Double Hung Window Cost Guide for 2026

A double hung window typically costs between $350 and $1,100 installed, depending on whether you choose an insert or full-frame replacement and which frame material you select. The final price is set only after an inspector confirms the condition of the existing frame. Window Replacement Lab prices the unit, labor, removal, and trim separately.

What Drives Double Hung Window Cost

Double hung windows have two operable sashes that slide vertically. Because both sashes move, the hardware and balance systems add to the unit price compared with a fixed pane. Cost also scales with size. A common residential double hung might measure 2 feet 6 inches wide by 4 feet high, while larger units can reach 4 feet wide by 6 feet high or more.

Frame material is the largest variable. Vinyl is the most common budget option, fiberglass sits in the middle, and wood or composite costs the most. Glass options such as low-emissivity coatings, argon fill, or impact-rated laminates add to the base price. Labor varies by region and by whether the existing frame can be reused.

Insert Replacement Cost

An insert replacement fits a new window unit into the existing frame. The interior and exterior trim usually remain in place, which reduces labor time. This option is only viable if the existing frame is level, square, and free of rot. A technician must inspect the frame before the job is quoted.

For a standard vinyl double hung insert, the installed price is $350–$800. Here is how that estimate can break down for a single window:

• Window unit: $200–$500
• Labor: $100–$200
• Removal of old sash and hardware: $25–$50
• Trim touch-up and sealant: $25–$50

Total estimated range: $350–$800.

If the frame fails inspection, an insert cannot be installed safely. The project converts to full-frame replacement, which costs more because the entire assembly comes out.

Full-Frame Replacement Cost

Full-frame replacement removes the window down to the rough opening. The old sill, jambs, casing, and sometimes exterior flashing are taken out and replaced. This takes more labor and generates more debris, so removal and disposal fees are higher.

A full-frame vinyl double hung replacement costs $550–$1,100 installed. A sample breakdown might look like this:

• Window unit: $300–$650
• Labor: $150–$250
• Full removal and disposal: $50–$100
• New interior and exterior trim: $50–$100

Total estimated range: $550–$1,100.

The wide range reflects differences in window size, accessibility, and whether interior drywall or exterior siding needs patching. Second-story windows or units above a bathtub can add labor time because of setup and safety requirements.

Material Price Comparison

Material choice moves the price significantly. The following ranges are installed estimates per window for double hung units:

Fiberglass resists expansion and contraction better than vinyl, which helps with air infiltration over time. Wood offers a traditional appearance but requires more maintenance and costs more. Composite combines wood fibers with polymer for lower upkeep than solid wood, though the price remains high.

If you are comparing styles, casement and sliding windows have different hardware and air-leakage characteristics. You can review those options at /casement-window-cost/ and /sliding-window-cost/.

Related Window Costs

Sometimes only the glass needs attention. If the frame and sash are sound but the insulated glass unit is fogged or broken, glass pane or IGU replacement costs $150–$450. A window screen replacement costs $100–$350. These repairs can extend the life of an existing double hung window without a full replacement.

Larger or specialty openings carry different pricing. A bay or bow window costs $1,500–$5,000 because it involves multiple units, roof or skirt construction, and more carpentry. Impact or hurricane-rated windows cost $1,200–$2,600 due to reinforced glass and framing requirements. For more detail on bay and bow projects, see /bay-window-cost/ and /bow-window-cost/.

Arithmetic Example: Budgeting for a Whole House

Suppose a homeowner plans to replace eight double hung windows. Six are standard-size vinyl inserts, and two are full-frame because the frames show rot. Using mid-range estimates:

Six vinyl inserts at $575 each: 6 × $575 = $3,450
Two full-frame units at $825 each: 2 × $825 = $1,650
Total estimated project cost: $3,450 + $1,650 = $5,100

This is an estimate, not a quote. The actual price depends on the inspection results, local labor rates, window dimensions, and glass options. Removal and trim are itemized separately, so you can see exactly what each phase costs.

How to Get an Accurate Price

Start with a frame inspection. A technician checks for water intrusion, rot, squareness, and proper operation of the existing balances. If the frame passes, an insert is possible. If it fails, full-frame replacement is required.

Measure the rough opening in inches, not feet, for precision. A window labeled as 3 feet wide is actually 36 inches. Ordering the wrong size by even half an inch can prevent proper sealing and operation.

Ask for a line-item estimate that separates the window unit, labor, removal, and trim. This prevents surprise charges and makes it easier to compare contractors. Energy performance labels from the NFRC can help you compare U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient across materials, which affects long-term heating and cooling loads.

For broader pricing context, see the overall guide at /window-replacement-cost/ and the style-based breakdown at /window-replacement-cost-by-style/. If you are considering a picture window for a fixed-pane area, /picture-window-cost/ covers that option.

What to Expect After Installation

A properly installed double hung window should open, close, and lock without sticking. The sash should stay in place when released, thanks to the balance system. Caulking around the perimeter prevents air and water infiltration. Trim should be painted or stained to match the surrounding wall.

Vinyl frames need little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. Fiberglass can be repainted if desired. Wood requires periodic painting or staining to protect against moisture. Regardless of material, check the weatherstripping annually and clean the tracks so the sashes slide smoothly.

These figures are planning estimates. The only way to know your exact double hung window cost is to have the existing frame inspected and receive an itemized quote based on your home’s measurements and local labor rates.

Next, compare window replacement cost, window replacement cost by style, bay window cost before you commit.