Window repair typically costs between $100 and $800.* Window repair is often more budget-friendly than buying replacement windows; however, these costs vary depending on the extent of damage, type of window and frame material, and local labor rates.
When windows are in good condition, they tend to go unnoticed, but a damaged window can quickly become a glaring problem. Your window’s condition determines which solution you should take. Minor damage or deterioration, such as window seal cracking, generally falls under the repair category. Warped or bent window frames, however, may require a new window.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect repair costs and why it’s best to fix your windows sooner rather than later.
*Cost range is from Gal Cohen, the field area manager at JDM Sliding Doors in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
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Key Takeaways
- Window repair costs typically range from $100 to $800 per window.
- Labor rates range from $75 to $200 per window, depending on your contractor and location
- Costs increase depending on the extent of damage and window size.
What Factors Contribute to Window Repair Costs?
The leading factor determining your total window repair invoice is the extent of damage. But your window contractor will also consider your window frame material, glass type, window size, and the number of windows that need repairs. Labor rates vary depending on your location and chosen contractor.
“Repairing a residential window is more suitable when the damage is minor, such as small cracks, broken seals, and the window frame is still in good condition,” said Robert Schindler, vice president of Window World. Schindler said window repair is ideal for preserving historic windows. “It is also a cost-effective option if only the glass or hardware needs fixing,” he added.
Damage Extent
The price to fix a broken window starts with the extent of the damage. A quick fix typically requires fewer materials and labor hours, costing hundreds less than a scenario in which a repair crew must spend all day working on your window.
“A small crack might be a quick fix, but if the window is extensively damaged, it might need a full replacement, which can bump up the price,” said Andriy Boyko, founder of A.O. Handy in New Berlin, Wisconsin.
What Are Common Window Repair Costs?
The problem in question will affect the final cost of your repairs. Some repairs are trickier than others, so they often cost more due to the extra labor necessary. Here are a few of the most common window repairs and average costs.
Broken Sash Cord, Seal, Tracks, or Flashing
Minor window repairs, such as fixing broken sash cords, seals, tracks, or flashing, usually cost between $200 and $600 if done by a professional.
These repairs are straightforward and DIY-friendly, so many homeowners choose to handle the project themselves. It can be as cheap as $35 for the materials and tools if you do it yourself.
Broken Thermal Seal
A broken thermal seal on your window can allow fogginess and condensation to overtake the gap between the windowpanes. Until you repair it, air from your home will leak out and increase your energy bills. To fix this, professionals drill a tiny hole into the glass pane and insert a chemical to eliminate the moisture caught between the panes.
After applying the chemical, the pro installs a valve to pump out the air and then replaces the old seal to remedy the problem. Replacing a broken window thermal seal usually costs between $70 and $120.
Cracked or Broken Window Glass
If your window has a crack, you can expect to pay between $20 to $100 for repairs. Generally, the problem is only fixable when dealing with a single-pane or double-paned window with a crack in one pane.
If the pro can repair the crack, they’ll use a two-part epoxy to fill the crack. Once the epoxy cures, the window will be in working condition again.
If the crack spans multiple panes or is broken, repairs might not be possible. In these scenarios, homeowners often have to replace the broken glass, which costs anywhere from $200 to $400. Complicated repairs can be considerably more expensive, costing upward of $2,000.
Broken Window Frame
Fogginess and condensation are often a result of a broken thermal seal, but they may also stem from other issues, such as a bad or rotting window frame. This also lets in hot or cold air between the glass panes, making them foggy. To remedy this problem, you can expect to pay approximately $150 for small repairs to the frame and up to $2,000 for a complete replacement.
Hardware or Latch Issues
Restoring broken hardware or latches on windows usually runs between $75 and $200, depending on the severity of the issue. The cost primarily stems from labor costs; if you handle the project yourself, you can save some money.
This project is DIY-friendly, and many homeowners don’t have any issues remedying the problem themselves. Of course, DIY costs may rival low-end professional costs, especially if you have multiple window latches to repair.
Leaking
Window leaks usually cost between $50 and $150 to repair, with the average homeowner paying about $100 for these repairs. Some scenarios require only a bit of caulking to remedy the problem, so the fix is simple and usually costs around $50. On the high end, professionals may need to reseal the entire window, and costs climb closer to $150.
Window Frame Damage
Costs associated with repairing damage to a window frame vary drastically based on the window frame material and the severity of the damage. For minor repairs, costs might be as low as $50.
New window costs vary based on the frame material; vinyl and aluminum frames are much cheaper than high-end wood frames. The same holds for repairs. Cohen said vinyl frames are the cheapest to repair — ranging from $100 to $300 — while wood frame repairs can cost up to $600 per window.
Again, your window repair invoice will vary depending on the extent of the frame damage. For example, repairing a chipped wooden frame will be much cheaper than repairing one that’s rotten. According to Ron Shimek, president of Mr. Handyman in Waco, Texas, performing routine maintenance on wood windows, such as painting or sealing them every few years, can help reduce the likelihood of rotting, insect infestations, or other extreme damage.
Repairing extensive damage — such as rebuilding the wood frame and window installation — can cost more than $1,000. On average, homeowners pay approximately $380, depending on where they live and the window type.
Glass Coating and Upgrades
Window tinting and low-emissivity (low-e) glass are two common window treatments that can help reduce energy bills. Tempered and laminated glass upgrades increase your window’s impact resistance. Choosing these upgrades can be beneficial in the long run, but they will impact your total repair cost.
“[Repair costs] can vary significantly depending on whether you’re dealing with standard window glass or specialized types like tempered or low-e glass, which are pricier,” said Boyko.
Expect to pair more for repairs on windows with these upgrades.
What Is the Repair Cost by Number of Panes?
The type of window requiring repairs will play a defining role in the final cost of your window repair. These windows usually feature one, two, three, or five panes; repairs can vary dramatically based on this factor.
Single-Pane Window Repair Cost
Single-pane glass windows are usually the easiest to repair, as you only need to worry about a single pane. These windows include picture windows, skylight windows, casement windows, and basement hopper windows. On average, repairing these windows has an average price between $75 and $200, or $3 to $4 per square foot.
Double-Pane Window Repair Cost
Double-pane window repairs usually cost between $200 and $400, depending on the severity of the damage. Common double-pane windows include storm windows, single-hung windows, and double-hung windows.
Generally, these windows require more extensive repairs, such as thermal seal repair, epoxy filler, glass repair, glass replacement, and window sash cord repairs, so they’re usually pricier to repair.
Three-Pane Window Repair Cost
Three-pane windows, such as arched windows, include more glass than a single- or double-pane window. Due to the extra glass, these windows are usually pricier to repair, ranging from $500 to $1,000 for common repairs.
Five-Pane or Bow Window Repair Cost
Five-pane windows, such as bow windows, are usually the priciest. They feature more glass than the other options, and as a result, repairs cost more. On average, repairing a five-pane window costs upward of $600, which is still less than comparable replacement costs for windows.
What Is the Window Repair Cost by Window Type?
Here are the cost estimates for window repairs by type.
| Window Types | Low-End Repair Costs | High-End Repair Costs |
| Arched | $200 | $600 |
| Awning | $200 | $400 |
| Bay Windows | $250 | $600 |
| Bow | $600 | $1,000+ |
| Casement | $150 | $500 |
| Circle | $200 | $500 |
| Egress | $250 | $800+ |
| Glass Block | $75 | $200 |
| Hopper | $75 | $200 |
| Jalousie | $75 | $250 |
| Picture | $130 | $450 |
| Skylight | $200 | $500 |
| Sliding | $130 | $500 |
| Storm | $100 | $300 |
| Transom | $75 | $200 |
Read also: What Transom Windows entails
What Other Factors Impact Window Repair Costs?
- Accessibility: While first-floor, easily accessible home window repairs usually cost about average, those on the second floor (or that are less accessible) usually cost more.
- Materials: Some materials are less expensive than others to repair. For instance, aluminum and vinyl windows are more affordable to repair than wood windows. Also, the type of glass affects the total cost.
- Window size and shape: Larger and more complex windows generally cost more to repair than their smaller and simpler standard-size counterparts. Larger windows have more material and take more time to repair.
- Urgency: If you need an emergency window repair, you can expect to pay double or triple regular labor rates.
- Home location: If you live further away from the repair shop, you may need to pay for the professional’s drive time, which tacks on additional fees. Also, if you live in a higher-cost-of-living part of the country, you’ll likely pay more than the national average.
Window Repairs: DIY or Hire a Professional?
For the most part, DIYing repair projects is an excellent way to save money. Some window repairs are DIY-friendly, so you can tackle them and save money. For example, repairing or replacing a broken latch or hardware is a straightforward process that most homeowners can easily complete.
However, some window repairs are complex, time-consuming, and require specialized knowledge. Replacing bay windows is a good example of more effort than it is worth to attempt on your own.
If you’re dealing with extensive window damage or a complicated home improvement project, it’s usually best to hire a professional. A professional could also tell you if you’re better off with new windows.
Labor Costs
Thomas Patterson, director of new product development and technical training at Glass Doctor based in New Waterford, Ohio, said labor costs for window repair range from $100 to $150 per hour. In his experience, it’s common for professionals to have a one-hour minimum charge. Cohen stated that his company charges between $75 and $200 per window.
Both Patterson and Cohen said that the job’s complexity increases labor rates. For example, labor costs will increase if a job requires a ladder or scaffolding. Contractors also consider if they need extra preparation work to ensure their workers’ safety.
Finally, labor costs will vary depending on your location. Boyko said labor rates tend to increase in urban areas or cities with higher living costs. Labor fees are a small piece of the puzzle, as other factors (damage, materials, accessibility, etc.) play a significant role in the final cost.
Final Thoughts
The average cost to repair windows in the United States ranges from $100 to $800. Inexpensive repairs, such as adding caulk, can cost as little as $20; full replacements can cost as much as $2,000.
Generally, for repairs, the price you pay depends on the type of problem you have. Broken seals, bad tracks, failing flashing, and cracked thermal seals are on the lower end of the spectrum. On the other hand, cracked glass, busted latches/hardware/locks, and window frame damage cost the most to repair.
We recommend contacting a window repair professional to get a quote for any window repair need.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
FAQs About Window Repair Cost
The answer to this question varies from one scenario to the next. Generally, repairing a window is less expensive than window replacement, as windows are pricey.
However, replacing the window might be the more logical solution in some scenarios — for example, if you have extensive damage or want to switch to low-e, energy-efficient windows. If unsure of the best course of action, talk to a trusted window professional.
Window leaks are a nuisance and can lead to other issues, so it’s better to fix them sooner rather than later. On average, repairing a window leak costs $100, although this can vary.
For example, if the fix is as simple as re-caulking the window, you might pay as little as $50 (or less if you DIY the project). If the window requires resealing, you’ll probably pay more. On average, resealing the window costs approximately $150.
In some cases, you can save money by DIYing your window repair. If you’re a DIYer with extensive experience, DIYing the project might be more logical, even if the damage is moderate to severe. Most homeowners can handle minor repairs, such as a broken latch or damaged window hardware.
However, if you’re unfamiliar with window repairs and the damage is extensive, it’s usually best to have a professional handle the repair. In many cases, severe damage requires multiple steps and careful handling to avoid inflicting more damage.
