General information for homeowners, not legal, code or engineering advice. Permit and code rules change and vary by municipality; check with the City of Milwaukee or your suburb’s building inspection office before you start work.
There’s no single price for glass block windows in Milwaukee. Two homes with the same number of basement windows can get very different estimates depending on the size of each opening, the block pattern, vents, and what the contractor finds when the old window comes out. Here’s what drives glass block window cost in Milwaukee, WI, and what a fair written estimate should include.
What affects the price
- Number and size of windows. More openings and larger panels mean more material and labor, though doing several at once is often more efficient than one at a time.
- Block pattern and type. Standard patterns, heavy privacy patterns, frosted or specialty blocks are priced differently.
- Vents. An air vent or dryer vent built into the panel adds parts and labor.
- Removing the old window. Some old sashes and frames come out easily; others are stuck, rotted or set into masonry.
- Condition of the opening. Rotted sills, crumbling brick or block, or an out-of-square opening need repair before the new panel goes in.
- Mortared vs. pre-built panels. Blocks laid up on site and panels built to size are different processes with different labor.
- Access. Window wells, decks, landscaping or tight side yards can make the work slower.
- Interior finish. Trim, patching and painting around the panel may or may not be included.
- Permits. Some jobs need one and some don’t. Ask who pulls it and whether the fee is included.
What a fair estimate should include
- Every window, with its location and rough size
- The block pattern and brand or type for each panel
- Any vents, and where they go
- How the old windows are removed and disposed of
- What happens if rot or damaged masonry is found, and how that is priced
- Exterior sealing and interior trim or patching
- Whether a permit is needed and who is responsible for it
- Cleanup, schedule and warranty terms, in writing
Older Milwaukee homes
Many Milwaukee homes were built long before 1978, so old window paint and putty may contain lead. Contractors working on pre-1978 homes are expected to follow lead-safe work practices. Ask how they will contain dust when the old windows come out.
Ways to keep the cost reasonable
Decide which windows you want done before asking for bids so every contractor prices the same job. Grouping basement windows into one project usually beats doing them one at a time. Pick a standard pattern unless you have a reason for something special.
Be careful with very low bids
A low number that skips proper sealing, ignores a rotted sill or leaves out disposal can cost more later. Get the details in writing, compare at least two estimates and make sure each one covers the same windows.
Contractor or kit?
This site is for homeowners who want a local contractor to handle the job. Seebasement glass block windows,bathroom and privacy glass block orglass block replacement. Every request gets a free written estimate.