Would you like to install new window frames and are you curious about how this is done? In this article, read all about installation by a specialist, average prices, options and handy tips on how to save. That way you can make a smart and well-considered choice.
Table of contents
- Frame installation costs
- What material should you use to have frames installed?
- How are new frames installed?
- Can you install frames yourself?
- Save money on frame installation
- Frequently asked questions
Frame installation costs
Are you going to have frames installed? Then you must be wondering what costs are involved. On average, window frames cost between £ 750 and £ 1,300 per m². Window frame prices depend on the material, the dimensions of the frame, the type of glass and whether it is a window or door frame. Installing plastic frames is cheaper than having steel frames installed, for example. See the overview below for average prices per type of window frame.
| Type of window frame | Average prices per 1 m² (including installation and glass) |
|---|---|
| Plastic | £ 750 – £ 1.000 |
| Wood | £ 850 – £ 1,200 |
| Aluminium | £ 850 – £ 1.100 |
| Steel | £ 900 – £ 1,300 |
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What material will you have window frames installed in?
There are different types of materials to choose from when buying window frames. The cheapest window frames are generally made of plastic. This is because the raw material price of plastic is lower and the manufacturing process is largely automated. Wooden and aluminium window frames are somewhat higher and closer in price than those made of plastic. Finally, there are steel window frames. These frames are installed less often and when they are installed, it is often custom-made, making the installation of this material more expensive than the rest.
Each material has distinctive characteristics. Consider price, lifespan and how the window frames need to be maintained. Take a look at the overview below to get an idea of the different properties and choose the material that suits you.
| Features | Plastic | Wood | Aluminium | Steel | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average price per m² | £ 750 – £1,000 | £ 850 – £1,200 | £ 850 – £1,100 | £ 900 – £1.300 | |
| Average lifespan | 40 years | 20 to 75 years (depending on the type of wood) | 50 years | 50 years | |
| Maintenance | Little maintenance required | Reduced | Little maintenance required | Little maintenance required | |
| Isolation value | 1,5 or lower | 1.8 or higher | 1.8 – 2.7 | dependent on additional insulation measures (e.g. air chambers) |
*The lower the insulation value, the better the insulation.
How are new window frames installed?
The installation of window frames can be a difficult and time-consuming job. To ensure proper installation, it can be useful to have the window frames installed by a subject matter expert. Proper installation ensures that the frames are draught-free and last as long as possible. In general, the specialist goes through the following steps when installing the frames:
Step 1: Preparations
On the day of installation, first of all, a number of preparations need to be made. The furniture is pushed aside and covered to create working space. Then the curtain rails are dismantled and cover foil is placed on the floor to protect it from dirt and damage.
Step 2: Dismantle old window frames
Before the window frame specialist can install the new window frames, he must remove the old ones. The glass is removed, the old frames taken out and then cut into two parts. After that, the old frames are disposed of. This step proceeds slightly differently when you opt for renovation window frames.
Step 3: Installing set frames
After the old window frame has been removed, the set frame can be installed. This is a frame made of plastic or wood and has a rubber edge. The adjustment frame ensures that the window frames are airtight, draught-free and extra burglar-proof. An adjustment frame also makes it easier to mount the frames and gives the frames room to expand or shrink.
Step 4: Mounting the frames
The new frames can now be installed. The frames are placed level so that there are no problems with the turning and moving parts such as a tilt/turn window. Like the level frame, the window frame has a rubber band. Here, it is important that the window frame and the structural frame fit together seamlessly, making the window frame airtight and draught-free. On the outside, the space between the wall and the frame is sealed with sealant or again with a rubber band. Finally, the frame is screwed into the frame.
Step 5: Installing glass and windows
When the frames are in place, the windows and glazing can be fixed. In some cases, this is already done at the factory. If this is not the case, the glass is placed in the frame during installation using a glazing batten. A glazing bar is made of wood, aluminium or plastic and is used to secure the glass, after which it is glued in place. The turning parts of the window are adjusted and the frames are neatly finished.
After the installation, the specialist will take care of clearing away the building materials so that you are left with a tidy house.
Can you install frames yourself?
You can also choose to install the frames yourself. However, keep in mind that installing window frames can be a tricky job. Poor installation brings major disadvantages. You then have a chance of leakage or poor insulation which means they have to be replaced early. In addition, you have no guarantee if you install the frames yourself.
If you do install the frames yourself, make sure you have the installation instructions. In most cases, these are included. Otherwise, you can request it from the supplier or manufacturer. Make sure you collect the right tools, in most cases these will be:
- Protective goggles + gloves
- Water level
- Roll gauge
- Hammer
- Drill
- Reciprocating saw
- Jacksaw
- Jacks
- Plugs
- Screws + screwdriver
- Draft sealant
- Molding spray and/or polyurethane foam
- Covering foil
When installing the window frames, it is important to have a second person to support you during the work. Especially when lifting the window frame and installing the glass, an extra pair of hands is essential.
Saving on window frame installation
Fitting new window frames can be a hefty investment. Renoca gives you some saving tips to help you keep the costs as low as possible.
Do some of the work yourself
Look at and discuss with the specialist which work you can already do yourself. Consider making space for the installation by moving furniture aside and afterwards taking the old frames to the waste disposal site yourself. The specialist will then spend less time on this and you will save on the costs.
Quantity discount
Hire several window frames in your house or try to hire the same specialist together with your neighbours. That way, you might claim a volume discount and save on the total cost.
Request quotes
Request multiple window frame quotes to get a good idea of the cost for your project. The price of a window frame depends on the specialist you choose. Therefore, put several quotes side by side to compare the specialists based on price, work, guarantees and time schedule. These factors can help you choose the best specialist.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, window frames cost between £ 750 and £ 1,300 per m². The exact price depends on the material, the dimensions of the window frame and the type of glass. Easily compare several quotes for window frame installation for the best deal for your project.
You can install window frames yourself, or leave the job to a professional. When in doubt, we always recommend requesting a number of window frame quotes so that you can immediately see the difference in costs between outsourcing and installing the window frames yourself.
Plastic window frames are the cheapest to install. Prices are on average between £750 – £1,000 per m². Get quotes for plastic window frames immediately.
