The Affordable Window Installation DIY You'd Be Better Off Avoiding

Tackling a DIY project can be extremely gratifying. There's a great sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a challenging task — especially when it saves you money! But in some cases, it's not actually worth it. Installing your own windows is one of those cases. There's no question that replacing windows is expensive — depending on the size and type, the cost to replace a window can be anywhere from $300 to $2,500 per window. So, it's no wonder doing the project on your own is appealing. But while the potential cost savings may seem hard to resist, the risks of going it alone often outweigh the rewards.

Replacing a window may seem like a relatively simple task, but there's a lot more to it than just popping it into place and adding some trim. It's more complicated than it looks, and mistakes along the way could end up costing you more in the long run. For starters, there are numerous tools and materials necessary to complete the project. In all, these could amount to hundreds of dollars – and several trips to the hardware store. Even if you're willing to pony up those costs, there are other things you could end up paying for down the line, including higher energy bills. For maximum energy efficiency, windows need to be installed airtight. If the fit is even slightly off — which commonly happens with DIY installations — it could allow air to enter or escape your home. This means more work for your HVAC to regulate the temperature, resulting in higher energy bills.

If the window is not properly sealed, it could also allow moisture to penetrate, which could cause mold growth, warping of the window frame, and even structural issues if the water causes the frame to severely rot — all of which are costly problems to remedy. Another pricey problem you could encounter is discovering a defect with the window after it has been installed. If you did the install yourself, it may void the manufacturer's warranty, meaning the cost to replace the window is on you. Additionally, any damage incurred to the window or frame during installation will not be covered, as there is no warranty on DIY labor. 

You could also face problems down the road if you decide to sell your home. Improperly installed windows will likely show up on your inspection report and could raise red flags about the overall maintenance and condition of your home. Because of the many potential risks involved with a DIY install, hiring a professional is generally the smarter bet. However, there are scams to watch out for with window installers that you should be aware of, such as demanding full payment upfront and failing to complete the job, or simply lacking the proper qualifications, which can leave you with subpar work. When choosing the right contractor to install your home's windows, try to get a referral from a trusted source. If that's not possible, get multiple bids from licensed contractors and read customer reviews beforehand.