How Much Does It Cost to Install Aluminium Windows?
These types of windows not only require minimal maintenance but also have the ability to withstand the elements, providing a nice contemporary look. Aluminium windows are a solid investment, whether you are upgrading your current windows or looking for windows for a brand new home.
Of course, cost is always an important factor when it comes to choosing new windows. On average, the cost of new aluminium windows ranges from around £500 to £1,500 per window, but this figure shifts based on a variety of different factors.
The biggest factors that affect this are size, type of glazing, window style, and complexity of installation. Throughout this guide, we’ll delve deeper into the details of installing aluminium windows, providing costs and information.
Aluminium Window Prices
| Window | Common Dimensions | Low Range | High Range | Avg Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Fixed | 1200 x 1200mm | £500 | £800 | £650 |
| Casement | 900 x 1200mm | £600 | £1,000 | £800 |
| Sliding | 1500 x 1200mm | £700 | £1,200 | £950 |
| Bi-Fold | 2400 x 2100mm | £1,200 | £2,500 | £1,750 |
The key price influencing factors are:
- Size: Irregular or unconventional shapes and sizes will see you pay towards the higher end of the scale and beyond.
- Glazing: Double glazing is the standard for residential windows, but if you wanted to upgrade to other options like triple-glazing, you would pay more.
- Features: Things like additional security locks will increase the price.
- Frame Finish: Your windows will come with a standard industry finish, but if you want a custom finish for specific colouring or coatings, you will pay additional.
What are the Supply Costs for Aluminium Windows?
Supply accounts for a significant portion of the overall job - somewhere around the 70% mark.
Now, the cost of the products will differ based on a few different factors, mainly the window type, frame quality, and glazing options. Sometimes, purchasing your own materials will lower the overall cost of the job, as the tradesperson will have one less job to do, saving them time and money.
Not to mention, you may be able to spend more time shopping around for the best deal.
Window Type
The type of window impacts the price quite a great deal, with standard fixed windows being the most budget-friendly at between £300-£600 - this is because they are simple and non-moving, making them not only easy to install but cheaper to manufacture.
Windows that do have moving elements to them, like casement, sliding or bi-fold windows, are more expensive as a result but offer more functionality. Casement windows cost between £400-£800, with hinged openings and improved sealing features that drive the price up. Similarly, sliding windows incorporate quite a complex mechanism for smooth operation, and as such, range from £500 to £1,000, particularly for units on the larger side.
At the top end, bi-fold windows really are a luxury choice. Prices for these types of windows start at around £1,000 and go as high as £2,000. These windows are an investment for those who really desire a sleek, modern aesthetic and the highest possible functionality.
Impact of Frame Material Quality
The frame materials can be broken down into two sections - standard aluminium frames and thermally broken frames. The only difference between the pair is that terminally broken frames feature a thermal barrier inside them, improving energy efficiency by around 25%.
This isn’t to say that standard frames don’t perform well for thermal efficiency; it’s just that thermally broken frames will perform slightly better. As such, the cost for thermally broken frames is around 30% higher than that of standard.
Glazing Options and Costs
As mentioned earlier in the guide, double glazing is the most standard option for UK households and costs around £300-£700 per window.
Triple glazing is the bolstered version for those looking for an even more increased energy efficiency, along with substantial exterior noise reduction. Triple glazing will add between £100-£200 onto each window compared to double glazing.
Single glazing is the final option, but this is rarely used in modern builds as it is unlikely to be effective enough to meet the u-value requirement in the UK. The cheapest option is £200 per unit, which is usually used in non-residential settings.
Coatings and Finishes
Typically, your frames will have a basic silver or black powder coating on them as standard, but for around £50-£100 per window, you can have a custom finish added, perhaps to suit a certain colour already used on your home.
What are the Additional Costs of Installing Aluminium Windows?
When working out a budget for your new aluminium windows, you should always account for some potential additional costs. Now, these costs won’t always apply to you, but it’s beneficial to have a plan for them just in case. These costs can vary from project to project, so here's a little more information on each.
Removing Old Windows
Out with the old and in with the new! The removal of old windows will usually be factored into the quote given by your tradesperson, but double-check that this is the case.
If not, you will pay around £50-£150 per window for removal and disposal to comply with environmental regulations. Larger and heavier windows will cost the higher end of the scale.
Adjustment to Window Openings
If there is a requirement to adjust the openings for the windows, especially if the new windows are slightly different in size or shape from the existing ones, modifications will need to be made. This work can cost anywhere between £200-£1,000, depending on how extensive the work is.
Complex Installations
More complex installations, such as fitting windows in difficult areas to reach or maybe integrating them into a unique wall, can require specialist equipment and additional manpower.
If this is the case for your project, it could add anywhere between 10-30% to the overall project cost. However, discuss this with your tradesperson to discover where all the costs are generated from.
Tradesmen Costs for Installing Aluminium Windows
The labour aspect of installing aluminium windows usually accounts for around 30% of the overall job quote. Typically, window fitters will charge between £20-£40 per hour or £150-£200 per day.
However, it is more likely that the window fitter will quote you on the job as a whole, providing discounts when multiple windows are being installed at one time.
For a single window installation, which may be required in the event of repair or damage, you will typically pay around £150-£200 per window, depending on the size, type and ease of access to the property.
If there is a requirement for scaffolding, extensive area preparation or any other complexities, this cost could increase again.
As mentioned, most window fitters will offer a discount for bulk installations of five to ten windows. This is essential because there is less time spent between windows when multiple windows are being installed at once, and tradespeople can work much more efficiently when installing multiple windows at one time.
Not to mention, you’ll likely get better deals on the supply of windows in multiples, too.
Bear in mind that some installers will include everything in one price - so the supply of products and the installation.
Make sure that you have a proper conversation with the window fitter to understand exactly what is being provided and for what price. You should also get multiple quotes to ensure that the price you receive is fair.
How Long Does It Take to Install Aluminium Windows?
The overall time it takes to install aluminium windows depends on quite a few factors, including the type of window, the age and condition of the property and whether there is any preparation work to be undertaken prior to the installation.
As you would imagine, simpler installations are far quicker than complex projects that require a lot of preliminary work and the requirement to work with large or irregular shapes and sizes.
For a single window, installation usually takes around 2-3 hours, but this is assuming there are no necessary alterations to the existing area.
This will include the preparation and fitting of the window and ensuring everything is level and secure before sealing.
For larger and more complex designs, like sliding windows, this process can take much longer at around 4-6 hours per window due to their sheer size and the additional challenge of installing the mechanisms.
As mentioned, the process is sped up when multiple windows are installed at one time. This is because window fitters are used to fitting around 3-5 windows per day and are more efficient.
So, for a house with eight windows, this would be wrapped up in around 2 full days, of course, with the caveat of it taking longer if there was any requirement for things like scaffolding.
Bi-fold windows, for example, usually need scaffolding due to their weight, so this will add time to the overall project.
For older properties, there may be a requirement to remove old frames, repair the openings and even carry out restorative work to make the openings suitable for the modern style windows.
These necessary adjustments will extend the time of completion by around 1-2 hours per window, and installations in listed buildings or conservation areas will take more time again.
While simple and basic aluminium window installations are relatively quick, the total time will always depend on the style of the window, along with the condition of the property and the number of windows being installed. For an accurate timescale, speak with your installer at the early stages of the job.
Types of Aluminium Windows
As you may have guessed, aluminium windows are available in a range of styles, and each has its advantages and disadvantages, suited to preferences and architectural aesthetics. Below is a rundown of each style, with a cost and some pros and cons.
Casement Windows
Typically costing between £400-£800 per window, casement windows are hinged on the side, opening outward to offer excellent ventilation and great views.
They’re incredibly versatile and suit both modern and more traditional properties.
Pros
- Easy to use and clean.
- Fantastic energy efficiency when closed.
Cons
- Limited opening angles.
- Outward openings can sometimes obstruct exterior spaces like pathways.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows cost around £3500-£1,000 per window and are perfect for contemporary homes and spaces with limited room inside. These windows feature multiple panels that slide along a track. They offer wide openings while also providing a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Pros
- Ideal for smaller rooms.
- Wide openings allow lots of natural light.
- Great durability and requires little maintenance.
Cons
- Limited ventilation as only one side can open at a time.
- Tracks require regular cleaning to ensure smooth operation.
Tilt-and-Turn Windows
It costs between £600 and £1,200 and is perfectly suited for modern homes that require ventilation and easy cleaning.
Tilt and turn windows tilt inward from the top or swing open like a door, and it's this dual functionality that makes it so popular with homeowners.
Pros
- Flexible openings for ventilation and cleaning.
- Extremely secure with multi-point locking systems.
- Ideal for small spaces.
Cons
- More costly due to the complex mechanism.
- Does require sufficient interior space to swing open.
Bi-Fold Windows
Bi-fold windows are ideal for homes with large openings or for those who like to emphasise bringing the outdoors in. These windows consist of panels that fold to provide a wide and open space. They cost between £1,250 - £2,500
Pros
- Provides natural light and ventilation.
- Creates a link between indoor and outdoor areas.
- It adds a modern and luxurious look to the property.
Cons
- More expensive than other window styles.
- Requires a lot of space to accommodate panels.
It’s important to really consider what you want to achieve with your new aluminium windows based on your needs and preferences.
Casement and tilt and tilt-and-turn windows are the best options for energy efficiency and access for cleaning, whereas sliding and bi-fold are the more modern options to suit aesthetics and wide open spaces.
However, you will pay a premium for this. Understanding each window and its benefits and costs will help you to make an informed decision that suits your preferences and budget.
FAQs
Q: Are aluminium windows energy-efficient?
A: Yes, aluminium windows are incredibly energy efficient, especially when coupled with thermally insulated frames and double or triple glazing.
By itself, aluminium isn’t known for its thermal prowess, but aluminium frames are manufactured to bridge that challenge with additional components.
Overall, aluminium windows with double glazing will reduce your energy bills and maintain a comfortable temperature indoors all year round whilst also being more environmentally friendly due to the lesser energy consumption.
Q: How long do aluminium windows last?
A: One of the best benefits of aluminium windows is their durability, with them lasting between 30-40 years and potentially even longer with proper maintenance and upkeep.
Aluminium is resistant to corrosion, rust, and weathering, which makes it ideal for any environment across the UK. By choosing high-quality frames, this lifespan will only increase as some will come with protective coatings like anodised finishes, which help prevent wear from UV rays and moisture.
Regular and simple maintenance like cleaning and checking seals will ensure that your window frames last as long as possible, and if you replace your seals every 15-20 years, you should see no reduction in performance over the years.
Q: How can I find a good tradesperson?
A: When hiring a professional to install your aluminium windows, it’s important to do some research first. Start by comparing quotes from multiple window fitters in your area to ensure you're getting a fair price and to get some insights into different approaches for the project.
Next, check reviews and testimonials on Google to assess the quality of their work and see some examples. Personal recommendations can also be invaluable—ask friends or family for referrals to see if anyone has any solid recommendations.
Above all, communicate with your window fitter about things like price, budget, and timescales to ensure a smooth project and no nasty surprises.
Q: Do aluminium windows require maintenance?
A: A great benefit of aluminium windows is that they don’t require much maintenance, which is why they are so popular. Highly durable and resistant to corrosion, maintenance simply involves regular cleaning and checking of seals.
The best practice is to clean the frames every few months using detergent and water simply to remove dirt and grime. If you live coastal and suffer from salt build-up, this will help keep your windows and frames looking great and will help prevent any build-up that could cause damage.
Q: What building regulations are there to consider for a composite window installation?
A: There are a few regulations to be aware of when fitting new windows. However, this is just for your information, as the responsibility to ensure your windows meet these regulations will lie with the contractor you employ.
Part L of the Building Regulations requires windows to meet specific energy efficiency standards, focusing primarily on glazing, although the frames are considered as part of the overall assessment.
If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, you may need to secure planning permission before proceeding with the installation. Other key regulations, such as those related to fire safety and accessibility, will usually be evaluated by your tradesperson, who will ask the necessary questions to determine whether they apply to your project.
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