Prices for putting a window in a brick wall vary by opening size, brick type, and labor intensity. This article breaks down the typical cost, with low, average, and high ranges to help buyers budget accurately for a brick-wall window install.
Introduction note: The keyword cost is central to planning, and readers will see exact price ranges and per-unit details.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Window unit (standard vinyl, 24″x36″) | $250 | $420 | $900 | Includes frame and sash; exterior brick opening prep varies |
| New brick opening labor | $600 | $1,100 | $2,000 | Labor to cut brick, install lintel, and clean edges |
| Lintel/structural support | $150 | $350 | $1,000 | Steel or reinforced concrete lintel depending on span |
| Waterproofing and flashing | $75 | $180 | $400 | sill pan, flashing tape, sealant |
| Interior finish trim | $60 | $150 | $350 | Drywall or casing perimeters |
| Permits and inspections | $50 | $200 | $1,000 | Region-dependent |
| Delivery/ disposal | $25 | $60 | $150 | Debris removal and material transport |
| Total project cost | $1,210 | $2,460 | $6,180 | Depends on opening size, brick type, and scope |
Typical Total Price for Brick Wall Window Install
Most residential brick openings fall within a range that reflects opening size, brick type, and lintel requirements. For a standard 24″ x 36″ window, expect total costs around $1,200–$2,200 in many markets, with higher totals if the brick is difficult to access or requires full repointing. Larger openings or premium windows can push the total to $4,000–$6,000 or more when structural work is extensive. Assumptions: standard clay brick, normal access, standard vinyl window, Midwest labor rates.
Major Cost Components Shaping the Quote
Breakdowns reveal which parts drive the price. Materials, labor, and permits typically account for the largest shares, with regional labor differences echoing through the total. A sample component table shows how each part contributes to the price.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (window, lintel, flashing) | $270 | $600 | $1,400 | Window type and lintel material vary by span |
| Labor (opening, framing, brick work) | $600 | $1,100 | $2,000 | Hours depend on wall access and brick removal |
| Permits | $50 | $200 | $1,000 | Municipal varies by jurisdiction |
| Delivery/Disposal | $25 | $60 | $150 | Debris hauling included in some bids |
| Interior finish and trim | $60 | $150 | $350 | Drywall, caulk, casing |
Formula note: Labor hours times the local hourly rate yields the total labor cost.
Size, Brick Type, and Opening Scope: How They Shift the Price
Opening width, height, and brick bond pattern influence both cut complexity and lintel size. A 16″x40″ opening typically lowers costs, while a 30″x60″ or arched opening raises them due to additional framing and structural requirements. Expect higher costs for engineer-stamped lintels or unusual brick work, plus extra time for restoration of adjacent brick ties.
System Type and Window Material: Vinyl vs Aluminum vs Wood
Vinyl windows are usually the most cost-effective for brick openings, whereas wood interiors or aluminum frames with insulated glass can raise price. If a grid pattern or impact-rated glass is chosen, per-unit pricing climbs. Material choice directly affects both unit price and install duration.
Region and Crew Size: Local Factors That Change Quotes
Coast-to-coast, labor rates vary. In urban markets, expect higher labor and permitting costs; rural areas can be lower but access challenges may offset savings. Typical crew sizes range from two to four workers for brick openings. Regional premiums and scheduling limits often shape final bids.
Permits, Inspections, and Code Upgrades
Some jurisdictions require permits for structural openings in brick walls and for changes in building envelope. Permit fees vary widely; some require structural plans or inspection milestones. Budget a separate line item for permits to avoid surprise charges.
Size-Related Labor Hours and Scheduling Windows
Labor hours scale with opening dimensions and wall accessibility. A small window with easy exterior access may take 8–12 hours total; a larger, more integrated opening can exceed 20 hours. Documented ranges help buyers compare bids reliably.
Methods to Reduce Price Without Cutting Safety
Control scope to reduce cost: limit opening size, reuse the existing brick sill when feasible, choose a standard window, or defer decorative brickwork and repointing. Scheduling during slower seasons and requesting bundled quotes can also trim overhead. Smart scope choices retain safety and function.