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The average cost of replacement windows for a three-bedroom house in the UK is £4,000. Folding Doors
uPVC is the cheapest type of frame material. A uPVC casement window will cost around £500, while an aluminium casement window frame will cost up to £1,000.
There are a few telltale signs: condensation between the panes, difficulty operating the windows, and noticeably higher energy bills.
Your new windows’ cost will largely depend on the number of windows you need to install, the chosen frame material – uPVC, aluminium and timber being the most popular – and the type of window .
White uPVC windows prices average £4,000 for a semi-detached three-bedroom house. But with potential savings of up to £260 per year – according to our expert – new windows can significantly reduce your energy bills. According to some manufacturers, triple glazing can cut your heating bills by up to 50 per cent.
Our experts have thoroughly researched styles, designs, and materials, assessing how they impact window prices. This comprehensive article also covers when to replace your existing windows, measuring up, and how to get the best new windows quotes.
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We’ve calculated the average costs for uPVC casement windows, which are the most common type installed in the UK. It’s important to note that these prices are representative averages based on our research – your quotes may be higher or lower than this depending on which windows installer you choose and the specific sizes of your windows.
When it comes to window prices, uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) is the most cost-effective of all the available frame materials.
uPVC windows are a popular choice for residential properties. Thanks to its durability, low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, uPVC is a viable alternative to the more traditional timber and aluminium frame materials.
Typically, double-glazed uPVC windows have excellent insulation properties, helping to reduce energy loss, resulting in lower bills and a more comfortable indoor environment. They are also effective at noise reduction, and as most are pre-fitted with multi-point locking systems, they increase your home’s security level.
Once available only in white, many manufacturers now offer coloured uPVC windows and numerous finishes, allowing homeowners to individualise their homes according to their taste. Some manufacturers even offer uPVC that mimics the look of timber, giving homeowners the best of both worlds.
Although uPVC windows pricing varies depending on the supplier, the table below shows the typical cost for standard white uPVC double-glazed windows.
Less popular than uPVC, aluminium windows tend to have a slimmer profile, allowing for greater glass real estate. This is because aluminium is a stronger material; however, it doesn’t offer the same thermal efficiency as uPVC. As such, aluminium windows can be prone to condensation and are cold to the touch in winter.
Like uPVC, aluminium windows are easy to maintain, requiring only an occasional wash to keep them looking good, and come in a choice of colours to match the aesthetics of your home.
Aluminium window prices usually cost around double the price of uPVC windows.
Timber is a popular choice for homeowners looking to combine the benefits of double glazing with the traditional aesthetic of wooden window frames. Although timber frames can significantly increase your property’s value, they can work out at around triple the price of uPVC, making them the most expensive option.
Timber can last many years when properly maintained, which means occasionally refinishing and repainting the surface to restore its weatherproof properties. It’s well-suited for older or period properties and homeowners who prefer the look and feel of natural materials.
The price of windows is dependent on several factors, but in general, bay and bow windows are the most expensive, as they are harder to install and manufacture. Casement windows, on the other hand, are often the most affordable style of window, especially when made of uPVC.
Larger, more complex window styles generally cost more (Independent Advisor)
Casement windows are the most popular type and are usually the cheapest option (Adobe)
Casement windows are one of the most affordable types of windows, with prices ranging from £527 to £650. They can be constructed from uPVC, aluminium or timber, with the latter being the most cost-effective. They usually feature side-hinged panes that usually open outwards but can be found in bottom-hinged configurations, which are the safer option for households with young children.
When replacing a sash window, it is important to get the style of the sashes correct – Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian homes all have different numbers of panes within the sash. (Adobe)
Sash windows are often found on period properties, but can be installed in new builds that wish to mimic traditional architecture. They cost between £1,100 to £3,200 on average, with uPVC sash windows being the most affordable.
Sash windows combine the advantages of modern technology with classic styling, consisting of one or more movable panels that can be slid vertically – or sometimes horizontally – to open or close.
Few manufacturers produce aluminium sash windows, meaning you generally have a choice between uPVC and timber, with the latter having a high initial outlay but the potential to last much longer than uPVC.
Tilt and turn windows are popular with families with young children because they offer ventilation from the top, making them safer (Adobe)
Tilt and turn windows cost between £512 to £990, offering a modern design with multiple opening options for ventilation and ease of cleaning. Despite costing around 20 per cent more than casement windows, they are growing in popularity in the UK thanks to their flexibility in terms of material.
Tilt and turn designs are typically constructed with multiple locking points, and incorporate a unique hardware system, allowing them to operate in two distinct ways:
They can be made from uPVC, aluminium, or timber and are available in various styles and finishes to suit different architectural preferences and budgets.
Bay windows often have three panels, but can have as many as six. (Adobe)
Bay windows are one of the most expensive window styles on the market, with the cost of installation sitting between £1,700 and £8,400. Bay windows bow outward from the property, creating additional interior space and adding visual interest to the exterior.
Comprising three or more window panels arranged at angles, bay windows traditionally form a curved or polygonal shape. The most common configuration is a large central window flanked by two smaller angled windows on each side, creating a rectangular bay.
Since bay windows are more intensive to install and require more materials, they are more expensive than casement or tilt and turn window frames. They are, however, available in uPVC, aluminium and timber, with a range of different finishes and colours that can help bring down the cost.
An example of bow windows (Adobe)
Similar to bay windows, bow windows protrude from the property and require more materials to install, resulting in a high initial outlay of between £1,700 to £8,400.
Unlike bay designs, bow windows do not extend to the ground and instead extend from the wall. They are characterised by their curved shape, as opposed to the bay’s more angular appearance, with the glass panels arranged in a gentle arc.
Although not sold by some manufacturers, bow windows can be produced in uPVC, timber and aluminium, with the former being the cheapest option.
1. Double glazing is one of the best ways for homeowners to save money on their energy bills. Double glazing can save between £235 and £260 every year, with the biggest savings occurring over the winter months. The initial investment may take a few years to repay through increased savings, however, aspects like draught-proofing, condensation and insulation can see massive improvements almost instantly.
2. While installing all new windows at the same time is more cost-effective overall due to reduced labour and material costs, some homeowners may choose to prioritise certain fixtures in their houses first. Replacing draughty windows, upgrading from single glazing to double glazing in key areas or improving property appearance by replacing the font windows are all aspects that can be focused on first if your budget does not allow for a full upgrade.
3. Most double glazing companies price each project individually since the cost of materials and labour will change drastically depending on scale and style. Due to this, it’s worth getting quotes from various companies to see who is running the best deal and gives homeowners more flexibility when it comes to haggling.
4. When upgrading your windows, the company you are working with must provide you with a FENSA (Fenestration Self-Assessment) certificate. A FENSA certificate ensures that new installations comply with any relevant building regulations and have been registered with the local council, which is essential when selling a home. FENSA certificates issued after 6 June 2014 also verify that the installer’s warranty is insured, which offers homeowners protection if anything goes wrong.
Homeowners can also get a Cerass certificate instead of FENSA. Certass-certified companies are accessed with specific industry standards and licensing requirements, ensuring that the homeowner is working with a trusted company that complies with the local council and any building regulations.
There are some differences between FENSA and Certass, with the latter being widely considered more affordable and being accredited by Green Deal, but they both offer similar levels of protection for homeowners and are essential for anyone looking to install new windows.
Independent Advisor’s team of experts has spent hundreds of hours researching windows, studying their performance and features, customer feedback and costs to help you make an informed decision when it comes to buying new windows. To find out more about our process, read our article on how we cover windows.
Your installer will measure your windows to give you an accurate quote, but doing it yourself will give you an idea of the prices you can expect (Adobe)
Your installer should carry out the measuring process to ensure accuracy and a proper fit. However, knowing how to measure your windows accurately is essential to understand project costs before comparing quotes, ordering new windows online, or thinking about dressings, such as blinds or curtains.
Window measurements are taken in millimetres (mm) and should, if possible, be taken from the exterior of your property.
It’s important to measure the window aperture, rather than the frame, taking the measurement from the edge of the bricks as though the window itself isn’t there.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring your windows:
Don’t assume that all the windows in your home are the same size. Measure each one individually, as there can be slight variations in size, even in seemingly identical windows.
Some suppliers will ask for a 5mm to 10mm deduction from your figures to allow for any natural shifting, so remember to ask if this is necessary.
Double glazing and secondary glazing have two main differences, one being structural and the other being price. Secondary glazing is less expensive than double glazing since it is not as energy-efficient and does not require completely new windows, as double glazing does. Though secondary glazing is less expensive, its energy-efficient counterpart could help save more money on energy bills in the long run.
Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass, separated by a spacer bar, with the gap filled with either an insulating gas – usually argon – or air, creating a vacuum. This sealed unit stops the warmth inside your home from transferring to the external pane of glass and prevents condensation between the panes, making it more effective at reducing interior condensation.
Double glazing offers good acoustic insulation, improves your home’s security, and, thanks to the vast choices of materials, styles and colours, can increase the kerb appeal and value of your property.
However, if a unit develops a fault, repairs can be challenging, and may involve replacing the entire window, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Secondary glazing involves adding an additional pane of glass or acrylic on the interior side of an existing single-glazed window, creating a second layer of insulation. While not as efficient as double glazing, secondary glazing still improves thermal insulation, although the likelihood of condensation is greater.
Generally cheaper than double glazing, secondary glazed window installation is less intrusive, as it doesn’t require replacing the existing windows. This makes it a popular option for listed buildings or homes in conservation areas.
Secondary glazing is less visible from the exterior, maintaining the original appearance of the building. However, it might not be as visually appealing from the inside.
Ultimately, the choice between double and secondary glazing depends on budget, requirements, and aesthetic preferences. Double glazing is generally more effective at improving thermal insulation, while secondary glazing is cheaper and easier to install.
Triple glazing is an alternative option that offers improved energy efficiency, compared with double glazing. Much like double glazing, which features two panes and one gas gap, triple-glazed windows are built using three panes and two gaps. This allows the windows to better regulate indoor temperatures, keeping homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Generally, triple glazing has a reputation of being more vastly expensive than double glazing, but in recent years the price has come down to around 10 to 20 per cent more expensive, while some companies offer triple glazing for a similar price to that of double.
There are some factors that can affect the cost of new windows. While there are not many, the factors that could bump up the cost include:
Double glazing windows have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, which is typically when homeowners may choose to replace them.
However, there are a few other telltale signs of when they need to be replaced, including:
When comparing window quotes and prices, it’s essential to ensure you’re making an informed decision based on your requirements, preferences, and budget. Begin by researching the available options for materials and styles before you contact any suppliers.
To provide accurate quotes, suppliers – or their sales representatives – will need to book an appointment to visit your home, take measurements and discuss your options.
You should never feel pressured to decide on the spot and certainly shouldn’t sign any contracts without taking time to read the small print. Reputable suppliers like Anglian and Everest will allow you the time to determine whether you want to accept their quotes and move forward with the installation.
While it’s always enticing to opt for the most cost-effective solution, quotes that seem too good to be true may raise red flags.
Overly cheap new window quotes can sometimes indicate inferior quality materials, inexperienced installers, or corners being cut during the installation process. Such compromises can result in poor insulation, reduced durability, and potential issues like condensation between panes. Instead of long-term energy savings and comfort, you might face unexpected repair bills or premature replacements. It’s imperative to strike a balance between cost and quality.
Researching, asking the right questions, and comparing quotes from reputable companies can help ensure your investment in replacement windows is both sound and beneficial in the long run.
Any new windows cost quote should be as detailed and transparent as possible, including all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.
A quote should include all the relevant details for your project, such as:
If there is any element you are unsure of, or you want clarification on a particular point, make sure you ask before you sign the contract. This allows you to make the best decision on which supplier you want for your windows project.
Replacement windows cost the average UK homeowner around £4,000, though the exact cost will vary depending on your chosen window type and frame material. Different frame materials come with different benefits, and it’s important to consider a balance between price and benefits. As well as carefully choosing the type of double glazing windows to install, the company you choose is just as important; each comes with different prices and product warranties. It’s wise not to rush into your decision and take the time to compare quotes, products and warranties from varying windows companies.
Negotiating a lower price on your new windows can be rewarding if you know the best strategies and are prepared to be patient, persistent, and compromise.
Here are some helpful tips:
The prices for new double-glazed windows have increased in recent years, and this is due to a number of factors. The rising costs of raw materials, manufacturing, transportation, and labour are all reflected in the prices homeowners pay.
Glass, in particular, is experiencing higher production costs, meaning window manufacturers must pay more for the same quantity of glass, while both the pandemic and Brexit have caused significant labour shortages in the UK, impacting on window prices. There are certain government grants for windows that can reduce the cost of new windows for homeowners that meet a certain criteria.
Window prices depend on several key factors. The type of windows you have – the style, frame material, and type of glass – will all impact the overall cost.
Surprisingly, where you live in the country may influence the price of your new windows. Access to a large labour force, such as in a city, can keep installation costs down. It may also mean a supplier doesn’t have far to travel for your project, and therefore, has lower transportation costs.
All of these factors will affect the final prices for your new windows.
Yes, it’s more cost-effective to replace all your windows at once. Completing your windows installation in one go and not in stages can reduce material costs and you’ll save money on labour. Replacing all of your windows at once will also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Windows are the main source of heat loss in a home and windows efficiency declines over time, and this can increase energy bills.
Yes, the colour of your windows can affect the overall price. For example, standard white uPVC windows are the most affordable type of windows. But when you change the colour or finish, the cost can increase – grey uPVC windows can cost around 10 per cent more than white uPVC windows, for instance. Similarly, if you opt for wood grain finish, your total cost will be around 10 to 15 per cent higher than white windows.
Installing more expensive windows can be a better investment for homeowners in the long run, as more expensive windows might have better energy efficiency, which can decrease your heating and cooling costs. High-quality windows can include triple glazing, noise reduction technology, and low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, which can all help reduce heat loss.
More expensive windows usually come in a wider range of colours, styles and materials, and can be more durable than their more affordable counterparts. For example, timber, one of the most expensive window materials, will last longer than uPVC, making it less expensive and more reliable in the long term. Furthermore, the combination of triple glazed hardwood timber windows with dual colour paint and low-E coatings will be one of the most expensive options out there, but it will provide numerous benefits that more affordable options cannot deliver, such as reduced heat loss, personalisation, and minimised infrared and ultraviolet light.
However, you need to balance these factors with your budget, needs and priorities. Comparing different window prices is the best way to make an informed decision and ensure you are getting the best deal.
Negotiating a lower price on your new windows can be rewarding if you know the best strategies and are prepared to be patient, persistent, and compromise.
While the cost will be dependent on the style and materials of your chosen windows, you should still follow these tips to ensure you are getting the best deal.
Katharine Allison is an experienced writer and researcher who has been producing content for over 10 years. She has worked with some of the UK’s leading companies including Federation of Master Builders, Architectural Digest, and Cuvva Car Insurance. During her time at Positive Agency, she worked with Gordon Ramsay, Denon Construction, Transport for Wales, and Northern Rail, among others. Katharine was also integral in establishing Inner Allies UK as a national mental health charity. Katharine is particularly passionate about consumer causes and animal welfare, and has degrees in art, philosophy, and psychology. She lives with her sled dogs in East Sussex.
After working as a Countermeasures Operator in the British Army for nearly five years, Mark formed Solar Panelling Ltd before becoming a Director at Sheerwater Glass Ltd. He has been in this role for almost 12 years and as such, is well-placed to offer advice on both solar panels and double glazing.
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