9 Most Expensive Types of Windows and What They Cost

9 Most Expensive Types of Windows and What They Cost

There’s no doubt all windows admit natural light and fresh, dry air into a room. However, beyond these two fundamental functions, windows prove useful in defining the style of your home. High-end windows can help showcase whether you’ve got a modern or traditional home. 

In today’s era where architectural modernity is key, more and more homeowners are on the lookout for expensive windows that can be customized to suit one’s tastes and preferences. In this write-up, we’re going to zero in on the 9 most expensive types of windows and what they cost. Without further ado, let’s get started. Shall we? 

Most Expensive Window Types in Descending Order 

Bay Windows

Bay windows project outward from an external wall and create additional space for seating and storage. More often than not, they leverage on flat windows built onto an angled frame outside of the home. Since they protrude outwards, bay windows offer a better view of the outside environment from various angles than all other expensive window types available today.

There are about five different types of bay windows, including free-standing, boxed, circle, bowing and integral. A bay window is larger than most other types of windows and can only be installed by an expert installer using the right quality of materials to evade structural malfunctions. This is why you’ll have to part with at least $1,800 and at most $6,500 for the bay window installation. 

Egress Windows 

Egress windows prioritize safety above all else. With these types of windows, exciting a room during emergencies is easier because it consists of an escape route that prevents you from using a door. Egress windows vary in size depending on the state and municipality laws. Even so, the International Residential Code requires that these types of windows be greater than 44 inches sill height and at least 24 inches high and 20 inches wide.

In most cases, egress windows are installed in the home basement, and the installation location may have to be excavated for proper installation. Consequently, depending on the number of windows to be installed and whether the area has to be excavated, the egress window installation costs may range between $1,500 and $5,000.  

Bow Windows 

Bow windows are the specific types that use custom curved window panels to create a spherical space along the exterior of the home. Bow window cost estimates significantly vary depending on a couple of factors, such as the number of window panels involved and the materials used. This explains why a bow window can sometimes be pricier than a full bay window.

For instance, if you’re going to create the bow window using more than 6 window panels, then you may have to pay $1,500-$4,000. By the same token, if you’re going to combine three windows and a vinyl frame, then the price could be $1,500-$2,500. Homeowners who opt to use more expensive materials like fiberglass or aluminum frame could end up paying more for the bow window installation.

Skylight Windows

Skylight windows are typically installed on top of an inclined roof to admit light into the room. It tends to be parallel to the sloping wall when properly installed, and lead gutters are aligned with the frame to make it waterproof. The cost of installing a skylight window will be dependent on your preferred style preferences. 

To get the actual cost, we can subdivide the skylights into three types. The most popular ones are the tubular skylights that cost around $150 to $600, with the installation cost ranging from $300 to $700. Then we have fixed skylights, which cost around $200. The labor costs for installing fixed skylights can be between $400 and $1,300 per window. Lastly, we have vented skylights retailing at $300-$1,200 with labor costs of $1000-$4000.  

Casement Windows

Casement windows come with hinges to the right/left sides or to the top of the window. They can open inwards or outwards, where the latter is more popular than the former. Often, casement windows feature a lever or a crank-style opening mechanism that adds extra security to the windows. 

The cost of fitting a casement window will vary based on the size of windows, materials required, average state labor costs, and the decorative finish needed for the window frame. You’ll pay about $1,300 to install two vinyl windows. However, if it’s upgrading, then the cost will come down to about $540 per window. 

Garden Windows (Box Windows)

A garden window refers to a box-shaped window protruding outward into the garden space. It is generally fitted above the kitchen sink. Garden windows can be made up of fixed windows or a chain of windows with sashes that open to the outside environment. 

Garden windows can cost between $500 and $4000 depending on the materials used. The cheapest ones are vinyl windows costing $500, while the most expensive ones are wooden windows retailing from $1,000-$4,000. Aluminum garden windows cost between $800 and $2,000. Note that wooden windows call for extra care and attention to prevent termites’ infestations. 

Sliding Windows 

Otherwise known as slider windows, these are windows that open sideways to offer a combination of clear views and adequate ventilation. They’re more or less the same as casements albeit they can’t be sealed as snugly as casement windows. Sliding windows have large openings with no mechanical parts, making them quite simple to operate.

Sliders vary in cost depending on the material. Installing a basic fiberglass sliding window can cost $400 while fitting aluminum sliding windows can cost you anywhere from $400 to $1,200. Installing vinyl sliding windows, on the other hand, costs about $700. 

Awning Windows

These are the types of windows that swing inwards and outwards to create a water-proof awning, making them ideal for areas experiencing frequent rains. Awning windows consist of a hinge at the top that opens toward the outside. Most property owners choose these sorts of windows due to their utmost privacy.

They’re also common in schools and commercial buildings. On the downside, awning windows aren’t as aesthetically appealing and are often used in regions where the window appearance doesn’t matter that much. When it comes to costs, setting up awning windows can cost between $400 and $750.   

Glass Block Windows 

Glass block windows are the common types of windows used in bathrooms for their ultimate privacy, lighting, and elegant looks. They can also be installed in basements and other private sections of the home to accent the spaces and increase light flow. Glass block windows can be adorned or frosted and accentuated with striking patterns to make any space welcoming.

Glass block window installation costs will vary from $400 to $700 depending on region to region. In some states, the labor cost for the installation is calculated per hour. You’ll find that expert installers in most states charge $38 an hour for the fitting of a glass block window.

Wrap-Up

Generally speaking, there are numerous types of windows that cost an arm and a leg exclusive of labor costs. The good news is that you can determine the average installation costs for any new window before making any tangible purchase. What’s more, always ensure that your new window can accentuate your property’s decorative style or architectural appearance before opting for it. Break a leg shopping for your luxurious new window! 

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