A window replacement will improve your home’s aesthetics, energy efficiency and marketability. Because most of the heat that escapes from your home is going out the window, a window upgrade is one of the most effective ways to really improve your home’s efficiency. New windows also make a home more attractive to potential buyers, which is a perk if you ever decide to sell your home down the road.

Things to consider when budgeting for a window replacement.

There are things to consider when estimating the cost of a window replacement. These include the size, type and number of windows you will need. For example, standard slider windows will cost less than a bay or bow window. You will also pay depending on the windows efficiency features. Though all windows that are ENERGY STAR rated for our climate zone will improve efficiency, you can pay extra for additional energy efficiency features. For instance, triple-pane windows cost more than double-pane.

Window companies can give you an accurate quote on both products and labour. In most cases, a window installer will give you a discount on labour per window if you are installing multiple windows at once. If you were planning on replacing a window or two every year until they are done, it could end up costing you more in the end.

Read How much will windows cost to learn more.

Common costs for residential windows.

According to HGTV renovations, the average cost to purchase and install a 5 by 7 window, including trim and flash, is approximately $1,000. Obviously, the price will go up and down depending on the type of window, size and material.

The average single detached home has between 10 to 15 windows. That means your window replacement will cost approximately $10,000 to $15,000 dollars.

Is a window replacement worth the cost?

If you are planning on staying in your home into the foreseeable future, then a window replacement is definitely worth the cost. Investing in energy efficiency will reduce your impact on the environment, prevent wasting energy and lower your heating and cooling costs by at least 8 percent each month. New windows will also improve your home comfort and its resale value.

If you are planning on selling your home, you have some things to consider. While a new window replacement will increase your home’s resale value and marketability, it will not recoup the entire cost of the project. You can expect to get back about 74 percent. However, in addition to that return on investment, your home will be more attractive to potential buyers, especially when it’s competing with comparable homes that do not have new windows.

Read Choosing new windows to help with the choice.