Refurbishment

Cost of new windows and double glazing

Replacing tired single glazing or failed double glazing is a common early job after buying an older home. New windows improve warmth, security and kerb appeal, but a whole-house replacement is a serious cost. This guide breaks down window prices in the UK by material and by property.

Last reviewed 5 July 2026

In short

New windows in the UK typically cost £400 to £1,200 per window supplied and fitted, so a whole-house replacement usually runs £2,500 to £9,000. uPVC double glazing is the cheapest at around £400 to £800 per window, aluminium costs about £700 to £1,400, and timber windows £800 to £2,000 or more. The total depends on the number and size of windows, the material and style, and the glazing specification.

Window cost by frame material

Typical supplied-and-fitted cost for a standard casement window.

Frame material	Per window	Notes
uPVC	£400 to £800	Cheapest, low maintenance, most common
Aluminium	£700 to £1,400	Slim frames, strong, modern look
Timber	£800 to £2,000	Best for period and listed homes, needs upkeep
Sash (uPVC or timber)	£700 to £2,500	Traditional style, more complex to make

Whole-house window costs

Rough total for replacing all windows in uPVC double glazing.

Property size	Windows (approx)	Typical total
1-bed flat	4 to 5	£2,000 to £4,000
2-bed house	6 to 8	£3,000 to £5,500
3-bed house	8 to 10	£4,000 to £7,500
4-bed house	10 to 14	£6,000 to £11,000

Aluminium and timber cost more; add for bay windows, doors and non-standard shapes.

What affects the price

Why window quotes vary so much:

Frame material, uPVC is cheapest, timber and aluminium cost more.
Window size, style and opening type, bay and sash windows cost more.
Glazing spec, double versus triple glazing and energy ratings.
Number of windows and ease of access, upper floors need scaffolding.
Conservation or listed-building requirements on period homes.
Colour, finishes and hardware upgrades.

How to save on new windows

Sensible ways to reduce the cost:

Replace all windows at once for a better per-window price than one at a time.
Choose uPVC where appearance allows and save timber for front elevations.
Get three quotes from FENSA or CERTASS registered installers.
Avoid high-pressure sales discounts, compare the real itemised price instead.
Prioritise the worst windows first if you cannot do the whole house at once.

New windows must be FENSA or CERTASS certified

Replacement windows are notifiable under building regulations. Use a FENSA or CERTASS registered installer so the work is self-certified, or you will need building control sign-off. Keep the certificate for when you sell.

Add windows to your refurb budget

Our refurbishment planner includes a windows allowance so you can factor whole-house glazing into your renovation costs and reserve before you buy an older, single-glazed property.

Common questions

How much do new windows cost in the UK?

New windows typically cost £400 to £1,200 per window supplied and fitted, so a whole-house replacement usually costs £2,500 to £9,000 depending on the number of windows, material and glazing specification.

How much does it cost to replace all windows in a 3-bed house?

Replacing all windows in a 3-bed house with uPVC double glazing typically costs £4,000 to £7,500. Aluminium or timber frames, bay windows and larger homes push the total higher.

Which is cheaper, uPVC or aluminium windows?

uPVC is the cheaper option at roughly £400 to £800 per window, while aluminium costs around £700 to £1,400. Aluminium offers slimmer frames and a modern look, which some buyers prefer despite the higher price.

How long do double glazed windows last?

Good quality double glazing typically lasts 20 to 30 years. Misting between panes is a sign the seals have failed, which usually means the units, and sometimes the frames, need replacing.

Do new windows add value to a house?

New windows improve energy efficiency, security and appearance, which supports a sale, though the value added varies. On period homes, keeping windows in a sympathetic style protects value more than cheap replacements.

Do I need permission to replace windows?

For most homes no, but replacements must meet building regulations via a FENSA or CERTASS installer. Listed buildings and conservation areas often need consent and like-for-like styles.

Sources

Work out your full cost of buying

The planner adds stamp duty, legal fees, surveys, refurbishment, removals and the emergency reserve you should keep after completion, so you know exactly how much cash you really need.

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