Cost $4,300Adds $8,342
Your estimate
Cost
$25,000
Adds at resale
$16,000
Recouped
64%
National planning figure: $25,000 cost, 64% recouped. Ranked #16 of 27 projects by ROI.
Wood windows with exterior cladding keep the look of an older home while improving efficiency. They cost more than vinyl, and the premium is only partly recovered.
Why it scores where it does
- Architectural fit on older or high-end homes.
- Higher material and labor costs than vinyl.
- Longevity depends on exterior maintenance.
Get the most from it
- Aluminum- or fiberglass-clad exteriors reduce maintenance.
- Match original sash proportions on historic houses.
- Budget for interior trim repair and paint.
Window replacement (wood) ROI by region
| Region | Cost | Value added | % recouped | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific | $30,000 | $20,480 | 68% | |
| Mountain | $25,000 | $16,960 | 68% | |
| South Atlantic | $23,750 | $15,360 | 65% | |
| New England | $28,000 | $17,600 | 63% | |
| West South Central | $23,000 | $13,920 | 61% | |
| East South Central | $22,500 | $13,440 | 60% | |
| Middle Atlantic | $27,500 | $16,320 | 59% | |
| West North Central | $24,500 | $14,080 | 57% | |
| East North Central | $24,750 | $13,760 | 56% |
Frequently asked questions
Are wood windows worth the extra money?
On a historic or higher-end home where buyers expect wood, yes. Elsewhere, vinyl gives a better return per dollar.
How long do wood windows last?
Well-maintained clad wood windows can last 30 years or more.
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