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We’ve researched the latest windows prices, spending many hours meeting suppliers, looking at frame materials and styles and comparing costs, to provide an up-to-date guide.
New windows cost around £4,000 for white uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride). However, this figure can vary depending on style, frame material and other factors. Our experts have detailed everything you need to know about the cost of replacing windows and how to get the best deals on your installation.
UK homes experience the worst heat loss in Western Europe, with 98 per cent of windows failing to meet current building regulations. However, according to a new report by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF)1, upgrading older windows with modern replacements can reduce heat loss from 44 per cent to 22 per cent. Since lower heat loss translates into reduced energy bills, installing new windows is a smart investment for both comfort and long-term savings.
Our expert insights, which include comparisons of window prices by style, size, and material, can help you make the best choice for your home.
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A key factor that affects the cost of replacement windows is the frame material.
The cheapest currently on the market are uPVC casement windows, which are mass-produced with less costly materials. However, uPVC is not the most durable option, as timber windows (the most expensive) can last at least twice as long as uPVC windows. So if you plan to live in the same house for at least 20 years, timber may be a more cost-effective solution.
It is important to note, however, that if you choose timber frames, they will need regular maintenance, whether you do it yourself or pay a professional. uPVC and aluminium windows usually require very little upkeep.
Heritage window frames and frames made from premium materials such as steel naturally cost more. Finally, you have composite windows, which use a mix of materials such as uPVC and aluminium to balance quality and affordability.
We are committed to publishing reliable window price estimates based on market trends, supplier pricing, and consumer feedback. From their years of industry experience, our team is able to provide in-depth information on window types, materials and installation processes. And because of our transparency and reliability, homeowners feel empowered to make informed decisions.
White uPVC casement frames are a popular and affordable option among UK homeowners. Window prices start at around £500 per frame, and should you want a coloured uPVC window design that complements your home, a wide variety of styles, finishes and colours are available.
uPVC frames are also good at insulating homes, working to reduce heat loss in winter and limit heat gain in summer. As a result, your home should feel more comfortable year-round, and you may even see a reduction in your energy bills. uPVC frames need only minimal maintenance, such as occasional cleaning with soap and water or a cleaning spray. Moreover, these window frames should last more than 20 years. Being resistant to moisture, rot and UV damage means uPVC frames shouldn’t fade, crack or warp during their lifespan.
| Casement window frame material | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1,200mm | 1,200mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £500 | £580 | £620 |
Aluminium windows start at £1,000 per frame, so they’re considerably more expensive than uPVC frames. However, these metal windows are generally more affordable than higher-end options such as timber or steel.
The high strength-to-weight ratio of aluminium means that the window frames can be thin, allowing more natural light to pass through. Like uPVC, aluminium is resistant to rusting and warping and doesn’t require much maintenance. But one of the biggest advantages of aluminium frames is their 45-year lifespan.
Despite their many advantages, however, aluminium windows have poorer energy efficiency than windows with uPVC or timber frames. Aluminium is a thermal conductor, meaning heat can more easily transfer heat between indoors and outdoors. As a result, indoor temperatures may be less comfortable, and your energy bills may increase. However, manufacturers often integrate thermal breaks (materials that reduce heat transfer) into aluminium window frames to improve insulation.
| Casement window frame material | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1,200mm | 1,200mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | £1,000 | £1,150 | £1,250 |
For domestic installations, replacing windows with timber-framed designs is the most expensive option, starting at around £1,500 per window. Moreover, the long-term cost of timber will be higher than aluminium and uPVC because of the upkeep required, such as repainting and oiling.
Despite the high costs, timber frames do have advantages. For example, they’re stronger and have better thermal insulation than uPVC. Timber frames also have aesthetic appeal, especially if you own a period home designed with timber frames in mind. As such, depending on the style of your property and your long-term plans, timber window frames may be more cost-effective in the long run, even with the high initial costs.
| Casement window frame material | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1,200mm | 1,200mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timber | £1,500 | £1,700 | £1,850 |
Wooden window frames are prone to deterioration due to adverse weather and natural wear over time. To keep your frames in good condition and depending on the type of wood, we recommend repairing, repainting or revarnishing them every 1 to 5 years. If you prefer DIY maintenance, the required materials should cost about £100, and the work on each window could take about 2 to 6 hours to complete.
So, considering longevity and maintenance, a wooden window frame is only £87 more on average than a uPVC window frame.
The cost of new windows is largely determined by your chosen style, which will depend on factors such as personal taste, practical requirements and the house’s architecture. For example, you might choose a more elaborate and pricier style than ordinary casement windows to match your home’s design.
Casement windows – which are attached to the frame by a hinge on one side – are affordable, functional and versatile, making them a popular choice for many UK homeowners. However, this type of window doesn’t suit every property. For example, bay windows are a more natural fit for cottages, while sash windows tend to better suit Edwardian or Georgian properties.
Casement windows both offer excellent ventilation and are versatile and easy to use. They also tend to be cheaper than other styles, making them a popular choice in the UK.
With a hinge on one side, casement windows open outwards using a crank or lever. French-style casement windows do not have a central post, offering an unobstructed view when open, but the central post of regular casement windows creates a tight seal when closed, making a property more energy efficient and secure.
You can choose between uPVC, aluminium or timber frames when purchasing casement windows. And manufacturers can tailor the windows to match your preferences with the various finishes, colours and hardware available. Many casement designs also incorporate glazing bars called astragals, which give the impression of individual glass panes, which are common in cottages. Casement windows can also be customised to suit a homeowner’s tastes and include luxury design features such as stained glass.
Although casement windows are affordable, versatile and effective, they won’t be the best fit for every property. For example, sash or bay windows may enhance period or heritage style homes. It’s also good to consider if an outward-opening window would cause an obstruction or pose a safety hazard, meaning you’d have to opt for an alternative style.
| Casement window frame material | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1,200mm | 1,200mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £500 | £580 | £620 |
| Aluminium | £1,000 | £1,150 | £1,250 |
| Timber | £1,500 | £1,700 | £1,850 |
Sash windows, sometimes called hung sash windows or sliding windows, date back to the late 1600s. Sash windows incorporate 1 or more movable panels – called sashes – and use counterweights to slide vertically (in single- or double-hung sash windows) or horizontally within the window frame (in sliding sash windows). A well-maintained sash window will have a smooth opening and closing action and is practical and attractive.
Most Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties will have sash windows, but there are now modern double glazed options, which have grown popular in contemporary UK homes. Double glazing provides good thermal insulation and needs relatively low upkeep.
You can often tell the age of a historic property by the number of panes in its sash windows. For example, sash windows in Georgian homes tend to feature 6-over-6 configurations, while Victorian terraces typically have 1-over-1 sash designs.
Sash windows are usually available in uPVC and timber frames, with a range of colours to choose from.
| Sash window frame material | 600mm x 900mm | 900mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £500 | £580 |
| Timber | £1,500 | £1,700 |
Bay windows project outwards from your property, creating a recess or bay in the interior space. This outward projection lets you see more of the outside and maximises natural lighting. The stylish appearance and overall practicality of bay windows have kept this window style a popular option among UK homeowners.
A whole bay window usually comprises 3 or more window panels joined at angles to form a trapezium shape. The largest window panel is typically the central one, which runs parallel to the main wall of the building. The flankers – or side windows – are connected to the central one at various angles, such as 30, 45 or 90 degrees, depending on the house’s architectural style and the homeowner’s preferences.
You can also purchase double glazed bay windows with several frame materials – including uPVC, aluminium and timber – and in multiple styles and configurations. As bay windows do not have standard sizing, it’s difficult to estimate an average price. However, a general rule of thumb is to add £75 per panel to cover the connecting struts. The table below gives some sample costs.
| Bay window frame material | 1,016mm x 914mm | 3,200mm x 1,980mm |
|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £1,700 | £2,800 |
| Aluminium | £3,400 | £5,600 |
| Timber | £5,100 | £8,400 |
Like bay windows, bow windows expand outwards from the main wall of your home, increasing the interior space and natural light. The main differences are their shape and configuration.
As its name suggests, a bow window forms an arc, usually made with 4 or more window panels. Bow windows give an attractive curved appearance on the outside of a home and create a rounded nook or alcove on the inside. A bow window’s panels are usually equal in size and are either openable (if fitted with casement or double-hung windows) or fixed.
Bow windows do not come in standard sizes, as they depend on customer specifications. The number of casement panels you request will affect the cost, and you should also budget for an additional £75 per panel to cover the connecting struts and poles. The table below provides price estimates based on material and window size.
| Bow window frame material | 1,016mm x 914mm | 3,200mm x 1,980mm |
|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £1,700 | £2,800 |
| Aluminium | £3,400 | £5,600 |
| Timber | £5,100 | £8,400 |
Tilt and turn windows are versatile and modern, so their popularity is growing across the UK. Their flexible hinge system means they can open outwards like a casement window or tilt inwards and pivot from different points. The tilting option allows you to ventilate your home without compromising on security and is safer for households with young children or pets.
Double glazed tilt and turn windows are energy efficient and usually require minimal maintenance. Available with various frame materials – including uPVC, aluminium and timber – they’re a good option for both residential and commercial buildings.
| Tilt and turn window frame material | 800mm x 800mm | 1,000mm x 1,000mm | 1,200mm x 1,200mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £600 | £695 | £750 |
Each type of glazing has its pros and cons, so it’s best to choose the option that suits your budget and priorities.
Double glazing is a popular and cost effective solution for improving energy efficiency and comfort in homes. It consists of 2 panes of glass with a gap filled with insulating gas, which reduces heat transfer, leading to lower energy bills. Double glazing is widely used across the UK, providing a good balance between cost and performance, particularly for homes in moderate climates.
One of the main advantages of double glazing is its affordability compared to triple glazing. While it offers less insulation than triple, it is typically 10 to 20 per cent cheaper. Another benefit is that double glazing is lighter than triple glazing, meaning it usually doesn’t require structural reinforcements to window frames, further keeping costs down.
Here are some of the many benefits of double glazing:
According to our survey, 25 per cent of homeowners considering a full-property double glazing installation in the next year expected to pay between £3,000 and £4,000, and almost 13 per cent expected to spend more than £5,000 on replacement windows.
Triple glazing consists of 3 panes of glass with 2 insulating gas-filled spaces, offering superior insulation compared to double glazing. Its main advantage is better energy efficiency, which can help reduce heating costs, especially in colder climates.
The higher cost is a significant factor. Triple glazing is generally more expensive than double, which can add up substantially in a whole-house installation. However, some suppliers offer free triple glazed upgrades if you’re planning on replacing your windows.
The extra weight of triple glazing also requires stronger window frames, which can lead to additional structural costs if your property isn’t suited for the heavier units. Repairs and replacements can be more complicated and expensive than with double glazing due to the intricate design.
Once rarely seen, triple glazed windows are becoming more popular across the UK, in part because of the UK Government’s Future Homes Standard project. From 2025, new builds must produce 75 to 80 per cent fewer carbon emissions than homes built under current regulations. So with these stricter energy efficiency standards, triple glazing will likely become common in new constructions.
Triple glazed windows offer several advantages over double glazing, such as:
Secondary glazing involves adding a second layer of glass or plastic to an existing window, offering a cost effective way to improve insulation and soundproofing without replacing the original windows. This method is particularly appealing for homeowners looking to reduce energy bills and noise without the higher upfront costs of double or triple glazing.
Secondary glazing is less efficient than double glazing, but it has several advantages:
Of course, if you’re considering installing secondary glazing, you should be aware of the disadvantages:
When assessing the cost of new or replacement windows for your home, you should keep several factors in mind. First, evaluate your property’s needs, including the level of energy efficiency, soundproofing and security you require. It’s also good to consider the type of window frame and glazing that will best complement your home’s style and satisfy your personal taste.
Be sure to research several manufacturers and suppliers to find the best double glazing companies. Focus on reputable companies with positive online reviews, certifications (especially FENSA) and decent warranties, as these suppliers will likely provide a quality product and installation service.
Instead of deciding on the first cheap quote you get, compare quotes from our trusted installers to ensure you’re getting the best value. Also, resist making an impulse purchase based on ‘last day of sale’ prices.
Double glazed windows’ performance depends on the type of glass used to manufacture them. For better energy efficiency, look for windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, which has a transparent metallic oxide coating to reduce heat transfer. The type of gas used to fill the gap between the panes is also important – argon is the most common and cost-effective option, but krypton and xenon have denser molecular structures, making them more insulative. The energy-efficiency rating should be stated on a label or in the product specifications, so be sure to check a window’s energy performance before purchasing.
A poorly executed installation can undermine the benefits of even the best windows, leading to problems such as leaks, draughts, condensation and structural damage. So be sure to ask your friends, family and neighbours for recommendations and read online reviews. Properly researching beforehand can ensure you’re hiring an experienced, reputable company to complete the work.
Finally, before you commit to buying any windows, check that they meet local building regulations or requirements. This is especially important if you live in a historic building or if your property is located in a conservation area, as you may need to obtain permission from the local authority.
Listed and heritage properties have historical importance, so any upgrades to them must preserve their original character and appearance. As a result, there can be unique challenges and additional costs when replacing windows in these properties, bringing the overall price to well above average. Expenses such as applying for permission, soliciting input from architects and paying for specialist handiwork increase the cost of replacement windows.
If your property is listed, you must get the necessary permissions from your local planning authority before beginning repair or renovation work. Any changes that might affect the appearance of a listed property or building of special architectural or historic interest will need Listed Building Consent. Your local authority will cover the cost of obtaining this, but there are several things to consider before you apply, such as:
It’s often easier to repair the existing windows of listed properties instead of replacing them. However, if the windows are damaged beyond repair – due to extensive rot or decay – restoration may be impractical. In such cases, it would probably make more sense to seek permission to replace the windows.
Moreover, in cases where a previous replacement window installation compromised the property’s historic character by using inappropriate materials or designs, proposing a return to the original window style could be a legitimate basis for replacement.
Keep in mind that it can take up to 13 weeks for a local authority to process applications for large-scale projects, although most aim to decide on smaller proposals within 2 months.
You can design and submit your own detailed drawings to the planning department, but it’s more conventional to engage a professional architect, which may cost between £900 and £1,500. And depending on the type of project, additional costs may also apply, such as:
Any quote for new double glazing should be detailed and easy to understand. Although different installers may use a variety of formats and terminology, the quote should always include a detailed breakdown of the proposed services and costs, including those listed below.
Before agreeing to a quote, carefully review it and query anything that’s unclear. Also take the time to get multiple quotes from various suppliers and installers, as this will ensure you get the best value on your replacement windows.
Richard Tincknell has worked for window installer Britannia Group for over 30 years. In his experience, websites of less reputable double glazing companies sometimes advertise impossibly low prices to attract customers. Meanwhile, other companies place pressure on people to agree to their quotes by offering time-limited deals.
Tincknell told us that trustworthy installers should not come across as pushy salespeople, and customers should have a good experience from the initial contact to the finished installation.
Some installers use computer software to demonstrate how a particular window will look in your home, ensuring you are satisfied with the design and the quote before you commit. Since the choice of style, frame materials, colour and window furniture affects the final price, such technology allows you to easily adjust your order according to your preference and budget.
As the buyer, you have the right to negotiate with a window installer before you accept the quote.
However, some windows companies are more receptive to haggling than others. As a rule, the bigger and more expensive your planned installation, the more incentive the installer has to decrease its cost.
By getting multiple quotes, you can politely point out that an alternative provider has offered a better price on a certain item or service. Even if the company is reluctant to lower its price, it might be willing to sweeten the deal by offering better terms or upgrading certain components.
You can justify the cost of replacing windows if you start to experience any of the following issues:
As a rough guide double glazed windows typically last upwards of 20 years, depending on the type and quality of the materials used, their maintenance.
| Window material | Average lifespan |
|---|---|
| uPVC | 25 years |
| Aluminium | 45 years |
| Timber | At least 50 years |
Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the frames, lubricating hinges, and checking for any signs of wear, can significantly extend the lifespan of your windows. Environmental conditions also play a role in their longevity; windows exposed to extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, or intense sunlight, may deteriorate faster. By staying proactive with maintenance and addressing minor issues early, you can maximise the performance and lifespan of your windows, regardless of the environmental conditions they face.
To ensure a proper fit and prevent installation issues, accurate measurements are essential. Always measure the aperture – the opening in the wall for the window – rather than the window itself. If possible and safe to do so, it’s helpful to measure on the outside of the building as well.
Always check your measurements twice to ensure accuracy. If you’re not confident about your own measurements or how to approach the process, ask an experienced window installer to do it for you. Even so, most professionals will check your measurements before confirming a quote and will conduct an on-site visit before beginning the installation.
We followed a comprehensive and rigorous process to create this guide on the cost of replacement windows, and we ensured accuracy by investigating credible and authoritative sources. Our research and analysis took over 200 hours so that we could help you make an informed decision regarding window prices.
Our key takeaway is that there are window prices to suit most homeowners’ budgets (within reason), starting from around £500 per window for a uPVC casement window and rising to £8,400 for a large, timber-framed bay window.
Considering the advantages, such as the ongoing savings of double glazing related to energy efficiency, we believe the current cost of new windows to be reasonable. However, the costs are high enough to warrant careful consideration.
Due to increased material and labour costs, window prices are expected to remain high throughout 2024 and 2025. The demand for energy-efficient installations, driven by the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, will further elevate replacement window costs across the UK.
Investing in premium windows can be worthwhile if the benefits, such as energy efficiency and soundproofing (or advanced features such as triple glazing), match your needs. However, you should balance these advantages with your budget to find the best option for your home.
While there are currently no specific windows grants available in the UK, you could qualify for funding through various programmes aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing household heating costs. Such initiatives include the ECO4 grant, which provides partially funded (or even free) replacement windows to eligible low-income households.
Replacing 20-year-old windows with modern double glazing boosts your property’s energy efficiency and reduces your heating bills. It also enhances your home’s appearance, value and comfort. New windows offer better insulation and upgraded security, noise reduction and UV protection, making them a worthwhile investment.
Some window installers now offer a windows scrappage scheme to encourage homeowners to replace their old, inefficient windows with modern, energy-efficient alternatives. For example, when you recycle your old windows, Anglian offers an average of £1,000 off the cost of new ones.
It is more efficient to replace all your windows at once, as this often earns you a bulk discount and minimises disruptions. However, if you’re on a budget, consider upgrading high-wear windows, such as those facing the street, to improve energy efficiency and noise reduction while boosting kerb appeal.
