Half moon window replacement typically costs $500-$3,000 per window installed, with an average near $1,500. The final price depends on the window’s width and height, whether it is fixed or operable, frame material, access, and whether the opening needs structural changes.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Window and installation | $500 | $1,500 | $3,000 | Standard replacement in an existing opening |
| Window only | $250 | $850 | $2,000 | Custom half-round unit, before labor |
| Installation labor | $200 | $500 | $1,000 | More for upper floors or difficult access |
| Per square foot installed | $50 | $125 | $250 | Varies with shape, glass, and project scope |
What a half moon window costs to replace
A small, fixed half-round window around 24-36 inches wide may cost $500-$1,200 installed when a standard replacement fits the existing opening. A 36-60-inch custom unit commonly runs $1,000-$2,500, while large, premium, or hard-to-reach windows can exceed $3,000.
For a typical fixed half moon in an existing opening, budgeting about $1,000-$2,000 is a practical starting point. The estimate assumes a standard insulated glass unit, ordinary exterior trim, and no framing repairs. Wood frames, decorative grids, specialty coatings, and matching unusual arches can increase the price. Assumptions: U.S. mid-market labor, standard insulated glass, and normal access.
How custom glass and installation shape the quote
Half moon units are often made to order because the curved top must match the opening. The following ranges show common quote components; they are not all charged separately on every job.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High | Typical scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom window | $250 | $850 | $2,000 | Fixed vinyl or aluminum through premium wood |
| Removal and installation labor | $200 | $500 | $1,000 | Remove old unit, fit and seal new one |
| Trim and flashing | $50 | $200 | $500 | Exterior weatherproofing and finish work |
| Disposal and delivery | $25 | $100 | $250 | Local delivery and old-window disposal |
| Permits or repairs | $0 | $150 | $700 | Local fees or minor water-damaged framing |
Confirm whether the quote includes the custom unit, flashing, trim, disposal, and tax. Window suppliers may price curved units differently from rectangular windows, and a low product price may exclude installation or finishing.
Which arch dimensions and frame materials raise the price?
Width and height affect both the amount of glass and the difficulty of producing the curve. A unit under 3 feet wide is generally less expensive than one over 4 feet; a span above 5 feet may require special handling or additional labor. Measurements should include the full width and the rise from the spring line to the arch’s highest point.
Vinyl is often the lowest-cost frame choice. Aluminum-clad wood or painted wood typically costs more, while specialty colors and custom grids can add roughly $100-$500. Double-pane low-E glass is common; laminated, tempered, or historically matched glass can add $150-$600 or more depending on size.
Changing the opening is usually a bigger expense than upgrading the frame. If the replacement does not match the existing arch, reframing or masonry work may add $500-$2,000 or more. Threshold examples: over 48 inches wide, specialty glass, or any altered opening can move a quote into a higher price tier.
How long does half moon window installation take?
A straightforward replacement often takes 3-6 hours for a two-person crew, including removal, setting, sealing, and basic trim. Labor commonly works out to about $75-$125 per hour per installer, though contractors may quote a flat project rate instead.
Access and finish work drive labor more than the window’s unusual shape alone. An upper-story opening, fragile surrounding trim, or interior and exterior repairs can extend the visit to a full day or require a second trip. Ask whether the estimate covers paint, caulking, and interior touch-ups.
When do removal and framing repairs add extra charges?
Removing an intact, accessible window may be included in installation. Difficult removal, lead-safe work in older homes, water-damaged wood, and disposal can be billed separately. Lead-related containment may add several hundred dollars, while significant rot or structural repair can raise the total by $1,000 or more.
Custom ordering can also mean a longer wait than for stock rectangular windows. A rushed order or temporary weather protection may carry extra fees. Have the installer inspect the sill and surrounding frame before approving a fixed-price replacement. Written estimates should identify allowances for concealed damage rather than treating every repair as included.
Three common half moon replacement estimates
A 30-inch fixed vinyl unit in an easy-to-reach opening might include a $450 window, 3 labor hours at $100 per hour, and $100 for trim and disposal, totaling about $850 before tax.
A 48-inch custom low-E unit with standard access could include a $1,050 window, 5 labor hours at $100 per hour, and $250 for flashing and disposal, totaling about $1,800. A large 60-inch wood-frame unit on an upper floor might include a $1,800 window, 8 labor hours at $110 per hour, and $500 for access and finish work, totaling about $3,180.
These examples illustrate quote structure, not fixed national rates. Local labor, product availability, and the condition of the opening can shift each estimate.
Do half moon window prices vary by U.S. region?
Labor and delivery can vary substantially by location. Quotes in high-cost metro areas may be 15%-30% above mid-market estimates, while rural areas can be 5%-15% lower when installers are nearby. However, a remote location can cost more if crews travel far or the custom unit requires special delivery.
Climate also affects product choices. Cold regions may favor higher-performance glass, while coastal areas may require corrosion-resistant hardware or impact-rated glazing under local rules. Compare local bids using the same dimensions, glass specification, frame, and finish scope. A regional price difference is meaningful only when the included materials and work match.
How to lower the replacement price without cutting quality
Keep the existing opening and arch whenever the frame is sound; resizing it can add substantial carpentry or exterior work. Compare fixed glass with an operable design, since fixed units are commonly less expensive and have fewer hardware components. Choose a standard frame color and glass package unless a specialty feature solves a specific need.
Request at least three itemized quotes and provide each contractor with the same measurements and photos. Ask whether repair is possible if only the glass or sash has failed, though curved replacement glass may be difficult to source. Prioritize correct fit, weather sealing, and a clear warranty over optional decorative upgrades.