Window frames

Are your window frames starting to lose their shine? Then now is the time to buy new frames. On this page, you will find information about all the possibilities regarding window frames and their costs.

What do window frames cost?

Prices for window frames are largely determined by your choice of material, window, types of glass and the dimensions (prefabricated or made-to-measure) of your window frames. Therefore, per m2, the price varies from £750 to as much as £1,300. View the table below that shows the average cost of different window frames per type of material.

Are you interested in renewing your door frames? Then take a look at the price guide door frames prices.

What are window frames?

A window frame can be thought of as the frame of your window. A door or window is mounted in it. The most common window frames are made of plastic or wood, although aluminium and steel are also popular. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Materials for window frames

Window frames are available in different types of material. Below you will find more explanation of the most common materials:

• Plastic
• Wood
• Aluminium
• Steel

Plastic

Plastic window frames carry the most attractive price tag. In fact, the average cost is between £750 and £1,000 per m2. Moreover, plastic window frames last a long time, around 50 years. Plastic window frames will also give you long-term pleasure as they require little or no maintenance and have an insulating effect.

Wood

Are you a conscious buyer? The wooden window frames seem to be the appropriate choice for you. This material is naturally a moisture and heat regulator that insulates very well. You make a natural choice and save a lot on energy costs. Softwood window frames last up to 25 years, whereas the more expensive hardwood window frames have a lifespan of up to 75 years.

Aluminium

Who is smart thinks ahead. Aluminium window frames are the bigger investment but are not the least expensive. The cost of aluminium window frames ranges from £850 to £1,100 on average. For this investment, you get a solid window frame that requires little to no maintenance. Moreover, did you know that aluminium window frames are just as durable as wooden ones? Aluminium window frames are, in fact, often reusable.

Aluminium combined with wood.

With wood’s character and aluminium’s solidity, you combine materials that ideally complement each other. This combination ensures high-efficiency thanks to its high insulation value. It does come at a slightly higher price.

Steel

Looking for window frames that give your home a tough, industrial look? Steel is super strong and can therefore handle large glass windows with ease. Ideal for lots of light. Steel window frames last 50 years on average. Because these window frames are mainly custom-made and demand is slightly lower, the average cost is a bit higher.

Window and glass types

Finish the window frame by putting suitable glass in it. The insulation value of glass is expressed in U-values. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation. Below you will find various types of glass and the average prices.

Why minimum double glazing?

It is wise to replace single glass in your window frame with minimum double glazing as soon as possible. Single glazing has a very poor insulation value, meaning heat escapes quickly in winter, and your house does not stay cool for long in summer. Poorer insulation also means higher energy bills. Check out the 5 benefits of double glazing below.

1. Lower energy costs

Because fewer heat escapes, you’ll need to heat less and consume less. Depending on the type of double glazing, you will usually recoup this investment within 5 to 7 years. The saving of HR++ glass compared to single glazing is per m2 glass at least 20 m3 gas on your heating costs. So the savings quickly add up.

2. More living comfort

Double-glazing allows you to live more comfortably; less cold air flows through the windows. It also prevents condensation from forming on the inside. Double-glazing is also burglar-proof.

3. Better for the environment

Diminish CO2 emissions thanks to heat retention. In addition, while fire-resistant glass does not help extinguish the fire, it mainly makes it more difficult for the fire to spread.

4. The value of your house increases

Your house increases in value due to the better energy label that double glazing or higher brings.

5. Tax attractive

Adding double glazing to your home is a profitable investment. In fact, it will pay for itself in the long run. You can also get subsidies for insulating your home. Take a look at the Dutch government’s website and see how much you can save.

How to install window frames

Installing window frames is a precise project. If you don’t do it properly, your house could be draughty and less burglar-proof. That is why a professional installs windows carefully. We list the steps a specialist generally takes. That way, you know where you stand.

Step 1: Preparations

First, space must be created so the specialist can easily reach the window frames. This means putting furniture aside, removing curtain rails and neatly covering the floor for protection.

Step 2: Dismantling the old window frame

The specialist will dismantle the old window frame when all the preparations are done. The glass will be removed, after which the frame itself will be dismantled and removed.

Step 3: Mounting the frame

The frame is a frame of plastic or wood with a rubber edge. This frame ensures that your window frames will soon be airtight, draught-free and burglar-proof. It also makes the installation of the frame easier.

Step 4: Mounting the frame

Is the frame properly mounted? Then it’s time for the frame itself. This is done level so moving and turning parts can work properly later. It is important that the frame and the structural frame fit together seamlessly to achieve the airtight and draught-free window promised earlier. The frame is screwed down and the space between the wall and the frame is sealed with sealant by the specialist.

Step 5: Installing glass and windows

Did the glass not yet fit into the frame at the factory? Then this will still be done now. This is done with a glazing bar. This is made of wood, aluminium or plastic and helps secure the glass. The glass is then neatly sealed off. Finally, turning parts are adjusted, after which the frame can be finished as desired.

When do you replace your window frames?

It is advisable to regularly check your window frames for potential weak spots or damage. To find out if your window frames need replacing, we recommend hiring a specialist.

You can recognise window frames in need of replacement by:

• Fading paint – the window frames become porous
• Loss of colour – the window frames lose their shine
• Dust – the window frames contain damage and let air through
• Condensation – the inside of the glass becomes damp

Have your window frames replaced by a specialist. The advantage is that a specialist has the knowledge and experience to achieve an optimal result. This way, you can be sure that your window frames meet your wishes and requirements. Moreover, the damage is covered if you hire a professional. So compare professional window frame quotes to find the best match for your project.

The maintenance of your window frames

The maintenance costs of your window frame depend on the material. Wood, for example, needs more maintenance than aluminium. Different maintenance treatments are:

• Wood window frames: painting once every 5 – 7 years
• Plastic and aluminium window frames: waxing once a year
• Steel window frames: Clean once a year
• Hang hardware: grease once – twice a year

Maintenance of wooden window frames

Hardwood window frames need sanding and painting once every 5 years. This is because wooden window frames are prone to damage and wood rot. Therefore, clean them regularly and check the window frames for weak spots.

Maintenance of plastic window frames

These window frames require little to no maintenance. Hot water will do. Wax your window frame afterwards, as this product provides an extra layer that repels dirt and grime. This also preserves the colour.

Maintenance of aluminium window frames

Like plastic window frames, aluminium window frames require little to no maintenance. An annual cleaning is sufficient. Again, applying wax is a small effort, keeping dirt away from the outside.

Some cleaning tips

• Don’t use abrasive cleaners;
• Don’t use a scouring pad;
• Don’t use bleach or chlorine;
• Rinse your window frames carefully after maintenance;
• Apply wax after cleaning to protect the window frames;
• If in doubt, seek advice from a specialist.

Quality assurance with quality marks

Before having your window frames installed or replaced, it is important that you find out more about the market and the specialists. That way, you are well-informed and know exactly what to look for when finding a suitable window frame specialist. Below is an overview of important quality marks relating to window frames.

• KOMO – This quality mark focuses on quality assurance. KOMO ensures that a product meets certain quality requirements.
• FSC & PEFC – These are two labels that stand up for the lungs of the earth, and forests. Both labels are accepted by major organisations such as the European Union as proof of sustainable forest management. You will see the FSC & PEFC logos on wood products that come from sustainably managed forests.
• SKG (Stichting Kwaliteit Gevelbouw) – SKG inspects factories to check the value of products and processes. This is how they do the same with window frames. A window frame bearing the SKG label guarantees quality.
• Police Label Veilig Wonen – If a product or home is burglar-resistant and meets all the requirements, it may carry this label.
• BouwGarant – Contractors, handymen, experiencers and specialists receive this quality mark if they provide a reliable and high-quality service.

Tips for buying window frames

You’re planning to increase the value of your home by fitting new windows. Before you do so, we would like to give you some simple but useful tips.

Kwantum discount

Do you know people who also want to buy new window frames? Get these projects done in one go by a window frame specialist. Ask them about volume discounts so you may receive a discount on your window frames without compromising quality.

Choose window frames with high-quality hinges and locks

Prevent burglary in your home by purchasing good hinges and locks. The SKG quality mark guarantees the quality of hinges and locks. They do this with a star system. Here, 1 star is not in itself burglar-resistant, as opposed to 3 stars for maximum burglar resistance. So make sure you choose hinges and locks with the SKG label.

Compare quotes and find the right window frames.

Certain that your project will be carried out to your satisfaction? Compare quotes from different specialists. Not only will you compare total prices, but you will also find out which work is included and which guarantees are given. This way, you can choose the best quality frames for your home.