Published on: June 19, 2025
Cheap window installations often appeal to homeowners looking to save money whenever possible. So, what are you to do when you get back a window replacement quote that is significantly less than your other quotes? The best move is to realize that there’s a reason this quote is so low. Perhaps it is an inexperienced contractor. Or maybe they work with inexpensive subcontractors who cut corners.
Regardless of the reason for such an inexpensive quote, familiarize yourself with the hidden costs of cheap window replacements to protect yourself from a far more expensive window replacement project than what you’re anticipating now.
Cheaper windows often have lower energy efficiency ratings, meaning you pay more to heat and cool your home throughout the year, costing you more in the long run.
You also might struggle to operate the windows, leading to an inability to open your windows when the weather is nice, which leads you to run the HVAC more.
Cheap windows also have a shorter life, meaning you will be replacing them sooner and facing costs for new windows as much as a decade sooner than if you’d purchase a higher-performing window to start.
Lower-level windows also come with less explanation for proper installation, which can lead to challenges for you or your contractor to install the windows. Or, if you’ve gotten high-quality windows but a low-quality installation team, it could mean that your windows are not installed properly, leading to leaks, drafts and structural problems.
Fixing window installation problems – whether due to cheap windows with limited instructions or due to an inexperienced installation crew – is quite costly. Those costs could be in just a few months or several years from now.
Cheap windows generally require more maintenance throughout the life of the window because the materials deteriorate faster. Some materials that could be low-quality on your window and require frequent attention include:
Repairing these pieces of your windows will add up over time, leading you to wish you had installed the more expensive windows from the start.
Many high-quality window manufacturers offer a warranty on their windows. That means that when something goes wrong, you’ll have a decade or even the full life of the window to request that the manufacturer cover those problems with the window.
In the absence of a warranty, you will pay for all repairs and maintenance for the life of the window. And cheap windows tend to have expensive, ongoing repair requirements. That means that paying a little more for a window warranty can be well worth the investment.
The same is true of working with a contractor who offers an installation warranty. Not having to pay your contractor to come back over the years for minor repairs or adjustments will be worth the extra cost of installation from a reputable contractor.
Or, if you have a window warranty from the manufacturer, poor installation can void your warranty, meaning you don’t get the full value of the window you paid for due to poor workmanship.
If you anticipate selling your home during the life of the window, paying for a nicer window model or a more well-known, reputable window manufacturer can be worth the added cost. That’s because you can get that value back when you sell your home.
In the Washington area, window replacement tends to see a cost recouped of 67% according to the cost vs. value report for 2024. While the initial cost of whole home replacement is estimated at $21,000 in the area, you can recoup approximately $16,000.
Cheap windows can present many challenges for homeowners. Here’s why you should invest more in your windows to lower the total cost of ownership over the life of the window.
Windows that cost less often include low-grade materials. These materials are not capable of standing up to the elements, which they are subjected to nonstop. Better quality materials can help ensure your windows last for many years to come.
Even if the less expensive windows are made from good materials, they might not be made well. Poorly constructed windows can be flimsy, have alignment issues or make it challenging for the homeowner to operate the windows.
This poor craftsmanship can lead to issues with the window over time. This means the window is less efficient and more challenging to care for.
Cheap window contractors tend to recommend cheap windows, while quality window contractors work to guide homeowners toward affordable window models that still stand the test of time.
So if you’re dealing with cheap windows, you’re likely also dealing with cheap installation. The two combined can lead to a very short life for your windows because they’ll fail quickly if improperly installed.
Know that you know the hidden costs of cheap window installation, you need to learn how to protect yourself from such hidden costs. Here’s a look at some ways you can tell whether you’re getting cheap window installation.
Get at least three quotes from various contractors so you can compare. If one of the quotes comes in far cheaper than the others, inquire as to why and learn what you’re paying for (or not paying for). Ideally, you want an itemized quote that includes labor, materials, permits and window disposal costs.
Read up on the quality of the windows you’re getting. You should not opt for less than double-pane windows. If you’re choosing vinyl windows, be sure to read reviews from homeowners who have had the windows for many years. This will tell you more about their longevity.
Get details about the brand and specs for the window you’ll have installed on your home. Compare the window brands that the various contractors are recommending.
Cheap labor should be a red flag for you. This might mean the contractor is using unlicensed installers. If you get a quote for cheap labor, ask to see the installer’s licensing and carefully read online reviews for hints about long-term quality of the installation.
While this isn’t normally the most entertaining reading, it’s important to know what kind of warranty you’re getting with the project.
Rushing you to make a decision about a quote is not a good sign. Additionally, using generic materials or offering cash-only offers are signs that the contractor is not legitimate.
Always work with contractors who have a written agreement that you’ve read and feel good about.
2FL offers one of the best installation warranties in the area and installs windows from local manufacturers that have stood the test of time. We’ll work with you to balance your budget with quality windows you can rely on. Our team is straightforward and honest with customers and won’t cut corners. Schedule your free, no-obligation estimate now.
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