How Much Does Replacement Window Glass Cost?
Typical Range:
$181 - $411
Typical Range:
$181 - $411
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 13,255 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data
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Updated April 12, 2024
Reviewed by Cati O'Keefe, Expert Home Building & Sustainability Contributor.Replacing window glass can be complex, requires specific skills, and pros often provide a warranty.
The cost of replacement window glass ranges from $3 to $100 per square foot, depending on type.
The cost of replacement window glass depends on size, window type, custom glass, and labor costs.
Popular materials for window glass include tempered, laminated, thermopane, plate, double-glazed, and shaw glass.
Double-glazed windows reduce noise, heat transmission, and energy bills but have higher initial costs.
Highlights were summarized from this existing cost guide text using automation technology and were thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average window glass replacement costs $282, but you’ll typically spend anywhere from $181 and $411. In some circumstances, replacing a glass window pane could cost as little as $100 or more than $700, but depends on the manufacturer, type of glass, and specific window.
Let's calculate cost data for you. Where are you located?
Where are you located?
National Average | $282 |
Typical Range | $181 - $411 |
Low End - High End | $100 - $775 |
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 13,255 HomeAdvisor members.
Type | Price Per Square Foot |
---|---|
Tempered/Impact-Resistant | $12 - $14 |
Laminated/Insulated | $10 - $20 |
Thermopane/Thermal | $10 - $14 |
Plate/Flat | $25 - $100 |
Double-Glazed | $3 - $6 |
$12-$14 per square foot
One of the hardest and strongest types of glass
Less likely to cut someone if it breaks
Cannot be cut without shattering
More expensive than annealed glass
$10-$20 per square foot
Holds up well under impact
Blocks 99% of UV-light transmission
Has sound-reduction properties
The noise-reduction properties of laminated glass come from a specific amount of air space between the two panels, making it more difficult to install.
$10-$14 per square foot
More energy-efficient than standard single-pane windows
Reduces heating and cooling costs
Moisture can build up between the glass panes, requiring the panes to be replaced.
$25-$100 per square foot
Flat, clear, and contains few irregularities
Not as good of an insulator as other window glass options
Can be easily scratched
$3-$6 per square foot
Reduces noise and heat transmission through the window
Helps reduce energy bills
Cannot be easily repaired, as disturbing the glass can break the airtight seal
Higher initial cost
$10-$14 per square foot
Energy-efficient with several weather-proofing features
Easy to clean
Made of 1+ movable panes
Not as secure as other window types, making it easier for an intruder to enter
How much you pay for window glass depends on a number of factors. You’ll pay more for custom glass, high-end upgrades, and inaccessible window replacements like a skylight than you would to replace a single standard plane. The more skill and abor the project requires, the more it’s going to cost.
Size is a significant factor when determining the cost of replacement window glass. The bigger the window, the more you’re going to pay—but it’s not just about height and width. Glass thickness is also a factor. Most window panes are anywhere from 1/8 of an inch thick to 1-inch thick. If you change the thickness when you replace the pane, you may have to also replace the frame, which usually costs anywhere from $200 to $600
There are all different types of windows, and the style can affect the overall cost of a window replacement. Though double-paned glasses come with many benefits, they will cost more to replace than a single-paned window—especially if the window is filled with argon or krypton gas. Depending on the type of a window, a contractor may have to remove part of the trim to replace the glass, which can also drive up costs. Here’s what you can expect to pay for a replacement.
Type of Window | Typical Replacement Window Glass Cost |
---|---|
Single Pane | $50 - $100 |
Double Pane | $100 - $300 |
Sash / Sliding | $100 - $900 |
Picture | $175 - $1,000 |
Casement | $150 - $1,200 |
Triple Pane | $300 - $1,000 |
Bay Window (3 Panes) | $500 - $3,800 |
Bow Window (5+ Panes) | $1,000 - $3,000 |
Custom glass is substantially more expensive than a standard pane in a standard size. For example, the cost of a stained glass window could be anywhere between $100 and $10,000 depending on the level of detail and artistry.
"The main culprit of window failure is the sun. Sunshine causes 'solar pumping,' or a process where repeated heating (and then nighttime cooling) of the air between the glass panes in double- or triple-paned windows results in seal failure. Consider shading the south and southwest windows of your house with trees, awnings or pergolas to protect them."
Cati O'Keefe, Expert Home Building & Sustainability Contributor.
You can upgrade your glass for both aesthetics, soundproofing, and increased energy efficiency, but the cost per upgrade varies. For example, many homeowners find the cost of window tint more affordable than swapping out a pane for one with a low-e coating, and both upgrades can help reduce heat loss in the winter. Here are some common upgrades and what you can expect to spend.
Type of Window Upgrade | Typical Cost |
---|---|
Tinted | $7 - $110 per square foot |
Smart glass | $25 - $150 per square foot |
Laminated | $10 - $20 per square foot |
Frosted | $350 - $800 per window |
Argon / Krypton Gas | $375 - $1,200 per window |
Low-E Coating | $300 - $1,000 per window |
Glass doors aren’t all that different from regular windows when it comes to replacing a glass pane. Size and style are two of the biggest factors. Again, the more labor and materials a project takes, the more it’s going to cost.
Replacing the glass panes on a door ranges from as little as $100 for a front door to more than $5,500 for a sliding glass door. The cost varies based on the usage, type of glass, and actual structure of the frame, but here are some typical costs.
Type of Door | Average Cost |
---|---|
Front or Back Door | $100 - $500 |
Storm Door | $150 - $275 |
French Door | $200 - $450 |
Patio Door | $150 – $1,200 |
Shower Door | $500 - $1,800 |
Sliding Door | $500 - $5,500 |
Smaller glass panes cost less than larger glass panes. If you’re replacing a couple of panes in a small window on a front door, you’ll pay less than you would to replace large glass panes on bi-fold patio doors.
If you’re replacing a window pane on your own, you can expect to spend between $100 to $630 on the glass itself, plus another $100 to $200 on supplies. Since glass is fragile and replacing a pane is complicated, most homeowners hire a local window glass replacement professional unless they specifically have contracting experience.
Most contractors charge between $50 and $75 per hour to replace window glass. This can add up if the glass replacement is complicated or you’re replacing multiple panes along with making other repairs. The upside is that contractors have the skills and experience necessary to install the glass properly, can generally do the job quickly, and will often provide a warranty.
Old, single-pane windows can usually be repaired, but modern windows may require a total replacement depending on the problem. If you’re dealing with broken glass, you’ll likely need to replace the pane. In some cases, you may also want to replace the window sash or repair the muntins and mullions that hold the glass.
Yes, you can replace a broken pane. If you have frequent problems with your windows, you may want to consider a replacement.
A skilled contractor can usually replace a window in 30 to 45 minutes, but it can take up to 90 minutes to replace wood, aluminum, or steel windows. The labor depends on the size and type of window. If you want to replace numerous, large custom windows, it can take one or two days.