15-30 years · 20-40 years · 30-50 years
Typical lifespan
| Type | Typical lifespan | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum or wood frame | 15-30 years | Window-industry and home-improvement lifespan guidance widely cited (This Old House, Angi) |
| Vinyl frame | 20-40 years | Same window-industry lifespan guidance |
| Fiberglass frame | 30-50 years | Same window-industry lifespan guidance |
Signs you need to replace it
- !Condensation between the panes of a double/triple-pane window (means the seal has failed)
- !Noticeable drafts even with the window fully closed
- !Difficulty opening, closing, or locking the window
- !Rising heating/cooling bills with no other explanation
- !Visibly rotting, warped, or damaged frames
What replacement costs
$100–$1,200
$100-$750 per window if the existing frame is reused. $300-$700 per window for standard frame-and-sash replacement; $1,000+ per window for custom sizes or full-frame replacement. Average whole-home project: around $5,209.
Maintenance that extends its life
- Re-caulk and reseal exterior trim every few years to keep moisture out of the frame
- Clean tracks and weep holes so water drains instead of pooling
- Repaint/reseal wood frames on a regular schedule — wood is the most maintenance-dependent material on this list
FAQ
Does foggy glass between panes always mean I need new windows?
It means that specific insulated glass unit's seal has failed and moisture got between the panes — sometimes just the glass unit can be replaced within the existing frame, which is cheaper than a full window replacement.
Which window frame material lasts longest?
Fiberglass, typically 30-50 years, followed by vinyl (20-40 years). Wood and aluminum frames generally fall in the 15-30 year range and need more maintenance to get there.