Fixed Frame Windows
Let's look at fixed frame windows and explore their advantages, real world pricing, top brands, and read real homeowner reviews. Essentially, fixed frame windows cannot be opened or closed, they are instead fixed in place. They differ significantly from say a casement window or single hung window, which can be opened or closed at will.
Fixed frames are simpler than these movable window types because they have less parts and harware that can break and/or require repair if something does goe wrong. While they offer less options than other window styles, they are a cost effective and energy efficient home window option.
Dan K. - Site Editor - Publish Date: May 24, 2016
Last Update: November 9, 2025
Fixed frame windows offer two significant advantages over movable windows. First off, they get better energy efficiency numbers than comparable casements, single hungs, and other movable windows. Because they don't open, there is very little way for the air and outside elements to get through (poor seals or improper installation being the exceptions).
Fixed Frame Window Advantages
Another significant advantage is that fixed frame windows have less parts and components. This limits the amount of repairs and issues that can occur over the life of the window (hopefully). Additionally, this is a nice peace of mind for consumers who understandably worry about the cost and hassle of replacing home windows when something does go wrong.
Fixed frame windows have one huge disadvantage, which is that they offer no ventilation option. Opening up your windows in the afternoon can let in a nice cool breeze that makes your home more comfortable, as well as saves on your summer heating costs.
Disadvantages
While fixed frame windows are more efficient year round, they are not necessarily so during the hot summer afternoon hours. They are essentially a less versatile option than movable windows.
Fixed frame window prices are going to depend on a number of factors that include the mainframe and sill material, the size of the window, the manufacturer, any and all upgrades selected, as well as the type of installation required. Additionally, fixed frame windows will be less expensive than a comparable styles such as an awning window or double hung by something in the neighborhood of 10% to 25%. See below for more specific pricing.
Fixed Frame Windows Cost
For real world pricing, it is always best to collect three to four quotes from local companies. This will provide a range of prices that you can use to begin the process of whittling down the local companies and finding the most competitive price coupled with the best product and installation team.
Vinyl fixed frame window costs will run towards the lower end of the per square foot price range. Additionally, vinyl window prices run anywhere from $400 to $1200 fully installed. Therefore, a fair range for vinyl fixed windows is $40 to $70 per square foot fully installed. Examples might include:
Vinyl Fixed Frame Window Cost
Vinyl Window Costs
$400 to $1200 Installed
Wood window prices will run towards the higher end of the per square foot price range. Additionally, wood fixed frame costs will run anywhere from $1600 to $3500 fully installed. Examples might include: Wood Fixed Frame Window Cost
Wood Window Pricing
$1600 to $3500 Installed
Fiberglass window prices will run toward the middle to upper end of the per square foot price range. Additionally, fiberglass fixed frame window cost runs anywhere from $1400 to $2500 fully installed.
Fiberglass Fixed Frame Window Cost
Fiberglass Windows Pricing
Examples might include:
Marvin Integrity Window
Milgard Ultra Series
$1400 to $2500 Installed
Below you will find questions and answers from consumers to myself, the site editor. If you have questions about inoperable windows (also known as picture windows), let me know and I'm happy to field your most pressing issues on the subject.
John, thank you for your reply. I appreciate your window list and all the information on your website. I now have appointments scheduled with contractors to look at many of these windows. Earlier I received a quote for VistaMark Endura windows and would appreciate your opinion. It was $27,840 for 27 single hung and fixed windows. Also, this is the first quote I received and have no idea if this is a reasonable number.
Morris, without knowing too much about your project details, I would say that this bid price is in the ballpark of reasonable. Probably toward the top end for the VistaMark Endura. So, now I think you need 3 more price quotes as a basis for comparison and then we can take a lot at the whole kit and caboodle and make a judgement from there. But I think you have a first good bid!
Fixed Frame Windows Reviews
Editor John M.
Vistamark Endura Fixed Windows
Morris - Homeowner - November, 2025
Website Editor's Answer
Editor John M. - November, 2025
Related Topic: Triple Pane Windows
Double Hung Windows