The cost of replacing windows can vary based on their size, style, glazing, frame material and installation needs. Understanding these factors can help you plan a suitable budget and compare quotes. This article explains the average replacement prices, possible extra costs and ways to keep the final price manageable.
What Affects the Cost of Window Replacement?
The cost of a window replacement service often depends on several factors: the window's size, material and the type of glazing you want. Double glazing is usually less expensive than triple glazing, while specialist glass can increase the total cost. The window's style can also change the price, since casement, sash, bay and tilt-and-turn windows all have different designs and fitting needs. Other factors that can affect the price include the number of windows being replaced, your security features, ventilation fittings and the removal of the older units.
Average Window Replacement Costs
On average, fitting a uPVC casement window commonly costs around £500 to £1,250, and replacing a double-glazed window in a typical three-bedroom house can cost around £8,000 to £15,000. The installation price of a window replacement service typically differs since windows are available in a range of sizes, materials and styles.
Sash, bay and bow windows usually cost more than standard casement windows because they are larger and more complex to make and install. The frame's material can also affect the price, too, since timber and aluminium frames generally cost more than standard uPVC frames.
Costs by Window Style
Different window styles can affect your replacement costs since some designs require more materials, parts and labour to manufacture and fit. Standard casement windows are often some of the most affordable options since they have a simple design and are widely available.
Sash windows usually cost a little more because they use a sliding system with extra fittings and moving parts. Bay and bow windows can also be on the more expensive side since they contain several joined sections and typically need additional structural support.
Tilt-and-turn windows often cost more than casement designs due to their complex opening mechanism, and large picture windows require thicker glass and stronger frames, which increases your material and installation costs.
Double Glazing and Triple Glazing Costs
In the UK, a standard fitted double-glazed uPVC window generally costs around £350 to £600 to install. However, this can rise to £1,400 or more for larger windows, complex styles, or timber and aluminium frames. On the other hand, triple-glazed uPVC windows generally cost anywhere between £500 and £5,500 on average to install. This is because triple glazing is often around 30% to 40% more expensive than double glazing.
Double glazing uses two panes of glass with a sealed space in between them, while triple glazing uses three panes of glass and two sealed spaces. Triple-glazed windows usually cost more because they require extra glass, stronger frames and additional manufacturing work. Their higher weight can also make the fitting process more difficult, which can increase the overall labour costs.
Double glazing is generally the least expensive of the two, and it provides suitable insulation for many UK homes. Triple glazing can provide better heat retention and reduce the amount of outside noise you hear, although these benefits largely depend on your property, your window position and the quality of the installation.
Labour and Installation Charges
The general labour and installation charges for window replacements in the UK are around £100 to £150 per standard window. Some fitters may charge between £25 and £35 per hour, while daily rates often range between £175 and £300. These figures normally cover the fitting work rather than the cost of the window itself. The charges vary since each installation has different requirements; for example, replacing a standard window in an accessible opening is usually quicker and less costly than fitting a large, heavy or complex design.
Does Window Size Affect the Price?
Larger windows naturally require more glass, longer frame sections and stronger fittings, which increases your material and manufacturing costs. They may also be heavier and take longer to remove, carry and install.
A standard-sized uPVC casement window commonly costs about £350 to £500 to install, whereas large windows can cost at least 40% more - so roughly £490 to £700 or more per window - depending on its design and measurements.
Very large picture, bay or bow windows can cost considerably more than this because they often contain several glass sections and need extra support. The final price will depend on the window's style, frame material and glazing type.
Extra Costs to Consider
Scaffolding is the main extra cost to consider since it may be needed for upper-floor windows or windows that are difficult to access. Scaffolding can cost around £800 to £1,500 for a two-storey property, depending on the size of the scaffolding and the hire period.
Removing and disposing of old windows can also add to the final price if it is not already included in the service provider's quotation. Additionally, the installation must meet Building Regulations, and an approved installer will normally register the work through FENSA or CERTASS. Without this, a local authority inspection may cost around £200 to £500. Specialist glass, upgraded locks, trickle vents and decorative finishes can also raise the total price.
Repairing Windows Compared with Replacing Them
Repairing a window is usually cheaper than replacing one, and small repairs, such as replacing seals, hinges, handles or locking parts, often cost about £100 to £200 per window. Replacing a failed sealed glass unit may also fall within this range, although larger panes can cost more.
A complete window replacement service commonly costs around £350 to £1,200 to do, depending on its size, style, frame material and glazing. A repair service is often more suitable when the frame remains strong, and there's only an issue with one part of the window. A replacement service, on the other hand, is typically better when the frame is rotten, warped or badly damaged.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
To get an accurate quote for a window replacement service, you should arrange to have an inspection done at your property. The installer should measure each window opening and check the frames and walls for any existing damage.
They can explain which window styles, frame materials, glazing and security features are best for your property, and you can ask for a written, itemised quote that shows the cost of the materials, labour, the removal of the old windows, waste disposal and any finishing work.
The quote should also state whether any scaffolding, repairs, guarantees and Building Regulations registration are included. You can then compare several like-for-like quotes to help you understand the expected price of the service.
Ways to Keep Window Replacement Costs Down
There are several ways to reduce the price of a window replacement service, and the main way is to choose a standard-sized uPVC casement window. This is because they are usually more affordable than other window styles, and you have a bigger opportunity to replace several windows at once.
Keeping the existing window style and opening size the same can also reduce the cost of any extra building work. Choosing double glazing instead of triple glazing can also lower the price, and checking whether a removal, disposal, finishing and registration service is included in the quote can help you avoid any unexpected charges.
Is Window Replacement Worth the Cost?
A window replacement service can be worth the cost when your existing windows are badly damaged, poorly sealed or difficult to use. New windows can improve your insulation by reducing the risk of draughts and heat loss, which can lower your heating demand.
Replacing your windows can also help you prevent water leaks, reduce outside noise and make your rooms more comfortable. A replacement service is often more cost-effective than repeated repairs, especially when the window frames are rotten, warped or badly damaged.
John's Glass and Glazing provides window replacement services for homes and businesses. Our services include removing old or damaged windows and replacing them with secure, well-sealed versions. New windows can improve your insulation, weather protection, security and comfort.
