How much will replacing your home glazing really set you back in 2025? This guide cuts through confusing quotes and gives clear figures so you can plan with confidence.
The typical UK price per unit now ranges from about £160 to £1,860, with most homeowners seeing figures between £450 and £1,200 when supply, fitting and VAT are included.
Project totals depend on frame material, style, size and glazing choice. For example, a three‑bed house with eight to ten uPVC units might cost roughly £3,750 to £16,500. Labour usually runs at about £100–£150 per window, or £350–£600 per day for a two‑person team.
Triple glazing often adds around 30–50% to the price of double glazing, but it can deliver better energy efficiency and lower bills over time. Grants and schemes such as ECO4 and Warmer Homes Scotland can reduce upfront expenditure for eligible households.
Key Takeaways
- Per‑window range in 2025: approximately £160–£1,860; typical installed price often £450–£1,200.
- Overall budgets vary by material, style, size, glazing and site access.
- Labour influences quotes: expect about £100–£150 per window or team day rates of £350–£600.
- Triple glazing costs 30–50% more than double glazing but improves energy efficiency.
- Grants and local schemes can help when upgrading from single glazing.
- Accurate measuring and standard sizes reduce the risk of refits and delays.
At a glance: average new window prices in the UK
Across the UK in 2025, per-unit prices span roughly £160 to £1,860 depending on material, size and glazing.
Typical per-window range in 2025 (£160–£1,860)
Entry-level uPVC usually sits between £160 and £1,240. Aluminium units commonly range from about £210 to £1,615. Timber occupies the top band at roughly £240 to £1,860.
What’s included in the price at present
Many quoted sums already cover supply, fitting and VAT, but always check your written quote for exclusions.
- Labour generally adds about £100–£150 per window and can shift the overall windows cost.
- Double glazing is the baseline; triple glazing normally adds a 30–50% premium for better performance.
- Factor in extras such as scaffolding, waste removal and making good — these appear as line items on some quotes.
Tip: Compare like-for-like, itemised estimates so the cost per unit is transparent. Check warranties on frames, hardware and sealed units and ensure measurements are accurate to avoid refits and extra delays.
New Windows Cost: what affects the price most
Several factors push a household quote up or down — material choice, style, glazing and site access top the list.
Material
uPVC is usually the most economical option for window frames, offering good performance at lower prices.
Aluminium sits in the mid‑to‑high band and gives slim sightlines and modern appeal.
Timber is the premium choice, prized for heritage looks and longevity but it carries the highest price tag.
Style and size
Simple casement windows and picture designs are typically the cheapest to buy and fit.
Sash, tilt & turn, and multi‑panel bay or bow units increase complexity and therefore the bill.
Glazing type and energy rating
Double glazing is the industry baseline; triple glazing usually adds about 30–50% to prices.
Higher energy ratings reduce heat loss and can cut bills over time, making a higher initial outlay sensible for some homes.
Access, labour rates and installer choice
Restricted sites or upper‑floor installs may need scaffolding or special equipment, which raises costs.
- Labour: expect roughly £100–£150 per window for fitting; two‑person teams typically fit 4–6 units a day.
- Installer quality: accredited, experienced fitters often cost a little more but help avoid refits and callbacks.
Tip: Tailor your specification to the property — period homes often suit timber or sympathetic uPVC, while modern builds pair well with aluminium or uPVC. Always get like‑for‑like, itemised quotes to compare true value rather than headline price.
Cost by frame material: uPVC vs aluminium vs timber
Different frame types bring distinct benefits — and very different price bands — to any window upgrade. Below we compare typical price ranges, lifespan and upkeep to help you decide which suits your home.
uPVC windows: from budget casements to larger formats
uPVC is the most budget‑friendly option with broad styling and low upkeep.
Per‑unit range: £160–£1,240. Basic casement windows commonly sit at £160–£825, with larger formats and coloured upvc frames adding marginal costs.
Aluminium windows: sleek looks, mid-high pricing
Aluminium offers slim sightlines and modern appeal. Thermal breaks often boost insulation and justify higher prices.
Per‑unit range: £210–£1,615. It sits above uPVC on price due to material and fabrication but is durable and low maintenance.
Timber windows: premium aesthetics and longevity
Timber gives classic looks and strong insulation but needs periodic care.
Per‑unit range: £240–£1,860. Standard timber casement units typically cost £240–£1,240; bespoke joinery and finishes raise the sum.
Longevity and maintenance: aluminium can approach 45 years, timber may exceed several decades with regular repainting, and uPVC commonly lasts 20+ years with minimal upkeep.
- Balance upfront price against lifespan and maintenance when judging long‑term value.
- Ask manufacturers about warranties on frames and sealed glazing to understand total ownership costs.
Style-by-style pricing: casement, sash, tilt & turn, bay, bow
Choosing a particular style can add or shave hundreds from a home glazing quote. Below are typical ranges and practical notes so you can match a style window to your home.
uPVC casement windows: the cheapest way to get started
uPVC casement offers the best value and easy fitting. Typical ranges: uPVC £160–£825; aluminium £210–£1,075; timber £240–£1,240.
Sash windows: period charm at a higher price
Sash units need more craft. Expect uPVC £240–£1,240, aluminium £315–£1,615, timber £360–£1,860. Decorative glazing or astragal bars raise the sums.
Tilt & turn: modern functionality and security
Tilt & turn suits ventilation and safety. Typical brackets: uPVC £200–£1,030; aluminium £265–£1,345; timber £300–£1,550.
Bay and bow: multi-panel designs and price drivers
Three-panel bay window figures: uPVC £1,190–£1,800; aluminium £1,550–£2,340; timber £1,785–£2,700.
Bow window prices rise per extra panel — add ~£75 per connecting strut/panel. Larger projection and structural work increase costs.
“Match the style to your home’s character and get itemised quotes for frame, glazing and fitting.”
| Style | uPVC (£) | Aluminium (£) | Timber (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casement | 160–825 | 210–1,075 | 240–1,240 |
| Sash | 240–1,240 | 315–1,615 | 360–1,860 |
| Tilt & Turn | 200–1,030 | 265–1,345 | 300–1,550 |
| Bay (3 panels) | 1,190–1,800 | 1,550–2,340 | 1,785–2,700 |
House-level budgets: typical totals by property size
Most homeowners find that the overall bill depends far more on number of openings and access than on single-unit prices.
Two‑bed homes: indicative ranges and variables
Ballpark budget: approximately £1,800–£8,775 for replacing windows across a two‑bed property.
Smaller homes often have fewer openings and easier access. This keeps installation time and additional charges down.
Note: figures assume double glazing and standard finishes; triple glazing or bespoke colours raise totals.
Three‑bed homes: from around £3,750 and upwards
Typical total: many three‑bed projects start at about £3,750 for basic uPVC across 8–10 units and scale to £16,500 for higher spec materials and styles.
Installers typically replace 4–6 windows a day, so most three‑bed jobs finish in 2–3 days.
Four‑bed homes: wider counts and higher access needs
Range: depending on window count and choice of frame, totals can span roughly £2,400–£38,850.
Upper floors, dormers and large bays often need scaffolding, which adds materially to the invoice and can extend work to 3–4 days.
- Regional labour and travel can nudge figures up, especially in rural or inner‑city areas.
- Mapping all openings and sizes before quoting refines estimates and helps avoid refits.
- Replacing windows across the whole house usually secures better unit pricing from suppliers.
- Always factor a contingency for making good, trims and any lintel work discovered during the survey.
| Property size | Typical total (£) | Days to complete | Key drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two‑bed | 1,800–8,775 | 1–2 | Fewer openings, ground‑floor access |
| Three‑bed | 3,750–16,500 | 2–3 | 8–10 windows, material choice |
| Four‑bed | 2,400–38,850 | 3–4 | More units, upper‑floor access, scaffolding |
Glazing options and savings: double, triple, secondary
Different glazing choices change comfort, noise and running bills. Picking the right solution depends on location, planning rules and budget.
Double glazing: typical savings and price band
Double glazing is the standard for warmth and quieter rooms. Per‑unit prices sit in the same broad range as other frames, roughly £160–£1,860 depending on size and material.
Energy savings: many gas‑heated homes can expect about £140 a year in reduced bills after replacing single glazed panes. Ask installers for whole‑window u‑values rather than centre‑pane numbers alone.
Triple glazing: when the 30–50% uplift pays
Triple glazing usually adds ~30–50% to the price but brings better insulation and acoustic performance. It’s most cost‑effective in cold regions, on busy roads or where energy prices are high.
Note the extra weight: specify stronger frames and upgraded hinges to avoid long‑term issues.
Secondary glazing: listed buildings and tight budgets
Secondary glazing often costs around £300–£500/m². It’s a practical route for listed properties or conservation areas where full replacement is not allowed.
Performance is lower than full replacement but it improves thermal and sound control without altering heritage fabric.
- Acoustic or laminated panes are available for double and triple glazing where sound control matters.
- Phased upgrades let you prioritise bedrooms and living rooms if you cannot replace everything at once.
Energy efficiency and window performance
The real performance of any window depends on material, glazing layers and how well it is fitted.
How frames and glazing reduce heat loss
Modern window frames and sealed units cut conductive, convective and radiant heat losses. Good seals stop draughts and reduce condensation.
Spacer bars, inert gas fills (argon or krypton) and warm‑edge technology lower thermal bridging at the glass edge.
U‑values, thermal breaks and real‑world impacts
U‑values measure heat flow: lower is better. Whole‑window ratings matter more than centre‑pane numbers because frames and install affect overall performance.
Aluminium frames with thermal breaks narrow the gap to uPVC and timber by cutting conduction through metal. That helps reduce heating bills in practice.
| Feature | Effect | Practical benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Double glazing | Reduces drafts, noise, condensation | Improves comfort and lowers small bills |
| Triple glazing | Higher insulation, more security | Best for cold or noisy sites; higher initial cost |
| Thermal breaks & warm‑edge | Less heat loss at frame edge | Better whole‑window u‑value |
Installation quality drives airtightness as much as product spec. Check energy labels and manufacturer data before buying. Combine window upgrades with draught proofing and loft insulation for larger, long‑term savings.
Installation and labour: what you’re paying for
Labour makes up a clear slice of any quote, so understanding daily rates and per‑unit charges helps you plan. Good installation protects thermal performance and reduces the chance of refits.
Per‑window labour and team day rates
Typical per‑window labour: £100–£150. This is often shown as a unit line on quotes and covers fitting, sealing and basic making‑good.
Day rates: installers commonly charge about £175–£300 per person. A two‑person team therefore totals roughly £350–£600 per day.
Productivity on site
Teams usually replace 4–6 standard windows a day with clear access. If old frames are removed beforehand, throughput can rise to 6–8 units per day.
Complex units such as a bow or bay often need a full day for a two‑person team and may attract higher labour charges.
- Access and weather: upper floors, restricted parking or wet conditions slow progress and raise labour costs.
- Accreditation: accredited, experienced fitters cost a bit more but secure airtightness and correct alignment.
- Practical steps: request a schedule of works, confirm disposal of old frames and ask who handles protections and making‑good.
| Metric | Typical range (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Per‑window labour | 100–150 | Includes fitting, sealing and basic finishing |
| Per person day rate | 175–300 | Experienced operatives; varies by region |
| Two‑person team per day | 350–600 | Usually fits 4–6 standard windows |
| Throughput with pre‑removal | 6–8 units/day | Reduces time on site and can cut overall labour spend |
Handover tip: be present to test every opening and lock at sign‑off and confirm disposal arrangements to avoid surprise fees. Quality installation underpins the performance of double or triple glazing, so prioritise proven installers when you replace windows.
Measuring up and standard window sizes
Accurate measuring is the single best way to avoid delays and reorders when replacing frames. Follow a simple routine and you cut the chance of cracked pane glass or re‑ordering the wrong unit.
How to measure correctly (and avoid refits)
Measure the aperture externally, brick‑to‑brick. Take width at left, centre and right; take height at top, middle and bottom. Record the smallest figure in each direction.
Allow a small tolerance for expansion and fitting packers. Never force an exact fit — that risks warped window frames or damaged glass and adds costs.
Common UK widths and heights to know
Many manufacturers use modular sizes. Typical widths include 488mm, 630mm, 915mm, 1,200mm and 1,770mm. Common heights include 488mm, 600mm, 1,050mm, 1,200mm and 1,350mm.
- Mark if a cill, trickle vent or specific opener is required — these change ordering codes.
- Photograph each opening and note hinge orientation to avoid mistakes.
- Check reveals, internal splay and any obstructions before ordering.
Older homes often have out‑of‑square openings; installers will adapt but an on‑site survey from your chosen fitter before manufacture is essential. For upper‑floor work, plan scaffolding or access early to avoid extra delays and added costs.
Planning, building regulations and FENSA certification
It pays to confirm planning and building‑regulation rules early when planning a window upgrade. Most like‑for‑like replacements do not need planning permission, but a few situations do require consent.
When planning permission applies
Like‑for‑like swaps normally bypass planning. Consent is likely if you change the appearance, enlarge openings, or work on a listed building or in a conservation area.
Check restrictive covenants, leasehold rules and any local policies before ordering to avoid delays.
Self‑certification and why a FENSA installer matters
Building Regulations set thermal and safety standards for glazing, ventilation and safety glass in critical locations such as bedroom egresses.
- FENSA installers can self‑certify compliance and issue a certificate that you keep for sales or insurance.
- If an installer cannot self‑certify, you must notify local building control and pay inspection fees.
- Ask for trickle vent confirmation and safety glazing notes so these items are included in the written quote.
- Keep all certificates and warranties together to prove compliance later.
Grants, finance and ways to reduce your window costs
Funding and flexible finance can make a big difference when planning upgrades to glazing. Several UK and devolved programmes target heat loss and may help cover part of the bill for homes with single glazing or poor thermal performance.
ECO4, Warmer Homes Scotland and the Home Upgrade Grant
ECO4 and the Home Upgrade Grant provide funded improvements for eligible low‑income or vulnerable households. In some cases these schemes fund single‑to‑double glazing upgrades where it significantly improves efficiency.
Home Energy Scotland: who can qualify
Home Energy Scotland offers advice and support. They can help with single‑to‑double glazing projects, but loans are not available for replacing existing double or triple glazing.
Finance options and seasonal promotions
Many installers offer 0% or low‑APR plans and seasonal discounts to spread the cost and reduce upfront outlay. Always compare quotes and read the small print before you sign.
- Apply early — grant pots are limited and seasonal.
- Bundle upgrades (loft, insulation and glazing) to strengthen eligibility.
- Keep EPCs and installer certificates — these help with applications and prove work quality.
- Get started by shortlisting accredited local installers to compare quotes and finance terms.
| Scheme | Who it helps | Typical support |
|---|---|---|
| ECO4 | Low‑income and vulnerable households | Energy efficiency measures; single‑to‑double glazing possible |
| Warmer Homes Scotland | Vulnerable Scottish households | Insulation, heating upgrades; glazing considered case‑by‑case |
| Home Upgrade Grant | Homes off low‑carbon heat or on low income | Whole‑house measures including glazing in some projects |
| Home Energy Scotland | Scottish householders seeking advice | Guidance, grants and loans (not for replacing existing double/triple glazing) |
Getting the best price: quotes, timing and negotiation tips
Start by asking three to five installers for clear, itemised quotes so you can spot outliers quickly. A short survey of offers helps you compare quality, timeline and value rather than chasing the lowest headline figure.
Why multiple quotes save money
Obtain at least three written quotes to benchmark labour and materials. Labour typically forms 20–30% of the total, so check how each quote splits material and fitting charges.
Like‑for‑like specs and avoiding hidden extras
Ask suppliers to match sizes, glass type, hardware and finish so you can fairly compare quotes. Flag common extras such as scaffolding, waste removal, bespoke colours and making‑good.
- Confirm lead times and daily throughput (teams usually replace 4–6 windows per day).
- Check accreditation (FENSA) and recent reviews to weigh quality against price.
- Discuss payment schedules, retention until snagging is resolved, and finance options to manage cashflow.
| What to request | Why it matters | Negotiation tip |
|---|---|---|
| Itemised quote (materials & labour) | Shows true split of costs | Use lower labour % as leverage if site is ready |
| Lead time and daily throughput | Sets schedule and disruption | Book off‑peak slots for better offers |
| Warranties and accreditation | Protects long‑term value | Prioritise certificates over lowest price |
Maintenance vs upfront cost: long-term value by material
Upfront spend and years of maintenance together determine which frame type gives best value for your home.
uPVC frames usually have the lowest initial outlay. A full set for a three‑bed house can be about £4,000 and typically lasts ~20 years, which works out at roughly £200 per year with minimal upkeep.
Timber frames and wooden windows cost more up front — roughly £10,500 for the same house — but last longer. Over 40 years and allowing ~£1,000 for periodic repainting, the annualised figure is about £287.
- Aluminium often lasts 35–45 years with little maintenance, giving strong value over decades.
- Hardware durability matters: regular servicing keeps locks and hinges working and avoids expensive replacements.
- Regular cleaning of frames and drainage channels protects seals and glazing performance.
“Budget a small annual maintenance allowance to avoid larger, unexpected repairs later.”
| Material | Indicative lifespan | Approx annualised cost (£/yr) |
|---|---|---|
| uPVC frames | ~20 years | ~200 |
| Timber frames / wooden windows | ~40 years | ~287 |
| Aluminium | ~35–45 years | ~230–300 |
Regional and access factors that change your quote
Access and location can shift a quote more than the choice of frame or glass. Small practical details often add time and extra charges, so check access early in the process.
Upper-floor installs, scaffolding and travel
Upper-floor work commonly needs scaffolding or a cherry picker. Scaffold hire adds a noticeable amount to the final cost and can extend the programme by a day or more.
Bay and bow installations are time‑intensive and may occupy a full day for a two‑person team. That affects the typical team day rate of £350–£600 and may increase labour charges.
Urban vs rural labour rates
Urban centres often attract higher labour rates and parking restrictions. Deliveries, traffic and permit costs can push a quote up.
Rural jobs can carry travel surcharges and longer delivery windows. Both settings demand clarity about arrival times to avoid unexpected fees.
- Confirm access and parking with your installer before work starts to avoid delays.
- Ask who arranges and insures scaffolding and get that in writing to prevent ambiguity.
- Group work where possible so access equipment is hired once, reducing setup costs.
- Allow contingency for masonry repairs or lintel work uncovered during removals.
- Factor weather into scheduling — exterior sealing and finishing often need dry conditions.
Practical tip: tidy site logistics mean installers can hit planned throughput and keep overall costs down.
When to replace vs repair: signs it’s time for new windows
Knowing whether to repair or replace windows saves money and hassle. If rooms feel cold, draughty or suffer rising bills despite normal heating, consider a full window replacement.
Look for persistent drafts, rotten or warped frames, and sashes that stick or drop. Failed sealed units show as misting or condensation between panes and usually mean the sealed unit needs replacing rather than a simple reglaze.
- Red flags: rotten timber, warped frames, cracked units, chronic draughts or locks that no longer engage.
- Comfort signals: cold spots, excess noise ingress and higher bills point to underperforming glazing.
- Safety issues: sticking sashes or failing locks require prompt action for security and escape routes.
If only one opening is affected, a professional assessment can advise on isolated repairs versus full replacement windows for the property. In listed or conservation cases, secondary glazing is a viable interim option.
| Problem | Likely action |
|---|---|
| Misting between panes | Replace sealed unit or consider full window replacement |
| Rotten frame | Replacement windows |
| Sticking sashes / broken locks | Repair or replace depending on severity |
Prioritise rooms with the biggest comfort or energy penalty if phasing work. Keep records of repairs and warranties for future sale, and explore grants or finance if urgent replacements push the household budget. Timely action prevents water ingress and further damage to reveals and finishes.
Conclusion
In closing, focus on clear budget anchors and simple steps to move your glazing project forward.
Price anchors: typical per‑unit figures sit between £160 and £1,860, and a three‑bed upgrade often starts near £3,750. Labour usually runs £100–£150 per unit, with teams replacing 4–6 units a day.
Double glazing is the baseline; triple glazing adds about 30–50% but can be worth it for cold or noisy sites. Balance upfront spend with lifespan and maintenance when choosing frame materials.
Get multiple, itemised quotes, use accredited (FENSA) fitters, check grant routes such as ECO4 or Home Energy Scotland, then shortlist local firms and book surveys to get started.