Double glazing windows are an essential part of any home, with the potential to reduce energy bills, increase the value of a house and change the look and style. With such attractive benefits, you might be wondering what the cost of double glazing a three-bedroom house is. This will vary depending on your choice of frame material, type of window and any customised design finishes you choose.
Three-bedroom houses have between six and 12 windows on average. The more windows you have, the higher your overall cost will be. Our researchers have explored double glazed window prices and carefully considered different frame materials, window types and finishes. We’ve established which ones are best for energy efficiency and design, as well as finding budget-friendly options.
What’s the average cost of installing double-glazed windows in a three-bed house?
When it comes to considering the cost of double glazing a three-bedroom house, you’ll need to factor in your individual requirements. Double glazing windows come in various styles and types, all of which can add or subtract from the overall cost.
With that being said, our researchers have spent time working out the average cost of double glazing windows. It helps to have a ballpark figure before transitioning into the decision-making process, which involves choosing frame material and window type.
| Material | uPVC | Aluminium | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost for a three-bed house | £4,200 | £8,400 | £12,640 |
As well as the above, the type of three-bedroom house you live in can have a bearing on cost. Our researchers have found out the average costs for three-bedroom terraced houses, semi-detached and detached homes.
Three-bedroom terraced house
A typical three-bedroom terraced home in the UK will share a wall with another terraced house on either side of the property. An average terraced house has between six and 10 windows, and the average cost of double glazing for this type of property is between £4,000 and £6,000.
Terraced houses usually consist of two to three bedrooms. A number of terraced homes in the UK date back to Victorian times, which means the living room is usually fitted with a bay window because they were popular at the time. Bay windows generally will cost you more due to requiring more materials and window panes.
End-of-terrace homes, where there is one wall without an attached property, might require more windows than a standard terraced home. Any additional windows will increase the cost of your double glazing.
Three-bedroom semi-detached house
Semi-detached houses share a wall with only one other house. Three-bedroom semi-detached homes usually have between eight and 12 windows. Some will include windows on the detached wall, and others won’t – this is why this property type has such a wide range for the number of windows.
The installation cost of double glazing windows for a three-bedroom semi-detached home is £5,000 to £7,000. Factors such as frame material, type of window and number of windows could influence the overall cost.
Homes with a detached wall can sometimes suffer from heat loss. When a wall is attached to another property, it is better insulated, and so less heat escapes your home. Windows are one of the main culprits for heat loss in a home, so you should factor this in when you choose a frame material and glass type.
Three-bedroom detached house
Three-bed detached homes do not share a wall with any other properties. This type of home typically has between eight and 12 windows, similar to a three-bed semi – the average cost is £5,000 to £7,000.
A completely detached home is more likely to suffer from heat loss. This is especially true if your home is not draught-proofed. Doors and windows are top of the list for home improvements that increase home insulation. With that being said, you might want to choose a frame material that is good for insulation, like uPVC, as well as consider specialised energy-saving glass or even triple-glazed windows.
How to get the best price on double glazing windows for a three-bed house
In the UK, there are lots of double glazing companies to choose from. Some installers operate nationwide, while others are local installers – both are good options.
Finding out the exact cost from window companies’ websites can be tricky. Most quotes are bespoke to your individual design choices. This is why you should shop around for quotes from multiple installers. It’s best to source a minimum of three double glazed windows quotes; the more you have to compare, the better informed your decision will be.
You should also keep an eye out for deals or offers that companies have throughout the year. It’s also a good idea to install your doors at the same time as your double glazed windows if you need them, as this can keep labour costs low, and companies might even offer a deal if they’re supplying multiple products in one order.
What affects the cost of double glazing a three-bedroom house?
Double glazing windows are available in different styles, types and finishes. If you’re new to double glazing, you might be wondering what those are, and how they can affect cost. We’ve outlined which styles and types are available and compared the average costs.
| Window material | Casement style | Tilt and turn style | Sash style |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £4-200 – £5,200 | £4,800 – £6,560 | £8,000 – £9,600 |
| Aluminium | £5,550 – £10,250 | £5,760 – £8,160 | £7,600 – £20,000 |
| Wooden | £12,640 – £15,600 | £8,000 – £12,000 | £24,000 – £28,800 |
Window materials
Double glazing windows can be fitted with three different frame materials – uPVC, aluminium and timber. Each touches different price points, and they each come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
uPVC
uPVC window frames are made from a type of plastic. It’s the most affordable type of window frame since it’s relatively cheap to manufacture. uPVC windows are available in lots of different styles, such as wood finishes, which allow for a wooden look minus the cost, though coloured uPVC windows will typically be more expensive than plain white. This material is durable and long-lasting and requires very minimal maintenance.
Aluminium
Aluminium frames are customisable, and most window installers will offer various colour options. Its slim profile makes aluminium frames a sleek and stylish window type. It’s a more expensive option than uPVC, but a cheaper alternative to timber frames. Aluminium is low maintenance and is a strong material that doesn’t warp or chip and certainly stands the test of time.
Timber
Timber frames are often found on Georgian period properties. It’s a stylish and elegant frame choice that can also act as a feature within your home. Timber has a very high efficiency and is a great material for heat insulation. Wood in general, is expensive, and timber frames tend to be the most expensive type of frame regardless of which window company you choose to install your double glazed windows. Timber frames have a tendency to warp, peel and flake without proper maintenance.
Composite
Composite windows are made from a combination of vinyl, wood and fibreglass materials. Their wood appearance is appealing to homeowners who desire a wood aesthetic at a more affordable price. Though they’re cheaper than timber, they’re still expensive because they do contain a percentage of wood, which is a costly material. Composite windows are low maintenance and durable.
Types of windows
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to window styles. This will most often come down to your individual preferences. Sometimes homeowners’ choices are influenced by their home’s existing style, especially if you already have bay or bow windows – it is easier to replace like-for-like.
Casement windows
Casement windows open outwards – they’re attached to a frame by hinges on the side. They’re the most popular style of window amongst UK homeowners. Casement windows provide uninterrupted views and open wide, making them good for ventilation. They’re also the most cost-effective style of window.
Sash windows
Sash windows are often found on traditional Georgian properties. However, they’re also a well-loved modern trend thanks to their timeless and classic design. Traditional sash windows consist of two glass panes attached to a pulley and weight system, which is pulled up or down to open and close.
Tilt and turn windows
Tilt and turn windows are an excellent choice for safety and are often popular in family homes. Tilt and turn windows can open on a vertical axis, much like a casement window, only inwardly instead of outwardly, but they can also be opened to tilt inwards. They’re safe and secure and usually fitted with handles that can limit how far the window is opened.
Bay windows
Bay windows protrude from the main wall of the home. They consist of one central pane and two angled window panes on either side. They’re a great design for natural lighting, but not so great at efficiency. They’re prone to condensation and draughts, so you should avoid single glazing with this window style. Typically, bay windows are not fitted in all rooms of the home, with most choosing living areas on the ground floor. Though they cost more than other styles, you will most likely choose another window style for other areas of your home.
Bow windows
Bow windows are a variation of bay windows. Similar to bay windows, they also protrude from the main wall of the building. The difference is that a bow window is curved, consisting of three to six window panes which form a gentle arch. Bow windows add character to a home and allow for lots of natural light. Their pricing is similar to bow windows and tends to be one of the most expensive styles – but again, typically, homes do not have bow windows installed in every room.
Frequently asked questions about double glazing a three-bedroom house
Double glazing windows have an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years, making them a worthwhile investment. Their benefits far outweigh the initial cost, as you’ll save money on your energy bills from having an energy-efficient home. They could even add money to the value of your home should you decide to sell it in the future.
Triple glazing windows are a good choice for your home if you’re concerned with energy efficiency. Triple glazing windows tend to cost around 10 to 20% more than double glazing windows. Though their price tag is higher, they provide a higher level of security, noise reduction and thermal efficiency.
Rachel Sadler is a seasoned journalist and content creator with a multi-year track record in both print and digital media.
Rachel is an expert in renewable energy, particularly solar panel solutions for UK households. She investigates the most effective solar panels for domestic use, emphasising cost savings and the potential for households to produce their own electricity. Her interests extend to home insulation, specifically the role of windows in enhancing energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and cost reduction. She delves into the best materials for durability, maintenance, and affordability, crafting informative guides and articles.
