How Much Does Double Glazing Cost? Prices in Frome, Bath, and Bristol

Here at Permaframe, we are often asked, “How much will new windows cost?”. That is a great question, but unfortunately there isn’t one single answer. Replacing the windows in your home is a major decision and significant investment and many homeowners go into the process having no idea what the overall cost will be. You should be able to access this information without frustration, which is the purpose of this article.

In it, we discuss the factors that affect the cost of a window. We also look at the most popular material and style choices. This will enable you to get a good grasp of the options and cost of glazing in your home.

What goes into the cost of glazing your home?

There are many factors that go into the cost of glazing your home.

• Product quality – the window itself, the fixtures, fittings, and silicone.
• The Survey Team – the experience of a surveyor is key. If the windows are not the right size/configuration it can cause issues later.
• The Fitting Team – experience is crucial.
• The Management Team – is the company owner-operated? Are service levels important to the business? Are problems rectified?
• Building Regulations – all glazing is subject to building regulations. Reputable glazing companies will be members of a trade body that self certifies for this e.g., FENSA, Certass.
• Administration – maintaining diaries and answering calls when needed all form part of a proper service.
• Guarantee – length of guarantee, what it includes, and is there a dedicated team of service engineers to come out when a problem arises? N.B. Most guarantees are “in hours” service only and a company is not expected to provide emergency out of hours cover.
• Access to complete the job – can the fitter get the window inside and up to fit? Are they at risk if fitting on the outside? In a few cases, scaffolding may be required.

The Window – overall quality and choices

The advice would be to always see a sample – not all windows are made to the same standard.

The profile – is it multi-chambered? Energy efficient? Does it have a good strength/weight to it?

The Glass – energy efficiency ratings will tell you most of what you need to know.

The Weather Seal – look at a sample and see how well it closes and the quality of the material.

Hinges – this is a good indicator of quality. The thickness of the hinge and the accompanying hardware is often a great gauge when comparing cost and quality.

Locking Mechanism – does it cover the whole side of the opener? Is it made from substantial components? These are both good indicators of whether it will stand the test of time.

Number of openings – the more openings, the more it will cost.

Glazing Features – internal and external bars on the windows, glass design, and fire escape openings all have a bearing.

What is the main type of windows fitted in the UK?

There are several categories of window that people opt for when changing glazing in their home.

The following are the most popular in the UK. A guide cost for each will appear in a table at the end of the article.

PVCu

Casement – Lipped/ Standard (most popular), Flush Casement, Tilt and Turn

PVCu is the most popular material for residential windows in the UK, which requires minimal maintenance, is versatile, long lasting, and the lowest initial investment. When looking at glazing, ask to see a sample window. It will quickly become apparent which windows are sturdier and more likely to stand the test of time than others. Check the weight, locking mechanism, hinges etc (see above).

The two most popular types of windows are lipped and flush casements. The below image shows that on a lipped/ standard casement, you can see where the opening sashes are. On a flush casement window, you cannot tell which one opens and which does not. N.B. where there is no opening, a flush casement will have more frame because of the “dummy sash”, which isn’t present, unless specified on a lipped casement window.

     Standard (Lipped) Casement                                                                              Flush casement 

Tilt and Turn windows provide an option for larger, generally taller openings. They allow for small ventilation via a tilt inward from the top, and a turn inward. The disadvantage of this type of window is that it opens into the property, thus will take up space in the room and affect window coverings and use of the window cill.

            Tilt and turn

Aluminium Lipped and Flush Casement

Aluminium Windows are a premium option, coming in at more than double the investment of PVCu. Their stronger, slimmer profile, allowing for more glass, are the primary drivers behind the selection of this style of window. The long-lasting nature of the product, combined with the sleek finish are often a preference. It should be noted that a lot of customers initially look at this option as they think of PVCu as being a standard white window. The PVCu window appearance has come a long way, which often means that they are considered as well. Heritage properties are often required to have aluminium also, however, the PVCu side is again catching up.

Fitting an aluminium window is also a little more specialised than that of PVCu, so experience should be considered when selecting an installer.

                  Aluminium window

PVCu Vertical Sliding (Sliding Sash)

In many cases, when replacing a sash window, wood is the way to go. Wood is the only truly authentic method of replacement, especially in a listed building, for example. Wooden sash windows do however require ongoing maintenance, and are often not as functional in terms of practicalities of upkeep / drafts etc. Modern UPVC sash windows are a viable alternative. The appearance of UPVC sash windows has made considerable progress and there are often lots of options that allow the homeowner to customise to replicate the existing glazing. Look at the feel, build quality and appearance when deciding.

                     PVCu Sliding Sash

Wooden Windows

This section could be a standalone article. Do your research on the type of wood being used to check whether it is suitable for the situation of the property, and how often maintenance would need to be scheduled. South-facing windows may be subject to wear and tear from the sun. Exposed windows in areas of driving rain will also need to be factored into the overall investment. Softwood or Hardwood? How long you plan on staying at the property and how accessible the windows are needs to be considered too. Permaframe do not offer this option, but in many cases, we recommend seeking a local joiner.

Cost range with variables for factors affecting the cost

The type of window will be the primary driver in cost. Things that will also affect it are the colour, number of openings, and glazing features, such as decorative lead or bars. The below is a guide to cost. It is important to look at all the factors involved in window installation and ask the right question of any company coming in to provide a quotation. There may be higher values for small or single item orders.

Cost and Choice: What’s right for you?

The only way to know exactly how much your replacement glazing will cost is to schedule an in-home quotation with an experienced professional. Be prepared to ask good questions and make an informed decision when the time comes to make your investment.
At Permaframe, your trust is the most important thing to us. We have a team that will take you through the options and help determine the right product for you. Our professional sales, installation and service staff will make sure that you are 100% satisfied. If you live in the BA, BS, SP or TA postcodes, then schedule a visit from us here.