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How Much Do Garden Windows Cost

Average Cost Range
? All cost data throughout this article are collected using the RS Means construction materials database.
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$2,000 – $4,000

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Updated On

January 11, 2024

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Garden windows are miniature bay windows that project past a home’s exterior with three glass walls. These charming glass boxes, sometimes called greenhouse windows, feature deep windowsills that allow sunlight to flow in from all angles. Many feature interior shelves to display decor, pots, and propagation kits. For these reasons, homeowners with garden windows typically use them to grow herbs, succulents, and other indoor plants.

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How Much Do Garden Windows Cost?

Garden windows typically cost between $2,000 and $4,000, though your specific costs may fall above or below that range.

At first glance, garden windows look like simple glass boxes that won’t cost more than a standard residential window. But they cost more than many other types of windows because of their complex installation, additional glass panes, and integrated shelving units. Unlike standard double-hung windows and casements, built flush with the home’s wall, greenhouse windows form a window container outside the home.

With this information in mind, take a look at some broader cost ranges for garden windows:

Cost RangeAverage Cost Range
Low-end Cost Range$1,000–$2,000
National Average Cost Range$2,000–$4,000
High-end Cost Range$4,000–$6,000


Our cost data comes from
RSMeans, a price estimator database for contractors. The estimates included in this article cover materials and average installation costs for new construction windows.

Garden Window Replacement Vs. New Construction Costs

Before you start crunching numbers, assess whether you need a replacement garden window or a new construction. Replacement windows are typically cheaper, between $1,500 and $3,500, because they don’t require as much work during installation. The window opening already exists, and if the old window was also a garden window, support features are already in place.

New constructions, which we cover in this article, sit at a higher price — sometimes up to $6,000 for high-end products or complex installations. Consider the scope of your project when planning for a new garden window, because costs for replacement windows and new constructions will vary.

Window Replacement
Window replacement typically costs between $400 and $1,000, depending on the type & material.
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Window Repair
Leak repairs may cost $50 to $150, while more critical issues like frame damage can cost up to $1,000.
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Energy Efficient Glass
Upgrading your home’s windows with double or triple-pane glass may range from $700 to $2,000+.
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What Factors Affect the Cost of Garden Windows?

When budgeting for any home improvement project, you’ll discover several factors that affect your final cost. Garden windows are no exception, and your project price will vary because of the specifics of your windows:

  • Material
  • Size
  • Glass type
  • Operability

We review these details and their potential cost below to help you plan for your perfect garden window.

Read Also: What Does a Bay Window Entail?

Cost of Garden Windows by Material

Your garden window’s frame will affect more than just its durability and energy efficiency — it’ll also impact your bottom line. Various window frame materials have different price points because of sourcing requirements, manufacturing processes, and market demand. You’ll usually pay the least amount for vinyl window frames, which are widely available from most window retailers. But you’ll pay more for fiberglass and wood windows because these premium materials have costlier manufacturing processes.

The figures below reflect cost estimates for the most common garden window frame materials. We also dive into descriptions of each material to help you understand their benefits and drawbacks.

Window Frame MaterialAverage Cost Range
Vinyl$1,900–$2,600
Aluminum$1,700–$2,500
Fiberglass$2,200–$3,200
Wood$2,600–$4,000
  • Vinyl frames are the cheapest and most commonly used window material. Vinyl’s energy efficiency, durability, and warp resistance make it a top choice for garden windows that are constantly exposed to the elements.
  • Aluminum is a sound choice for homeowners seeking a sleek, modern frame without sacrificing strength and durability. However, metal is a poor insulator, so we only recommend aluminum garden windows for mild climates.
  • Fiberglass is more expensive than vinyl but comparable in terms of moisture resistance and low maintenance requirements. However, fiberglass is eight times stronger than vinyl, making it a solid choice for homes in harsh climates.
  • Wood frames are classic, beautiful, and almost always more expensive than other frame types. Wood isn’t necessarily the best choice for garden windows because it requires regular maintenance and can be prone to moisture damage, pests, and rot.

Cost of Garden Windows by Size

According to Thompson Creek Window Company, garden windows typically fall within these measurements:

  • Height between 24 and 64 inches
  • Width between 24 and 72 inches
  • 17-inch projection from the interior wall

This information is important to keep in mind when shopping for garden windows because buying a standard size can help you save money. Custom windows are more expensive because they require the manufacturer to produce special-dimension glass and framing for one window. Buying prefab windows with the above dimensions will likely yield a more affordable project overall.

Learn how Thompson compares to the competition in our article Thompson Creek vs Pell Windows.

The table below shows cost ranges for common garden window sizes to illustrate how size affects price:

Window SizeAverage Cost Range
24″ X 24″$800–$1,500
30” X 30” $1,000–$2,000
36” X 36”$1,300–$2,500
36” X 48”$2,000–$4,000
36” X 60”$2,200–$4,500
48” X 48”$2,500–$4,500
60” X 72”$3,500–$6,000

Cost of Garden Windows by Glass Type

Garden windows accept light from all angles, which means they’re more likely to transfer heat into your home. Your AC unit will have to work overtime to keep the temperature stable, a problem that can lead to higher energy bills.

Equipping your garden window with energy-efficient glass is the best way to keep it from driving up utility costs. The table and list below show the potential costs of different glazing options for garden windows. We’ve included descriptions with the pros and cons of each to help you make an educated purchase.

Window Glass TypeAverage Cost Range
Single-pane$1,000–$2,000
Double-pane$1,500–$2,500
Triple-pane$2,500–$4,000
Argon/Krypton Filled$1,800–$3,500
  • Single-pane glass is the most basic and least expensive glazing option on the market. With only one sheet of glass between the frame, single-pane windows provide the lowest energy efficiency, sound reduction, and insulation of any glass type. For this reason, they aren’t a good choice for garden windows.
  • Double-pane glass is the most common glazing used in residential windows. Double-glazed windows feature two glass panes separated by an air-filled layer for improved energy efficiency, insulation, and sound reduction.
  • Triple-pane glass is generally the most expensive window glazing option. It features three glass panes with air- or gas-filled inner layers for optimal insulation and sound reduction. They are also stronger than dual or single-pane models, a considerable benefit for homes in severe weather climates.
  • Argon or krypton-filled windows have the same structure as double-pane windows, except the space between panes is filled with insulative argon or krypton gas. These windows, sometimes called insulated glass units (IGUs), are excellent for garden windows in fluctuating outdoor temperatures.

Cost of Garden Windows by Operability

Your garden window’s operability is another factor to consider when determining costs. You may want a garden window above your kitchen sink to include operable sashes that open for improved ventilation. That will likely lead you to a model with casement side panels. Suppose you live in a cooler climate and only want the improved natural lighting a garden window offers. In that case, you might opt for a fixed, inoperable greenhouse window.

The specific windows you pick for your garden window affect its price. We’ve listed the most common types of garden window features and their potential costs.

Frame MaterialAverage Cost Range
Fixed$1,800–$2,800
Single-hung$2,000–$3,000
Casement$2,500–$3,500
Awning$2,500–$3,500

Fixed garden windows are typically the cheapest garden window option but provide the lowest functionality. They have the same structure as other garden windows, but none of the sashes open. These are the best option for homeowners seeking lighting and affordability over ventilation.

Single-hung windows have a fixed top sash and a moveable bottom one that slides up to open. They make excellent side panels for garden windows because they don’t take up horizontal space when open; simply unlock the hatch and slide up the pane for a little extra airflow.

the cost of garden windows is worth it to improve your kitchen
Credit: The Home Depot

Casement windows open outward like small doors. They push out easily, making them ideal for hard-to-reach, tight spaces like crowded garden window shelves. They typically provide better ventilation than single-hung models, an important consideration for homeowners considering kitchen garden windows.

Awning windows are another common type of garden window to consider. They open up and out on a top-hinged sash to form an awning-like roof. They usually serve as the center panel of garden windows, which means they provide a large area for ventilation. You can open awning windows when it rains, making them an ideal choice for homeowners in wet climates.

how much do garden windows cost
Credit: Champion Windows

What are the Additional Costs of Garden Windows?

You must account for additional costs beyond your garden window’s dimensions, frames, and operability. Labor costs, glass coatings, shelving units, and required permits will increase your price by hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Make sure your garden window budget includes the following extra cost factors:

  • Labor and installation: Installing a garden window usually requires two people. One person must hold and stabilize the window box in place while the other handles fastening and sealing it into the wall. Garden window installation starts around $63 per person per hour, meaning $1,007+ per day for the project. Additional crew members and hours increase costs accordingly.
  • Shelves: Most prefab garden windows include interior shelving units, whose costs automatically fold into your material and installation costs. However, you’ll pay more for custom garden windows with specialty shelving or multiple units.
  • Glass coatings: You can add coatings to your garden window’s glazing to improve energy efficiency and insulation. Low-E coatings and spectrally selective tints are two popular options for greenhouse windows because they reflect heat away from the window without compromising lighting for your plants. Garden windows with these glass customizations typically range from $1,500 to $3,000. If you purchase the coatings separately, they cost between $5 and $15 per square foot.
  • Permit: You might need a building permit if your project involves creating a new window opening. Check local regulations to determine if you need an official permit for a garden window, which may add around $200 to your final price.
  • Window brand: The brand you purchase will also impact your garden window costs. Window retailers don’t list product prices on their websites because pricing is project-specific. We suggest scheduling an in-home or virtual consultation with the company to get detailed cost information for a specific brand. Get multiple quotes to ensure you get the best deal and produce for your needs.

Find Window Cost Estimates In Your State


How Does the Cost of Garden Windows Compare to Other Window Types?

Garden windows may seem small and simple, but the combined square footage of their walls and roof panel makes them similar in size to other residential windows. Plus, any window that protrudes past the home’s exterior wall will inevitably cost more because of a complex installation and needed structural materials.

The graphic below shows how garden window costs stack up to other popular types. Garden window prices are closer to bay and egress windows because they require more complex installations than standard windows.


Is DIY Worth the Cost Savings of Installing Garden Windows?

Proper installation is paramount for a functional garden window. For this reason, we strongly suggest calling in a pro to lead this home improvement project.

Garden windows protrude past the side of the home, which means they need adequate support to stay in place. Without that support, the window may fall out of the wall, taking your home’s siding and insulation with it.

Proper installation is also important for garden windows because they’re prone to poor energy efficiency. As their nickname suggests, greenhouse windows are designed to transfer and trap light and heat in a small, enclosed space. While this feature is great for sprouting plants, it can drive up your energy bills. With this knowledge in mind, a professional window installer will use high-quality window products and installation techniques that minimize the negative effects of thermal transfer from your garden windows.


Are Garden Windows Worth It for Your Home?

Garden windows are a worthwhile investment for your home, especially if you seek improved natural lighting and a place to tend homegrown herbs. Although you’ll likely pay between $2,000 and $4,000 for materials and professional installation, that cost will be worth the functional, energy-efficient product you receive.

Also, If you’re interested in exploring unique decorative window options that provide an unobstructed view of the outdoor scenery, the picture window is an excellent choice. We highly recommend checking out our article on the cost of picture windows for a more in-depth understanding of this attractive window solution.

The type of glass you choose significantly influences the quality of your windows and doors. If you’re interested in exploring alternative and eco-friendly glass options, we encourage you to peruse our extensive guide highlighting the significance of Low-E glass.

Ready to add a charming garden window to your kitchen, bedroom, or living room? Fill out the form below for free estimates from top installers in your area:

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FAQs About Garden Window Costs

How Much Weight Can a Garden Window Hold?

Garden windows can usually hold 25 to 100 pounds. Confirm your garden window’s weight limit before placing anything in it. Overloading the structure can cause it to sag, eventually leading to a broken window and damaged siding.


Do Garden Windows Have Warranties?

Most garden windows come with a warranty to cover material and labor defects after purchase. However, the extent of the warranty depends heavily on the window brand you buy. Some brands, like Andersen and Simonton, come with limited warranties that provide coverage for a set number of years. Others, like Castle Windows and Champion, offer lifetime warranties that cover the window for as long as you own it.

The bottom line: If a robust warranty is an important aspect of your garden window purchase, do your research to find the best policy. And read the fine print of a garden window-specific sample warranty to ensure optimal coverage.


Do Garden Windows Increase Home Value?

Garden windows are custom, eye-catching home features that can boost the resale value of your home. If you have an existing garden window, you can improve your home’s value by replacing it with an energy-efficient model with insulated glass or Low-E coating. These features are attractive to potential buyers and reduce your energy bills.


Editorial Contributors
avatar for Elisabeth Beauchamp

Elisabeth Beauchamp

Senior Staff Writer

Elisabeth Beauchamp is a content producer for Today’s Homeowner’s Lawn and Windows categories. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with degrees in Journalism and Linguistics. When Elisabeth isn’t writing about flowers, foliage, and fertilizer, she’s researching landscaping trends and current events in the agricultural space. Elisabeth aims to educate and equip readers with the tools they need to create a home they love.

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photo of Lora Novak

Lora Novak

Senior Editor

Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

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