Double glazing costs: 2024 updated double glazed windows prices

For homeowners seeking to take advantage of the long-term benefits of double glazing, including reduced heating bills and improved home security, understanding window costs is pivotal. Low-income families can also enjoy smaller bills by taking advantage of government window grants. We delve into how to get the best deal on double glazing prices, including what prices you should expect, what to look for in a quote, and how to compare double glazing companies.

For a typical property with three bedrooms, installing uPVC double glazing for every window costs around £4,500. However, any quotes you receive are dictated by the window style and size, frame material, and glass type chosen. The number of windows is also a factor, with many installers offering discounts for multiple upgrades. 

How much do casement windows cost across different types of three-bedroom properties?

Frame material

Although several factors will affect the exact cost of your new double glazed windows, frame material is a major element of the final price. 

The average cost per casement window, based on frame material:

Typically, unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) frames are the most cost-effective option. They’re durable, require minimal maintenance, and offer good thermal performance, making them a popular choice.

Aluminium windows tend to be pricier than uPVC. They are strong and require little maintenance but are not as insulating as wood or uPVC. However, they can be a good option for oversized windows that require more structural support.

Composite frames, which are made from a blend of materials – often timber with uPVC – vary in price depending on the specific components used. They’re designed to provide the benefits of both materials. For example, timber and uPVC composite frames offer the aesthetic appeal of natural wood, with lower maintenance requirements and good insulation provided by uPVC. 

Wooden window frames are typically the most expensive option. They offer excellent insulation and a classic aesthetic that many people love, but they require more maintenance to prevent issues, such as rot and insect damage.

Window style

The style or type of window can notably impact its cost. Different styles have varying levels of complexity in terms of manufacturing and installation, which influence their prices.

Fixed windows, which don’t open, and casement windows, which only open from a single point – usually the side – are typically the simplest and, thus, often the least expensive options. Casements can also include the popular awning window design, which is hinged at the top and opens outwards, creating an overhang. Sliding sash or tilt-and-turn designs, which require more moving parts to allow them to open and close, tend to come with a higher price tag. 

Specialised architectural window styles, such as bay or bow windows are typically more expensive. These designs project out from the home’s exterior and consist of multiple units, which adds to their cost. Custom frames – for example unusually large or non-standard shapes – can also be more costly. The additional design and manufacturing work required for these windows can significantly increase their price.

Window size

Simply put, larger windows are generally more expensive than smaller ones. This is because larger windows require more materials for the frame and glass, resulting in higher manufacturing costs.

Additionally, installing larger windows can be more complex and time-consuming than smaller ones, leading to higher labour costs. For instance, more expansive windows might require more people for the installation, due to the size and weight of the windows, or structural modifications could be needed to accommodate them, especially if you’re enlarging an existing window opening.

Type of glass

Standard clear glass is typically the least expensive option, but there are several types of specialised glass that can increase the cost due to their added benefits.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is coated with a transparent, microscopic layer that reflects heat. This improves the window’s insulation, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, but it generally costs more than standard glass.

Toughened or tempered glass, which is stronger and safer than regular glass, is another more expensive option. If broken, it shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of large, sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury.

Laminated glass has a layer of plastic between two panes of glass, making it highly resistant to breakage. It also provides additional benefits such as noise reduction and UV protection, but these advantages come at a price. 

Number of windows

Naturally, the number of windows you are installing or replacing directly affects the project’s total cost.

However, it’s important to note that while the total price increases, there can sometimes be cost efficiencies when installing multiple windows simultaneously. For instance, labour costs may not increase linearly, as installers are already on site and have their equipment set up, so the additional time to install more windows may be less significant. This means the cost per window could decrease with a larger project.

Some double glazing companies or suppliers also offer discounts for larger orders, so the per-window cost might be lower if you buy several windows at the same time. However, potential discounts vary greatly and depend on the specific supplier or contractor.

The average prices for uPVC, aluminium and timber frames in a range of window designs:

Deciding whether or not to replace all the windows in your home will impact the final cost, and it’s well worth considering if every window needs to be upgraded. If your windows are old or in poor condition, it would make sense to replace all of them at once. For instance, windows that don’t operate properly can pose a safety risk in an emergency.

However, if only some are impaired, you might replace only those particular ones. It’s not uncommon, for example, for windows on certain sides of a house to experience more wear and tear due to weather exposure. This could lead to them being less energy efficient and increasing household bills. 

Triple glazing, while costing 10 to 20 per cent more than double, may benefit properties in colder climates (for instance, in the north of the country or Scotland) offering increased insulation. Some suppliers give free or discounted upgrades to triple glazing if you get a quote for double.

Several variables influence the cost of double glazing a three-bedroom house in the UK.

The number of windows to be replaced is a primary consideration. You may decide not every window needs replacing, although some suppliers offer discounts on a full set of windows.

Equally important are the size and style of the windows required. Many homeowners choose more visually appealing styles for the front of the property while saving the less expensive options, such as casement, for the rear windows. Other factors that impact the double glazing cost are the choice between a local or national window supplier and whether the installation poses a challenge.

Double glazing is a valuable investment, thanks to its extensive benefits.

• Enhanced insulation: Double glazed windows, filled with air or argon gas, effectively retain heat during winter and keep interiors cooler in summer. Low-E glass further boosts efficiency by reflecting heat
• Energy savings: The improved insulation results in lower heating and cooling costs, leading to significant savings over time
• Increased security: Double glazing is more resistant to breakages, enhancing protection against break-ins. Options – like toughened and laminated glass, especially on lower floors, and multi-point locking systems – increase security further
• Noise reduction: Double glazing significantly cuts down outdoor noise, with reductions of up to 44 decibels with acoustic laminated glass
• Less condensation: The airtight seal of double glazing reduces indoor condensation, preventing structural damage and mould
• Lower carbon footprint: By reducing energy usage, double glazing also cuts CO2 emissions, especially with A++ rated windows, potentially reducing CO2 by 410kg per year, equivalent to 18 per cent of a gas boiler’s annual emissions

The potential savings of up to £235 annually ensure a rewarding return on investment.

The average double glazing cost and payback period for a three-bed property:

Discover how much new double glazed windows would cost for your home by answering a few quick questions

While the cost of double glazed windows has remained relatively stable for the last few years, there are several factors that could impact prices in the future. These include:

• Supply and demand: An increase in demand for double glazed windows could potentially drive up prices. Likewise, if there are supply shortages, this could also lead to higher prices
• Energy prices: If energy prices rise, more people might want to install double glazed windows to save on heating costs, which could push up demand and prices
• Economic conditions: Inflation, exchange rates, and the general state of the economy can all affect the prices of goods and services, including windows
• Regulations and policies: For example, if the government introduces new building regulations requiring higher insulation standards or promotes energy-efficient home improvements, this could affect demand and thus prices

• Shop around and source a minimum of three quotes
• Your quote should include:
  • Full details of your window style, size, frame material, colour, and glass type
  • The number of windows you require
  • The glass energy rating 
  • Additional features, such as handles and locks
  • Labour costs
  • Start and estimated finish time
  • Disposal of your old windows
  • Warranties for installation and product guarantees
  • Company details and accreditations
• Don’t give in to sales tactics – take your time before making any decisions
• Be sure to check that you don’t require planning permission – this will be relevant for those living in a listed building or conservation area
• Hire a professional installer that is local to your home. This can reduce the cost since they won’t need to waste time travelling to you