ArcaMax

An awning window is hinged at the top and opens outward from the bottom. While you can install them anywhere, you’ll often see them in some kitchens as well as in a basement, where ventilation and protection from rain is needed. And in old office buildings they were often used above a door to add light and ventilation.

An awning window goes a long way to make the space in a basement more livable and attractive. And using it to replace an old awning window with a new energy-efficient unit can make a remarkable improvement to the room, and at the same time, lower energy costs.

A window contractor will charge $640, including labor and material, to install a 3-foot-by-4-foot awning window. A handy homeowner with carpentry skills and tools can do the job for $300, the cost of the window, and pocket a 53% saving. The cost will be higher if repair work and new trim on the inside is required and the exterior siding around the window needs to be replaced.

The steps involve removing the old window and making any repair work needed, followed by installing the new window. You don’t want a gaping hole in an exterior wall that invites birds, bugs or animals to come inside, not to mention, rain. So, pay attention to the weather forecast during the time you plan the job.

Pro Cost: $640 — DIY Cost: $300 — Pro time: 5.6
DIY Time: 9.0 — DIY Savings: $340 — Percent Saved: 53%

$640 — $300 — 5.6 — 9.0 — $340 — 53%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2025 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.