Windows · by material
Timber windows
Timber is the traditional window, and on a period house often the only one that looks right. Modern timber windows are engineered, factory finished and double glazed, so they are far warmer and longer lived than the ones they replace. They do need repainting every several years.
Is it right for your home?
Suits
- Victorian, Edwardian and older houses
- Listed buildings and conservation areas
- Anyone who wants a natural material
Good points
- Looks right on period homes
- Usually acceptable where uPVC is not
- Can be repaired and repainted rather than replaced
Watch out for
- The most expensive frame
- Needs repainting or re-staining every several years
- Longer lead times
What timber windows cost
Timber windows typically cost £12,500 (3-bed semi, nine casement windows), with most jobs between £7,500 and £20,000. That includes VAT at 20%. Fitting takes 2–5 days on site.
What you would actually pay
Typical 3-bed semi, nine casement windows · UK- Typical installed cost Timber windows, supplied and fitted
- £10,417
- VAT at 20% Standard rate
- £2,083
- Net cost to you
- £12,500
If you borrowed £12,500.00 over 36 months at 0.0%, it would cost £347.22 a month – £12,500.00 in total, of which £0.00 is interest. The last payment would be £347.30.
Illustration only – not a quote, not an offer of credit, and not financial advice. Rates depend on your circumstances and creditworthiness.
Where the money goes
| Element | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Windows, made to measure Nine factory-finished softwood or engineered timber casements with double glazing. | £6,200 – £16,500 |
| Fitting Removing the old frames and fixing the new ones, often by a joiner. | £780 – £2,000 |
| Removing the old windows Taking out and disposing of the old frames. | £240 – £660 |
| Scaffolding or towers Where upstairs windows can't be reached safely. | £0 – £500 |
| Making good Plastering and decorating the reveals inside. | £0 – £900 |
Guide prices including VAT. Your actual cost depends on your home, access and specification.
What moves the price
- Softwood or hardwood
Engineered softwood is the usual choice. Hardwoods such as oak cost considerably more and suit exposed sites and heritage work.
- Finish
Factory-finished frames cost more up front and last much longer between repaints than frames painted on site.
- Heritage detail
Slim glazing bars, putty-style beads and slim double glazing for conservation areas all add to the price.
What should be in a quote
If a quote is missing any of these, ask why before you compare it with another.
- The number of windows, each one's size and style, and which panes open
- The frame profile or brand, its colour inside and out, and the guarantee on frames and glass
- The glass: its energy rating or U-value, whether it is toughened where it needs to be, and any obscure panes
- Removal and disposal of the old windows and frames
- Making good the plaster and reveals inside, and new sills and trims
- FENSA or CERTASS registration, so the work is certified under Building Regulations
- Whether the guarantee is insurance-backed, and what deposit is asked for
Prices by region
Labour is most of the difference. Typical price (3-bed semi, nine casement windows), including VAT.
| Region | Typical | vs UK average |
|---|---|---|
| London | £15,500 | +25% |
| South East | £14,500 | +17% |
| South West | £13,500 | +10% |
| East of England | £13,000 | +6% |
| West Midlands | £13,000 | +4% |
| Scotland | £12,500 | +2% |
| East Midlands | £12,500 | UK average |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | £12,500 | UK average |
| North West | £12,000 | −2% |
| North East | £12,000 | −5% |
| Wales | £11,500 | −6% |
| Northern Ireland | £11,000 | −12% |
Common questions
How often do timber windows need painting?
A factory finish typically lasts eight to ten years before it needs recoating. Paint applied on site needs doing sooner.
Can I have double glazing in a listed building?
Sometimes, with listed building consent, usually as slim double glazing in timber frames. Secondary glazing is the other option.
Get quotes for your home
A guide price only takes you so far. Local firms can price the work on your own home, and comparing a few quotes is the quickest way to see what is reasonable.
Compare free quotes