Reviewed by Mario Garcia, General Manager at Windows Hawaii
If you have been pricing storm protection for your Oahu home, the first number you need is what impact windows actually cost. Here is a straight answer using current national averages, plus what changes the price on the island.
How Much Do Impact Windows Cost?
According to Angi, impact windows average about $1,800 per window installed, with most projects landing between $700 and $2,875 per window. That is roughly 25% to 35% more than a regular replacement window of the same size and style.
So a home with 10 windows is usually looking at somewhere around $7,000 on the low end and close to $29,000 on the high end. Most homeowners fall in the middle, because they mix a few large openings with several standard sizes.
Impact Window Cost by Frame Material
| Frame material | Typical cost per window, installed (national) |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $700 to $2,500 |
| Composite | $750 to $2,625 |
| Aluminum | $800 to $2,750 |
| Fiberglass | $850 to $2,875 |
Source: Angi. Vinyl is the most common choice for Hawaii homes because it does not rust in salt air and it insulates far better than aluminum.
What Drives the Price Up or Down
Window size and style
Large picture windows and sliders need thicker laminated glass and heavier frames, so they cost more than a standard single-hung. A sliding glass door with impact glass costs more again.
The glass package
Impact glass is laminated, meaning a tough inner layer holds the pane together when it breaks. Adding Low-E coatings for heat control adds to the price, but on Oahu it also cuts the heat coming through the glass, which matters for homes with lots of afternoon sun.
Installation and access
Two-story homes, hillside lots, and openings that need frame repair all add labor. Older homes with termite damage around the frames often need repairs before new windows go in.
Brand and rating
Ratings matter more than brand names. The Ali’i windows we install are tested to take a 9 lb 2×4 hitting at 40 feet per second and are rated for winds up to 120 mph. You can read the details on our impact windows page.
Are Impact Windows Worth It in Hawaii?
Hawaii’s hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year. Impact windows protect your home all season with nothing to put up or take down, which is the main reason homeowners choose them over shutters. They also block most outside noise, filter UV rays that fade floors and furniture, and make a break-in much harder.
The trade-off is upfront cost. Shutters cost less to buy but need to be installed before every storm. We break that comparison down in our guide to hurricane shutters vs. impact windows.
Ways to Keep the Cost Down
- Start with the openings that face the ocean or prevailing winds, then add the rest later.
- Replace windows in one project rather than one at a time, since setup and labor costs drop per window.
- Choose vinyl frames and standard sizes where the look allows.
- Ask about current promotions and financing during your estimate.
For regular, non-impact replacement windows, see our window replacement cost guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does one impact window cost?
Nationally, about $1,800 on average, with a typical range of $700 to $2,875 installed, according to Angi. Your exact price depends on size, style, and installation.
Are impact windows more expensive than regular windows?
Yes. They usually cost about 25% to 35% more than a regular window of the same size and style.
How do I get an exact price?
Schedule a free in-home estimate. We measure every opening and give you a written price, or call 808-671-0808.
