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Everything you need to know about replacing windows

Just moved into a fixer-upper and need to change the windows? Noticed wear and tear on your old window frames? Whatever your situation, here's all you need to know about window replacement.

Window replacement can instantly boost the value of your property and enhance your quality of life. Not only do newly fitted windows look great, but they can also increase energy efficiency and reduce noise pollution in your home.

But replacing your windows comes with lots to think about. This practical guide to window replacements will cover all you need to know.

Key benefits of window replacement

Umming and ahhing about whether to replace your windows? Window replacement may not be the most glamorous of home improvement tasks, but it has many benefits.

If you’ve been putting the task off, these might push the project to the top of your priority list!

Reduce your energy bills

Worn out window frames and single-glazed panes are a recipe for high heating costs. According to the Energy Saving Trust, fitting new double-glazed windows could reduce your energy bills by £110 a year.

Be more environmentally friendly

Well-installed modern windows will save you money by cutting down your energy usage. They’ll also help make your home more eco-friendly without sacrificing warmth or comfort.

Boost the value of your property

Original windows add to the aesthetic of an older property, but they’re not always practical. What’s more, a huge range of modern windows to choose from won’t force you into trading appearance for practicality. In the long term, double-glazed window replacement could boost the value of your property by 10%.

Increase security

Weak windows are an easy target for opportunistic burglars, whether it’s a single-glazed bathroom window or a kitchen window with worn-out wooden frames. Home window replacement can increase the security of your home, giving you peace of mind that your property is safe from potential break-ins.

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When to replace your windows

From rotten frames and broken panes to high heating bills, there are a number of reasons why you might be considering window replacement.

Here are some signs that you need to replace your windows.

Your windows were installed 15-20 years ago

Windows are designed to withstand wear and tear. But at around the 15-20 year mark, they’ll start to show their age. By this time, the manufacturer’s warranty will usually have expired too, which means you’ll no longer receive their customary repair services.

In this case, replacing your old windows can do wonders in refreshing the look of your property, keeping it secure and improving its energy efficiency.

Energy bills are high

When the temperature drops, the heating comes on—that’s standard practice. However, if your windows let the heat escape, your energy bills will be much higher as a result.

Worried about the upfront costs of home window replacement? Consider the price of heating your house at this rate. Replacing the windows will help keep the house warm and the bills low all year round.

You don’t have double glazing

It’s thought that 20% of heat is lost in homes that don’t have double glazing. Single glazed windows can make for cold winters and difficulty drifting off at night, particularly in a bustling city or busy town centre.

Fitting new windows with double-glazing will make all the difference in retaining the heat in the house and keeping the noise to a minimum.

Your windows are letting in unwanted noise

Nobody should have to turn the volume up on the telly to rival the sounds from the street.

Getting some modern double glazed windows fitted can be the key to enjoying some peace and quiet in your property.

Sash window replacement

Your windows are leaking

Does the downpour outside always seem to find its way into your property?

In older properties, windows will no longer be air or water-tight due to wear and tear. Window frames, particularly those made from timber, can become damaged. Meanwhile, glazing seals can break, leaving gaps for water to seep in.

Leaking can also be a result of poor installation of the window itself or the fascia board above the window. While many causes of window leaks can be repaired, in some cases, window replacement is your best option.

Window frames are rotten

If left untreated, repeated moisture damage to wooden window frames can trigger mould to grow and threaten the stability and security of your windows.

If you find an excessive amount of rot on your window frame, it’s usually better to bypass repairs and skip straight to window replacement.

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How much does window replacement cost?

Once you’ve established that you need new windows, it’s time to budget for them.

Window replacement costs can vary based on lots of different factors. These include:

  • The frame material
  • The size of the window
  • Whether you need scaffolding
  • The type and style of the window
  • Your location

That said, as a rough guide, you can expect to pay around £27.50 to have your old window removed.

You’ll then need to budget roughly £80 to install a uPVC window frame, or £90 for a wooden window frame. Plus £27.50 per pane to get the glass fitted.

Bear in mind that this doesn’t take into account the cost of the new windows themselves. Head over to our guide on window fitting costs for more details.

Choosing materials for your replacement window frames

One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make when you’re planning on changing your windows is the material for the frames.

Your decision will depend largely on the aesthetic of your property – do you want your windows to be classic and traditional or sleek and contemporary?

You’ll also need to bear in mind your budget for the project and the location of the window.

To give you a head start, here are the most common materials, along with their pros and cons, to help you decide.

Aluminium window frames

Aluminium window frames are famously durable and typically suit more modern-styled properties. They are strong and resilient to weather damage, and they help make your property safer in the long term.

Since aluminium can be easily shaped, frames of this material are popular among homeowners in need of custom-made designs.

It’s worth noting that this material does not suit all homes, however, and is generally more expensive.

Skylight window replacement

uPVC window frames

uPVC windows are solid, low maintenance and very secure. They also happen to be the cheapest option available, making them a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.

Due to their appearance, uPVC windows are best suited to modern homes as opposed to older, more traditional properties.

They don’t require much upkeep, but they will need to be replaced more often than timber or composite window frames.

Timber window frames

Timber window frames are some of the most aesthetically pleasing. They offer a traditional look that can uplift the appearance of a modern or older property.

What’s more, the possibility of customisation is always a pull for those seeking to match their window frames with the exterior of their properties.

However, with wooden frames comes the need for regular care and repainting. When exposed to the elements, timber frames can warp over time and develop rot, impacting the structural integrity of the entire window.

Composite window frames

Composite window frames combine the benefits of timber and aluminium to create a solution that is both strong and simple to maintain.

Although they come with a higher price tag, composite window frames remain popular for their durability and efficiency.

Like uPVC, however, composite window frames won’t always suit the exterior of older, more traditional homes.

How to replace a window

If you’re ready to replace a window, you might wonder what the process involves. Here’s how to replace a window in a few simple steps.

1. Search for window installers near you

First things first, you’ll need to find professionals who can help you replace your windows. We’d always recommend contacting at least three FENSA-certified window fitters near you. That way, you can get a feel for a range of companies and make sure you’re getting a fair and competitive price for the work.

Type your postcode into the search box below to find window installers in your area.

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2. Get quotes

Next, the window fitters you’ve contacted will visit your home to assess your requirements and discuss your options.

This is a great chance to talk about the materials, colours, and styles you’d like.

After the visit, the contractors will send you formal quotes to compare. Always check that the price includes a FENSA certificate. This is a document that confirms your window installation meets building regs, and will be key if you decide to move home in the future.

3. Hire a contractor

Once you have quotes from at least three contractors, you can compare them and choose who you would like to work with.

4. Get your windows replaced

When your agreed start date rolls around, your installer will come to your property to complete the work.

They’ll remove and dispose of your old windows, before installing the new windows you’ve chosen. Window installation can be messy, but your installer should help to minimise the dust and debris as much as possible by using dust sheets indoors and clearing up after themselves each day.

5. Finish up

Last but not least, when the work has been completed and you’ve confirmed that you’re happy, your contractor will ask you to make the final payment.

When they receive this, they should issue your FENSA certificate.

Checkatrade window fitters at a residential job

How long does it take to replace windows?

The time it takes to replace windows will depend on the number of windows you’re replacing, their type, size, and accessibility.

A simple window replacement can take as little as an hour. You can usually expect your installer to be able to replace three or four windows in a day.

Just bear in mind that wooden windows can take longer to install as they also need to be primed and painted.

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Can you just replace the glass in a window?

If you’re on a tight budget, it is possible to replace only the glass pane of your windows. This is undoubtedly a quick and cost-effective option.

However, remember that many windows lose heat through their frames which could be the source of the problem.

In most cases, full window replacement is recommended for the best security and sustainability.

When a window pane is cracked, a professional contractor will remove the broken pain and replace it with an insulated glass unit.

Head on over to our guide on whether you should repair or replace windows for more information.

Can I replace my windows myself?

While glass replacement may be a fairly straightforward process, full-frame window replacement is a labour-intensive task that requires skill and experience.

There are lots of things that can go wrong if you’re not experienced in the work.

For instance, if you send the wrong measurements off to the supplier, you could end up with windows that can’t be used. Or, if you install the window too tight or too loose, this could lead to heat loss and window leaks.

You’ll also need to get your work signed off by your local building control office, otherwise you can end up in deep water when you want to sell your home. This hassle can be easily avoided by hiring a FENSA-certified window installer.

Ultimately, unless you’re well-versed in window replacement, this is a job best left to a professional window fitter.

Where can I find a professional window fitter?

Ready to press on with window replacement? It’s quick and easy to find a skilled and trusted window installer in your local area with Checkatrade.

Just enter your postcode into the box below to view a list of reliable professionals near you.

Only trades who pass our quality checks and meet our high standards are on Checkatrade.

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FAQs

Should I replace all windows at once?

That’s completely up to you.

Replacing all your windows at once is a good way to get all of the disruption out of the way in one go. It’ll also give your home the biggest energy efficiency boost.

That said, replacing your windows in stages can be easier to manage from a financial point of view.

Some homeowners choose to spread out the cost by replacing their upstairs windows before their downstairs windows.

Just make sure to get like-for-like quotes from window fitters so you can accurately compare costs.

What time of year is best to replace windows?

Windows can be replaced at any time of the year. However, spring and summer tend to be particularly popular seasons for window replacement, as the weather is generally mild and dry.

That said, winter can also be a good season to get your windows replaced. After all, this is when installers are less likely to be booked up.

Do you need to redecorate after new windows?

No, you won’t normally need to decorate after new windows are installed, assuming they’re a like-for-like replacement.

However, there are some scenarios where you may need to redecorate. For instance, the decoration around your windows is more likely to get damaged if you’re completely changing the style and appearance of your windows.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to remove very old windows or there’s existing damage to the walls around them. In this case, redecoration might also be necessary.

What to do before getting new windows?

It’s helpful to clear the work area before your contractor arrives. This might include moving furniture, paintings or plant pots out of the way – both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great way to speed up the job and make it easier to clean up afterwards.

Protecting the area with dust sheets and heavy cloths will also help the job to progress more quickly. However, a good window fitter should help to make sure your interiors are protected as well.

Do you install replacement windows from the inside or outside UK?

Your window installer will need to be able to access the openings they’re working on from both inside and outside your home.

Usually, they’ll try to work from the outside as much as possible. This is because it will help minimise the mess indoors. However, working from the inside is quicker and easier, especially if you’re replacing a high window.

It’s also worth noting that fixing points and sealing can often only be done from inside your home.

Is it worth replacing windows yourself?

No, not unless you have plenty of experience installing windows!

Although replacing windows on a DIY basis might save you money in the short term, there’s a lot that can go wrong if you don’t have the right skills and knowledge. If you send the supplier the wrong measurements or install your window incorrectly, you could end up paying more in the long run.

To find a qualified window installer near you, enter your postcode into the search box below.

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