How Much Does It Cost to Fit Timber Windows?
Timber frame windows have long been a popular choice in the UK, mostly due to their aesthetics and their sustainability benefits. With timber being the oldest construction material in existence, timber frame windows offer a natural warmth and timeless elegance, making them ideal for both heritage and more modern homes.
Natural wood grains add to the unique character of each timber window, and the ability to paint or stain the wood makes it an incredibly versatile material to choose from.
On an environmental front, timber frame homes really stand out for their sustainability benefits. Firstly, when sourced from renewable forests, timber is infinitely renewable compared to other materials like aluminium or uPVC.
Timber also stores carbon dioxide, known as sequestration, which helps to reduce carbon emissions and possesses fantastic thermal efficiency, which helps to lower energy consumption.
The average cost to install timber frame windows is anywhere between £800 and £2,500, depending on the type of timber frame window you want to install. Things like size, glass, and the type of window frame affect the price and labour costs.
Timber Window Prices
| Type | Low Range £ | High Range £ | Avg Range £ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supply and Fit | |||
| Casement Window 600 x 900mm | £800 | £900 | £850 |
| Casement Window 900 x 1200mm | £1,100 | £1,300 | £1,200 |
| Casement Window 1200 x 1200mm | £1,250 | £1,450 | £1,350 |
| Sash Windows 600 x 900mm | £1,250 | £1,450 | £1,350 |
| Sash Windows 900 x 1200mm | £1,800 | £2,000 | £1,900 |
| Sash Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £2,000 | £2,200 | £2,100 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 600 x 900mm | £1,050 | £1,200 | £1,100 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 900 x 1200mm | £1,400 | £1,600 | £1,500 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £1,650 | £1,850 | £1,750 |
| Bay Windows 600 x 900mm | £2,100 | £2,400 | £2,250 |
| Bay Windows 900 x 1200mm | £3,000 | £3,250 | £3,125 |
| Bay Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £3,350 | £3,700 | £3,500 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 600 x 900mm | £600 | £750 | £675 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 900 x 1200mm | £900 | £1,100 | £1,000 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £1,100 | £1,300 | £1,200 |
| Bespoke/Custom | £1,500 | £3,000 | £2,250 |
| Supply Only | |||
| Casement Window 600 x 900mm | £600 | £700 | £650 |
| Casement Window 900 x 1200mm | £900 | £1,100 | £1,000 |
| Casement Window 1200 x 1200mm | £950 | £1,250 | £1,150 |
| Sash Windows 600 x 900mm | £1,150 | £1,250 | £1,150 |
| Sash Windows 900 x 1200mm | £1,600 | £1,800 | £1,700 |
| Sash Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £1,800 | £2,000 | £1,900 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 600 x 900mm | £850 | £1,000 | £900 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 900 x 1200mm | £1,200 | £1,400 | £1,300 |
| Tilt & Turn Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £1,350 | £1,550 | £1,450 |
| Bay Windows 600 x 900mm | £1,900 | £2,200 | £2,050 |
| Bay Windows 900 x 1200mm | £2,700 | £3,000 | £2,850 |
| Bay Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £3,000 | £3,400 | £3,200 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 600 x 900mm | £500 | £650 | £575 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 900 x 1200mm | £700 | £900 | £800 |
| Fixed/Picture Windows 1200 x 1200mm | £900 | £1,100 | £1,000 |
What Are the Supply Costs for Timber Windows?
The supply costs for timber windows depend on quite a few different dependencies, including the type of wood, finish and glazing options.
Each one of these choices can impact the overall cost of the project, so there needs to be a balance of aesthetics and performance to suit budgets.
The type of wood you select will impact the cost of the project quite substantially. Softwoods such as spruce or pine are more affordable than hardwoods, sitting at the lower ranges of cost.
While softwood is lighter and easier to work with, it does require quite a lot of upkeep to prevent it from decaying. Hardwoods like oak and mahogany are certainly more costly, as they are known for their durability and luxury look, which makes them a really popular option for high-end designs.
Next, consider glazing options. Single-glazed windows are the cheapest, adding around £50-£150 to the base cost, but they are significantly less energy-efficient and are unlikely to meet building regulations for U-values.
As such, double-glazing is the most commonly chosen glazing option with enhanced energy efficiency and noise reduction. However, it typically adds around £750-£1,500 per window, depending on the size. Triple glazing, which is the most expensive option, can typically add between £1,000 and £2,500 per window.
Triple glazing may offer superior insulation and soundproofing, but its higher cost and weight require more robust frames, which increases the overall price.
The finish of the window frame will impact the overall cost. Untreated windows are naturally the most cost-effective option. However, untreated timber requires immediate painting or staining to protect it from weather damage.
For this reason, the most common route is to opt for pre-painted or stained window frames, and while they add around £100 to £300 per window, it saves time and offers a much more consistent finish.
For example, a small softwood casement window, at around 600 x 900 mm in size, might cost £400–£500 when untreated with a single glazing option. However, a pre-painted double-glazed version could range from £800 to £1,000.
A larger hardwood sash window sized 1200 x 1200 mm might cost somewhere around £1,600–£1,800 for untreated double glazing and £2,000–£2,500 for a pre-stained, triple-glazed version. Ultimately, the choice between these options depends on the budget at disposal and design aspirations.
What Are the Additional Costs of Fitting Timber Windows?
There are some other additional costs to consider when fitting a timber frame window separate from the supply and installation costs. These expenses can vary, so we’ve broken them down in a little more detail here:
Removal and Disposal of Old Windows
The most common cost that affects nearly all projects is the removal and disposal of old windows. However, this is a fairly simple and easy task that should only cost around £50-£150, but this does depend on the size and material of the windows being removed.
Customised Windows
If you’re looking for custom designs or styles, a bespoke project will certainly cost more than an ‘off-the-shelf’ option. These custom options will add anywhere between £500-£1,500 per window for fit to abnormal shapes and sizes or simply just for a unique design.
Custom solutions may be essential for listed buildings or conservation areas, so consider this when working out your budget.
Painting and Finishing
The painting and finishing of windows on-site may add cost to the overall job.
For things like precise colour matching or custom adjustments to remain in line with other features of the home, a custom on-site finish or painting may be essential but comes at an additional cost of between £100 and £300 per window.
Scaffolding
For some buildings, there may be a requirement for easier access at height, and as such, scaffolding may be necessary.
This will add anywhere between £300-£1000 to the project cost, but this is massively dependent on the height of the building, the size of the windows, and the duration for which the scaffolding will be required.
Tradesmen Costs for Fitting Timber Windows
The costs for fitting timber windows can vary slightly based on a few different factors, most notably, the location, property type and the overall complexity of the job.
Tradesmen typically charge around £150-£200 per day; however, this can change based on the region in which you live. For example, high-demand areas like London and the South East naturally attract higher costs for trade and labour than small towns and even some cities in the north.
For small or straightforward jobs, a tradesman may quote you per job, per window, or per day, giving you more information about how long the job is likely to take.
The average cost of hiring a professional to install a timber frame window is usually somewhere in the region of £200-£400 per window, again depending on size and complexity.
For some larger projects, some tradespeople may offer discounts based on the number of windows being replaced, which can help reduce the per-unit cost. As we will cover more later, you should always obtain multiple quotes from tradespeople to ensure that you are receiving an accurate price for your area and for the job you want to do.
How Long Does It Take to Fit Timber Windows?
The time it takes to fit timber frame windows can vary based on a few factors, such as window size, type and the condition of the property.
For an average timescale, it takes around 2-4 hours per window. However, if the installation is more complex, such as bay windows, it can take between 4-8 hours per window.
However, the time per window can be reduced if multiple windows are installed at once, as there is a far reduced time spent setting up and preparing the windows. Here is a table to provide an overview of timescales:
| Window | Average Time of Install |
|---|---|
| Single Casement Window - Ground Floor | 2-3 hours |
| Single Sash Window - Standard Size | 3-5 hours |
| Single Bay Window | 6-8 hours |
| Installation of Five Casement Windows | 1-2 days |
| Installation of Ten Windows across a Property | 3-4 days |
There are several factors that can influence the overall time taken to install timber frame windows. Firstly, the condition of the property actually has quite a substantial impact on the installation time, as older buildings tend to have uneven or irregular openings, not to mention deteriorated material around the window frames that require some preparation.
This adds an element of complexity and can extend the installation time. Similarly, the type of windows can impact the installation time, with more intricate windows like bay windows taking more time than casement windows due to weight and size.
Of course, customised windows will always take more time to install as there will be a requirement to potentially prepare the area for the installation.
Additionally, the number of windows being installed will dictate how long the job will take to complete, especially when you take into account things like cleanup and the removal of old windows.
Types of Timber Windows
As you may have noticed, having read through this guide so far, there are various types of timber frame windows, each with its own advantages and challenges. Here’s an overview of each, with a little more information.
Timber windows come in various styles, each with unique features, aesthetics, and costs. Here’s an overview of the most popular types, including their advantages and disadvantages, to help you choose the best option for your property.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are the most common style or type of timber frame window. They feature a hinge at the side and open outward like a door. This simple and effective design makes them incredibly versatile and suitable for any type of home.
These types of windows tend to range from £800 to £1,450.
Pros
- Offer great ventilation due to their wide openings.
- The simple design is versatile.
- Little to no maintenance.
Cons
- The opening can obstruct pathways.
- Hinges do tend to degrade over time.
Sash Windows
Known as the classic choice, sash windows are perfect for heritage properties. They consist of two sliding panels known as sashes.
Sash windows range from £1,250 to £2,200 per window, depending on size.
Pros
- Sought after traditional aesthetics.
- Smooth operation.
Cons
- Higher cost than casement windows.
- Requires regular maintenance to ensure smooth sliding and prevent drafts.
Bay Windows
Bay windows are easy to spot as they extend outward from the building, which creates additional interior space and increases the amount of natural light. They’re often used to create a semi-circle effect on the interior.
Bay windows cost between £1,900 and £3,400.
Pros
- Adds an internal element to your window.
- Versatile design options for different types of homes.
Cons
- Higher installation complexity and cost.
- It may require structural adjustments, adding to the length of time it takes to install.
Tilt and Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are fairly modern options as they are tilted inward at the top for ventilation, or they can swing inward like a door, offering both functionalities.
Typically range from £850–£1,500 per window, depending on size and specifications.
Pros
- Dual functionality provides flexibility for both ventilation and cleaning.
- Suitable for all home styles.
Cons
- Higher cost than standard windows.
- The inward opening design may restrict interior space.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace Timber Windows?
The cost of repairing or replacing timber windows really depends on the extent of the damage done to the windows, which determines the work required. Some common repairs include fixing draughts, replacing broken or blown glazing, and repainting or refinishing.
Draught proofing costs around £50-£150 per window, and replacing broken glazing will cost around £100-£300, depending on the type of glazing you want replacing. More extensive tasks like wood-rot repair are far more intensive and, as such, will cost around £200-£400 per window frame.
In many situations, replacing timber windows is much more cost-effective than repairing them, particularly when you consider the longevity of newly installed windows.
Replacing windows will always be more beneficial for windows with severe rot or warping. Additionally, older single-glazed units that no longer meet modern energy-efficiency standards will require replacing.
It may be tempting to simply repair instead of replace, but repairs only address short-term issues, and regular maintenance can become costly over time.
FAQs
Q: How long do timber windows last?
A: The lifetime of a timber frame window depends on a few factors, such as the materials, the maintenance and the environmental conditions. Incredibly high-quality timber frame windows, such as hardwoods, can last up to 70 years.
Softer woods like pine will generally have a shorter lifespan of around 20-40 years. However, regular treatments like weatherproofing can extend this further.
Maintenance plays a huge role in the longevity of timber frame windows, such as repairing or resealing every 5-10 years, protecting against moisture and UV damage. Modern timber windows are manufactured to offer greater durability.
Q: Are timber frame windows energy efficient?
A: Yes, timber frame windows can be incredibly energy efficient due to the natural thermal properties of the timber itself. This is even more effective when coupled with double or triple-glazing windows, enhancing the thermal performance.
Further weatherproofing and sealing will only continue to enhance this thermal performance, and maintenance is one of the key aspects to retaining energy efficiency on new windows.
Q: Are there any building regulations to consider for timber frame window installation?
A: There are a few regulations to be aware of in the UK when it comes to installing windows. Firstly, Part L requires windows to meet specific energy efficiency standards, with the glazing often being the key element as opposed to the frames.
Next, you should seek planning permission if you live in a listed building or a conservation area. Other regulations, such as fire safety and accessibility, will be reviewed by your chosen tradesperson, who will ask questions to determine whether they apply to your project.
Q: What type of tradesperson installs Windows?
A: Typically, you will employ a window fitter to install your timber frame windows, but in some cases, particularly for custom jobs, a carpenter may also be required for the frames.
Q: Do timber frame windows require regular maintenance?
A: Yes, timber frame windows will require periodic maintenance to ensure their longevity.
These can include things like weatherproofing the wood to protect against rain, along with sealing joints and replacing stripping to ensure no draughts. Timber frames are at risk of warping or wood rot, so by keeping up to date on maintenance, you can reduce the likelihood of this impacting your windows.
Sources
- https://www.bereco.co.uk/blog/timber-window-costs
- https://www.independent.co.uk/advisor/windows/windows-prices
