Maybe you’re looking to install bespoke sash windows to preserve your home’s architectural character. Perhaps you just need to reduce your heating bills with energy efficient units.
Either way, sash windows can be a very smart choice. The main question left to answer is whether they fit within your budget.
The range typically starts at £500, with the average cost for replacing a sash window (with double glazing) being about £1,300. However, the number varies depending on the material, size, and more.
Today’s post provides estimates for different sash window types, along with the average repair expenses. We also share a few golden tips for making the most of your existing units before they need a full replacement.
Top 5 Factors Affecting the Quote
So, there are several factors at play here. Let’s take a quick look at five of the most important ones:
- Location and accessibility
- Window size
- Glazing
- Glass type (toughened, low-E, annealed, self-cleaning, etc.)
- Frame material
The frame material is the number one factor affecting the price range, though. So, let’s take a closer look at the average cost for the most commonly used materials.
Sash Window Cost Estimates by Frame Material
In a rush? Here’s a quick overview:
| Window Frame Material | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| uPVC | £535 to £815 |
| Timber | £500 to £1,400 |
| Composite | £1,800 |
| Aluminum | £300 to £1,600 |
Now, let’s check out the uPVC, composite, and aluminium sash windows Wirral in a bit more detail:
uPVC
If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-maintain alternative to timber, replacement uPVC windows might be the way to go. After all, modern uPVC sash frames can now look and feel almost the same as painted wood (minus the rot, warping, and fading risks).
Plus, they’re cost-effective, even when compared to other uPVC options. For reference, a uPVC bay window replacement can run up to £3,500. Meanwhile, 900 mm x 1,200 mm sash frames are usually under £1,400.
Aluminum
Aluminium frames don’t just look sophisticated and sleek. They also offer superior performance, helping keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, all thanks to the material’s thermal efficiency, as the modern frames can achieve a U value of 1.2 W/m²K!
Composite
There are many material combos that can make up a composite window frame, with timber-aluminium and uPVC-aluminium being two of the most popular ones.
This way, you combine the benefits of two materials and get the best of both worlds. A composite frame can be long-lasting, appealing, low-maintenance, and quite a good insulator. It all comes at a steep price, though.
Sash Window Cost Estimates by Glazing
Glazing refers to the number of glass panes used in your unit. The more the panes, the better the performance.
Compared to double glazing, triple glazing gives windows and doors about 40% to 50% better thermal performance. Naturally, triple glazing is a more expensive option, with a price point 10% to 20% above that of double-glazed products.
Expect to pay around £3,150 for a standard 900 x 1,500 mm triple-glazed sash window.
Sash Window Cost Estimates by Glass Type
Frosted glass, self-cleaning glass, laminated glass, or low-E coatings are all optional upgrades that can increase the cost. And each has its own estimates and averages.
The price point may increase by £180 if you opt for 4 mm glass used in a 1,200 x 1,200 mm double-glazed self-cleaning unit. Don’t forget that the installation and labour itself can cost around £300.
That makes self-cleaning upgrades about 20% more expensive than standard glazing.
Meanwhile, 4 mm toughened glass can cost £20 per square metre. The 8 mm and 10 mm versions cost around £50 and £60, respectively. The 12 mm thickness, however, is the most expensive, with a price tag of over £80 per square metre.
Besides the cost of the glass itself, you might have to pay extra for straight edge polishing. This could add about £5 per metre to your total.
Full Sash Window Full Replacement vs. Repair Costs
A sash window restoration can cost as little as £80 or as much as £480.
As for damaged cords, the repair job typically requires replacing the sash cord entirely, which could set you back £120–£160.
To draught-proof your sash windows, though, expect to pay around £300 on average.
When to Replace Your Sash Windows
The life expectancy of sash window frames varies a lot. uPVC frames, in general, are relatively short-lived and last for 25 years or so. This estimate isn’t all bad, but it is much lower than that of other traditional frame types that can last for more than 100 years.
The good news here is that you won’t have to replace the windows every time you notice a drop in performance. Yes, you might want to replace your current sash windows if you see signs of extensive rot or warping on the frame.
Still, some small issues can be fixed for a fraction of the price and hassle. Take, for instance, the cord replacement. And again, a bit of upkeep can help your sash windows stay looking (and functioning) well for years.
Problems to Expect During a DIY Window Replacement
Generally speaking, installing sash windows yourself isn’t recommended. For one, getting a professional finish will be extremely tricky, which might compromise the overall performance and leave you with cold draught and/or leaks.
Of course, carrying heavy window frames up a ladder is also no easy feat for those without prior experience.
7 Tips for Making the Most of Your Sash Windows
No matter which frame material and glass type you choose, the last thing you want is for problems to start popping up soon after the installation.
Here are seven handy tips for maintaining your window unit and boosting its performance:
1. Upgrade Your Sash Windows With Draught Proofing
To boost the energy efficiency of a rattling or draughty sash window, you don’t need to replace the whole thing. Instead, you can keep the original frame and replace the single glass panes with double (or even triple) glazing.
That being said, double and triple-glazed windows tend to have a lower life expectancy than their single-glazed counterparts. So, you might have to replace the panes again in 30 years.
2. Consider Installing Blinds
Adding some curtains or blinds over the sash windows can help with the energy efficiency aspect a bit. The curtains will act as a barrier against cold draughts, especially if you pick curtains made with heavy-duty or thermal fabric.
3. Restore Your Windows Periodically
Well-maintained sash windows tend to last longer and perform better. So, spending a bit every 10 years or so on a frame restoration can save you a lot of money in the long run.
4. Assess Your Cords Every Now and Then
It’s normal for sash cords to degrade with time. Rather than tackling the issue yourself, you’ll likely need professionals to come in and replace them eventually to make sure the process goes smoothly.
You can, however, assess the condition yourself. Just try bending the cords to check if they still snap or if they’re all dried out.
5. Opt for Secondary Glazing if You’re on a Tight Budget
In some cases, upgrading your sash window with new double-glazed panes isn’t a viable option right now because of budget restrictions. Installing double and triple glazing may also be prohibited for listed property.
Either way, you can opt for secondary glazing as a way of improving your sash window’s heat retention and sound reduction.
For secondary glazing, fitters add a single panel of glass over your existing window. This panel is typically fitted on the room side of the windows. Then, the professionals seal around the edges. This could cost between £300 and £500 (labour included) per window.
6. Don’t Force Your Sashes Shut
Sometimes the sashes on the frame don’t open or close easily. This might be due to jams, the presence of debris in the weight pockets, or mechanical issues like broken cords. Plus, if the bead guiding the sash is poorly positioned, the window may not function properly.
The number one tip here is to avoid forcing the sash. Otherwise, you could cause even more damage or warp the frame.
Instead, call your installer to come and check the frame. If you want to try a quick fix, try rubbing beeswax along the edges.
7. Avoid Thick Paint Coats
If you choose to paint your softwood sash window, aim for thin, even coats. Thicker coats increase the risk of jams from paint accumulations. You might end up with paint on your sash cord, too, which will only lead to premature cord deterioration.
Sash paint brushes with pointed ends will go a long way here.
4 Popular Alternatives to Sash Windows
Sash windows combine traditional style with modern performance. However, they’re not the only valid options out there.
If you’re still not sure that sash units are the perfect fit for your needs, check out these alternative window types:
- Bay windows
- Casement windows (£300 to £670 per uPVC casement window frame, depending on the glazing and size)
- Flush casement windows
- Tilt and turn windows
Find the Perfect Sash Window for Your Home
When done right, sash windows can be energy efficient, secure, durable, and worth the investment. And you don’t have to waste your time researching your options or DIYing the installation.
With FAB Home Improvements, you get a bespoke solution. Our experts handle the entire process, from measuring to the final installation.
Ready to install a window that ticks all the boxes? Contact our team today for a free, zero-obligation quote.