The average cost to replace garage windows ranges from $340 to $1,360 per window installed, with most homeowners paying around $680 for a standard vinyl single-pane garage window. The final price depends on window size, material, glass type, number of windows, and whether you choose basic utility windows or upgraded residential-quality windows. Complete garage window replacement projects typically cost $1,360 to $5,440 for a standard two or three-car garage.
Cost Breakdown by Window Type
Basic Utility Windows: $340-$680 per window installed. Simple single-pane windows with aluminum or vinyl frames designed specifically for garages. These provide basic light and ventilation at minimal cost but offer limited insulation and security.
Standard Residential Windows: $510-$1,190 per window installed. Double-pane vinyl or aluminum windows with better energy efficiency and security. These match home window quality and work well for attached garages.
Premium Insulated Windows: $850-$1,700 per window installed. High-quality double-pane windows with Low-E coatings and gas fills. These are ideal for heated garages, workshops, or converted garage spaces.
Fixed Glass Block Windows: $425-$1,020 per window installed. Glass block provides security, privacy, and natural light without ventilation. Popular for garages in urban areas or where security is a concern.
Custom or Specialty Windows: $680-$2,040+ per window installed. Arched, circular, or custom-sized windows that match specific garage architectural styles cost more due to special manufacturing.
Garage Window Sizes and Costs
Small Garage Windows (18″ x 24″ to 24″ x 24″): $340-$680 installed. Small windows provide adequate light for standard unheated garages while maintaining wall space for storage and tools.
Standard Garage Windows (24″ x 36″ to 36″ x 36″): $510-$850 installed. The most common size for garage windows, providing good light penetration and proportional appearance.
Large Garage Windows (36″ x 48″ to 48″ x 48″): $680-$1,360 installed. Larger windows bring more natural light and work well for workshops or multi-use garage spaces.
Garage Door Windows: $170-$510 per section. Some garage doors include window sections at the top. Replacing these panels or adding windows to existing doors costs less than wall-mounted windows.
Window Material Options
Aluminum Frame Windows: $340-$850 per window installed. Aluminum is the most common garage window material. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and affordable. However, aluminum conducts heat and cold, making it less ideal for heated garages.
Vinyl Frame Windows: $425-$1,020 per window installed. Vinyl provides better insulation than aluminum and never needs painting. It’s a good choice for attached garages or heated spaces.
Steel Frame Windows: $510-$1,190 per window installed. Steel frames offer maximum security and durability. They’re popular for detached garages or areas with security concerns but require periodic painting to prevent rust.
Wood Frame Windows: $680-$1,530 per window installed. Wood is uncommon for garages but works well for converted spaces or when matching home architectural style. Wood requires regular maintenance.
Single-Pane vs. Double-Pane Glass
Single-Pane Windows: $340-$680 installed. Adequate for unheated, detached garages where insulation isn’t important. Single-pane windows cost less but provide minimal thermal protection.
Double-Pane Windows: $510-$1,190 installed. Double-pane glass significantly improves insulation and reduces condensation. Essential for heated garages or attached garages affecting home energy efficiency.
Tempered or Safety Glass: Add $85-$255 per window. Tempered glass is stronger and shatters into small pieces rather than dangerous shards. Recommended for garages with children or high activity.
Obscured or Frosted Glass: Add $85-$170 per window. Provides privacy while allowing natural light. Popular for garages storing valuable equipment or located near neighbors.
Installation Factors Affecting Cost
Standard Installation: $170-$340 per window for straightforward replacement in existing openings. This assumes no structural modifications or repairs are needed.
New Window Installation: $340-$850 per window for cutting new openings in garage walls. This includes framing, siding work, and interior finishing.
Second-Story Installation: Add 25-40% for windows in garage loft spaces or second-floor workshop areas due to access challenges.
Insulated Wall Installation: Installing windows in insulated garage walls requires more careful work to maintain insulation integrity, adding $85-$170 per window.
Siding Repair and Matching: Matching existing siding around new windows adds $170-$510 depending on siding type and availability.
Number of Windows and Total Project Costs
One Window Replacement: $340-$1,360. Single window replacement pays full mobilization and per-window costs without volume discounts.
Two-Car Garage (2-4 windows): $1,360-$4,080. Most two-car garages have 2-4 windows providing adequate natural light while maintaining wall space.
Three-Car Garage (4-6 windows): $2,040-$6,800. Larger garages benefit from additional windows for more even light distribution.
Workshop or Multi-Use Space (6-10 windows): $3,400-$13,600. Converted garages used as workshops, studios, or living spaces require more windows for adequate natural light and ventilation.
Volume Discounts: Replacing multiple windows simultaneously typically reduces per-window costs by 10-20% due to efficient labor and material ordering.
When to Replace Garage Windows
Broken or Damaged Glass: Cracked, broken, or fogged glass requires replacement for security and weather protection.
Rot or Deterioration: Wooden frames with rot or metal frames with excessive rust need replacement before problems worsen.
Air Leakage: Drafty windows increase heating costs for attached or heated garages and allow moisture, dust, and pests inside.
Security Concerns: Old, easily opened windows in garages storing valuable tools or equipment should be replaced with secure options.
Garage Conversion: Converting garages to living space, workshops, or studios requires upgrading to proper residential windows.
Energy Efficiency: For heated garages or attached garages affecting home efficiency, upgrading to insulated windows saves energy costs.
Garage Window Styles
Fixed Windows: Most affordable option providing light without ventilation. Fixed windows are simple, secure, and low-maintenance.
Single-Hung or Double-Hung: Allow ventilation and work well for workshops or heated garages. Cost more than fixed windows but provide functional benefits.
Sliding Windows: Horizontal sliding windows are easy to operate and provide good ventilation. They’re practical for garages with limited space.
Awning or Hopper Windows: These windows allow ventilation even during rain. Awning windows open outward from the bottom, while hopper windows open inward from the top.
Barn-Style or Industrial Windows: Steel-framed windows with industrial appearance suit detached garages or workshop spaces.
Security Features
Laminated or Impact Glass: Add $170-$425 per window. Laminated glass holds together when broken, delaying intrusion and preventing injury.
Security Bars or Grilles: Add $85-$340 per window. Removable or permanent bars provide security without replacing entire windows.
Locking Mechanisms: Upgraded locks add $25-$85 per window. Multi-point locks or keyed locks improve security for garages storing valuable items.
Security Film: Add $85-$255 per window. Transparent film strengthens glass and holds it together if broken.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
DIY Installation: Basic garage window replacement can save $170-$340 per window in labor costs for experienced homeowners. Garage windows are often simpler than house windows since aesthetics and precision are less critical.
Professional Installation Benefits: Proper flashing, weatherproofing, and structural integrity ensure windows perform correctly. Professional installation includes warranties and insurance coverage.
When to Hire Professionals: New window installation requiring cutting openings, working on second-story garage spaces, or installing windows in insulated garages should be left to professionals.
Insulated vs. Uninsulated Garages
Uninsulated Garages: Basic single-pane windows are adequate for unheated, detached garages. Focus on durability and security rather than insulation.
Insulated Garages: Heated garages or attached garages should have double-pane windows with weatherstripping to maintain efficiency and comfort.
Workshop Spaces: Garages used as workshops benefit from quality insulated windows that reduce heating costs and improve comfort during extended work sessions.
Converted Living Spaces: Garage conversions require residential-quality windows meeting building codes for habitable spaces.
Return on Investment
Garage window replacement typically returns 40-60% of investment when selling your home. While not as impactful as house windows, attractive garage windows improve overall curb appeal.
For garages converted to living space, workshops, or studios, quality windows significantly increase the space’s functionality and value.
Permits and Building Codes
Most garage window replacements don’t require permits if you’re replacing existing windows with similar sizes. However, new window installation cutting openings typically requires permits costing $50-$150.
Converted garages used as living spaces must meet residential building codes including egress requirements for bedrooms. Consult local building departments for specific requirements.
Getting Started
Assessing your garage window needs helps determine appropriate solutions. At Utah Window Experts, we provide free evaluations to help you select the right windows for your garage application.
Our window project builder tool lets you explore garage window options. You can also review our brochure to see our complete product range.
We help you balance cost, functionality, and appearance to find garage windows that meet your specific needs, whether for basic utility garages, workshops, or converted living spaces.
Conclusion
Garage window replacement costs $340 to $1,360 per window installed, with complete garage projects ranging from $1,360 to $5,440 depending on garage size and window quality. Choose window types appropriate for your garage use, investing in insulated windows for heated or attached garages while basic utility windows suffice for unheated detached garages. Consider security features for garages storing valuable equipment, and ensure proper installation with adequate weatherproofing to prevent moisture problems. With appropriate window selection and professional installation, your garage windows will provide decades of service while improving natural light, ventilation, and overall functionality.