Who replaces window sills? Learn when to hire a window repair company vs. a handyperson or carpenter and what affects cost
How Much Does Window Sill Replacement Cost in 2025?
Normal Range: $150 - $700
Window sill replacement costs an average $400, though it often ranges from $150 to $700 depending on its size and the material your pro uses.
How we get this data
Highlights
Window sill replacement involves removing damaged sills to prevent moisture intrusion and structural damage.
Window sill replacement costs $75 to $100 per linear foot, including material and labor.
Material selection, window dimensions, and complexity of installation all influence the final project price.
Replacing deteriorated sills improves energy efficiency and prevents costly water damage to surrounding areas.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Window sill replacement is an important maintenance task that protects your home from moisture damage and improves insulation. The minimum-to-maximum cost range is $100 to $1,100 per sill, with an average expense of $400. The total installed cost, including both materials and labor, runs $75 to $100 per linear foot, with the labor portion accounting for 80% to 90% of the overall expense.
What Factors Affect Window Sill Replacement Cost
Understanding what drives window sill replacement costs helps you budget appropriately for your project. The material quality, window dimensions, and installation complexity all contribute to the final price you'll pay for this home improvement project.
| Cost Factor | Impact on Price | Approximate Cost Influence |
|---|---|---|
| Size of sill | Larger sills require more materials and installation time | $75-$100 per linear foot (total installed cost) |
| Material | Choosing affordable materials can save money | Save $25-$75 per window with economical options |
| Labor | Comprises 80%-90% of the total project cost | $320-$360 for an average window |
| Type of window | Complex windows require more precise fitting | $150-$1,100 depending on style |
| Window location | Upper-story or difficult access increases labor time | Higher end of cost ranges |
| Number of windows | Multiple replacements may qualify for volume pricing | $400 for 1 window, $390 for 2, $380 for 5, $375 for 10 |
Window Sill Material Costs
The material you select for your window sill impacts both initial cost and long-term durability. Different materials offer varying benefits regarding maintenance requirements, appearance, and resistance to environmental factors.
| Material | Cost Per Linear Foot | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $6-$12 | Classic look, paintable, traditional appeal | Requires regular maintenance, susceptible to moisture damage |
| Vinyl | $6-$9 | Water-resistant, minimal upkeep needed | May lack premium appearance, limited color selection |
| Aluminum | $6-$7 | Lightweight, good weather resistance | Can transfer cold, potential condensation issues |
| Composite | $8-$10 | Durable, moderate maintenance requirements | Less traditional appearance than wood |
| Stone | $8-$15 | Elegant appearance, excellent durability | Heavier weight, more challenging installation |
| Fiberglass | $8-$15 | Strong, weather-resistant, long-lasting | Higher initial investment than basic materials |
| Tile | $10-$15 | Decorative options, water-resistant | Requires proper substrate, more complex installation |
Window Sill Size Impact on Price
The dimensions of your window directly affect material quantities and installation time required. Larger windows naturally demand more materials and labor hours, resulting in higher overall costs for sill replacement.
| Window Size | Linear Feet | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Up to 3 ft) | 3 | $225-$300 | Common for standard single windows |
| Medium (3-5 ft) | 5 | $375-$500 | Typical for double windows |
| Large (5-8 ft) | 8 | $600-$800 | Found in picture windows, small bay configurations |
| Extra Large (8+ ft) | 10+ | $750-$1,000 | Common in bay windows, bow windows |
Labor Costs for Window Sill Replacement
The majority of window sill replacement expense comes from professional installation. Labor accounts for 80% to 90% of the total project cost, or approximately $320 to $360 for an average-sized window sill replacement.
Hourly Rates and Service Fees
Professional window specialists have the tools and expertise to complete sill replacements efficiently. The labor portion represents the largest part of your total investment in this home improvement project.
| Service Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Replacement | $150-$300 | Standard window with minimal complications |
| Complex Replacement | $300-$700 | Includes additional repairs or custom work |
Minimum Charges and Trip Fees
Window repair companies typically charge a trip fee and a minimum of $100 per window sill you need repaired. Combining multiple sill replacements in a single service call can help distribute this fixed cost across several windows, potentially reducing your per-window expense.
Additional Cost Factors
Several other variables can influence your final window sill replacement expense beyond the basic material and labor calculations.
Window Type
The style and configuration of your window significantly impacts replacement complexity and cost. Some window designs require more intricate sill work than others.
| Window Type | Average Replacement Cost | Complexity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Bay or Bow | $700-$1,100 | High |
| Casement/double-hung/single-Hung | $150-$300 | Low to medium |
| Hopper | $150-$225 | Low |
| Picture | $150-$800 | Medium to high |
Related Repair Costs
When replacing window sills, contractors may discover additional issues that need addressing. These could include frame damage, water infiltration, or other problems that increase the overall project scope and cost.
DIY vs. Professional Window Sill Replacement
Tackling window sill replacement yourself can result in significant savings—up to 90% of the total cost, or approximately $360 per window. However, improper installation may lead to water damage, energy inefficiency, or other costly problems down the road. That’s why we recommend you hire a window repair specialist near you for window sill replacement
| Consideration | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost savings | Up to $360 per window | Professional expertise comes at a premium |
| Time required | Typically longer | Efficient with proper tools and experience |
| Skill level | Moderate to Advanced | Professional training |
| Warranty | Materials only | Often includes labor guarantee |
| Risk factors | Potential water infiltration | Lower risk with qualified contractors |
Window Sill Replacement vs. Repair
For minor cosmetic issues, repair may be sufficient and more economical. However, you should consider replacement rather than repair when your window sill shows signs of significant deterioration, such as extensive rot, structural weakness, or water infiltration.
When pressing on the sill reveals soft spots, or when you notice cracks extending through the entire thickness, replacement typically offers a better long-term solution.
| Condition | Recommended Solution | Average Cost | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor surface damage | Repair | $200-$300 | Temporary fix for cosmetic issues |
| Minor water damage | Repair or replace | $200-$300 (repair) or $150-$700 (replace) | Short-term vs. long-term solution |
| Extensive damage | Replace | $150-$700 | Long-term protection |
How to Save Money on Window Sill Replacement
Choose an affordable sill material like vinyl or aluminum to save between $25 and $75 per window.
Combine window sill replacement with other repairs to save on trip fees.
Finish the sill yourself by staining, painting, or sealing to save $25 to $50.
Replace multiple window sills simultaneously to qualify for volume discounts.
Address problems early before they require more extensive repairs.
Consider partial replacement when damage is limited to specific sections.
Obtain multiple quotes from reputable professionals to ensure competitive pricing.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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