Prices for wood double hung windows vary by size, finish, glass type, and installation complexity. This guide presents realistic cost ranges in USD and highlights drivers that most affect the total price, including per-window pricing and regional differences.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per-window price (uninstalled) | $300 | $550 | $1,000 | Includes basic pine or fir frame, single-pane to double-pane glazing |
| New construction frame install | $700 | $1,200 | $2,000 | Includes framing, flashing, and exterior trim |
| Replacement sash with glass | $400 | $700 | $1,200 | Insulated glass adds cost |
| Hardware and finish (case, jambs, trim) | $50 | $150 | $350 | Natural wood finishes cost more |
| Labor for installation | $150 | $350 | $900 | Per window, regional rates apply |
| Permits and inspections | $0 | $200 | $600 | Depends on local codes |
| Delivery and disposal | $25 | $75 | $200 | Distance and debris handling affect cost |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard 3/4-inch solid wood frames, double-pane insulated glass, and standard operable units.
Direct price snapshot for wood double hung windows
Typical total price per window, including basic frame, sash, and labor, falls in the $900-$1,600 range depending on size and glass. For a 2-lite by 3-lite configuration with insulated glass, expect $600-$1,100 for the unit and $200-$500 for installation per window in many regions.
| Scenario | Window Size | Unit Price | Installed Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard operating unit | 24×36 inches | $350-$650 | $650-$1,100 | Single-family home; pine or fir |
| Mid-size replacement | 28×54 inches | $450-$800 | $900-$1,400 | Double-pane, low-E glass option |
| Premium wood with hardwood trim | 30×60 inches | $650-$1,000 | $1,200-$1,900 | Hardwood frame over standard pine |
What drives the price for wood double hung windows
Size, glazing type, and finish are the main price drivers. A larger window adds material and glass costs, while double or triple glazing improves energy performance and increases price. Finishes from clear varnish to stained hardwoods add material and labor time, and prefinished units cost more upfront but save on site finishing.
Major quote components you’ll see
Pricing breaks down into several concrete parts. The four to six key costs typically appear in a formal quote:
- Materials: frame wood type, sash construction, glass type, weatherstripping
- Labor: removal, resizing, alignment, and sealing
- Hardware and trim: hinges, balances, stops, stops, jamb linings
- Permits: local building code charges if required
- Delivery/Disposal: transportation and waste removal
- Warranty and contingencies: coverage and unforeseen fixes
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $300-$1,000 per window | Depends on wood species and glass |
| Labor | $150-$900 per window | Installation difficulty and access matter |
| Permits | $0-$600 | Regional requirements vary |
| Delivery/Disposal | $25-$200 | Site distance and debris handling |
| Warranty/Contingency | $0-$200 | Manufacturer warranty vs. contractor coverage |
Key variables that shift wood window quotes
Glass type and number of panes shift totals by 20% to 60% depending on energy performance. SEER-like performance thresholds in windows are expressed as U-values; low-E coatings and argon fills raise price but reduce long-term energy costs. The wood species also matters: common pine is cheaper than oak or maple, and rot-resistant options add cost but improve durability.
Regional price differences you should expect
Costs vary by region due to labor markets and material availability. In the Northeast, prices tend to run higher for premium finishes and local codes, while the Midwest may show moderate pricing and strong competition among installers. The West often reflects higher freight and finish costs. Expect a typical regional delta of 10% to 25% between low-cost and high-cost markets.
Smart ways to trim wood double hung window costs
Tighten project scope by choosing standard sizes, standard glass, and avoiding premium finishes. Compare quotes for the same size and glass type, and consider mid-range energy glass rather than top-tier options. Bundling multiple openings with the same contractor can reduce per-window labor and delivery charges.
Size and configuration guide to pricing
Per-unit pricing changes with window size. A 24×36 inch wood double hung unit is typically on the lower end, while 30×60 inch or larger configurations push costs upward due to more wood, heavier glass, and longer installation time. Smaller, standard units generally offer the best value per square foot.
Per-unit pricing by glass and finish options
Choosing single-pane or standard double-pane glass lowers price compared with insulated, low-E, or argon-filled panes. Finishes such as factory-applied stain add cost but reduce on-site labor. Per-window glass upgrades can add $150-$500 each.
