For construction professionals, accurately estimating the labor cost to install windows is crucial for project profitability. Labor costs can constitute 35 – 55 percent of a window installation project. This guide provides insights into the factors influencing these costs, helping you budget effectively and secure more profitable contracts. Typical labor costs range from $110 to $750 per opening, depending on the complexity and type of installation.
• Window type and quantity – Installing a single double-hung window is less time-consuming than multiple floor-to-ceiling sliders.
• Existing openings vs. new rough openings – Creating new openings involves additional framing and finishing work.
• Home age and wall construction – Older homes with plaster walls or masonry require specialized techniques.
• Installation height – First-floor installations are generally less complex than those on higher floors.
• Finish level – Basic drywall patching is less costly than custom millwork.
Based on recent projects, here are typical labor costs:
• Standard vinyl retrofit, first-floor: $110 – $160 per opening
• New construction nail-fin install: $85 – $120 per opening
• Full-frame wood window, historic home: $220 – $350 per opening
• Multi-panel sliders or telescoping doors: $450 – $750 per unit
These figures represent labor costs only. Materials, permits, and disposal are additional.
1. Prevailing wage requirements
2. Local worker availability and union agreements
3. Insurance and licensing costs
4. Climate-related weatherproofing needs
CountBricks updates regional labor multipliers daily to ensure accurate estimates.
• Voice capture – Discuss project scope while CountBricks listens.
• Real-time classification – Our engine identifies window types and complexity.
• Labor library match – Tasks are matched to our labor database.
• Dynamic adjustment – Factors like region and crew size refine labor hours.
• Instant output – Receive a shareable quote and schedule instantly.
• Lead-paint mitigation in older homes
• Custom interior trim replication
• Stucco or brick cut-back and patching
• Temporary weather protection for exposed openings
In partnership with Coastal Build Co., CountBricks worked on a 1920s Craftsman in Monterey, CA. The project involved 14 full-frame wood windows and custom arches. Our AI predicted 172 labor hours, and pre-built casing kits saved time, resulting in an average labor cost of $268 per opening, under budget and ahead of schedule.
• Opt for retrofit frames where possible.
• Batch similar window sizes to streamline processes.
• Schedule installations during temperate seasons.
• Plan pre-painted trims for efficiency.
• Accurate takeoffs eliminate guesswork.
• Real-time cost updates.
• Transparent labor-vs-material breakdowns.
• Exportable invoices for accounting integration.
For precise and profitable window installation estimates, start a free voice estimate at CountBricks.com.
• Pre-measure meticulously – Avoid costly adjustments.
• Stage materials floor-by-floor – Reduce crew fatigue and save labor hours.
• Assign a dedicated sealant specialist – Ensure consistent quality and avoid rework.
• Use voice notes in CountBricks – Update labor allowances instantly.
• Close out daily – Maintain accountability and accelerate payouts.
1. How does CountBricks determine crew size?
Our engine factors in unit weight and complexity to recommend the optimal crew size.
2. Can I override default labor hours?
Yes, contractors can apply custom productivity factors for real-time recalculations.
3. Does the software handle permit labor?
Yes, jurisdiction data auto-populates inspection trips as separate labor lines.
Skyline Builders used CountBricks for a 3,200 sq ft custom home, reducing setup time and bringing average labor to $97 per opening, below initial projections. The homeowner received a detailed labor report, enhancing transparency.
Ready to lock in accurate labor costs for your next project? Book a live demo at CountBricks.com.
