You drove by the big box on Saturday and saw a huge splashy sign that said “Vinyl Replacement Windows – $199 Installed!” and you’re understandably thinking that sounds like a pretty good deal. In this case however, the old adage “If it seems too good to be true it probably is” should be the first thing that comes to mind because once all the fine print has been invoked you can be 100% certain you’ll pay more than $199 for any type of quality replacement window.
Things That Drive up Window Installation Costs
So what are the things that drive up the cost of window replacement anyway? While each project is slightly different the 7 most common things that affect the final cost of window installation are:
- Materials – Is it theoretically possible that a single pane window-only (no casement), that doesn’t open and is made of cheap materials may cost you only $199 to install? Sure. But if you want energy-efficient windows with full casements made by a reputable manufacturer from high-quality materials you’re going to pay more.
- Labor – Labor costs are going to vary depending on the size, accessibility, and number of windows you’re having installed. The time of year you have the installation done will also affect the final labor cost. Also, a reputable contractor will likely cost you more than a newcomer or someone with scant references but will be worth the extra expense.
- Glass type – Double-pane will cost more than single-pane windows and double-pane windows with Low-E glass will cost more than double-pane windows with standard glass. Triple-pane windows will cost even more. Also, the type of gas between the panes (if any) as well as the quality of the seals will all contribute to the cost of the window installation.
- Style – The cost of your windows will also be affected by the style you choose. Double-hung windows will cost more than single-hung windows. A casement window will cost a bit more than a standard single or double-hung window and a bay window will be considerably more expensive than any standard-sized window, regardless of how it opens.
- Customization – If you have a custom-designed home or an old Victorian with some oddly shaped windows you’ll need to pay more to have windows custom-designed and built to fit the openings. Custom-shaped windows are the most expensive type of replacement windows because they’re just that: custom.
- State of the walls – The state of the walls surrounding the window can affect the cost of the installation. If the walls around your current windows are rotting and quite a bit of material needs to be replaced before the new window can be installed you’ll be paying for that material as well as for the extra labor involved.
- Location – The cost of your window installation will be driven at least in part by where in the Toronto area your home is located. If the contractor needs to make an hour’s drive each way to and from your home the installation project will cost more than if the contractor is located in the same neighborhood.
Before you decide to take someone up on their miraculous price read the fine print; all of it, and then call Toronto Doors and Windows for honest pricing and first-class service. Our customers mean everything to us and we never engage in tricks or empty promises to get your business. Instead, we manufacture and install top-quality products that will increase your home’s value, reduce your energy bills, and make your home the envy of the neighborhood. Call us today at 647-932-3667 to find out more about our window installation services.
