Top Window Replacement & Installation in Reno, Nevada Ranked

Upgrading your windows is one of the most impactful home improvement projects you can undertake in Reno. New window installation directly combats our region's intense sun and dry air, leading to improved comfort, lower energy bills, and enhanced curb appeal. This guide will help you understand the local considerations, from popular styles and energy-efficient features to costs and regulations, so you can make an informed decision and connect with qualified professionals for your project.

DaBella

1000 Sandhill Road Ste. 205, Reno, NV 89521

DaBella is a home improvement company based in Reno, NV, specializing in exterior projects such as roof and window replacement. They serve homeowners in Reno and the surrounding areas, offering ENERGY STAR certified Glasswing vinyl windows designed for the local climate and durable GAF architectural asphalt shingles for roof replacements. DaBella is a GAF Master Elite contractor, providing installations backed by the GAF Golden Pledge warranty, which ensures long-term protection. The company has earned recognition from industry outlets like GuildQuality and Qualified Remodeler for its commitment to quality work.

4.8

1.2k Reviews

Bighorn Glass & Window

3656 Research Way #35, Carson City, NV 89706

Bighorn Glass & Window is a window repair and replacement company serving Reno, NV, and the surrounding Carson City region. With over 45 years of combined experience, the company specializes in custom glass fabrication, window installations, historic window replacements, and mirror crafting. They offer tailored solutions for both modern and historic properties, focusing on quality craftsmanship and custom designs.

4.9

94 Reviews

Renewal by Andersen Window Replacement

3895 Corsair St Suite G, Reno, NV 89502

Renewal by Andersen Window Replacement is a window and sliding glass door installer serving Reno, NV, and surrounding areas. They specialize in replacement windows and doors designed to withstand Reno's high-desert climate, offering options like double-hung, casement, and picture windows as well as entry and patio doors. Their products use proprietary Fibrex® materials for durability and energy efficiency, with certified installers ensuring precise fitting and cleanup. The company provides free in-home consultations to assess needs and recommend suitable solutions.

4.7

690 Reviews

Brite Glass

100 Gentry Wy, Reno, NV 89502

Brite Glass is a glass repair and replacement company based in Reno, NV, serving Northern Nevada and California. They offer a wide range of services including auto glass repair and replacement, residential window and door installation, and custom glass solutions. The company carries products from brands like Marvin, Milgard, and Weathershield and can repair or reglaze various types of windows and glass. Established in 1990, Brite Glass has over 30 years of experience and serves areas such as Carson City, Sparks, Lake Tahoe, and more.

4.7

412 Reviews

Fast Glass

4350 Reno Hwy, Fallon, NV 89406

Fast Glass is a window repair and replacement company serving Reno, NV. They provide services for residential, commercial, and auto glass, including windshield repair and home window upgrades. The team at Fast Glass serves Fallon and the surrounding areas with experience in installing and repairing various glass products.

4.7

265 Reviews

See more providers in Reno, NV

Why Reno Homes Need Specialized Window Solutions

The climate in the Truckee Meadows presents unique challenges for your home's windows. High UV exposure can fade interiors and degrade materials, while the dry air can cause seals to fail prematurely ¹. Furthermore, the significant temperature swings between day and night, and from season to season, demand windows with excellent insulating properties. Standard, single-pane windows are simply not equipped to handle these conditions efficiently, often resulting in drafts, high cooling costs in summer, and heat loss in winter. Investing in modern, climate-appropriate windows is not just an upgrade; it's a necessity for maintaining a comfortable and cost-effective home in Northern Nevada.

Popular Window Styles for Reno Homes

Choosing the right window style affects ventilation, aesthetics, cleaning, and even energy performance. Here are the most common types selected for Reno residences:

• Double-Hung Windows: This is arguably the most popular style in Reno ². Both the upper and lower sashes move vertically, allowing for versatile ventilation control. Their classic look suits many architectural styles, and many modern models feature tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning from inside your home ³.
• Casement Windows: Hinged on the side and crank-operated, these windows open outward like a door. They provide excellent, unobstructed airflow and a tight seal when closed, making them a great energy-efficient choice ⁴. Their large glass area also maximizes views of our surrounding mountain landscapes.
• Sliding Windows: Operating on a horizontal track, sliding windows (or gliding windows) are a simple, space-saving option. They are easy to use and offer a clean, modern look. However, their tracks can be prone to collecting dust and debris common in our dry climate ⁵.
• Picture & Fixed Windows: Designed not to open, these windows are all about the view and natural light. They are often used in combination with other operable styles to create stunning visual focal points in living rooms or above kitchen sinks. Their airtight design offers superior energy efficiency since there are no moving parts to seal ⁶.
• Bay & Bow Windows: These projecting windows add architectural interest, interior space, and panoramic views. A bay window typically consists of a large central picture window flanked by two smaller angled windows (often double-hung or casement). A bow window is made of four or more equal-sized windows arranged in a gentle curve. Both styles can become a beautiful nook or seating area ².
• Awning & Hopper Windows: Hinged at the top, awning windows open outward from the bottom and are fantastic for allowing ventilation even during light rain. Hopper windows are their inverse, hinged at the bottom and opening inward from the top. These are often used in basements, including for egress purposes, or in hard-to-reach places ⁵.

Energy Efficiency: A Non-Negotiable for Our Climate

When selecting new windows for your Reno home, energy performance should be a top priority. The right features can significantly reduce your reliance on heating and cooling systems.

• Multiple Panes: Double-pane glass with an insulating air gap is now the standard, and triple-pane windows are becoming more popular for their superior insulation and sound-dampening qualities ⁷.
• Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are microscopic, virtually invisible layers of metal oxide applied to the glass. They are critical for reflecting the sun's infrared heat, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by reflecting interior heat back inside ⁸.
• Gas Fills: The space between panes is often filled with inert gases like argon or krypton. These dense gases are better insulators than regular air, reducing heat transfer and improving the window's overall U-factor (insulation rating) ⁴.
• Frame Materials: The frame plays a huge role in insulation and maintenance.
  • Vinyl: Extremely popular due to its affordability, good insulation, and minimal maintenance-it never needs painting. Modern vinyl frames are durable and come in various colors ¹.
  • Fiberglass: Offers excellent strength and thermal performance, with minimal expansion and contraction. It can be painted and often mimics the look of wood.
  • Wood: Provides a classic, warm aesthetic and great natural insulation but requires regular painting or staining to protect it from the elements, which can be a consideration in Reno's dry, sunny climate ².
• ENERGY STAR® Certification: Always look for windows that are certified for the Northern Climate Zone by ENERGY STAR. This certification ensures the product has been tested and meets strict performance criteria specific to regions with both cold winters and hot summers, like Reno ⁸.

Understanding Window Replacement Costs in Reno

The cost of a window installation project can vary widely based on the factors discussed. Here is a general breakdown of what Reno homeowners might expect ^{2 6 9}:

• Total Project Cost Per Window: A typical range is $200 to $1,200 or more per window, fully installed. This includes the window unit itself and professional labor.
• Window-Only Cost Examples:
  • Vinyl Double-Hung Window: ~$160 - $330
  • Wood Double-Hung Window: ~$350 - $830
  • Vinyl Sliding Window: ~$145 - $350
• Specialty Windows: A project like a bay window, which includes multiple units and more complex structural work, can range from $1,500 to $2,500 or more for the window and installation.
• Labor Costs: Professional installation labor typically adds $100 to $300 per window, depending on the complexity (e.g., full-frame vs. retrofit, accessibility, structural adjustments).

Important Note: These are estimated ranges. The final price for your specific home will depend on the exact products chosen, the number of windows, the condition of your existing openings, and the contractor you select. Always obtain detailed, written quotes from multiple local professionals.

The Installation Process: Retrofit vs. Full-Frame

There are two primary methods for installing replacement windows, and the right choice depends on the condition of your existing window frames and your goals.

1. Retrofit Installation (Pocket Replacement): This is the less invasive and generally more affordable option. The new window unit is installed directly into the existing, structurally sound frame. The interior and exterior trim typically remain in place. This method is faster and minimizes disruption but is only possible if the old frame is square, level, and free of rot or water damage ¹⁰.
2. Full-Frame Replacement: This is a more comprehensive approach. The entire old window, including the frame, sash, and trim, is removed down to the rough opening. This allows contractors to inspect and address any underlying moisture damage, insulation issues, or structural rot. New construction-style windows are then installed, with new flashing and insulation applied for optimal weatherproofing and performance. This method is recommended for older homes, when changing window sizes, or when the existing frame is damaged ¹¹.

Permits and Regulations in Reno

Before starting any window replacement project, it's crucial to understand local building codes. In Reno, a building permit is often required for window replacement ¹². The permit process ensures the work complies with safety standards, energy codes (like the International Energy Conservation Code), and structural requirements. Your licensed contractor will typically handle pulling the necessary permits, which protects you as the homeowner and ensures the work is inspected and approved. Always confirm permit requirements with your contractor or the City of Reno's Building & Safety Division before work begins.

Choosing a Local Window Professional

Selecting the right contractor is as important as choosing the right windows. Look for a licensed, insured, and locally established professional with experience specifically in the Reno-Sparks area. They will understand our climate challenges and building codes. Ask for references, review portfolios of past work, and ensure they provide a detailed, written contract that includes the specific product lines (including energy ratings), scope of work, warranty information, cleanup, and a payment schedule. A reputable installer will also conduct a thorough in-home assessment to provide an accurate quote and recommend the best solutions for your home's architecture and your budget.

Frequently asked questions

Sources