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Increase the value of your home by installing new windows
Wooden Windows in the UK: Costs, Types & Benefits
- Average wooden windows prices sit around £240 - £1,860, depending on the window dimensions and type of timber you opt for.
- A wide range of window timber frames is available on the market for all budgets, ranging from affordable softwoods like pine and cedar to more expensive hardwoods such as maple and mahogany.
- Timber is one of the most successful natural insulators in the world, contributing to better home energy efficiency without compromising the planet or your family's health.
Elegant, sustainable, and hypoallergenic, wooden windows are a top contender when it comes to finding the perfect solution for your home. More than just a timber frame, wooden windows provide a rustic charm to your home whilst remaining within a decent budget. More so, timber is a natural insulator, helping regulate temperature in your home without needing synthetic frames.
This ultimate guide by WhatCost provides everything you need to know about wooden windows, including types and costs, pros and cons, as well as the best steps to find the perfect fit for your home.
Ready to install wooden windows? Let WhatCost free you from the burden of tedious researching and vetting. Simply fill out our 30-second online form and receive up to 4 free home-tailored quotes directly from our nationwide network of pre-vetted installers. Click below to begin, and let the bargains come to you!
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year
Types of wooden windows
Several key types of windows are popularly found across the UK, all of which are available in softwood and hardwood timber frames. Here’s a breakdown of the most common window types you’re likely to find on the market:
- Casement windows: The most popular form in the UK, casement windows come with hinged panels that open outwards. Its simple yet elegant design makes it suitable for a wide range of home aesthetics and can be commonly found in all timber forms.
- Tilt and turn windows: A contemporary upgrade from the casement window, tilt and turn windows do as their name suggests. Featuring two sets of hinges, they can open both horizontally and vertically, blending charm with functionality.
- Sash windows: An elegant style with multiple panes of glass separated with wooden sashes. Wooden sash windows open by sliding upwards. This classic style is commonly found in older homes and is typically made of costlier hardwood.
- Bow windows: These window fixtures protrude outside of the home in a rounded shape, much like the curve of a bow. Typically, bow windows are more than four panes to help achieve the seamless curve, creating a distinctive architectural charm.
- Bay windows: Similar to bow windows, a bay window also protrudes outside of a home, but is typically made of three windows, creating a more curved edge. In the home, it creates a bay or alcove area, thus increasing panoramic views and natural light.
- Picture windows: While not the most versatile type of windows, picture windows are a simple, clear view window that is fixed in place and unopenable. They are ideal for outside views by the staircase, or any area of a home that doesn’t require an opening window. They are a cost-effective means of achieving large panoramic views.
Ultimately, the choice you make will be based on many factors, including your budget, home type, desired aesthetic, and even installation complexity. Consulting with a professional installer is your best bet in drafting out an approach that is best suited to your needs.
Timber windows cost
Average double glazed window prices sit at around £240 - £1,860, depending on the window dimensions and type of timber you opt for. Premium hardwood windows will cost more than common softwood windows. The same applies to more complex window fixtures, such as bay or bow windows, which will inevitably be higher than the provided cost range.
To help better understand how much timber windows cost, here's a price range breakdown for a range of popular timber window upgrades in common UK home dimensions:
| Window type | Dimensions | Average cost (incl. installation) |
|---|---|---|
| Casement windows | 900 x 1200mm | £300 - £1,065 |
| Tilt and turn windows | 900 x 1200mm | £375 - £1,330 |
| Sash windows | 900 x 1200mm | £450 - £1,600 |
| Bow windows | 4 windows: 2,400mm x 1,200mm | £2,145 - £3,105 |
| Bay windows | 2,400mm x 1,200mm | £1,785 - £2,590 |
This timber windows price list is calculated based on double-glazed windows and average window dimensions in the UK per style. Double-glazed windows are the standard in the UK as per UK insulation regulations and must be adhered to when replacing wooden windows. The cost of triple glazed windows will be slightly higher.
While there are no direct window grants in the UK, schemes like the ECO4 or GBIS may provide means-testing measures that may also cover wooden double-glazed windows. Alternatively, windows on finance can be obtained through interest-free loans or installer packages that can help reduce the cost of timber windows.
Wooden replacement windows
A window replacement cost sits at around £240 - £1,860, depending on your chosen window type, installation complexity, and other factors. Getting wood replacement windows is a relatively straightforward process, but you may be wondering; How do I know if I need my windows replaced? There are several telltale signs to look out for that can guide you in this decision. Here’s a summary of what to keep an eye on:
- Decay: One of the most common problems faced with timber windows is moisture damage, mould and decay. This is because wood is organic, and in the absence of regular maintenance, it will show signs of old age.
- Damage: In other cases, chipped wood, missing components, irregular bumps or grooves can all compromise the appearance and insulation capacity of your wooden frame windows, thus requiring to be replaced.
- Single pane glass: Some older properties may still contain single-layered window panes, which are now below the standard set by UK Building Regulations. All windows must have double glazing to achieve the necessary insulation.
- Broken sash cords: In sash windows, the mechanism that allows windows to open and close is a cable system in the wall. If these cables break, the window will no longer remain open and will require maintenance or replacement.
- Overpainting: Common in rentals, landlords may overpaint existing windows time and time again, leading to paint clumping that causes your windows to jam and close irregularly. This compromises the window's insulation capacity and needs replacing.
If one or more of these problems arise, it’s highly recommended to get your wooden windows replaced. The process of replacing windows itself is relatively simple and will require working with a professional window installer to ensure quality craftsmanship. Here’s a rundown of what that process may look like:
- Get multiple quotes: To find the best wooden window cost, it’s advised to get multiple quotes from various professional installers to land the best bargain. Some installers may provide seasonal discounts, or packages in which installation is complimentary.
- Conduct a house assessment: Once you’ve secured an installer, they will conduct an assessment of your windows to determine the best course of action for your needs and budget.
- Choose window type: Based on the recommendations of the professional installer, you may have the opportunity to choose window types, designs, and aesthetics that you see fit for your home. This can also include the choice of softwood or hardwood frames, as well as double or secondary glazing window panes.
- Install: Once everything is decided, the installers will remove your existing windows, bring the hollow wall up to par, and install the new double-glazed wooden windows in their place before commissioning them for your use.
To make sure you get the best quality workmanship, it’s important to work with a professional window installer. However, finding the right fit can have you in a cycle of endless phone calls and websites. Luckily, WhatCost can take care of the tedious work for you.
Simply fill out our 30-second online form, and receive up to 4 free home-tailored quotes from our network of professional installers. No costs, no obligations. Click below to begin!
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year
How long do wooden windows last?
With simple and regular care, you can prolong the lifespan of wooden windows for up to 60 years, if not more in some cases. The key to preserving your investment is in treating the wood as the organic material that it is. By taking measures to protect it from damage and weathering, you can enjoy the comfort it brings for decades to come.
Here are just some of the key steps you can take:
- General cleaning: Avoid harsh detergents and instead opt for a washcloth, warm water and a soft washing up liquid to avoid corroding the wood or the applied varnish.
- Recoating: Over time, natural wear and tear may chip away at old varnish. This can be scraped away with abrasive paper, brushed off dust, and reapplied both DIY or by a trained professional. Apply at least two coats of your chosen paint, stain and varnish.
- Diagnosing: The best way to care for your windows is to preemptively keep an eye out for issues. If you notice water damage, leaking, mould, rot, or anything out of the ordinary, consult with a window installer to address the root cause before the problem persists.
By following these simple steps regularly, you can ensure that your investment lasts a lifetime and brings you joy and comfort throughout.
Wooden windows pros and cons
Wooden windows bring with them a wealth of benefits that make them a worthy investment. From endless options to customise their type and appearance, to boasting high sustainability, here’s a breakdown of the key perks you can expect from timber windows:
- Appearance: Classic, traditional, charming; wood is the real deal. Timber frames bring an elegance that UPVC or composite windows cannot replicate. Timber comes with many designs and wood types to customise with, including the option to paint any colour.
- Efficiency: Timber is a very effective natural insulator, capable of comfortably retaining heat in winter. A++ rated timber windows with double or triple glazing can save you £150 on energy bills every year.
- Sustainability: Wood is, by definition, a renewable resource, one that can also be safely discarded as biodegradable waste at the end of its lifetime. This makes timber frames a more eco-friendly approach that protects the planet and your home.
As is the case with any investment, it’s important to also reflect on the potential drawbacks of timber windows to ensure you make the best decision for you. Here’s a summary of the key cons you may come across with wooden windows:
- Maintenance: As wood is an organic material, it requires regular maintenance to upkeep against weathering and warping. Unlike aluminium and steel windows, failure to maintain can lead to rot and mould. Regular repainting and varnishing can help prolong the lifespan of your windows for up to 60 years.
- Costs: Whilst some budget options exist, timber windows prices tend to cost significantly more than cheaper UPVC windows and other synthetic alternatives. This is especially true for the more premium hardwood options.
- Pests: Timber window frames are far more prone to termite and other insect burrowing than options such as aluminium windows, once more highlighting the importance of regular maintenance. An infestation can compromise the structural integrity of the window.
In essence, the majority of the potential drawbacks that wooden windows may pose all relate to the need for regular care. Wood is a charming organic material much like leather, suede or other premium materials, and as such, it requires care to keep it in shape.
Should you get wooden windows?
With all things considered, wooden windows are one of the most popular options in the UK, and with good reason. They stand out as a fantastic investment that is both effective and eco-friendly. With their classic charm and endless customisation options, there’s a suitable fit for any home and a wooden windows cost for every budget.
The next step requires finding a professional installer who can provide you with quality service at a reasonable price. However, finding the right fit can require endless hours of tedious research and vetting. Luckily, WhatCost can free you of this burden.
All it takes is 30 seconds to fill out our online form, and we’ll connect you with up to 4 home-tailored quotes from pre-vetted professionals. The best part? Our services are absolutely cost and obligation-free. Simply click below to begin and let the bargains come to you!
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £150 per year
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