How To Choose Replacement Windows for Your Bathroom (2024)

Choosing the right bathroom replacement windows can be confusing, but don’t be intimidated. With guidance from window experts we interviewed, you can find windows that look great, brighten the room and save energy.

Whether installing bathroom windows yourself or hiring a professional, do your homework. Essential research includes exploring the best window brands, styles and energy efficiency options within your budget. Consider what materials make sense in your bathroom, and look into privacy features such as textured glass.

Why should you replace your bathroom windows?

“It’s time to replace windows when they are no longer operational and can’t easily open and close,” said Tom Kearney, a retired custom builder and remodeling contractor from Chicago. “This often comes from lack of maintenance or from the home settling over time,” he added.

However, you may also want to replace your windows to boost energy efficiency, improve natural light, add privacy features, and replace cracked or broken panes.

“Most often, buying a new window is cheaper than replacing the glass, if it’s even replaceable,” Kearney said.

The bottom line is that new windows help create an attractive, comfortable space while offering natural light and ventilation. They’re a smart, long-term investment for your home.

Replace vs. update

Depending on the window’s age and condition, its issues are often resolved with a simple repair, such as painting the interior or exterior trim, replacing weather stripping or caulking, and cleaning or lubricating the tracks.

Issues that require replacement include leaky or inoperable windows, moisture between the panes or frame damage. Windows that are drafty, weathered excessively or don’t provide their original noise barrier are also candidates for replacement.

Energy efficiency

Energy-efficient windows reduce utility costs by retaining heat in winter and cooling in summer.

A window’s glazing system, made up of gas-filled layers, determines its insulation level. Single-glazed windows have one glazed pane, whereas double-glazed windows have two. The more glazing a window has, the more energy-efficient it is.

Low-emissivity coatings can also save you on heating and cooling. This transparent coating prevents heat loss in winter and blocks sun and UV rays in summer, providing enhanced year-round comfort.

Most often, buying a new window is cheaper than replacing the glass, if it’s even replaceable.

Tom Kearney

Choose windows with certification labels from Energy Star and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to ensure energy efficiency and high performance. The NFRC label lists the window’s energy performance, which includes factors such as U-factor and air leakage.

Homeowners may qualify for tax incentives if they install new, energy-efficient windows after January 1, 2023, and before January 1, 2033. The U.S. government allows tax credits of 30% of new windows’ qualified costs, up to $600 annually. To claim the maximum credit, improvements must be made to a primary residence that is not a new construction.

Aesthetics

New windows can bring in more natural light, brightening your space year-round. You can choose from a range of sizes and styles to reflect your tastes and add interest and depth. Visible from the outside, replacement windows can also boost your curb appeal.

What should you consider when choosing bathroom replacement windows?

Take your time researching the best window replacement options and consider factors such as style, material and ventilation. This is a long-term investment, and it’s not likely that you’ll replace them again soon. For example, vinyl windows can last up to 30 years, according to David Heim, a retired contractor with 17 years of business experience.

Window style

Not all window types and styles are suited for every bathroom; options depend on room size, wall space, preference and budget. Here are several window styles that fit nicely within bathroom settings.

Privacy

Privacy is necessary in a bathroom, and you can maintain it creatively while accessing fresh air and natural light. To coordinate privacy, window type and placement, consider room size and location. Note whether the window would face the yard, street or neighboring homes to match your window selection to your desired privacy level.

Options for small spaces include strategically placed casem*nt, sliding or transom windows. Textured or glass block windows and skylights offer attractive alternatives.

While large bathrooms have more wall space, they aren’t immune to privacy issues, so careful selection and placement are also important here.

Ventilation

How often the bathroom is used will determine its ventilation needs. If several family members share the bathroom, it’s likely to have a high moisture level. Constant exposure to humidity takes a toll on bathroom fixtures, cabinetry, paint and flooring.

New operable bathroom windows — combined with an exhaust fan — promote airflow, preventing mildew and water damage issues.

Wall space

Wall space determines the number of windows needed, as well as the type and placement. Transom windows, for instance, work well in a compact space, while larger or multiple windows suit spacious bathrooms.

“Being able to see the outside world makes a huge difference in the openness of the bathroom, especially if it is small,” said David Martin, president of Allied Window in Cincinnati.

Choose windows that optimize natural light and ventilation. Don’t overwhelm a small bathroom with oversized windows. Likewise, aim for a pleasing balance of windows in larger spaces.

Safety

Check local codes for new bathroom window requirements, such as size, style or if tempered glass is necessary.

“If the windows are within X inches of the finished floor, or located above a tub or shower, then the units need to have tempered safety glass,” Kearney said. “This is stronger, shatterproof glazing to guard against injury in case of falls.”

How much does window replacement cost?

Bathroom window replacement costs depend on window type, size and installation. Upcharges include installation on an upper floor, rot repair and structural upgrades.

One vinyl awning window runs between $925 and $1,250, according to a Home Depot report. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,900 for a vinyl casem*nt window, and between $825 and $1,400 for a double-hung window. Home Depot’s prices include products, permits, installation and tax.

In October 2023, we surveyed homeowners who had replacement windows installed within the last five years. Respondents paid an average of $13,446 to replace between one and five windows.

See more cost figures in the table below.

DIY vs. professional window replacement

It might be tempting to replace your bathroom windows yourself, but you should weigh the do-it-yourself (DIY) route against hiring pros to make an informed decision.

DIY

From selecting windows, getting permits and prep work to potential repairs and installation, there’s more to DIY than meets the eye. Depending on the window’s size, two or more people may be required for installation. On an upper floor, installation can require ladders or scaffolding.

Other considerations include replacing flashing and working around existing plumbing or wiring. If the window isn’t properly installed, it could experience leaks, heat and cooling loss, and a voided warranty.

Kearney advised to ask yourself the following questions about DIY installation:

• Are structural framing changes required?
• Can you handle the weight of the windows?
• Will wind be a factor in their handling?
• Do you know how to install windows plumb and level so they operate correctly for years?
• Can you match and seal the exterior properly so weather doesn’t penetrate the home?

While the DIY route can be appealing for handy or budget-conscious homeowners, you should compare the value of your time and effort to the cost of a professional installation. There may not be as much of a cost difference as you think.

Professional installation

While hiring a full-service installation company will cost more, a full-service installation company can walk you through the entire process and ensure installation is done properly. In addition to installing, they take measurements, help select windows and obtain permits.

When hiring a professional, Kearney said to ask the following questions:

• Are they licensed, bonded and insured?
• Do they have references?
• Do they offer a warranty for labor and materials? How long is the warranty?

Experienced installers offer guidance for unforeseen issues, warranties and follow-up support.

What’s next?

First, consider your needs and budget: Do online research and visit local home improvement stores and window suppliers.

Look for attractive windows that suit your preferences, perform well and are easy to maintain. Choose the highest quality windows within your budget.

Finally, when using a professional installer, get at least three quotes before committing.