Whether you’re looking to improve the appearance of your home, retire broken or worn out frames, or simply add extra value to your home before it goes on the market, window replacements are many homeowners’ first choice.
Depending on where you go for your window replacement, the prices can vary greatly. That is why it is so important to choose the right system and the right installer for you. It’s a big investment on any home and it’s important that, when you’re making your decision, you have all the facts to hand.
It is really important to remember not only the cost of actual windows when choosing the system for you but also the cost of labour to install them and any other materials that are used.
If installation is not included in the original price you’re quoted, be sure to ask the window supplier if they offer the service. If they don’t, you will need to find a separate builder or specialist window contractor to fit the windows.
To get a good idea of what is a reasonable charge for installation in your area, many experts recommend that you try to get around three to five quotes before settling on a provider.
In many cases, large household-name window fitting brands tend to carry higher installation fees than smaller, local family-run businesses. That is because these smaller companies have lower running costs. Lower running costs means that they can offer you greater savings.
By filling in the form below, we’ll help match you up with 3-4 experienced local glaziers who can provide you with a quote on replacement windows for your home.
And it’s with that information that you’ll be able to make the right decision on replacement windows for your property based on price, quality, and how the company is run.
What are the different kinds of replacement window?
Replacement window can replace any existing window – your replacement window can be done either as a “new construction” or as a “retrofit window”.
New construction windows are total replacements. They involve cutting back the four to eight inches of wall either side of your existing window, taking out the flashing paper, then removing the window. The flashing paper is the waterproofing component that keeps moisture out of your home.
Your contractor will then install your replacement window, apply new flashing paper, then replace the removed wall. They tend to cost more than retrofit windows, but this way of doing it allows the new windows to be exactly the same size as the old ones.
Unlike new construction windows, retrofit windows do not require the installer to remove then entire perimeter frame. Instead, they are installed on top of the original window frame, making the installation quicker, easier and cheaper than a completely new installation – with many of the same benefits of a new construction.
This process requires a different installation method, and as the new window must sit inside the old frame, it also means your new window may be slightly smaller than the original one too. In the majority of cases, however, this is barely noticeable.
How much are new windows?
As previously mentioned, the cost of your replacement windows can vary greatly depending on the level of service you need and the type of installation you’re looking for.
So, how much do new windows cost usually?
As a rough estimate, new windows cost around £400 each with installation. But, if you live in London, you can expect to pay as much as 10-15% more for your replacements.
Another factor that can affect the total amount you pay is the style you choose to replace your windows with.
Styles of windows
Work out how many windows in your home need replacing and how large they are. It may be worth, once you have received your three quotes from local suppliers using Tradesmen Prices, asking them to each send a sales representative to help you figure out which styles of window are available so you can choose the one that fits both your practical and aesthetic requirements.
Some of the choices offered by most window replacement companies include:
- Plain glass
- Leaded glass
- Georgian bar glass
- Casement windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Sash windows
In most cases, a like-for-like modernisation may be the quickest and simplest option but this can also be a chance to try something different for your property. The chances are that you’ll only have replacement windows installed once every 10-15 years so if you want to add something to your home that you don’t currently have (like a bay window), now is the time to get the information you need to make a decision.
Once you have decided on which style of window you would like, you’ll also be given the chance to choose your preferred finish option.
A change in colour or materials can add something new to your home but bear in mind that it will impact on your window replacement cost.
If you’re happy with standard white UPVC, the cost of new windows will be cheaper than, say, if you wanted woodgrain frames.
These choices will definitely have an effect on your total replacement windows cost so make sure you get an accurate estimate when looking for a window installer. For quotes from three or four reputable replacement window installers near you, please fill in our form above.
Window replacement frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why would someone want replacement windows?
If the windows in your home are damaged or broken, you will almost certainly need a replacement. But this is not always the reason many homeowners choose to make the switch.
According to the Energy Savings Trust, A-rated energy efficient window replacements on a semi-detached could save a homeowner as much as £120 per year on their energy bill. Old and inefficient windows can cause heat to easily escape your home whereas newer models are designed with insulation in mind.
Others also choose to replace their windows simply to renovate their property. A home makeover is a good enough reason as any to replace outdated-looking windows.
Over time, the colour of your windows can fade. Exposed to the elements, it is also common for frames materials to become worn looking too. New windows transform the appearance of a home whether just to make it look nicer or perhaps in preparation for a house going on the market.
However, updating is not always the aim of window replacements. Previous owners of a historic home may have seen fit to put in white vinyl windows but that doesn’t mean you should have to live with them. It is fairly common for homeowners to replace modern looking windows with wooden ones in order to restore the historic charm of their home.
What are the disadvantages of replacement windows?
Despite their resilience to leaks and completely customisable appearance, new construction replacement windows usually require the wall either side of the window to be damaged in order to remove the old frame. Not only does this increase the cost of the installation, the process also takes much longer than a retrofit window.
Retrofit windows are both cheaper and quicker than full construction windows, but wider frames can mean glass area is easily lost. They are also more prone to leakage than a brand-new installation.
Are there alternatives to replacement windows?
In some cases, it may be possible to repair the window rather than replace it. This can be done for minor blemishes and issues such as a broken handle or small draught.
However, simply repairing a window is not always effective. If the window frame is obviously broken or warped, if the glass is consistently fogging up, or if the windows are forever getting stuck when you try to open or close them, then a repair is in order.
What are the main benefits of window replacements?
Other than improving the appearance and value of your home, replacement windows are greatly favoured due to their energy efficiency.
Newer models of windows are built to have excellent insulation levels which means less heat will be able to escape your home. That means you can greatly reduce both your energy bills and your carbon footprint – effectively killing two birds with one stone. However, some windows are better at this than others.
Energy efficiency ratings for windows range from an A to an A+++. The more pluses your windows have, the more energy efficient they will be. They will also cost more up front but will help you save money on your bills in the long run.
Will I need planning permission for my replacement windows?
In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to add or replace new windows, whether they are retrofit or a new construction.
However, if your home falls under any of the following categories, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local planning authority. You’ll need planning consent for replacement windows if your property is:
- A flat
- A listed building
- In a conservation area
- Under an Article 4 Directive
If you fall into any of these categories, you’ll need to either apply for planning permission online, or contact your local council for further advice.
Why should I get quotes for replacement windows from this website?
Replacing your windows take a long time and that’s before any installation work has even begun! Even when you have decided on the type and style of window you’re looking for, finding a tradesman who is able to carry it out just as you would like is often be easier said than done.
With Tradesmen Prices, we’ll help you find 3-4 experienced window installers in your area that can replace your windows so that you get the outcome you want. Whether it’s a retrofit sash window or a new construction bay, let one of our tradesmen provide you with a free quotation with no commission-hungry salesman coming to visit you.
All you need to do is fill in your details in the form above, and we’ll send you quotes for the top three businesses in your area.
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