A storefront window is often the first thing potential customers notice about a business. Whether you’re running a retail store, a restaurant, or an office, your storefront window plays a crucial role in attracting foot traffic, showcasing your brand, and creating an inviting atmosphere. Over time, however, windows can become damaged due to weather, accidents, or wear and tear, necessitating a replacement.
To keep your business up and running, you will need to ensure that you replace these windows as soon as you notice an issue. Today, we will talk about how much a storefront window replacement costs and what factors can affect the final bill.
Average Cost Of A Storefront Window Replacement
The average storefront window replacement cost is between $500 and $3,000.
As you can see, this is a pretty big range. This is because there are a lot of factors that can affect how much you will pay. We cover these in the next section.
Factors Affecting Storefront Window Replacement Costs
Several factors can affect the overall cost of replacing a storefront window, especially during an emergency:
Size of the Window
The size of the window is one of the most straightforward factors influencing the cost of a replacement, but it is also one of the most significant. Larger windows require more materials, which directly increases the total. For instance, a floor-to-ceiling window covering the entire front of a store will cost more to replace than a smaller, standard-sized window. Additionally, the size of the window can also affect the complexity of the installation process. Large windows often require more than one technician to handle and install, especially if heavy lifting equipment is needed, which can drive up labor costs. Furthermore, transportation costs may increase if specialized vehicles are needed to deliver larger panes of glass.
Here are some of the standard sizes of storefront windows and the average price per unit:
- 36’’ x 48”: $200 – $800
- 36’’ x 72”: $500 – $1,000
- 72” x 48”: $700 – $3,000
Type of Window
The type of window you choose for your storefront is another crucial factor influencing the overall cost. Windows come in various types, each offering different benefits in terms of durability, security, and energy efficiency, but these benefits come at different price points.
For example, a single-pane window is the most basic and least expensive option, but it offers minimal insulation and is less secure than other types. In contrast, double-pane windows provide better insulation and soundproofing, making them a more energy-efficient choice. However, they are also more costly.
Another decision you will need to make is whether to choose laminated or tempered glass windows. Though expensive, laminated offers superior durability, making it a popular choice for businesses in high-traffic or high-risk areas of Tulsa.
Materials and Quality
The quality of materials used in replacement windows significantly impacts prices. Here are a few things that can increase or reduce your overall replacement cost:
Type Of Glass
High-performance glass, such as low-emissivity (low-E) glass, is designed to reflect heat and improve energy efficiency, which can reduce your business’s heating and cooling costs over time. These savings can offset the high initial cost of specialized glass.
Types Of Frame
The frame of your window can also influence the cost of commercial storefront windows. For example, aluminum frames, while durable and low-maintenance, are typically less expensive than wood or composite frames, which offer better insulation and a more upscale appearance.
Labor and Installation Complexity
Labor costs are a major component of the total expense for a storefront window replacement and can vary widely depending on the complexity of the installation. Simple installations, such as replacing a standard-sized window on a ground-level storefront, are relatively straightforward and less costly. However, the situation becomes more complicated—and expensive—if the window is large, unusually shaped, or located on an upper floor. These factors can increase the difficulty of the installation, requiring more skilled labor or specialized equipment, which in turn raises costs.
Emergency Service Premium
In situations where a window replacement is needed urgently, such as after an accident or a natural disaster, the costs can rise significantly due to the urgency of the service. Emergency replacements often require immediate action, which may involve after-hours work, expedited delivery of materials, and the availability of specialized technicians at short notice. These factors typically come with a premium.
While these costs are often unavoidable in emergency situations, they are crucial to consider when planning for potential unexpected expenses in your business’s maintenance budget.
Hidden Costs to Consider
In addition to the obvious costs of materials and labor, several hidden costs can add to the overall expense of replacing a storefront window. By hidden, we mean they are not usually considered by business owners. However, understanding these will give you an edge in planning your budget.
Permits and Regulations
Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permits for window replacement, especially if your business is in a historic district or a building with strict architectural guidelines. Permit costs can vary, so it’s essential to check with your local authorities to understand the requirements and potential fees involved.
Temporary Solutions
While waiting for the new window to be installed, you may need to invest in temporary solutions, such as boarding up the storefront or installing temporary security measures. These costs, while short-term, can add to the overall expense of the replacement process.
Additional Repairs
If the damage to the storefront window also affected surrounding areas, such as the window frame, signage, or interior elements, you may need to budget for additional repairs. These can include anything from fixing damaged walls to repainting areas affected by the replacement process.
Understanding the Need for Emergency Window Replacement
Storefront windows are often the first point of contact between your business and potential customers, so any damage can significantly impact your business’s image and operations. Emergencies that require immediate window replacement can arise from various scenarios, such as severe weather events like storms, criminal activities like break-ins, or even other accidents involving construction mishaps.
The immediate risks associated with a broken storefront window go beyond just the visual impact. It can lead to:
- Security Vulnerabilities: A broken window is an open invitation for theft, further vandalism, or unauthorized entry.
- Operational Disruptions: Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to temporarily close your business, leading to a loss of income.
- Increased Liability: An exposed storefront could lead to accidents or injuries, especially if broken glass or debris is involved, increasing your liability risks.
Given these risks, it’s crucial to address the damage as quickly as possible to minimize further losses and restore normal operations.
Your Premier Window Replacement Company
If the Tulsa weather has not spared your commercial property and your storefront windows are damaged, it’s time to contact the team at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing.
We have a team of expert window installers who are experienced in both residential and commercial window replacement. We also use quality replacement windows, made by some of the top manufacturers in the U.S.
Contact us today at (918) 402-7167.
