How Much Does Window Frame Replacement or Repair Cost?

Window Frame Replacement Cost

Replacing a window frame costs around $200 to $600, not including the window. Repairing or replacing frames tends to save you in the long run since the cost to replace a window is about $450 to $2,000 each.

In newer homes, replacement involves replacing the casing around the window, which doesn’t usually require removing the window. In older homes or new construction with wood frames and wood windows, prices may go up if your pro needs to remove the window to get to the damage.

Cost to Replace a Rotted Window Frame

Replacing a rotted window frame costs $100 to $400 on average, depending on the level of rot. Materials tend to cost only $50 to $150, but removing any parts without rot can take several hours, adding to the price.

How Much Do Window Frames Cost?

A window frame costs anywhere from $200 to $1,000 to replace, depending on the material and how much material needs replacing. Often, only a sash or sill requires replacement. 

You'll typically replace a sash rather than repair it unless you're restoring historic windows. It usually costs more to fix one than purchase and install a new one. Most repairs happen on the sill, casing, or jamb, which are the parts surrounding the sash. On the other hand, if you need to replace only the glass, the cost to replace window glass is about $280.

Repair Cost of Window Frames

Repairing windows cost $150 to $550 on average but can vary quite a bit, depending on the problem. For example, painting might cost $50 per window, while complete frame replacement tops out at around $1,000. Costs can also vary regionally due to higher overhead in some areas. A local window repair contractor can give you an exact estimate for your project.

Lead Paint

Some of the most common types of window frame repairs include lead paint removal, window sash replacement, and windowsill replacement. If you have an older house and your window has lead paint, you may need to pay for lead paint removal. 

Lead paint removal costs around $10 to $25 per square foot. For homeowners who are unsure if their windows have lead paint, you may need to get your home inspected. A lead paint inspection costs $320 on average.

Window Sash

A window sash replacement costs approximately $50 to $250, while window sash repair costs about $100 to $200. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace your window sash rather than repair it. However, if you're restoring historic windows, it may be worth repairing the sash to preserve the character of the original windows.

Windowsill Replacement

A windowsill replacement costs around $150 to $400. The windowsill is located at the bottom of the window and helps support it and provide structural integrity. Windowsills are one of the more common areas of a window frame that may need repair or replacement.

Window Frame Repair Costs by Material

The cost to repair window frames depends partly on what material the frames are made of. For example, fiberglass or composite window frames may be more expensive to replace or repair, while wood or aluminum frames may be less expensive. On average, repairing windows cost around $170 to $580.

Wood Frames

It costs around $100 to $350 to repair wood window frames. Wood is one of the more common types of window frame materials and requires more maintenance than other frames, including painting and sealing. However, wood frames are easier to fix than vinyl.

Aluminum Frames

These window frames cost around $150 to $350 to repair. Aluminum window frames are strong and require little maintenance, but they conduct heat, making them poor insulators. High-end models have thermal breaks between the interior and exterior surfaces.

Vinyl Frames

Vinyl window frames cost between $150 and $500 to repair on average. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and ultraviolet light stabilizers meant to protect against sunlight that can break down the material, they require very little maintenance. Review our vinyl vs. wooden window comparison guide if you’re torn between the two options. 

Fiberglass Frames

Fiberglass window frames are exceptionally durable and stable and provide better insulation than those made from wood or uninsulated vinyl. However, they also have a high installation cost of $300 to $600 on average.

Composite Frames

Like fiberglass, composite window frames are durable and insulating. They cost between $400 and $800 to replace, making them one of the more expensive types of window frames.

Window Frame Labor Costs

Labor to replace window frames costs around $50 to $130 per hour for repairs or $100 to $500 per window for replacements. Most of your repair budget goes to labor, with around $50 to $150 for materials, depending on the repair type. 

Prices tend to jump quite a bit when your contractor needs to remove your window to fix any rough framing issues, but most repairs don't require removal.

DIY vs. Hiring a Window Repair Professional

DIY window frame repair kits cost around $10 to $20 for fixing small cracks or holes. Replacing a sash lock might run $20 and take only a few minutes with some common tools, like a screwdriver. 

Improper installs can damage the seal around the glass, strip screw holes, and even make a costly replacement necessary. Once you need frame, sash, or sill repairs, it’s better to call in a local window frame repair professional who can diagnose the problem and provide a permanent, lasting fix.