Replacing window frames

Would you like to have your window frames replaced and are you curious about the cost? Window frames are an important part of your home, both inside and outside. They define the look of your home, but also ensure that you are not in draughts indoors. It is therefore crucial to replace your window frames when they are outdated. All the information on replacing window frames, windows and their costs can be found here.

Replacing window frames and windows: what are the costs?

The cost of having window frames replaced varies depending on the type of material. On average, the prices for replacing window frames are between £750 and £1,300 per m². See the overview below for window frame prices per type of window frame. The prices are for windows and window frame replacement.

When do you need to replace window frames?

There can be several reasons why your window frames need to be replaced. In some cases, it is not necessary to replace the entire frame, but you can also have the frame repaired. In situations such as wood rot, outdated hardware and single or standard double glazing, you can usually choose better to replace your window frames completely.

Wood rot

Wooden window frames can be affected by wood rot. You can recognise wood rot by the soft spots or cracks in the paintwork. It is an attack on the wood caused by fungi. This can be caused by three different factors:

1. Long-term humidity levels of 20% or more.
2. A temperature between 4 and 40 degrees.
3. Oxygen

This happens very quickly, which is why it is very important to maintain your wooden window frames to prevent wood rot.

Aged hardware

A good hardware is essential for having a safe home. Outdated hardware has the effect of making it easier to break into your home and causing your home to lose heat unnecessarily. Therefore, have your window frames replaced on time to prevent this.

Single or standard double glazing

Frames with single or standard double glazing often do not insulate sufficiently. As a result, a lot of heat loss takes place. When you replace the window frames and have HR++ or triple glazing installed in them, you can save on your energy bills. So you can choose to replace windows and window frames.

Sometimes it is possible to replace only the glass and keep the current window frame. If you choose to replace the window frames as well, look for window frames that insulate well. This will allow you to save even more on your energy bill.

How are window frames replaced?

The process of replacing window frames is as follows:

1. You discuss the options such as the material, the quantity and where they should be placed with the specialist. After which the specialist will come and measure the frames.
2. The frames are ordered from the supplier and delivered.
3. The work area is cleared of furniture or it is covered. Then the curtain rails are removed and the workspace is cleaned.
4. The specialist removes the glass and the moving parts such as doors or windows.
5. The remaining parts of the old frame are removed and the workspace is cleared. After demolition, the old frames remain; you can dispose of these yourself, but the specialist can also do this for you.
6. The structural frames are installed. These are wooden or plastic frames with a rubber edge. These ensure that the window frame is draught-free and the frame has room to expand and contract with temperature changes.
7. The new window frames are placed, leveled and screwed into the adjusting frame.
8. The glass and the turning parts are attached and adjusted. In some cases, this is already done in the factory and only needs to be finished properly.
9. The specialist cleans up the construction waste and any window decoration or blinds can be put back in place if required.

Advantages of replacing window frames

If you have your window frames replaced, you will benefit from these advantages:

• Lower energy bills;
• Better burglary protection;
• Involvement in the appearance of your new window frames;
• New window frames won’t require any maintenance for the time being;
• Your house will be worth more in the event of a sale;
• Better sound insulation;
• Your own choice of which window to put in the frame.

Replace window frames permit

Is a permit required for replacing window frames? In principle, you do not need a permit for replacing window frames, although there are exceptions for main buildings, for example. If you want to replace window frames facing the street or where they are visible to other people, you can do so without a permit as long as you keep the same style. If in doubt, always check with the municipality whether you need a permit to replace your window frames.

Replace window frames: find the right window frame specialist

Would you like to have your window frames replaced by a specialist? When you choose a window frame specialist, you want to be sure he delivers quality. After all, you will be looking at your new window frames every day. To help you check the quality, here are some smart tips.

Check for quality marks

When you have your window frames replaced, you want it done right. Hallmarks offer guidance when buying window frames. Check in advance whether the specialist has the following quality marks, for example.

KOMO quality mark

KOMO is an important quality mark in the Dutch building industry. If you buy window frames with a KOMO quality mark, you are assured of high-quality, good window frames.

CE-mark

The CE mark indicates that the window frames have been tested in accordance with European directives.

VKG quality mark

The VKG quality mark stands for Vereniging Kunststof Gevelindustrie. This quality mark applies to plastic window frames and shows that the frames are of good quality and professionally installed. This quality mark also guarantees that the plastic window frames will last 50 to 75 years.

FSC quality mark

The FSC quality mark applies to wooden window frames. It shows that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. In addition, the FSC quality mark contributes to the preservation of forests worldwide.

Choose quality locks and hinges

Quality locks and hinges significantly reduce the risk of burglaries. This is how you recognise high-quality, good hinges and locks:

• SKG1: 3 minutes’ delay in case of burglary
• SKG2: more than 3 minutes’ delay in case of burglary
• SKG3: 5 minutes’ delay in case of burglary

Watch the guarantee period

Are you having your window frames replaced? Then always pay attention to whether a warranty period is mentioned. That way you can be sure you are properly insured. Is no guarantee period mentioned in the quote? Then ask for it in writing. In order to qualify for the guarantee, you must meet these 2 conditions:

• the window frames have been well maintained
• the window frames have been installed by a specialist

If you have installed the window frames badly yourself or have not maintained them properly, the chance of a guarantee is very small.

The guarantee period differs per component. Look for the average warranty period in the overview below.

Compare multiple quotes for having window frames replaced

To find the right specialist for your project, it can be useful to compare several quotes side by side. Therefore, request several quotes and compare them on the basis of, for example, price, quality marks, guarantees and time schedule. Make a well-considered choice and select the specialist that suits you.

Frequently asked questions