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myNew Windows Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of new windows for a 3 bed house in the UK is around £3,750.
- It takes between 2 – 3 days to replace windows for a 3 bed or 4 bed house in the UK.
- A breakdown of the cost to replace windows, including a rough cost for new windows for different sized houses in the UK.
- Details about how much window fitting labour costs, how long this type of job takes, and what's involved in it.
- How to find and hire a window fitting specialist.
Looking to find out the cost of replacing windows in 2024?
New windows cost, on average, around £375 – £450 per window. This includes material prices and window fitting labour costs in the UK.
The cost of new windows will depend on a variety of factors though. This includes what material the window is made from (uPVC, aluminium, wood, composite), the style of window (casement, sash, bay), your location in the UK, and more.
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Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the cost of replacement windows for different-sized houses in the UK.
£3,750
Table of Contents
- How Much Do New Windows Cost?
- Window Fitting Labour Costs
- How Long Does Window Fitting Take?
- Building Regulations and Planning Permission for New Window Installations
- Things to Consider When Fitting New Windows
- Can You Install New Windows Yourself?
- Checklist: Hiring a Window Fitter in the UK
- FAQs
- Sources
How Much Do New Windows Cost?
Fitting a new set of windows has a number of positives and is something every homeowner should consider doing at some point.
Most people often change their windows as it is a perfect way to help save and cut down on energy and heating costs. Most new fittings use a material called uPVC, which helps with insulation and keeping the heat in your home.
uPVC is a low-cost, plastic-like material that is durable and low maintenance, which is why it has become the most common material for window frames — especially in newly built homes. Installing a new set of windows will also give your home added security due to uPVC having resilience and strength properties.
Its low maintenance and durability will mean that your window frames will last a good number of years, unlike more traditional materials such as timber, which can rot over time or deteriorate due to weather damage.
The cost of this job can vary due to the number of windows you want to fit — of course, this would also depend on the size of your house. The cost of fitting new windows will also depend on the size of the window, the type of window you want to replace and the type you want to replace it with.
As a DIY project, fitting new windows is certainly doable for well-experienced DIY enthusiasts. However, we would recommend hiring a professional to carry out this job for you.
The risk factor is just too high if anything were to go wrong, leaving you with a pretty expensive problem to fix.
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If accurate measurements are taken where old windows were, then would the new windows be free of silicon fillers?
"Hi even if you got new window sizes perfect you would still need a mastic ( silicone) seal to make windows water tight"
New Window Installation Costs
| Job Description | Duration | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Casement Windows Terraced Home | 1 Day | £2,250 |
| 3 Bed Semi-Detached Home (8 – 10 Windows) | 2 – 3 Days | £3,750 |
| 4 Bed Detached Home (10 – 15 windows) | 3 – 4 Days | £5,500 |
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Window Fitting Labour Costs
Window fitters in the UK typically include labour costs in the total new window price that you're quoted by them. Installing new windows usually follows a consistent process, so tradespeople tend to be comfortable with quoting homeowners a fixed price per window.
If the quote is structured this way, then you can expect around 20% - 30% of the total cost of new windows to be labour costs.
This would put the cost of window fitting labour per window at between £100 – £150.
In some cases, you may instead be quoted a day rate for window fitting labour costs. As already noted, this isn't as common in the UK. However, it might be the case if you're negotiating with a sole trader or your project is complex or unusual.
The average window fitting labour cost per day is between £175 – £300, which equates to about £20 – £40 per hour for a standard workday.
Keep in mind: Window fitters typically work as a team of two people. This means you should expect the total window fitting labour cost per day to be twice as much as this (£350 – £600).
How much does it cost to hire a window fitter in London? What is the hourly and daily rate?
"About £300 per day is what we normally charge. This should cover the fit of about 4 to 5 windows."
Should You Hire a Window Fitter or a Joiner?
Window fitting specialists will typically be the go-to choice for most homeowners in the UK, as they're capable of efficiently installing new windows in homes where customisation isn't required. They're normally the lower-cost option if you're getting standard-sized uPVC, aluminium, or composite windows installed.
It might make more sense to hire a joiner if you want to install wooden windows. In particular, you'll want to consult with a joiner if you're looking for new windows that are non-standard sizes or with custom designs.
Unlike window fitters, joiners will quote for custom jobs like this on a daily or hourly basis. The cost of a joiner is around £200 – £300 per day, which equates to around £25 – £40 per hour for a standard workday.
If I'm planning to have wood frame windows installed, would it be better to use a window company or a joiner?
"This depends on the windows you want installed. Both can do the job, but the window company may be better for standard off-the-shelf windows. The joiner can also do this, but can also make and fit bespoke non standard windows."
How Long Does Window Fitting Take?
The average window fitting team can replace around 4 – 6 standard-sized windows per day. This means that a window fitting team can usually complete one window replacement for every 1 – 2 hours on a job.
This estimate assumes that your windows are easily accessible, no complications arise, and no custom work is required.
Here's a look at how long it would typically take a team of two window fitters to install new windows in different-sized houses:
| Type of House | Number of Windows | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Bedroom Terrace House | 6 – 8 | 1 – 2 Days |
| 3 Bedroom Semi-Detached House | 8 – 10 | 2 – 3 Days |
| 4 Bedroom Detached House | 10 – 15 | 3 – 4 Days |
| 5 Bedroom Detached House | 15 – 20 | 4 – 5 Days |
It can take up to a week to install new windows in a larger property, as there are not only more windows — but a higher number of bigger windows, which tend to take longer for a specialist to install.
On average, how long does it take to install a bow window?
"It’s a day's work for two men, whether it's a large window bay or bow window bay."
Building Regulations and Planning Permission for New Window Installations
One important factor you need to be aware of before fitting new windows is that you will need to get your new windows certified so that they meet UK building regulations.
When having new windows fitted, you will have to contact the building control at your local council to inform them of this. They will then arrange to come out and complete an inspection. However, this can come at an extra cost — which can vary depending on where you live in the UK.
You can also avoid an inspection by hiring a window fitting specialist who is FENSA-certified. They'll then be able to self-certify the new fittings and provide you with the certificate.
When hiring a tradesperson, be sure to ask whether they are FENSA registered.
Do I need to have planning permission for changing a rear window for different size? I intend to just raise the bottom part. I am not going to touch the steel beam above (height) and not touch the width. It is not in a conservation area and it is not a listed building.
"No, you wouldn’t need any permission from the council."
Things to Consider When Fitting New Windows
When planning on installing new windows, there will always be things you will need to check off first. As with any home improvement plan, it is always a good idea to understand what the job entails and what your options are when planning.
Before fitting your windows, you will need to identify what type of windows you want for your home. A new set of modern windows will add to the overall look of your house, as well as increase the property's value if you wish to sell in the future.
A new set of uPVC windows could also last you 20 years, so make sure to choose a style of window you are certain you will be happy with in the long run – saving you the cost of changing them in the near future.
One of the most common types of windows is the uPVC casement window. The hinges of the casement window sit on the side, and by turning a lever either located on the side of the sash or at the bottom of the frame, the window swings open.
And as mentioned before, uPVC frames are durable, easy to maintain, stylish, and low cost — making them common in new fittings and new builds. Because of its plastic-like look, some people look for something a bit more stylish and can be put off uPVC frames.
However, modern uPVC comes in a range of colours and finishes. So, if you are looking for that timber look without the hassle of having wooden frames, then uPVC is will still be a good fit.
Essentially, you will need to do a bit of ‘window shopping’ before you decide on what you want fitted in your home, as getting the right windows will make all the difference in the future.
What type of window frame and window style/design in general would suit a cottage house?
"There are many designs available. uPVC is cheaper than wood and now come in all colours, so best to look about at similar properties."
Can You Install New Windows Yourself?
For any enthusiastic and experienced DIY person, fitting a new window could be a very rewarding challenge, especially if you are looking for a new project and want to put some new skills into practice.
However, we would recommend hiring a specialist for this type of job, as there are a number of complications that can occur when fitting new windows.
One way that you could feasibly get involved and save on the cost of new windows is by dealing with the removal of the old window and frame yourself. This will significantly increase how many windows a specialist team can install per day and should have a noticeable impact on the new window costs you're quoted.
A team of two window fitters would typically be able to install about 6 – 8 windows per day if they don't have to worry about removing the existing windows and frames from your property.
You can start this by removing any opening windows by unscrewing them at the hinges.
Be sure to remove carefully, and to ask for help when lifting the window out of the frame. You will then need to remove any non-opening or fixed window panes. You will now need to remove the frame, starting with the central uprights and then the outer main frame.
A tip on doing this is to saw through the frame at an angle all the way to the wall, but make sure not to cause any damage.
Then, by using a hammer and chisel, you can begin to remove the rest of the framework and levering off any awkward parts using a wrecking bar.
Be sure to clear away any debris whilst working so as not to cause any injuries or damage, and to dispose of the old window, including glass panes and frames, responsibly.
By doing this part of the job yourself, you have saved on the time, effort and cost of your hired tradesman doing it.
Keep in mind: If you're considering installing new windows yourself, then it will likely take longer to complete the job than a specialist team. This is because you will likely not be as efficient or effective as an experienced tradesperson. It could also take longer if you run into complications that you're not prepared for.
Is it feasible for an average DIYer to install a sliding window or should I really leave this to a professional?
"It may seem a simple task on the outside. However, there are a lot of things to consider when designing and installing even a simple window. As you are not aware of the issues that may arise, you will find this very difficult to fit and work on correctly. I would not advise this for DIY unless you are willing to spend again to correct your mistakes should they arise."
Checklist: Hiring a Window Fitter in the UK
- Look out for FENSA-registered specialists.
- Check for accredited double glazing specialists.
- Apply to your local council's building control for FENSA certification.
- Choose the appropriate materials - uPVC is most popular for energy efficiency, safety and durability.
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FAQs
What is the best material for a window frame?
The most common and widely used material for window frames is uPVC. It is a plastic-like material, chosen for its durability, low maintenance and low cost compared to other materials such as hardwood and aluminium. A uPVC casement window also has high energy efficiency, saving you money in heating bills.
What type of window frames last longer: aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium window frames are a stronger and more durable option than uPVC — typically lasting around 10 – 20 years longer. Aluminium window frames also require minimal maintenance and a more modern aesthetic. However, while aluminium frames are more durable, they are a more costly option in the UK (around twice the cost of uPVC frames).
Do you need building regulations for new windows?
Yes, when fitting new windows, you will need to inform the building control at your local council so that you can obtain a certificate claiming they meet regulations.
You can also go about this by hiring a window fitting specialist who is registered with FENSA. They will be able to self-certify and provide you with the certificate once the job is complete.
You can also go about this by hiring a window fitting specialist who is registered with FENSA. They will be able to self-certify and provide you with the certificate once the job is complete.
Sources
https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/doors-and-windows/planning-permission
https://www.planning.data.gov.uk/dataset/conservation-area
https://maghulldoubleglazing.com/single-glazing-vs-double-glazing/
https://www.gowercroft.co.uk/news/what-are-sash-windows/
https://www.pella.com/ideas/windows/replacement/benefits-replacement-windows
