As with most aspects of home improvement you will find the costs of double glazing will vary tremendously from company to company.
It does not always follow that you get what you pay for when installing new windows.
Not only will double glazing help to make your home warmer, quieter and more environmentally friendly, you will also find that one of the benefits is increased security for your property.
Double Glazing Installation
It is no surprise that most of your home’s heat is lost through your windows. But did you know you can minimise heat loss by adding double glazing windows to your home? Installing double glazing keeps your home warmer, quieter, reduces your energy bills and offers reduced condensation for your windows.
What is Double Glazing?
Double-glazing creates an insulating barrier by sandwiching two sheets of glass together leaving a gap between the two sheets. It is available in a variety of frame materials and styles. Low emissivity glass, which has a metal oxide coating that lets in light and heat while reducing the amount of heat that may escape, is the most energy-efficient glass for double glazing. The frame can be made of either uPVC, wood, aluminium, or composite. Wooden frames have a lesser environmental impact but require maintenance. Whereas uPVC frames can last for long periods of time.
If you are looking for an eco-friendlier option, aluminium or steel frames can be easily recycled as well as being long-lasting and slim. If you are stuck choosing between aluminium or steel frames then composite frames, which contain an inner timber structure that is covered in aluminium or plastic, would be the perfect choice for your home. If you replace your windows with more energy-efficient double or triple glazing, keep in mind that your replacement frames will be more airtight than your original frames, which means condensation may form due to the reduced ventilation. Instead, choose replacement windows with trickle vents built into the frame to allow a small amount of controlled ventilation.
How much does Double Glazing Installation cost?
In an average three-bedroom home, window replacements can cost around £7500, but this can vary due to varying factors including the size and number of windows, the type of glazing you prefer, the glass and materials that are used on the window and frames.
UPVC windows are the most popular choice for windows in the UK. UPVC double glazing windows can start at £200 and can go up to £800 per window depending on the type of window you have. For a full breakdown, a casement window is usually the cheapest at around £300 to £400. Next are tilt and turn windows ranging between £500 and £600. Dual turn windows are slightly pricier at £550 to £700 and sash windows can cost up to £800. These prices are just guides and can vary between different tradespeople. Added extras such as colour, handles and finish will also raise the cost so when receiving a quote, make sure to breakdown what the cost involves and how much the extras will add to the price.
Finding a Double Glazing Specialist
In England and Wales, choosing an installer who is registered with one of the official Competent Person schemes will ensure that your windows are installed to the government's standards. If you hire an installer who isn't a member of one of these programmes, you'll need to apply for building control approval before the window can be installed.
At Top Tradespeople finding quotes has never been easier. Simply post your job and we will connect you with up to 3 local window fitters without obligation, and totally free of charge.
Can I install Double Glazing on Period Properties or in Conservation Areas?
Many listed buildings and conservation areas can have restrictions on what windows and glazing options are permitted on the property. Before you decide, it is best to find out what choices are available to you by contacting your local council. Modern double glazing must often be made to seem like your building's original windows in order to preserve or enhance the character of the area. According to their grading, listed buildings have very strict restrictions on what can be changed.
A lot of older properties have old sash windows which are usually protected both in its appearance and the materials used. However, new double-glazed windows with timber frames in the same sash style can be found, which many local authorities approve of. Prices are high, but this may be your only choice for getting approval. Secondary glazing or heavy curtains are the alternative options if double glazing is not possible.
Double Glazing Installation Costs
If you are looking to keep the costs of your double glazing installation to a minimum yet ensure that you get the best quality possible, you should investigate perhaps purchasing your own windows from a trade centre.
You will find that there are many companies who sell upvc windows and patio doors, as well as conservatories, to both trade and retail.
Of course, you probably won't get a trade discount if you are only purchasing a few windows, however you will find that it is normally cheaper to go direct to the supplier and find a tradesman or company who will install your windows.
You can buy a trade double glazed window from as little as £100.00 however do not forget to buy any upvc window trims that are required and also any packers for round the windows.
If you are looking to get a company in to both supply and fit your double glazing prices can range from £1,000 up to £10,000 or even more, depending on the number of double glazed windows you are looking to get fitted.
In addition, there are several type of double glazing nowadays and even triple glazing is available so you should weigh up all the odds and carry out your research thoroughly prior to choosing both the kind of windows you want fitting and also the service provider for your project.
What Are The Benefits of Double Glazing?
Here are just a few of the benefits of getting double glazing installed.
- Your home will have some level of sound insulation from the outside of the property.
- Benefits of reduced fuel bills. Less of the heating will leave the property. Ensure that you choose the most energy efficent double glazed windows to get the full benefit of this.
- Warmer in the property. As less heat will be leaving the property you will find that your home is warmer without the heating being as high.
- More secure. Ensure that your windows are fitted in the correct way to be as secure as possible
- Add value to your home. Double glazed windows are amongst the most value adding home improvements you can carry out to your house.
