What’s The Cost of New Windows? [Double Glazing Facts & Figures]

When it comes to budgeting for home improvements, the cost of new double glazed windows can be particularly tricky. In this guide, we break down the various factors which impact the price, and give some ballpark figures for what to expect.

When purchasing new windows for your home, you will want to have an idea of what to expect in terms of outlay. 

Whilst there will be some variation from one company to the next, a good quality product, fitted professionally and with guarantees will cost between £500 and £3,200 per window.

Casement windows in UPVc

Casement windows are the most popular type of window in the UK, but come in a few different formats.

Let’s take a look at the most classic ones, and how they effect the cost.

Standard windows

This is the old style window which hinges either from the top or the side. The most basic in design and most economical, this window will carry a price tag of between £500 and £1,250.

Cost of a Sash window

usually reserved for traditional or period-feature dwellings.  These windows incorporate two sliding panels.  Because of their complexity and higher maintenance, they will be approximately 50% more costly than standard windows.

Bay window Pricing

Bay windows will usually have the highest price tag, at around double that of standard windows.  The bay juts outwards from the house and incorporates front and side windows, thereby requiring more panels and glass.  

What about different coloured UPVc?

Most UPVc is manufactured in white, which has long been the desired choice of homeowners. 

However, contemporary designs and newly emerging styles have meant grey shades have become increasingly popular. When comparing colour choices, it is wise to add an extra 10% to the cost of standard white frames.

In addition, a woodgrain effect offer a much desired, classic elegance without the expense of natural timber.  The extra cost of this adds 10 to 15% to basic white products.

Aluminium Casement windows

Aluminium windows offer a more durable design and so represent a far greater investment. 

They are contemporary in style and can be manufactured in a wider array of sizes.  Aluminium is sleeker and slimmer in profile than UPVc; an aspect many discerning homeowners admire.  

The cost of windows made in aluminium is likely to be 25% more than the same in UPVc.  However, when compared to wooden windows, they will see around 25% cheaper.

Casement windows in timber

Wooden (timber) windows come at a premium cost. 

They are much sought after by those who wish to provide authenticity to a traditional or period-style home. They are also a necessity for those who live in conservation areas.  

Clearly, timber offers a quality product of varnished  wood – a sublime choice that is incomparable.  Timber windows will doubtlessly add value to your home and so perhaps it is justifiable that it will cost 50% more than UPVc.  

What else adds extra cost to my windows?

Most windows are manufactured in standard sizes. That said, windows can be made bespoke. Should you require non-standard sizes, you can expect a significant increase to the cost.

Again, if you experience structural shift on your property, you may need odd frame sizes which will come at a higher price.

If you have specific choices on openers and handles, you will need to check how this will impact the original price.

A word of warning when it comes to window costs

If you are someone who diligently researches prices from different companies, make sure you compare like for like. 

Not all window manufacturers/installers include the same items in their prices.  

For instance, some initial quotes will include all of the following, whereas other companies may offer some items as ‘add-ons’.  

• Installation that includes fixings, sealants and trims
• Specific sizes, styles and colour choices
• Types of glass
• Window energy rating
• Furniture and handles
• External window sills
• Disposal of rubbish

Remember, quality products come with long-term guarantees not with cheap price tags!  Attempting to cheat on price, may mean paying more in the long term. 

Poor quality windows can bring a whole host of problems, from badly insulated glass to warping of frames. 

Worse still, windows that have been badly measured can be found with excessive amounts of expanding foam, attempting to compensate for the misfit.  

Notoriously poor quality can often show between the glass unit, with the presence of condensation or specks of debris.  

After purchasing your new frames in brilliant white or other colour choices, the sight of faded UPVc can be most disappointing especially if it was intended to match other areas of the house.

Most importantly of all, always check that your chosen window installer is registered with either FENSA or Certass – this provides automatic approval for building regulations, so that you don’t need to apply. 

Your hard-earned cash deserves the best you can afford with the right product for you and as few compromises as possible.  Any decisions you make about extra requirements to a standard type window, will of course, impact the final cost.  

Ultimately, keep your budget in mind, shop around and calculate the best deal for you.

We hope this has been a useful introduction to the range of prices associated with getting new windows for your home.

If you’re looking to educate yourself more before asking for a quote, check out our guide to the different types of windows available, including less conventional options.