Category: Windows

The prospect of getting double glazed windows installed throws up a lot of questions in many people’s minds. Some will worry about the eventual cost and others will question how long the process will take.

It’s understandable to have reservations, as the process will involve leaving your home temporarily open to the outside world while the windows are fitted.

Those who are looking to eventually sell their home will want to have their windows fitted in a timely and efficient manner, and so timescale is an important factor for many.

How long until I get a slot?

There are two main factors that will determine how long you will have to wait until you get a slot. The first is how busy the installers are when you call to book.

You could be waiting anywhere between a day to a few months, which will vary on how packed their schedule is. The second factor is what time of year you call to book.

Understandably, most people want to have their windows replaced in the summertime when the weather is much more pleasant; you will have your home exposed to the elements for a brief part of the day while the windows are fitted. So, as a result, you can expect schedules to be a little more busy during the summer.

How long does the process take?

The first part of the process will involve taking the old windows out and getting them ready to fit the new frames. Roughly speaking, you can expect your installers to get around 10 windows fitted in a day.

This means that it could potentially take three to five days for a large house to be fully-installed. However, it’s worth knowing that a large window or a particularly complex window such as a bay window may take a few hours to install in its own right.

When you contact your installer to ask about prices and time duration, be sure to give them an exact rundown of what you want before asking for a timescale. If you have some quirky and interesting frames you want to be added or different window styles such as sash windows, you might need to allow for more time.

Can I improve the time it takes?

There are certainly some ways in which you can aid the process of installing the windows. Try and clear plenty of space around the property, which means:

• Removing objects in and around the windows, both inside and out.
• Clearing pathways.
• Sweeping away debris, particularly around the outside of your home.
• Taking down curtains and drapes.

This adds more time on top of the process of removing your old windows and replacing them with modern models.

The best way to get an accurate sense of how long a window installation will take is to contact the company you want to work with and get a quote and estimate.

They will have to get a sense of what you want in the first place to give you a reasonable timescale. This way, you can start planning around your booked slot.

Working out the likely cost of windows can be a challenge as, in most cases, installation companies need to visit your home before they can provide a realistic quote. There are also lots of contributing factors that can affect the cost, such as the type of glazing, the frame materials, security features, and the complexity of the installation. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t find the answers you need with a little bit of research. To help you find the best deal on your windows we have put together this guide to the average price for windows in the UK.

How much do new windows cost?

The frame material which you select for your new windows will have a big impact on the price you will pay. While each supplier’s prices will vary, here are some average prices based on research. These prices are for the supply and installation of a window but are intended as a representation only so you can see how much difference your choice of material could make to the price of a window.

Window Prices

Size	UPVC	Aluminium	Timber
600x900mm	£250-£400	£550-£700	£850-£1,000
900x1200mm	£400-£600	£650-£800	£1,200-£1,400
1200x1200mm	£650-£900	£750-£1,000	£1,350-£1,500

The lowest cost option is usually UPVC, which also provides plenty of benefits for homeowners. For example, quality UPVC is durable and strong and only needs occasional cleaning to keep it in good condition. Beware of very cheap UPVC, however, as it is likely to be poor quality and may discolour and warp over time. Aluminium frames are more costly than UPVC but often offer better energy efficiency and durability. Both UPVC and aluminium are available in a wide range of colours and finishes.

Timber framed windows are the most expensive option, but some people prefer the look of authentic wood, particularly if their home is a period property. Timber frames require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition but can be painted or stained to change their colour.

Cost of Windows by Style

Window prices will also vary depending on the style. If you’re wondering how much for windows by style, here are some average prices for a UPVC window (excluding installation costs) in some popular styles.

Style of Window	Average price range
Casement	£150-£300
Sash	£550-£850
Tilt and Turn	£450-£600
Bay	£1,000-£2,400

Casement windows are a popular choice as they are very versatile and suit most styles of home. These windows can be opened from the bottom, top or side.

Period properties such as Victorian and Georgian houses often have sash windows which are sliding panels, often in timber frames but increasingly in UPVC.

Tilt and turn windows are a more contemporary option which offer a lot of flexibility as they can be open fully or tilted to allow for ventilation.

A bay window protrudes out of the wall of the home and leaves a bay area inside. These windows can be a range of shapes include box windows, bow windows, oriel windows and circle bay windows.

A Sash Window is something which is becoming more commonplace and popular with UK homeowners, these windows are very sturdy and well built, lasting a long time.

If you’re looking for competitive prices for new windows, get in touch today and get a quote for double glazing from either ourselves or one of our trusted partners.

With period feature windows often being so coveted, you may be wondering what exactly constitutes as a sash window. You may have even moved into a gorgeous new place and are wondering whether the panes fitted in your home are indeed this style of window. So, what exactly makes a sash window? Read on to find out so you can be up to date with all you need to know. Want to know the average composite door price? Find out here about composite door prices.

Style

Sash windows are composed, strictly speaking, of moving panels or frames. These panels are referred to as ‘sashes’; hence the name. Typically, there is a top and bottom frame, with one easily adjustable panel. You will often see them in homes that originate from the Victorian or Georgian era. Many of these windows have six glass panels within each frame, which is often part of their iconic image.

Many people will be familiar with the vertically sliding variety, where one panel is fixed and other slides upwards or downwards. However, there is a style that pre-dates this version, which is referred to as the Yorkshire sash. This style of sash window slides horizontally, providing a look that befits a quintessential English cottage. You can also find versions of the sash window where both panels are adjustable. These are referred to as ‘double hung’ sash windows.

It may seem as if the moving panel must be opened and closed by brute force, however, this isn’t the case. The sash moves thanks to a mixture of cords and weights. The weights provide a balancing act between the weight of the sash and gravity; allowing it to stay open.  Some modern models use spiral balances to perform this trick.

Historical details

Sash windows date back from England in the 17th century, although the exact creator cannot be agreed upon. You might be interested to know that in the United States these are referred to as ‘muntins.’ Their classic appearance and historical significance often makes people wonder whether it is possible to have anything other than single-glazed panels in them. The answer is of course: yes! Plenty of modern buildings have double-glazed sash windows installed. The only time that this can be a problem is when the building is listed – you will need to have permission to replace the single-glazed versions.

What’s the appeal?

To put it plainly: sash windows add character to a building. What singles out a period building to its contemporary neighbours is its standout features. Often, one of the most noticeable features is the windows, and sash windows have an instantly recognisable aesthetic. The box frame and elegant glass panels often conjure the image of stately homes and elegant Victorian houses.

Sash windows may be using mechanics that still hark back to their century of origin; however it’s a style what has stood the test of time. Not only have they proven to be a desired feature in the 21st century, but also that they can adapt to the times. You can let in light with tall, elegant sash windows but keep the cold out with double-glazing.