DIY vs Professional Window Replacement: 3 Things To Consider

Noticing water leaking in through the windows? A drafty room? Or did an errant ball from the kids’ baseball practice lead to a broken window?

When it’s time to fix a window in your home, you may be asking yourself if it can be repaired, if it needs to be replaced, and most importantly, who’s going to handle it?

The choice comes down to doing it yourself or hiring a professional.

While hiring professionals for home improvement projects like window replacements have their benefits, they do come with a price tag attached.

Because savvy homeowners like yourself look for ways to save money, you may be considering the pros and cons of DIY vs professional window replacements.

Look, as Johnson Lumber, we don’t advise a DIY window replacement for a number of reasons, including the complexities of window installation. There are other risks, too, but we understand you’d like to know more about the options you have.

To that end, we’ve put together this post to share three important considerations for DIY vs professional window replacement.

Cost Comparison Between DIY and Professional Window Replacement

When it comes to window replacement, many homeowners face a difficult decision: should they attempt to replace their windows themselves or hire a professional contractor to do the job?

One of the main factors in this decision is cost since both options come with their own set of expenses.

The starting point for figuring out the costs for a DIY window replacement would be the same as it is for any project: you’re saving by not paying another person to do the work, but you are spending your time. Taking that into account can give you a better idea of what you might be willing to budget for a project like this. Let’s dive into the details more.

How Much You’ll Pay For DIY Window Replacements

DIY window replacement is often touted as a way to save money, but the truth is that it can still be a significant investment.

The cost of DIY window replacement will depend on several factors, such as the type and size of the windows you need to replace, the tools and materials required, and your own level of expertise.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars for DIY window replacement, depending on the scope of the project.

How Much You’ll Pay For Professional Window Replacement in Maryland

If you decide to hire a professional contractor to replace your windows, the cost will likely be higher than if you did it yourself. At least, the upfront cost – we’ll get to the hidden costs later on in this article!

Though the price may be higher when you hire for a professional window replacement, you get what you pay for with benefits like expertise, efficiency, and warranty coverage.

For Maryland window replacement, the cost will depend on the number and size of the windows, the materials used, and the contractor’s labor costs.

On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 per window, but this can vary depending on the specifics of your project.

Material Comparison Between DIY and Professional Window Replacement

One of the key factors to consider when comparing the cost of DIY and professional window replacement is the type of materials used for the window frames and glass.

Both DIY and professional window replacement offer a range of material options, though broadly speaking you will have less selection and less personalization when you take on a DIY window replacement project.

Available Materials For DIY Window Replacements

Some of the most common materials include vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Vinyl is a popular choice for DIY window replacements as it is relatively affordable and easy to install.

Aluminum is another affordable option, although it can be prone to condensation and heat transfer.

Wood frames offer a more classic look but can be more expensive and require more maintenance.

When it comes to glass, your options include single-pane and double-pane glass, with double-pane being the more energy-efficient option. You may be able to special order other options for your DIY window replacement project, but most homeowners end up choosing from what’s available at local businesses.

Options For Professional Window Replacements

When you hire a professional contractor for window replacement, you’ll have access to a wider range of material options, including ones that can be customized to your specifications.

Some of the most popular materials for professional window replacement include fiberglass, composite, and high-end vinyl. These materials offer better insulation, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They tend to take a bit more know-how to properly install, so they are not as often associated with DIY window replacements.

Professional window replacement also often includes the option of customized window shapes and sizes, as well as specialized glass options like low-e glass, tempered glass, or triple-pane glass.

Quality of Installation Between DIY and Professional Window Replacement

The quality difference between DIY and professional window replacement comes down to the materials used, the installation process, and the aftercare.

While some DIY window replacement projects can be successful, how you define success may vary. If it’s just a matter of replacing a broken window with a fixed one, then this could be straightforward.

With professional window replacements, you’re often getting added benefits like windows that can help better seal your home and lower your energy bills. That does require a level of precision with the installation, so it depends on what your goal is.

Finally, the quality of a professional installation doesn’t end once the contractor’s truck heads out the driveway. Professional installations are often covered by warranties, providing added peace of mind for homeowners.

Contact Johnson Lumber To Work With Maryland Window Replacement Professionals

Choosing between DIY and professional window installation is a big decision.

While a DIY approach may seem like an attractive option to save money, it can lead to costly mistakes and potentially even safety hazards. Plus, it can take up free time that you might prefer to spend doing something else!

If you’d like to work with professionals for your Maryland window replacement, give us a call.

Johnson Lumber has over 100 years of experience helping Maryland homeowners feel comfortable in their homes, and our team of experts are here to ensure that your new windows are installed with precision and care.