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Written by Jessica Wimmer Updated 06/25/2024
Jessica Wimmer is a content producer with more than seven years of experience writing, researching, and editing. She has spent most of her career writing about products and services in the tech, pet insurance, and home improvement industries. As a homeowner herself, her goal is to help others ma…
Vinyl windows are an energy-efficient, cost-effective window replacement option that can help homeowners save money on energy bills. Vinyl is low maintenance and versatile, and if you’re thinking of replacing your windows, vinyl window installation is a relatively simple project that many DIYers can handle.
Before starting this home improvement project, you need to know the right steps and materials. We put together this guide using expert tips, and we’ll recommend our top replacement window brands in case you’d rather leave the installation work to the pros.
Vinyl is a synthetic plastic made of PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, the most common framing material used in window replacement. Vinyl is budget friendly and can also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Here are more reasons why top quality vinyl windows are one of the most popular replacement options:
Durable: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, vinyl windows have UV light stabilizers to keep sunlight from breaking down the material. Vinyl is also resistant to moisture as well as extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Energy efficient: Insulation fills the hollow cavities in vinyl frames, making them a great thermal insulator.
Environmentally friendly: Vinyl is a recyclable thermoplastic that you can reheat and remold for new applications.
Low cost: Vinyl window replacements cost $100–$900, roughly 10%–30% cheaper than wood and fiberglass.
Low maintenance: You don’t need to paint vinyl, and cleaning it only requires soap and water.
Versatile: Because you can mold vinyl into any shape, it’s versatile and comes in almost every color and finish.
*Costs estimates in this article are sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi
Before you begin DIY vinyl window installation, you’ll need to become familiar with common window terms. Below, you’ll find a list of window-related terminology and a detailed description of each term.
Cracked glass or a rotting frame are clear indicators that you need to replace your window, but some signs aren’t as obvious. Window experts say these are some signs that it’s time to replace your window:
Most window installers charge $30–$90 per hour, but you can save on this expense by replacing your own windows. In addition to these savings, you’ll benefit from vinyl’s durability and improved energy efficiency from the best window brands .
Below is our step-by-step guide to vinyl window installation. You can also watch our video to learn how to install a window into an existing opening.
Preinstallation Checklist
Before you remove the old window, you need to make a preinstallation checklist of the tools and materials required. Because you’ll work with fragile materials and some heavier equipment, you’ll need to prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions. This involves wearing protective goggles and hearing protection. Here are other tools and materials you may need:
