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Aluminium Windows in the UK: Prices, Types, Pros & Cons
- Aluminium windows cost between £210 - £1,615 on average.
- There are many types of aluminium windows to choose from, including: casement, sash, tilt and turn, bay and bow windows.
- The biggest benefit of aluminium windows is their durability, strength, and longevity - they often last 30 - 40 years.
Aluminium windows offer a fashionable yet durable option for any new window installation. Their exceptional strength and weather resistance make them future-proof, while extra sturdy frames allow for larger panes of glass, helping you make the most of natural light.
If you’re searching for the right window types for your home, we can help. In this article, we’ll look more closely at aluminium window options, from the wide variety of styles available to the pros and cons and all the costs involved.
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Aluminium window styles
One of the many benefits of aluminium windows is their versatility. They come in a range of styles, making them a great choice for most homes and design preferences. Each style offers its own functionality and visual appeal, as detailed below:
Casement windows
Many homes opt for this classic style. Aluminium casement windows are hinged at the side (or top/bottom) and swing open like doors, either outwards or inwards. This style is a great choice for most rooms in a home, especially those that need good ventilation, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Sash windows
This classic window style is inspired by historical design with a modern twist. It works using two sliding panels (sashes), which operate in a vertical motion. Although typically, this style is usually found in timber, aluminium sash windows perfectly replicate this design with slimmer, stronger frames. These are ideal for living rooms or front-facing spaces and can complement historical or traditional style buildings.
Tilt and turn windows
For a slightly more modern design, aluminium tilt and turn windows use a dual-opening mechanism, allowing them to tilt inwards from the top or swing inwards from the side. This style offers easy access to cleaning (from inside), flexible ventilation, and enhanced security, due to its multi-point locking system and central bar restrictors.
Bay and bow windows
Other more traditional styles, which greatly enhance a space and natural light flow, are aluminium bay and bow windows. Typically found in lounges or large rooms, both styles include multiple panes of glass and project outward from the building.
In bay windows, the central pane is usually fixed while the sides are angled. With bow windows, a gentle curve is created. Aluminium is a particularly good material for these styles, as it offers a sturdy, slim, and more stylish appearance.
Cost of aluminium windows
Now that we understand the types of aluminium windows available, let's take a look at the potential costs involved. Depending on the style, size, and installation fees, prices can vary significantly.
To guide you on these elements, we’ve created the following table, based on current UK market prices and our own expert's input.
| Aluminium Window Prices (per window) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Window style | Cost per unit | Installation | Total incl. installation |
| Casement | £210 - £1,075 | £150 - £200 | £360 - £1,275 |
| Tilt and turn | £265 - £1,345 | £200 - £250 | £465 - £1,595 |
| Sash | £315 - £1,615 | £200 - £300 | £515 - £1,915 |
| Bay (3 panes*) | £1,550 - £2,340 | £300 - £400 | £1,850 - £2,740 |
| Bow (4 - 6 panes**) | £1,860 - £4,750 | £400 - £500 | £2,260 - £5,250 |
To understand the full costs of aluminium windows, you need to account for each factor that can influence your overall spend. These include the following:
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Aluminium window frames:
The frames themselves can range in price depending on the style and quality you choose. According to WhatCost market estimates, prices range from £210 to £1,615 for popular options such as casement, tilt and turn, and sash windows.
Aluminium also comes in various alloy options, with the industry standard for residential and commercial windows being a 6000 series alloy (6063 in particular). Different alloys can offer various levels of strength, flexibility and customisation, which can be useful for bespoke scenarios (such as listed buildings) - but this will also affect prices.
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Window sizes:
Our costing includes all common window pane sizes, from 600 x 900mm to 1400 x 1400mm. Larger windows will be more expensive than smaller windows, as they require more materials. If you require bespoke sizes, your costs may also vary.
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Number of windows:
It goes without saying that the more windows you need, the more you’ll spend; however, you can save money on your installation fees if you buy more windows at once. For example, if you wanted to replace both upstairs and downstairs windows, paying for two separate batches can cost more than doing them all at once.
This is mainly because installers can spend less time and work more efficiently by doing all fittings at once. In addition, some suppliers may offer promotions or discounts for buying in bulk, which is something worth considering and speaking to your installer about.
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Installation:
The fees you will pay for an installer to fit your windows are subject to many factors. These will be dictated by the specific work you require. For example, prices for a new window opening will be higher than a straightforward window replacement cost.
You will also find that the costs can vary greatly between installers, with larger national firms charging more than local companies. Your location will also impact the rates you pay, as it may be most costly in areas like London, for example.
To give you an idea of how installation costs can add up, we’ve listed some estimates below - but keep in mind that you may not require all of these elements and that costs may be very different where you live.
| Installation Cost Estimates | |
|---|---|
| Installation requirement | Average cost |
| Installers daily rate | £25 - £35/hour (approx. £200 - £280/day) |
| Fitting per window frame | £80 - £100 |
| Fitting per glass pane | £25 - £30 |
| Disposing of waste (per ton) | £150 |
| Cutting out a new window opening | £300 - £1,000 |
| FENSA certificate (per window) | £25 |
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Glazing options:
All of the prices above are the cost of double glazed windows, as this is the most popular/common choice throughout the UK. Different glazing options, however, can impact costs as there are multiple choices available. For example, secondary glazing can cost an additional £100 - £250 per window, while triple glazed window prices can add £150 - £300.
To get a specific cost and find the very best deal on your new window installation, you should speak to a qualified installer in your local area. With their expert advice and local knowledge, you can get windows that are perfectly suited to your needs and your budget.
Tracking down a trusted installer can take time, and you can easily waste hours scrolling the web, sending emails and being left days or weeks with no response. Instead, why not spend just 30 seconds and fill in our simple form?
We’ll connect you with up to 4 window installers in your area, who will provide you with competitive quotes. It’s completely free with no obligations attached!
Just click below to get started.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year
Aluminium window advantages and disadvantages
As with any product, there are pros and cons you need to consider before you decide if it's right for your home. To help you weigh up these points, we’ve listed the advantages and disadvantages of aluminium windows below.
Pros
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Eco-friendly and recyclable
Aluminium windows are a great choice for those wanting a more environmentally friendly option. This is because aluminium can be repeatedly recycled, without losing any of its quality. In addition, many new frames are also made using recycled material, which further reduces their impact.
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Energy efficiency
Aluminium windows offer high energy efficiency due to their design. Most aluminium windows use thermal breaks, which are a non-conductive barrier fitted inside the frame (between the inner and outer parts). This helps to reduce heat transfer, minimise heat loss and prevent condensation. New aluminium windows are also typically installed with double glazing to further enhance insulation.
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Stylish appearance
Many people choose aluminium as it has a certain design appeal. In traditional form, slim black frames with large panes of glass offer a unique choice. However, aluminium can also be customised with a range of colours and finishes to match a wide range of tastes.
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Durable and weather-resistant
Aluminium is rust and corrosion resistant, making it suitable to face the harsh outdoor conditions. With added finishing options, such as power coating or anodising, aluminium can withstand most climates, from heavy rain to strong sunlight, without being affected.
These qualities make aluminium windows much stronger and more resistant than other windows, such as uPVC and timber.
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Long lifespan
With such a hardy exterior, aluminium can last far longer than most other materials. You can expect aluminium windows to last 30 - 40 years, making them an excellent investment when compared to lower-grade options (which may need more frequent replacement or repairs).
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Lightweight
Another great feature of aluminium is that it’s a lightweight metal. This allows for quick, easier installation and more customised options. With a strong, but lightweight material, slimmer frames can be produced without compromising on the window's overall strength.
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Low maintenance
Aluminium windows don’t require the same level of upkeep as some other materials, such as timber, which may require painting or varnishing. Aluminium only needs basic cleaning and checks because it is a highly stable and weather-resistant material.
Cons
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Higher cost
Installing aluminium windows is typically more expensive than the more common option of uPVC windows. This is mainly due to the higher price of the material, but it can also be affected by any custom finishes or choices you include.
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Surface scratches
Despite its weather-resistant surface, aluminium is still prone to wear and tear, in particular scrapes or surface scratches. If you live in coastal areas or those with higher pollution levels, this can cause some problems with corrosion if the protective finish becomes damaged.
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Condensation risk
Whilst all windows are at risk of condensation, aluminium is slightly more vulnerable. As the metal reacts to temperature changes, it can affect the internal temperatures of the glass. This is only really an issue if your rooms are poorly ventilated, as it can lead to mould growth if left untreated.
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Doesn’t suit all aesthetics
Although aluminium windows come in a range of styles and finishes, their overall look is quite modern and might not be what you’re looking for. If you want a traditional shape, finer details, or a more natural-looking material, you might want to consider timber window frames instead.
Aluminium window glazing
The type of glazing you choose for your aluminium windows is a vital part of whether they fulfil your needs. This not only affects your home’s comfort, but also impacts the overall cost as well.
Glazing choices can affect your level of insulation, noise reduction, security and natural light. However, with aluminium windows, you have a much wider range of choices to help you target the things that are most important to you.
If you’re keen to find ways to save energy in your home, choosing the right glazing can be essential. Here are some of the main aluminium glazing options:
Double glazing
For most homes in the UK, this is the standard choice. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass with the space between filled with air or a gas (such as argon). This setup provides a good level of insulation, noise reduction and limits condensation.
Triple glazing
Triple glazing is a more enhanced version of the above, but with an additional third pane of glass and layer of air. This type offers an increased level of insulation and noise reduction, which can be ideal for those in busy areas or particularly cold environments. Triple glazed windows in the UK are, however, the more expensive choice, but would be a worthwhile investment if you struggle with excessive noise or heat loss in your property.
Secondary glazing
This option involves adding an internal pane of glass to an existing window to enhance insulation without the need to spend as much for brand-new windows. Secondary glazed windows are also a good option for protected buildings where original single-pane glass cannot be replaced.
As well as different glazing options, there are also special glass coatings that help to enhance the performance of your aluminium windows. These include:
Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass
This is a special type of glass that is coated in a thin microscopic metallic layer. This helps to reflect heat back into a room, reducing overall heat loss and improving energy efficiency, whilst still letting in the same light levels as normal glass. This option can be applied to most double or triple-glazed windows.
Solar control glass
In a similar way to Low-E glass, solar controlled panes help to reflect the suns heat away from the building. This can reduce temperatures and UV rays, helping to maintain a cool environment and prevent any interior sun damage. These panes are a great idea for highly sun-exposed rooms (perhaps young children's bedrooms) or conservatories.
Self-cleaning glass
Although the name implies some kind of magic, this glass coating in fact works by breaking down dirt, which can then easily be washed away by rainfall. This is great for general maintenance, but it is particularly useful for hard-to-reach windows, such as skylights.
Should you get aluminium windows for your home?
Deciding on the best combination of frames and glazing for your home will depend on your circumstances, priorities and, of course, your budget. Aluminium windows, however, do offer a wide range of benefits that make them worth considering.
With a range of modern styles and customisable options, you can find aluminium windows to perfectly fit your home design. The combination of durability and weather resistance makes them a reliable choice that will last between 30 - 40 years.
Prices are also important though, and while costs start from just £210 for popular aluminium casement windows, they can extend up to £1,615 for large sash options. In addition, you should expect to pay between £150 - £300 for installation fees.
If you’re looking for a sustainable option, that can improve your efficiency, aluminum windows paired with double glazing are a great option. They can improve heat retention and they’re made with a recyclable material which can be reused over and over again.
If you’re looking to replace, update or fit new windows in your home it’s worth getting expert advice. However, this can take up hours of your spare time, scrolling the web and sending off emails.
This is where we can help! Skip all the painstaking searching and fill in one 30-second form instead. We’ll then connect you with up to 4 qualified window installers in your area. You’ll get free quotes to compare and find the best possible deal.
It’s all free to do, with no obligations attached. Just click below to get started.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year
FAQ
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year