A broken window lets in pests, rain, and more. When a window does break, it’s important to get it fixed right away. However, the cost can be a concern, especially for those who are on a budget. When it’s necessary to replace a window, there are some things that can impact the cost and may cause it to be higher than expected.
The Size of the Window
The size is a big consideration when replacing a broken window, as larger windows are going to be far more expensive to replace than smaller ones. However, other factors do come into play that could make smaller windows more expensive, such as how easy it is to reach and replace the pane of glass or whether the whole window needs to be replaced instead of just the glass.
The Location of the Window
The location of the window inside the home can impact the cost. Ones that are on ground level and easy to reach are going to be less expensive than ones that are located on a second story. A skylight is going to be more expensive because it is far more difficult to reach and there are safety considerations for the installation that aren’t there for a window on the ground floor.
Window Disposal Costs
In some cases, there may be a disposal cost added to the overall estimate. Some places will charge to take away the older window and dispose of it for the homeowner. However, the homeowner may be able to dispose of it themselves and avoid paying this cost.
Emergency Replacements
If a window needs to be replaced in a hurry, it is going to be more expensive. The installer may need to rearrange their schedule to fit in the replacement, so they may end up charging more for this. If it’s possible to board up the window and wait to get on the installer’s schedule, it may be possible to save some money on the cost of replacement.
Structural Changes
Some sizes of windows are used less often, so it’s not as easy to get replacement parts. In other situations, the homeowner may want to take the opportunity to install a larger window to bring in more light. If there will need to be any structural changes to the home, it’s going to be more expensive. It’s best to plan structural changes carefully to save money.
Historic Considerations
Older homes that are designated as historic may require windows from that time period to keep up with the appearance of the home. This doesn’t apply to all homes, but those who are required to or would like to keep historical accuracy for their home may want to research the history of the home to determine what windows would be used. If historic options must be used, it can cause the price of the installation to be a little bit higher.
If you have a broken window in your home and need to replace it, make sure your budget includes all potential factors that could impact the price. Take the time to speak with a professional to get an estimate for the replacement. They can help with temporarily covering the window, too, in case it’s necessary to wait a little bit to replace the window.