How much does it cost to replace 1 window

A new set of windows can liven up the appearance of your house, and add value to your property in the long run. New windows can also increase your insulation levels, making your home more energy-efficient, and all importantly bringing your heating bills down.

In this article, we look at the following:

  • How much new windows cost;
  • The cost of replacing a single window;
  • What affects the cost of replacing windows;
  • How to save money on new windows;
  • Which type of window frame is right for your home;
  • What’s involved in replacing a window;
  • How to find a professional window fitter; and,
  • Frequently asked questions.

  • How Much Do New Windows Cost?
  • How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Single Window?
  • What Affects the Cost of Replacement Windows?
    • The Number and Size of Windows in Your Home
    • Whether Your Window Openings Are a Standard Size
    • Whether Your Glazing Company Offers a Fitting Service
    • Frame Colour
    • Style of Window
    • Type of Glazing
    • Type of Glass
    • Energy Efficiency
    • Taking Old Windows Off-Site
    • Scaffolding
    • Planning Regulations and Permissions
  • How Can I Save Money on Replacement Windows?
  • What’s Involved in Replacing a Window?
  • How Do I Find and Hire a Window Fitter?
  • Ensuring the Professional Is the Right Fit
  • Final Checklist
  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Do I Need Planning Permission or Building Regs Approval to Replace My Windows?
    • Should I Use a FENSA Approved or Certass Certified Installer?
    • Which Type of Window Frame Is the Cheapest?
    • Which Style of Window Is the Cheapest?
    • Will New Windows Stop Condensation?
    • How Long Do Windows Last?
    • Is There a Way to Repair a Broken Window?
    • Can You Replace the Glass in a Window Without Removing the Frame?
    • How Do I Measure My Windows?
    • How Much Do Velux Windows Cost?

How Much Do New Windows Cost?

The cost of new or replacement windows can vary widely depending on the number of windows you need and the type of frame you choose, among several other factors.

The table below breaks down the cost of replacing casement windows in different sized homes. We focus on casement windows as they’re one of the most popular choices throughout the UK. However, please note that the cost of other styles may vary. These estimates include labour but exclude VAT.

House SizeLabour CostsEstimated Total Cost (uPVC Frame)Estimated Total Cost (Aluminium Frame)Estimated Total Cost (Timber Frame)Estimated Total Cost (Composite Frame)Time Required
Flat (4 to 5 Windows) £150 to £300 per day £750 to £4,800 £2,150 to £5,800 £3,350 to £8,300 £4,950 to £16,300 1 day
Terraced House (8 to 9 Windows) £150 to £300 per day £1,350 to £8,400 £4,150 to £10,200 £6,550 to £14,700 £9,750 to £29,400 1 day
Semi-Detached House (10 to 12 windows) £150 to £300 per day £1,650 to £11,100 £5,150 to £13,500 £8,150 to £19,500 £12,150 to £38,700 1 day
Detached House (15 to 18 Windows) £150 to £300 per day £2,550 to £16,800 £7,800 to £20,400 £12,300 to £29,400 £18,300 to £58,200 2 days

As you can see in the table above, the cost of new windows ranges anywhere from £750 for a flat to as much as £58,200 for a large detached home.

If you own a flat, you can expect to pay between £750 and £4,800 for uPVC windows or between £4,950 and £16,300 for beautiful and hardwearing composite windows.

Terraced homeowners should expect to pay in the region of £1,350 to £8,400 for popular uPVC glazing or around £9,750 to £29,400 for composite windows.

For those that live in a semi-detached house, new windows normally cost between £1,650 and £11,100 for uPVC frame windows whereas composite windows typically cost between £12,150 and £38,700.

For a detached house with between 15 and 18 windows, replacing your glazing can cost anywhere from £2,550 and £16,800 for uPVC frame windows or between £18,300 and £58,200 if you want to splash out on a full set of new composite windows.

Window fitters generally charge between £150 and £300 per person, per day in labour costs. Most professional fitters can install 10 to 15 windows per day. That means that they can complete most standard jobs in just a day.

However, if you live in a detached house, you should allow up to two days to replace all your windows.

Are you ready to replace your windows? HouseholdQuotes can help you find the right glazing company. Click the button below to compare quotes from window fitters near you, and potentially save money on your project:

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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Single Window?

Whilst many homeowners need to update all the windows in their home, sometimes you just need to replace a single window.

With that in mind, the table below explains the cost of replacing a ground floor casement window with either uPVC, aluminium, timber, or composite frame glazing.

Further down, we’ve put together a second table that explains the cost of replacing a first- or second-floor window.

Window StyleWindow SizeEstimated Cost (uPVC Frame)Estimated Cost (Aluminium Frame)Estimated Cost (Timber Frame)Estimated Cost (Composite Frame)
Ground Floor Casement Window 600 x 900 mm £150 to £350 £500 to £600 £800 to £950 £1,200 to £1,800
Ground Floor Casement Window 900 x 1200 mm £400 to £550 £650 to £800 £1,200 to £1,300 £1,800 to £2,600
Ground Floor Casement Window 1200 x 1200 mm £650 to £800 £750 to £1,000 £1,350 to £1,500 £2,600 to £3,000

As you can see in the table above, the cost to replace a ground floor casement window ranges from as little as £150 to as much as £3,000.

More precisely, a new ground floor uPVC window can cost anywhere from £150 for a 600 x 900 mm window to roughly £800 for a larger 1200 x 1200 mm window.

If you want to replace your ground floor windows with aluminium frame glazing, you can expect to pay between £500 and £1,000 per window, depending on the size you need.

Timber windows have a timeless appeal but often come at a higher cost. For ground floor windows, you will typically pay between £800 and £1,500 for each window that you replace.

Composite windows are timber frame windows clad in aluminium, and they are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their durability and modern style. Replacing a ground floor window with a composite window normally costs between £1,200 and £3,000 depending on the size you require.

Now, let’s look at the price of replacing first- and second-storey casement windows:

Window StyleWindow SizeEstimated Cost (uPVC Frame)Estimated Cost (Aluminium Frame)Estimated Cost (Timber Frame)Estimated Cost (Composite Frame)
First or Second Floor Casement Window 600 x 900 mm £300 to £450 £600 to
£700
£900 to £1,050 £1,800 to £2,100
First or Second Floor Casement Window 900 x 1200 mm £450 to £600 £750 to £900 £1,300 to £1,400 £2,600 to £2,800
First or Second Floor Casement Window 1200 x 1200 mm £750 to £900 £900 to £1,100 £1,450 to £1,600 £2,900 to £3,200

As you can see in the table above, the cost of replacement first- or second-floor casement windows is similar, but the prices are marginally higher which reflects the additional labour costs involved in fitting windows at height.

If you plan to replace your first- or second-storey casement windows with uPVC frame glazing, you can expect to pay anywhere from £300 to £450 for a standard 600 x 900 mm window or between £750 and £900 for a larger 1200 x 1200 mm window.

For aluminium casement windows, the cost ranges from £600 to £700 for smaller first- or second-storey windows and rises to £900 to £1,100 for larger windows.

If you’re considering timber windows for your first or second floor, you should expect to pay roughly £900 to £1,050 for a 600 x 900 mm window or £1,450 to £1,600 for a large square window measuring 1200 x 1200 mm.

Finally, the cost of new composite windows comes in at around £1,800 to £2,100 for a typical 600 x 900 mm window or as much as £2,900 to £3,200 when fitted on a first or second storey.

What Affects the Cost of Replacement Windows?

Now that you know how much new windows are likely to cost, you may be wondering what factors can impact the total cost.

Below, we look at a range of factors that you should take into consideration when shopping for replacement windows.

The Number and Size of Windows in Your Home

As we saw in the pricing tables above, the number of windows in your home has a direct (and quite significant) impact on the total cost of new glazing. Quite simply, the more windows in your home, the more you should budget for replacement windows.

In addition, the size of your windows also matters. Smaller windows are normally more affordable than larger windows because they use less material and are typically quicker to fit.

Whilst the size of windows varies by style, bathroom windows are normally the smallest windows in a flat or house. This enables you to have some light and ventilation in your bathroom without compromising on privacy.

The size of kitchen windows can vary widely depending on the position of the windows. For example, glazing above a worktop or sink is often smaller than windows elsewhere in your house because the height of your work surface and ceiling limits the size of the window.

However, if you have a kitchen extension or kitchen/diner combo then your home may have more space for larger kitchen windows.

The size of your bedroom windows can also vary depending on when your house was built. In older homes, bedrooms often have large sliding sash or bay windows, whereas newer properties are often built with slightly smaller casement windows.

In most cases, the windows in your lounge are likely to be the largest in your home. This is where many of us spend most of our time, and where we entertain friends and family throughout the year. Large windows—especially bay windows and sash windows—let in plenty of natural light, which makes the lounge a warm and inviting space for everyone.

Once you know the number and size of windows in your home, you can create a more accurate budget of how much replacement windows will likely cost you.

Whether Your Window Openings Are a Standard Size

Manufacturers offer windows in a range of standard sizes, which vary according to the style of window you choose. Whatever style you choose, it’s a good idea to check whether your window openings meet these current standard sizes.

If not, your fitter may need adjust the size of the window opening which can increase labour costs. Alternatively, you may need to consider bespoke frames and glazing which can also raise the total cost of your new windows.

Casement windows come in standard sizes ranging from 635 x 890 mm to 736 x 1498 mm.

If you’re looking at tilt and turn windows, single tilt and turn windows start at 600 x 500 mm and go up to 1900 x 1300 mm. Double tilt and turn windows measure from 600 x 1200 mm and go up to 1700 x 2400 mm. Triple tilt and turn windows can be even bigger; they go from 600 x 1600 mm all the way up to a massive 1900 x 3000 mm.

Sash windows also come in many standard sizes. Sash windows are usually between 914 mm and 2134 mm wide. Most Victorian and Edwardian sash windows are about 1200 mm wide. In terms of height, standard sash windows measure between 609 mm and 1524 mm tall.

For bay windows, the width typically ranges between 1016 mm and 3200 mm, whilst the height varies between 914 mm and 1981 mm.

Smaller windows and windows with fewer moving components—such as casement or single tilt and turn windows—are usually more affordable than larger windows or more complex window styles.

Whether Your Glazing Company Offers a Fitting Service

Buying your windows and fitting them are two separate things.

You’ll need to include labour for actually fitting the windows in your calculations. Sometimes your supplier will also fit windows, for an extra cost.

More often than not, you’ll need to find a builder or other specialist window contractor to fit the windows once you’ve got them.

Frame Colour

Colour choice is important. If you’re happy with standard white uPVC, your costs are going to be lower.

Woodgrain is more expensive, but if you want a natural look this is the only way to go.

In between plain old uPVC and woodgrain, there are many colour choices and wood colours. Some of these will be more expensive than others, with grey uPVC usually being 10% more than white, whilst wood grain effect uPVC costs 10-15% more than white.

Style of Window

Once you’ve figured out how many windows you’ve got and how big they’re going to be, you need to decide on the style of them.

Here are just a few choices, each one costing something different:

  • Plain glass
  • Leaded glass
  • Georgian bar glass
  • Casement window
  • Bay window
  • Bow window
  • Sash window

You’ll also need to decide on how many openers you want, and if they need to have locks, which, understandably, impacts the overall price.

Type of Glazing

Double or triple glazing – what will it be? If you live somewhere particularly weather-beaten, then the latter might be the best option as it offers the best heat efficiency.

For most standard properties, double glazing will suffice – you can read more on this on our dedicated glazing information guide.

Type of Glass

Yet another choice is the type of glass you opt for. This can be standard, toughened, or obscured, which all offer different accolades dependent on what you want for your home.

The further you step away from the standard variations, the higher you can expect your fees to be overall.

Energy Efficiency

Most new windows are extremely energy efficient, with excellent insulation levels. But some are better than others.

Energy-efficient ratings for windows range from A to A+++. The more pluses, the more expensive the windows are.

However, whilst they are more expensive upfront, in the long run you can save yourself quite a bit through energy-efficient gains.

This means lower heating costs – and, if the average lifespan of a window is around 25 years, that’s going to amount to a big saving.

Taking Old Windows Off-Site

When discussing your quote, make sure your fitters or builders are taking your old windows away, otherwise, you could be left with more to pay for them to be disposed of.

Scaffolding

Depending on the height of your building, you may need scaffolding to reach the upper heights.

This will be added to your project cost, so is something to bear in mind if you have a large, tall property as the scaffolding will have to be on-site for a few days to allow the fitters to remove and then install your new windows.

Planning Regulations and Permissions

This isn’t just the cost of applying for permission but building regulations may limit you to certain styles or colours which may cost more. Either way, it’s important to know everything in the first place so you aren’t caught out by any nasty surprises whilst you’re in the middle of your project.

How Can I Save Money on Replacement Windows?

How much does it cost to replace 1 window

New windows are undoubtedly an investment, but there are many ways to keep costs in line with your budget.

Comparing quotes is a great way to potentially save money on new windows. HouseholdQuotes can help you get quotes from multiple window fitters near you, so that you can find someone that suits your budget. Click the button below to get started:

Comparing Quotes Could Save You Up To 40%:

How much does it cost to replace 1 window
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When choosing a window fitter, you can also potentially save money by choosing a local fitter over a national company. Local glazing companies typically have a small team of fitters with minimal overhead, which helps keeps their prices down.

National firms may be able to offer a wider selection of window styles and frames, as well as robust guarantees on their services. However, many national window companies also have hefty marketing budgets, call centres, and showrooms to maintain—all of which can affect their prices.

Another way to keep costs down is to choose white uPVC frame windows. As we saw in the pricing tables, uPVC windows are more affordable than aluminium, timber, and composite frames.

Unless you’re keen to achieve a bespoke look, white uPVC windows are almost always cheaper than other colours such as slate grey, anthracite grey, woodgrain effect, or black.

Finally, you may be able to save money by carefully considering the type of glazing you need. Triple glazing certainly has its advantages when it comes to noise reduction and insulation, but you probably don’t need it unless you live on an extremely busy road or you want your home to achieve Passivhaus certification.

Choosing double glazing over triple glazing will lower the total cost of your new or replacement windows, and keep you and your family warm even on the chilliest days.

What’s Involved in Replacing a Window?

Before you buy a new or replacement window, your fitters will need to measure the window opening so that you can purchase the correct size.

When measuring, your fitters should allow an expansion gap of between 5 and 10 mm depending on the size of your window and the frame you choose. This gap allows your fitters to square the window inside the opening.

Once your new window arrives, your fitters should check that the window is in good condition and verify all the measurements to ensure that your window actually meets the specifications.

If you’re replacing an existing window, your fitters will then remove the old glazing and frame. They will remove any sealant around the window frame and carefully pry the old frame away from the window opening.

Your fitters will then prepare the window opening for the new frame by removing any remaining sealant and stray bits of mortar.

The fitters should then check the measurements a third time to confirm the new window will fit inside the opening as intended.

Once that’s done, your fitters will cut the window sill to size and attach it to the window along with any frame extenders that may be required to ensure a proper fit. They should put a bead of silicone along the entire outside edge of the sill to prevent moisture ingress.

Now, your fitters can place the window inside the opening. They will check that the window is level and square before adding packers around the edge of the frame and screwing it into place.

Once the frame is in place, your fitters will remove the glazing beads inside the window and clean the frame before installing the glazing.

Whilst fitting the glazing, the isntallers should use bridging and glazing packers to ensure a tight and level fit and allow moisture to drain away.

If you’ve chosen a window that opens, such as a casement or sash window, your fitters will insert additional packers to support the glazing, allow you to open the window without it sticking, and to prevent the glass from moving over time. This is known as ‘toe and heeling’.

Once the glazing fits properly inside the frame, your fitters will replace the glazing beads.

Next, the fitters will seal the inside of the frame and add any extra components such as trickle vents.

Finally, a professional fitter should clean the windows and frames inside and out, and clear away any rubbish from the installation.

How Do I Find and Hire a Window Fitter?

Finding the right window fitter can be challenging. At HouseholdQuotes, we can connect you to furniture experts in your area. Click the button below to tell us more about your vision, and we’ll help you find someone quickly and easily:

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How much does it cost to replace 1 window
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You can also ask family and friends if they have any recommendations. In addition, you may also want to keep your eye out to see if anyone in your neighbourhood is replacing their windows. That way, you can see the quality of the fitters work in person.

Finally, you can always browse the FENSA or Certass directories to find suitable fitters in your area.

Ensuring the Professional Is the Right Fit

Whether you plan to purchase a single window or replace all the windows in your home, it’s only natural to want to find the right person. Here are our top tips for finding a professional window fitter:

When looking for a window fitter, it’s always a good idea to compare at least three quotes, so that you can compare prices and find someone who suits your budget.

It’s important to note some window fitters are use high pressure sales tactics when giving quotes. You should never, ever feel pressured to make a decision on the spot, no matter what the salesperson says or promises. If necessary, ask a family member or friend to join you at the appointment.

When gathering quotes, it’s a good idea to ask for a written quote so that there’s a physical record of what was quoted, in case questions arise later on.

If the initial quote is quite short and lacks detail, you should always feel free to ask what the quote includes and what it excludes.

For instance, does the quote include the cost of fitting or do you have to arrange that separately? Is window furniture and locks included? What about rubbish removal or skip hire? These are all good questions, and asking them at the start of your discussion will prevent awkward (and potentially expensive) conversations down the line.

Whether you choose a local window fitter or a national installer, it never hurts to ask whether the fitters have experience in fitting the windows you’ve chosen. This is all the more important when you select bespoke styles.

If you are considering bespoke windows, you may want to ask your supplier for photos so that you can better visualise how those windows will look in your home.

It’s also important to ask for references—especially if you plan to replace multiple windows. A professional fitter should always be happy to provide references. A quick call or email can help you decide whether that fitter is the right person for your job.

Finally, we always suggest that homeowners ask their fitter for proof of professional indemnity insurance. This can ward off rogue traders and protect you in the event that something goes awry.

Final Checklist

If you’re ready to take update your home with a new set of windows, here’s our final checklist to help make the process as smooth as possible:

  • Work out how many windows you want to replace, and their approximate measurements so that you can create a sensible budget.
  • Decide which kind of windows you want. Consider the style, frame material and colour, the type of glazing you prefer, and how energy efficient you need your windows.
  • Use HouseholdQuotes to find local window fitters and potentially lower the cost of new or replacement windows.
  • Get several written quotes, and always ask for references and proof of insurance.
  • Obtain any necessary parking permits to allow your traders to park their vehicles whilst at your property.
  • Enjoy the view through your new windows!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Planning Permission or Building Regs Approval to Replace My Windows?

Since April 2002, building regulations apply to all new or replacement windows.

Windows and doors are considered a ‘controlled fitting’, so the government requires that windows meet certain standards regarding safety, means of escape, ventilation, and air supply.

To satisfy building regs, you can use an installer registered under one of the competent persons schemes such as FENSA or Certass. You can also use an unregistered installer but then you’ll need to seek building control approval on your own.

You can read the full guidelines here.

Should I Use a FENSA Approved or Certass Certified Installer?

There’s no legal requirement to use a registered installer in order to meet building regs.

However, using a FENSA approved or CERTASS certified installers helps ensure that your windows are fitted according to building regulations, so you know your windows will stand the test of time.

Whilst registered installers may charge more than unregistered window fitters, a registered installer can save you time because they’ll complete all the necessary paperwork for you.

If you choose an unregistered installer, it’s your responsiblity to apply for building control approval and arrange an inspection—both of which cost money.

Which Type of Window Frame Is the Cheapest?

Typically, white uPVC windows are the cheapest type of frame available on the market. This is because unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) is widely available and the molten uPVC can easily be poured into window moulds of any shape and size.

This means that manufacturers can make large quantities of windows with relative ease, which keeps costs down.

Which Style of Window Is the Cheapest?

Casement windows are generally the most affordable window style, as they often have fewer moving parts than other window styles.

In particular, push-out casement windows tend to be the cheapest because they don’t have a handle. Single casement windows that are operated with a handle are also quite affordable, and are usually less expensive than double casement windows.

Will New Windows Stop Condensation?

The answer depends on where the condensation appears. Ideally, there should be no condensation between the panes of your double glazed windows. This indicates that the windows were poorly manufacturered or incorrectly installed.

Condensation on the pane that faces the inside of your home is normal and reflects the level of humidity inside your home as well as the difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home.

To reduce condensation on your windows, you can consider adding a trickle vent to improve the flow of air from the outside.

Alternatively, you can try to reduce the level of humidity inside your home by using extractor fans in your bathroom and kitchen, hanging your washing outside whenever possible, opening your windows when the weather allows, heating your home to a suitable temperature during the winter, or purchasing a dehumidifier.

How Long Do Windows Last?

When correctly fitted and properly maintained, windows should typically last for 25 years.

Is There a Way to Repair a Broken Window?

There are a few temporary at-home fixes you can do to help the broken windows in your home, but these aren’t longterm solutions.

You can cover shattered glass with a plastic sheet to temporarily stop any debris coming into your home whilst you wait for a replacement, whilst smaller chips or cracks can be filled with glue as a temporary measure.

In most cases, it’s better to replace the entire window.

Can You Replace the Glass in a Window Without Removing the Frame?

Whilst this is possible, we don’t recommend doing this as removing the glazing can damage the frame and cause the window to fail in the longterm.

Instead, it may be better to remove the window and the frame together and re-fit as necessary.

How Do I Measure My Windows?

To measure your windows, start by measuring the width of your window at the bottom, in the middle, and at the top of your window. Then, take the narrowest measurement and deduct 10 mm. This is the width of the window you should order.

Second, measure the height of your window on the left side, in the middle, and on the right side. Once again, take the narrowest measurement for height and deduct 10 mm. This gives you the height you need for your order.

In most instances, you shouldn’t need to measure the depth of your window. However, some homes such as caravans and modular homes have shallow window openings. In these cases, you can determine the depth of your window by measuring the left, centre, and right side of your window frame. Once you have those three measurements, use the shortest one when placing your order.

If you’re ordering your windows directly from a supplier, it’s a good idea to doublecheck (or even triple check!) your measurements before placing your order.

When in doubt, ask a professional to measure your windows, so that you order the correct size and avoid expensive changes down the line.

How Much Do Velux Windows Cost?

Velux windows are likely to cost between £610 and £1,520 per window. Our estimates include both supply and fitting costs.

For more information about Velux windows, see our dedicated page.

Ready to start your project? We can help! Click the button below to get quotes from local window fitters who can help you get the job done:

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How much does it cost to replace 1 window
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Can you replace just 1 window?

A single broken pane can be restored without having to get a whole new frame. But if the seals are cracked or otherwise damaged, or the break in the glass is more extensive, you'll need a brand-new window.

How much does it cost to replace a single hung window?

The average cost to replace or install a single hung window is very affordable at just $280 to $605 per window, with a national average cost of $445 per window.

How much does it cost to replace a basic window?

The average cost to replace windows in your home as of 2022 is $375 to $800 per window. This cost includes the price of each window, plus the cost of professional labor and installation. You can expect to pay an average of $345 to $740 per window in material costs, and $28 to $60 per window in installation costs.

How much does it cost to replace one pane of a window?

The national average cost for a window glass replacement as of 2022 is $280 to $325 per window. However, a window pane glass replacement can cost anywhere between $70 and $800 depending on the extent of the damage. Minor window glass repairs can cost under $100, while replacing the entire window can cost $800 or more.