Are you planning to incorporate window walls into your home? Window walls have been considered a key strategy among businesses to save money from excessive artificial lighting and electricity costs. More than that, this window type is sustainable and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
So, if you want to install this kind of wall, it’s important that you plan carefully. In doing so, you need to know the window walls’ cost, along with the process and other materials used. So, let’s have a thorough understanding of how window walls have become a staple among luxury houses and buildings.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Window Wall?
Windows walls are downright classy―but could be pricey
From breathtaking views to better natural daylight, choosing a window wall is truly a great way to enhance the overall features of your home. Window walls are also known to provide an illusion of larger and cozier space. Hence, it’s often installed in the living room, kitchen, and even bathroom.
It is also widely used to provide a panoramic glimpse of the exterior through its panes of glass. With its exposure to natural light, you’d be surprised by the energy savings that may somehow compensate for the hefty price tag.
Different variations of window walls
Before we take you to the pricing, it’s important to learn that there are several types of window walls. It’s because each type follows a different price range. Therefore, you should know beforehand so that you can plan your purchase wisely.
Some of the most popular options are glass curtains, folding glass, sliding glass, and floor-to-ceiling windows, among others. Aside from these variations, you also have to choose either single-hung windows or double-hung windows.
The major difference between the two is the impact of circulation and ventilation on your home. And of course, they also vary with the number of shafts. The double-hung window, in particular, is the most recommended one as it takes cool air from the bottom and then releases warm air through the top.
Likewise, window walls are further categorized into framed and frameless variations. And oftentimes, there are custom-made designs to fit your home preferences.
The cost of installing window walls
Window installation is generally a major expense that would require a lot of money. Because of the materials and labor costs, you’d be paying more if you opt for window walls for the entire house or building. So, how much is the cost estimate of adding window walls?
As of this writing, the typical cost of installing window walls ranges from $700 up to $1,600 USD per liner foot. Do take note that the price refers to the floor-to-ceiling window wall. Other window styles will be discussed below.
Factors that affect the pricing
You might be wondering about the high price range of window walls. Well, these actually stem from a series of unique components as well as certain customizations.
So, to better understand the pricing, we’ve gathered the elements that impact the price evaluation. Make sure you go through each of the factors below for you to easily decide the best option that fits your budget.
- Window stylesÂ
Since you already know the estimated cost of the most popular type, which is the floor to ceilings, let’s tackle other options. A glass curtain wall, for one, costs $25 to $75 USD per square foot. So, if you have an 8-foot wall, the total cost would be around $200 to $600 USD per linear foot.
On the other hand, a full wall sliding glass is valued between $1,070 and $2,900 USD. This particular model covers the entire wall and encompasses two distinct panels, hence pricier than the basic models. Then, we also have the folding glass wall that is estimated from $800 to $1,200 USD per linear foot.
- Frames
As mentioned earlier, window walls may come with frames or not. Full-frame windows are those with polished edges and heavier designs while frameless windows are sleeker and more minimalistic in terms of look.
While the full-frame window frame appears to be the strongest choice, you’d be surprised by the recent frameless window wall. Fascinatingly, the latest frameless windows comply with strict impact guidelines, which means these are durable and long-lasting that may even withstand a hurricane or a storm.
There are even other variations that are designed to bear positive and negative pressures. At present, a 12 ft. high and 8 ft. wide frameless window wall is dubbed the maximum dimension that can endure strong impact. And of course, if you opt for a high-end yet sturdy frame material, you’d be paying more.
- Window frame composition
Aside from the window style, you also need to deliberate the materials used for the window. There are several types of glass according to their composition. Vinyl windows, for one, are often tagged as the least expensive. Although these are economical, you’d appreciate their rot-resistant elements.
There are also fiberglass windows that are known to be durable and efficient. These, however, aren’t that eye-catching. If you want something that would surely attract the viewer, go for steel, which is recommended because of its strong and energy-efficient features as well as sleek and elegant profiles.
Wood windows, on contrary, provide a warm appeal that’s why these are popular among older homes. Unfortunately, these are less durable and more susceptible to rot. For a corrosion-resistant material, a notable option would be aluminum.
Lastly, casement windows are those seamlessly attached to the frame using at least one hinge. Oftentimes, these are utilized by single or by pairs.
- Number of panels and window panes
Moving forward, you need to consider the number of panels and panes inside the frame. Although these two terms are used interchangeably, they are actually different. The panels refer to the rectangular sections that cover the entire frame while the panes signify the sheets that encompass each panel.
So, let’s have a frame that can fit 8 panels as an example. Each panel may come with one glass or two glasses, depending on your needs. Single panes are the normal option, but there are also some who prefer double panes for added structural integrity.
A double-pane window is actually a suggested choice, especially for people who want to save energy. This type of installation helps in reducing electricity in both winter and summer months. Additionally, it provides an extra barrier to sound pollution, limiting noise in your home.
If you want remarkable sound attenuation and top-notch light filtration, then triple-pane might just be the perfect selection. This is also the best recommendation if you are looking for excellent security and seamless regulation of temperature inside your home.
However, you shouldn’t forget about the price. Triple-pane is definitely the priciest option. More so, larger glasses are way more expensive than smaller ones. So, if you’re tight on budget, the small, single pane might just be the most suitable pick as of now.
- Window tinting and film
Tinting of windows is also an added expense but is very important. Applying tint to the windows not just provides extra privacy but also maximizes your energy usage. So, if you want to add a tint, it’s important to have an idea of the current pricing as well.
Window wall tints start from $317 up to $912 USD. Consequently, the average cost settles around $591. Meanwhile, for a basic film, it ranges from $150 to $1,500 USD. And if you want a high-end tint like smart glass, you may need to shell out extra money.
The film itself is priced from $2 to $100 USD per square foot. Meanwhile, the installation takes up another $5 to $10 per square foot.
- Safety features
Window walls also vary in terms of safety aspects. We mentioned earlier that the triple-pane is tagged as the most secure option. However, there are other windows that are exclusively designed to be shatter-resistant. And as a general rule, added features mean extra charges.
Current labor rates
Since installing window walls is quite difficult, only professionals are suggested to handle the work to avoid damage to the materials and unnecessary accidents. Thus, another thing to consider is the labor costs. Accordingly, the rate depends on your location. In the US, it settles around $35 to $150 per hour.
If you want to save money and make everything more convenient, you may hire a contractor to install your home’s windows. These expert installers ensure that your new window will fit perfectly with the interiors of your dwelling.
More so, these people are the best options when it comes to handling multi-family applications, mid-rise residential structures, and even high-rise business buildings.
Along with the glass materials and labor, there might be additional costs that you need to consider too. These may be unforeseen changes in price or perhaps unfortunate accidents during the installation. So, make sure you create a detailed plan beforehand to maximize your time and money.
Conclusion
Whether you are planning for a new construction or a window replacement project, budgeting is downright important. And for window walls, there are certainly lots of things to ponder, from the cost of materials to the labor rates and everything in between.