisions.

Greg Kapitan, “Kapitan The Siding Man”

Free Replacement Window Estimate

Texas Home Exclusive Windows Built by Simonton Windows Winner of JD Power Award four times

A Texas Replacement Window First

Texas has its first window named after the great state of Texas, private labeled by Amcraft and and manufactured by Simonton Windows JD Power Award winner four years straight. This is a first for Texas and we here at Texas Home Exteriors located in Houston TX are excited to offer the first window named for our great state.

Two energy efficient vinyl replacement versions are offered to the greater Houston, The Woodlands – Spring TX metro area. The Texas Home Exclusive and the Texas Home Exclusive Plus.

Both energy efficient replacement windows come with a lifetime warranty covering the entire window and includes the following coverage from the manufacturer:

• Lifetime Vinyl
• Lifetime Window Seal Failure
• Lifetime Window Hardware
• Lifetime Glass Breakage

Just think how great it is for homeowners to have beautiful energy efficient vinyl windows that are named for our wonderful state of Texas. Make your selection with confidence knowing our windows are manufactured by a JD Power award winning manufacturer such as Simonton Windows. This is a nice insurance bonus for Texas homeowners. With our Energy Star rated windows, TX homeowners will realize the benefit of energy savings on their utility bills month after month, year after year.

          Texas Home Exclusive Window        Texas Home Exclusive Plus Window
              2 panes glass, low-E, 3/4″ IGU             3 panes glass, safety glass, low-E, 1″ IGU

Texas Home Exclusive Windows with low-E, Argon Gas filled Double and Triple Pane Windows

How do Energy Efficient Vinyl Replacement Windows Work?

Here at Texas Home Exteriors we are often asked questions about windows such as, “how do energy efficient windows work?” and “how much savings will I realize on my utility bills?” Several components of the window work separately for each of the following scenarios but together as a whole to make your Houston TX home more energy efficient.

Low-E Reflective Glass for Energy Efficient Windows

Low-E Glass – “Reflective”

When it comes to the sun hitting your window,  our windows include Low-E coating which reflects the suns UV rays back out, stopping the UV heat from entering your home. In most cases, it will block out 80-90% without making your windows too dark. After our vinyl energy efficient replacement windows are installed, you will notice that you can now get closer to your window with the summer sun blazing in and feel 80-90% less of the sun’s UV heat getting through and warming your skin. This will translate into summer utility bill savings due to the the sun’s hot rays not being allowed to enter your home so no need for the A/C to work as hard.

Argon Gas – “Invisible Insulation”

The climate controlled environment in your home that we call heat or air conditioning is constantly trying to escape. Your single pane windows have the lowest what is known in the building industry R-Value/U-Factor = “resistance” for temperature to travel through any material from one side to another.  Argon Gas is heavier than air and is placed and sealed in-between the two window panes of glass making it more difficult for any temperature to travel from one side to another and increasing the window energy efficiency. Other Words what I call invisible insulation that will increase the R-Value/U-Factor of your windows.

What is the Difference Between U-Factor and R-Value?

U-factor is used to measure the insulation value of windows, R-value is used for insulation in most other parts of the building (walls, floors, roofs). True that they are related, different test criteria are used in calculating the two values so they cannot be directly converted. Take R-value and U-factor, divide 1 by the U-factor number, E.g.: a 0.25 U-factor will equal a 1/0.25 = 4 R-Value.

Energy Star Rated Windows

What makes these windows great is not only do they carry our beautiful state’s name TEXAS but they are manufactured by Simonton and at an affordable price compared to competitors windows such as Anderson and Pella windows.

Free Replacement Window Estimate

Many Houston Texas homeowners would like to know more about the energy efficiency of their windows. Most of the new replacement windows are labeled to indicate their energy properties but this information may not be available on existing or older windows. Below is an energy efficiency checklist to help you with the process of determining the energy efficiency of your home windows.

The Energy Star Label

First try looking for products that have earned the Energy Star label. The Energy Star label indicates that the window meets energy performance recommendations set by the US Department of Energy. The label includes a map of where the specific window qualifies for the specific climate zone. Windows that are Energy Star qualified should typically meet or exceed energy code requirements for your area. The determining factors for qualification criteria for Energy Star windows is based on your the climate and location of your home.

The NFRC Window Ratings Label

Check for window ratings and energy efficient properties on the NFRC Window Ratings Label. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label is needed for verification of energy code compliance. The NFRC label displays whole-window energy properties and appears on all products in the ENERGY STAR program providing a reliable way to determine the window’s energy efficiency properties.

NFRC Energy Star Label Example – The Energy Star label indicates that the window meets energy performance recommendations set by the US Department of Energy. The label includes a map of where the specific window qualifies for the specific climate zone.

Window Performance

Check the windows for any energy performance labels and information on window performance. If there are no labels or you cannot find any information on the window, you can visually inspect the window to determine the assumed window energy performance with the following:

1 – Verify how many panes of glass the windows has, with each pane of glass comes additional energy efficiency

2 – What material is the window frame made from (aluminum, wood, vinyl).  Windows made with wood or vinyl frames insulate better than metal-framed window options so are more energy efficient.

Below are charts to help in assuming the U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC).  The U-factor is a measure of non-solar heat transfer (like heat escaping in the winter). A lower U-factor is better (lower means less heat loss). The SHGC indicates how much heat from the sun enters through a window. A low SHGC is more important in the hotter climates like the Houston Texas are. The U-factor and SHGC of a window are shown on the NFRC label. Energy Star windows meet the recommended values shown here:

Energy Star Window Climate Zone Map

The U-factor and SHGC of a window are shown on the NFRC label. The U-factor is a measure of non-solar heat transfer. A lower U-factor is better, lower means less heat loss. The SHGC indicates how much heat from the sun enters through a window. A low SHGC is more important in the hotter climates like the Houston Texas area.

Below is a chart you can reference using the information collected above for the assumed U-factor and SHGC values. This information is based on the International Energy Conservation Code and does not account for features you may not be able to verify such as low-E coatings, gas fills, etc).

U-factor SHGC Approximation Chart (These values are based on the International Energy Conservation Code and do not take into account features that you may not be able to verify such as low-E coatings, gas fills, etc.)

3 – Does the window glass has low-E coatings? Low-E coatings are invisible heat barriers that improve window energy efficiency. The most reliable way to identify these coatings is to use a low-E detector device (equipment energy auditors may use). Chances are you do not own one of these but you may be able to identify low-E glass by using a lighter flame or white card by holding either up to the glass and looking for the two reflections from each pane of glass. If one of the panes looks bluer than the other, this is an indication of a low-E coating on that surface.

4 – Does the window have an airtight fit and weatherstripping. Check the sashes and weatherstripping as these are important factors. The windows may have air leakage if they are not fitted tightly or air could be leaking from in between the interface of the frame and the wall if they were not properly sealed during installation. This may be difficult to check for on existing windows.

Professional Window Installation

If you are ready to replace your windows, remember the importance of proper installation of your new energy efficient Energy Star rated windows. This is most necessary for optimal performance of energy efficient windows, to ensuring there is an airtight fit and to avoid water leakage. Use experienced professionals for your window selection and installation.

Additionally, check the Department of Energy for info replacing windows with energy efficient windows that are Energy Star rated.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog and feel free to call me at Texas Home Exteriors, we are here to assist you in your replacement window selection and installation of new energy efficient windows in the Houston, Spring, The Woodlands metro area. We offer a variety of options, call us today at 281.919.6999 and visit our website click her Texas Home Exteriors.  Be sure to check out our Texas Home Exclusive Windows made for the Houston Texas Climate!

Free Energy Star Window Estimate

Texas Home Exteriors Houston TX receives Best of Houzz 2014 Customer Satisfaction Award

Feb 4 2014

Annual Survey and Analysis of 16 Million Monthly Users Reveals Top-Rated Building, Remodeling and Design Professionals THE WOODLANDS, HOUSTON, TEXAS, February 4, 2014 – Texas Home Exteriors of The Woodlands, Houston Texas has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design.

“The Siding Roofing and Window Contractor” was chosen by the more than 16 million monthly users that comprise the Houzz community. The Best Of Houzz award is given in two categories: Customer Satisfaction and Design. Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2013. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 16 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers,” who saved more than 230 million professional images of home interiors and exteriors to their personal ideabooks via the Houzz site, iPad/iPhone app and Android app.

Winners will receive a “Best Of Houzz 2014” badge on their profiles, showing the Houzz community their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.   Texas Home Exteriors is honored to receive this award and recognition from the Houzz community.About Houzz “Houzz provides homeowners with the most comprehensive view of home building, remodeling and design professionals, empowering them to find and hire the right professional to execute their vision,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of community for Houzz.

“We’re delighted to recognize Texas Home Exteriors among our “Best Of” professionals for customer satisfaction as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.” With Houzz, homeowners can identify not only the top-rated professionals like Texas Home Exteriors, but also those whose work matches their own aspirations for their home. Homeowners can also evaluate professionals by contacting them directly on the Houzz platform, asking questions about their work and reviewing their responses to questions from others in the Houzz community.

Learn more about Texas Home Exteriors on there website at https://www.texashomeexteriors.com and be sure to follow them on Houzz http://www.houzz.com/pro/greg-kapitan/texas-home-exteriorsAbout Texas Home Exteriors Texas Home Exteriors and our owner Greg Kapitan “Kapitan The Siding Man” comes to you with over 30 years combined experience in the construction trade. Our expertise in the areas of Home Improvement and Energy-Efficiency has been demonstrated on numerous completed jobs and happy customers over the years throughout the greater Houston, Spring, The Woodlands metro areas of Texas.

Greg & Shelly, Owners of Texas Home Exteriors Houston, The Woodlands TX

Texas Home Exteriors specializes in HardiPlank Siding, LP Smartside Siding, Vinyl Replacement Windows, Pergolas, Patio Covers and Roofing Shingle Options. Our products and services are the most Energy Efficient and innovative in the business.  Our crews are experienced professionals who have all been hand-picked by Greg Kapitan himself, to ensure superior workmanship and customer satisfaction.” Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device.

From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to get the design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews they need to help turn ideas into reality. For more information, visit www.houzz.com

The window in the center is a “fixed” non-operable window.  The windows on either side are “quarter arches” and the windows above the doors are transom windows also non-operable.

Replacement Window Choices

Homeowners often inquire about the different  window types that are available.   To help clarify these questions, in this post I compiled a short list of the basic types.

Many homes are built with basic types of windows  (standard “builders grade” windows) with very few features and pretty much boring. Updating with new replacement windows can make a nondescript home into one that shines with curb and what I call the “wow appeal!”

It is important to know what your options are, what the features are and what they mean before making your window replacement decision.  I am happy to provide you with some insight as your personal window professional and here is some important information you should be aware of about the various window types.

Window Types:

Fixed – This type of window cannot be opened. It is usually inexpensive and does not allow for ventilation.

One sash is operational

Sing hung – This is one of the most common types of “builder’s grade” windows used.  Single-hung means that only one of the window sashes is able to slide up and down and be opened.

Both sashes operational

Double hung  – This is the second most common type of window. This window consists of two sashes that move up and down and can be opened either one at a time or both partially at the same time allowing for even better air circulation than a single hung window provides.

Vertical hinge, cranks

Casement – These windows are common in the northeast USA.  Casement windows are hinged vertically to swing in and out like a door and operate with a crank handle.

Hinged horizontally, crank

Awning – Awning windows are similar to casement windows but are hinged horizontally.

Jalousie – Jalousie windows are horizontally placed narrow strips of glass, lowered by crank. Although out of favor today, they were very popular in the mid-century.

Sliding Windows

Sliding – Sliding windows move along top and bottom tracks. They are also very common in the mid-west USA and can be inexpensive for the most part.

Palladian – A palladian window consists of group of three windows with an arch over the center. These windows have become very popular in the last decade. They provide visual interest and drama to a home.

Picture Window
& Double Hungs

Picture – Picture windows are especially popular in ranch-style homes. They are large fixed windows flanked by two casements or double-hung windows on either side of the picture window.

Transom – These windows are especially popular in Craftsman like homes. They consist of a strip of small horizontal panes set high on a wall and often above an entry door, doorway or over existing operational windows.

Circle Top, Elliptical or Arched

Elliptical or Arched (Circle Top)– These windows are often positioned above double hung or fixed windows in many of today’s new homes adding appeal and personality.

Add Appeal with an Eyebrow

Eyebrow – This window is often positioned above double hung or fixed windows in many of today’s new homes to add appeal and personality.

Protrudes outside of the home

Protrudes out from the home

Bay and Bow – This type of window protrudes from the home that often has a small roof built over it as well as a soffit underneath. They are very common when homeowners upgrade from their older windows in the northeast USA.

As you can see, there are many types of windows available.  The region you live in will often determine the type of window common in your area.  Making a smart choice in window selection can lead to greater appeal, light and energy efficiency for your home for many years.

In future blogs, I will discuss how choosing grid patters, interior and colors of the window frames can make wonderful enhancements to your home. Additionally I will be providing information on many other fun options for your windows.

Learn more at this link about Energy Efficient Windows and Low-E Glass.

“For A Home That’s Superior, Call Texas Home Exteriors!”

Call or Text for FREE Estimate with NO Pressure 281.919.6999

 Free Replacement Window Estimate