Question about replacing windows in my home?

Question

i got an estimate from sears for replacing 7 windows not big windows just average size. The estimate was between 6 and 10 thousand dollars is this reasonable?

I priced windows at lowes and they ranged from 80.00-160 so the 6 thousand seems a little steep.

Answer 1

That sounds absolutely nuts to me..

They must be talking about removing some of your siding, (do you have bricks) and then installing window and replacing siding.   While this would be the ideal way to do it, it is really not necessary.

The biggest part would be to remove the old windows as they are most likely nailed in underneath the siding.  So they will have to be torn out basically, then you will have to shave off any leftover material that may be left sticking into the window frame.

Replacement windows can be installed from the inside of the window, meaning you do not have to nail the outside frame to the house.  You will however have to remove the framing...unless you can find replacement windows without the outside trim.  

You also have to make sure you have a good fit and the window seals and works properly..  Not too difficult to do.  

You might just go buy the windows yourself and search classifieds for a handyman to come install them for you.  Even if he ends up somehow charging you a thousand bucks, you have still spent about a third less than what Sears wants.  

Good luck, hope it works out for you.

Answer 2

You cam take the measurement to Lowe's or Home Depot and pick-up a window for your home.

Sears's cost too much

Answer 3

yes its a rip off.....we charge depending on the window...about $ 200.00 - $250.00 per window installed material and labor....( vinyl windows)

lic. gen. contractor

Answer 4

I had a window estimate for 18 windows and it is going to cost me 4600 I think the estimate you have is expensive I would shop around.

Answer 5

USA    Sears hires contractors, who then hire subcontractors, to do the work.  So you are paying two or three tiers of overhead and profit.  Sears allows the work to be put on their charge card, and they charge an enormous amount of interest, but low monthly payments over forty years are attractive to some folks.

Anyway, yes, it is high.  Get some quotes from local licensed  contractors.  Consider getting double pane windows.  Also, you want a low U Factor - 0.35 or less if you are in the northern half of the country.U Factor is how fast the heat flies out the window.  The higher the number, the more heat you lose.  If you are in the South, solar heat gain is important.  

Be smart - do some research on windows and find out what the advantages / disadvantages are.  Be careful buying them from a Home Depot or Lowe's.  If possible, deal with a local distributor and contractor.

7 average size double hung windows should be able to be replaced for $3000 to $4000.  And that is with good quality windows.

Answer 6

why don't you replace them yourself, and you'll save about 5k.  I do all my window replacement.