COST GUIDES
How much do uPVC sash windows cost?
Updated 07/26
From reducing your annual heating bills to boosting your property value, replacing sash windows with uPVC versions is worth undertaking if you have the budget.
Fast Facts
The average cost for a 1000mm x 500mm white uPVC sash window is £600-£720
For a wood effect or coloured uPVC sash window, the cost rises to around £700-£800
Replacing old timber units with uPVC can make your home more efficient, saving on energy costs
What's more, modern uPVC sash windows don't require much maintenance at all. While timber needs revarnishing and repainting to keep them at their best, uPVC units are a blessing for their ease and aesthetic. But how much do uPVC sash windows cost?
In this guide, we'll look at current prices, what you can expect from a quote, what pushes costs up or down, and how to find a window fitter near you.
uPVC sash windows cost
| Type of sash window | Size of window | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| White uPVC sash window | 500mm x 500mm | £520–£625 |
| White uPVC sash window | 1000mm x 500mm | £600-£720 |
| Wood effect uPVC sash window | 500mm x 500mm | £625-£720 |
| Wood effect uPVC sash window | 1000mm x 500mm | £700-£800 |
| Last updated: June 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
The cost to install uPVC sash windows starts from an average of £520–£625 for a small white window, up to £700-£800 for a large wood effect window.
So for a typical three-bedroom house with five or six sash windows, budget between around £2,500 and £4,800 to a full set of replacements.
You can expect some variation in price, especially in labour costs for fitting the window. Rates in London and the South East tend to run higher than the national average.
uPVC sash window costs by size and type
uPVC sash windows have become more affordable over time as materials have come down in price and more installers have entered the market. But the price you pay will depend on the kind of window you choose.
Wood effect and coloured uPVC sash windows
A wood effect uPVC sash window costs around £625-£720 for a small size (500mm x 500mm), up to around £700-£800 for a more standard size (1000mm x 500mm).
Expect to pay more than a standard white uPVC sash window of the same size.
Wood effect uPVC sash windows are finished with a textured foil that mimics timber grain, giving a traditional look without the maintenance timber requires.
Coloured uPVC is priced similarly to wood effect and is worth budgeting for if you want a more distinctive finish. Popular colours include anthracite grey, black, sage green, and cream - get all your home's windows replaced in one go if you want a smart, coherent look.
What's included in the cost of uPVC sash windows?
A standard supply-and-fit quote for uPVC sash windows covers:
The uPVC frame and sashes
Double glazing (argon-filled units as standard on most suppliers)
Locks, handles, and spiral balance hardware
Removal and disposal of the old windows
Basic making-good of the window reveal
What's usually extra:
Structural repairs to damaged lintels or reveals
Interior redecorating after installation
Scaffolding for upper-floor windows
Triple glazing upgrades
Always get a written quote beforehand, so you know exactly what's included and what you may need to pay extra for.
Find a window fitter near you
What affects the cost of uPVC sash windows?
Several things push the cost up or down:
Size: The bigger the window, the more you'll need to pay. Budget even more if you have a particularly large sash window or an unusual shape.
Number of windows: Fitting multiple windows in one visit helps bring the per-unit cost down. Setup and access equipment are shared across the job - so a window fitter replacing six windows will typically charge less per window than if they came back for each one separately.
Double or triple glazing: Triple glazed uPVC sash windows are more expensive than double glazed equivalents. But the good news is that double glazing is generally included as standard on modern windows. See our double glazing cost guide for a full breakdown.
Access: If your windows aren't easy to reach or your building has structural damage, you may need to budget for access equipment such as scaffolding, and more labour time.
Style: Wood effect or coloured uPVC sits at the higher end of the scale compared to standard white. uPVC flush casement windows are a different style worth comparing if you're open to alternatives.
Labour rates: Window fitters provide a quote covering both supply and installation. Costs are typically higher in London and the South East of England compared to elsewhere in the country.
For a comparison of uPVC sliding sash window prices specifically, which have a slightly different mechanism to standard sash windows, see our dedicated guide.
How long does it take to install uPVC sash windows?
Installing a single uPVC sash window typically takes half a day to a full day.
A window fitter replacing multiple windows in one visit will work faster per unit, since setup and access equipment are shared across the job. Expect the job to be done in a couple of days.
If your reveals need repair or there are complications with the existing frame, allow a little longer.
Benefits of uPVC sash windows
uPVC sash windows suit period properties and modern homes alike. Here's what you get for your money:
Low maintenance: No repainting or revarnishing necessary. uPVC frames simply wipe clean, so they stay looking good with minimal effort. See our guide to cleaning uPVC window frames for tips!
Energy efficiency: Double or triple glazing reduces heat loss and can lower your heating bills. Modern units offer strong Windows Energy Ratings, and can contribute to lowering your EPC rating.
Noise reduction: Double-glazed uPVC sash windows cut external noise noticeably compared to single-glazed timber originals.
Security: Multi-point locking systems and toughened glass are standard on most uPVC sash windows - keeping your home that bit safer.
Property value: Sash windows appeal to buyers, particularly in period homes. The combination of a better energy rating and traditional kerb appeal can help increase your property value.
Style range: You'll find uPVC sash windows available in white, wood effect, and a full range of colours to suit the character of the building.
When comparing to timber, uPVC costs less to maintain over the long term.
uPVC sash windows cost: job estimator tool
Want an estimated price for your uPVC sash window installation? Our job estimate calculator can help.
Just type in some details, such as the size of your windows and kind of finish you want, and the tool will use Checkatrade data to give you an approximate quote.
Job Estimate Calculator
How to find a window fitter
To get started finding a window fitter to install your uPVC sash windows, just enter your postcode into our search tool.
You can compare Checkatrade window fitters offering uPVC sash windows in your area, and start reaching out for quotes.
Find a window fitter near you
Or use our request a quote feature, and we'll connect you with local window fitters. To help them quote accurately, have the following ready:
How many windows you need replacing
The size of each window opening
The style you want (standard sliding sash or a specific heritage profile)
Whether you want double or triple glazing
Any access requirements, such as scaffolding for upper floors
You can also download the Checkatrade app to browse tradespeople on the go.
uPVC sash windows cost checklist
To get a little closer to getting the best price for your uPVC sash window fitting, run through this checklist:
uPVC sash windows cost checklist
uPVC sash windows cost FAQs
Yes, they can. Sash windows are popular with buyers and can increase a property's value, particularly in period homes, thanks to the combination of better energy efficiency and a distinctive kerb appeal.
Yes - if you want multiple windows replacing, it's wise to get them all done at once. Although it sounds like a big task, replacing all your windows at once will save you having to update each one individually in the future.
uPVC windows typically last around 20 years. While timber windows need replacing or repainting every ten years or so, uPVC frames hold up well with very little maintenance.
No. Window installations can be complicated, and if you don't have any previous experience with window installation, it's best to contact a tradesperson instead. A botched installation could lead to an annoying draught at best, and risk your health and safety at worst.
A standard uPVC sash window costs between £520 and £800, including both supply and fitting, and varies depending on size and finish. A small 500mm x 500mm white unit sits at the lower end, while a larger wood-effect window or one with complex glazing bars sits at the top.
Yes, many homeowners find uPVC sliding sash windows to be worth the investment. Modern units perform well for energy efficiency, noise reduction, and security, and they're easy to maintain.
The main downsides are aesthetic. uPVC will never look exactly like painted timber, and some conservation areas or listed buildings won't allow it.
Probably, yes. Double glazing technology has improved significantly since the early 2000s. Modern units are better insulated, more secure, and better sealed against draughts.
If your frames are yellowing, draughty, or the glass has misted up between the panes, replacement is worth the investment for comfort and energy savings alone.
Wondering if you need energy efficient windows? Whatever your need, from double glazing repairs, to finding an installer, we've got you covered. Even if you can't choose between window types.
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