When it comes to UK homes, double glazed windows are pretty standard and all new builds now feature double glazing. But as any homeowner knows, windows don't last forever. And if you are planning on new windows, you'll need to factor in how much double glazing costs so you can effectively set your budget.
When looking at the types of glazing you could choose from, you might also be weighing up the pros and cons of double vs triple glazing to see which is better for your home. In addition to thermal efficiency, energy ratings and security, cost will play a large part in your decision making.
In many cases, double glazing will be the right solution to make your home feel warmer and make it more efficient, which can lower your energy bills. Here we've broken down how much you can expect to pay for double glazing, as well as the factors that will impact the cost.
How much does double glazing cost?
When determining how much double glazing will cost, you need to factor in the frame material you want, the spec of the glass, and whether you need a standard size window or something more bespoke.
Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass, says: 'For the average three bedroom house, double glazing can cost anywhere between £8,000 and £15,000, depending on the total amount of windows that the house has. However, you may also need to pay a further few hundred pounds to cover the labour costs of installation.'
Frame costs
Make sure you compare all quotes like-for-like to make the right choice for your home and budget.
When it comes to frames, there is a lot to think about. The most popular frame materials are uPVC, aluminium and timber, but each have their own set of pros and cons. While timber windows might require more maintenance, aluminium windows are virtually maintenance-free. Aluminium frames are also incredibly durable and long-lasting, but come with a higher price tag, whereas uPVC windows are cheaper but have a shorter shelf life. We've done a deeper dive on whether aluminium windows are better than uPVC if you need more detailed advice.
Liam explains: 'A single double glazed window with a uPVC frame can cost between £300 and £900 for a casement style window. For the same style of window with a timber frame this can be up to double the price, at £1,100 to £1,800 per window. Double glazed windows with aluminium frames are more expensive than uPVC but less than timber, with prices estimated at around £700 to £1,100 for a single casement window.'
Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin adds, ‘Traditionally, uPVC has been the cheapest option, and timber the most expensive, but this is shifting. With the costs of plastics increasing exponentially post-COVID, uPVC costs are now significantly higher than they used to be and, in some cases, have overtaken more robust alternatives, such as aluminium.’
Installation costs
While installation costs shouldn’t vary too drastically between frame materials, fitting timber windows may cost more than uPVC. 'It generally costs more for installation if you use timber,' says Robert Owens, sales manager at Westbury Windows & Joinery. 'uPVC and aluminium tend to come with cheaper labour costs. It’s a more skilled job for a carpenter to install wood windows and doors.'
According to Checkatrade, £25-£35 per day is the average rate for an experienced window fitter. However, these rates are likely to be higher in London and the South East.
Maintenance costs
You’ll be able to keep on top of most of the upkeep – including cleaning your windows and lubricating the moving parts – yourself. However, timber does require more upkeep than uPVC and aluminium. It will need re-painting and/or re-varnishing every several years.
According to Quote Advisor, the average cost of re-painting wood windows on a semi-detached house will be between £2,500 and £2,700 (including labour, paint and materials).
Victoria Brocklesby from Origin adds: 'Timber frames tend to be most expensive as they are most susceptible to degradation when exposed to the elements. They may need sanding and resealing, depending on the finish, and likely will need to be replaced the soonest.'
Ryan Schofield from Thames Valley Window Company adds, 'It’s important to remove bird droppings immediately as the uric acid in the droppings can cause permanent damage to wooden windows especially.'
What factors affect the cost of your double glazing?
There are various factors that can affect the cost of your double glazing, including:
- The number of windows you have
- The type of windows you choose, a bay or picture window will cost more than a smaller casement window
- The type of glass will impact the cost. Upgrading the glass spec to include soundproofing or a solar control coating will increase your overall bill. As will going for laminated, acoustic or decorative glass. 'If you want a dual colour finish where the windows are a different colour inside and out, that would cost more,' says Robert Owens from Westbury Windows & Joinery.
- Where you live is also an important factor. If you live in London, you can expect to pay more
- If you're project requires a complex installation process. Liam explains: 'The complexity of the installation process can affect the overall cost of double glazing, which could include structural modifications or how easily accessible the windows are.'
Depending on your project, different installation options may affect the purchase price. 'If you’re replacing existing windows then typically, installation costs will be factored into the cost of the products you’re looking for,' says Edward Stobart, sales manager at IDSystems. 'If you’re installing windows in a new extension or self-build, then ordering windows on a supply-only basis for your builder to fit will likely reduce the budget required. Make sure your builder is happy to do this and it’s included in the quote before ordering.'
What's the cost difference between double and triple glazing?
If you are looking to improve your home's energy efficiency, you might be tempted to forgo double glazing in favour of triple, but this would be an expensive choice that might not be necessary. While double glazing for a three-bed house could cost between £8,000 and £15,000, triple glazing is considerably more. Liam says: 'In comparison, triple glazing for the average three bedroom house can cost between £9,600 and £14,400 depending on how many windows are required.'
But in the UK, unless you are looking to build to Passivhaus standards, which are incredibly strict, you probably don't need triple glazing. But do speak to your supplier to make sure you choose the right option for your specific needs.
However, if your home currently has single glazing, double glazing could be a great way to improve thermal efficiency. However if you live in a period home, this might not be an option and you might want to look into secondary glazing instead.
FAQs
Is it worth replacing 20 year old double glazing?
If you're existing double glazing is more than 20 years old, it's worth assessing whether it is still fit for purpose, or whether it needs replacing.
Paul Oxley, a windows and doors expert at Clearview, says: 'It all depends on the condition of the windows, window seals, existing double glazed units, and security features. Generally older windows will suffer from wear and tear and may not close and seal properly.'
He goes on to say: 'Some are externally glazed, don't incorporate multipoint locking mechanisms, and will certainly not have been required to meet the same thermal performance standards, which newer ones achieve today.'
As well as contributing to a fresh new look and improved security, replacing your double glazing could also improve your home's thermal performance. Liam explains: 'Outdated double glazing could be potentially costing you a lot of money, and you can make your home much warmer during winter by fitting new, higher performing windows. This can minimise heat loss in a property, reduce draughts and improve the overall thermal efficiency of your home.'
If you are looking at new double glazing for your home, remember to factor in your patio doors and think about replacing your front door for maximum impact.
