How Much Do New Windows Cost? [2024]

Windows are a critical component of your home, which is why you should thoroughly research your options before choosing new windows.

The cost of windows varies considerably depending on their size, style, material and glazing. While you won't be able to get exact costs until you've received quotes for windows, this article will help you work out the right windows for your needs, including:

• Why your windows are important
• What type of new window?
• New windows can help you save
• What affects the cost of new windows?
• How much do new windows cost?
• Who can install your new windows?
• Hiring a window installer

 

 

Why your windows are important

You want your windows to be aesthetically pleasing, but windows do more than just allow natural sunlight into the home.

While a closed window blocks breezes, heat and cold can easily pass through a single-pane windows. Heat naturally passes through to colder areas. In the home, that translates to higher air conditioning costs in summer and higher heating costs in winter. Double glazed and/or low-e (low emissivity) windows can reduce heat transfer significantly. While they cost more, they pay for themselves over time and continue saving you money on your energy bills for as long as you own your home.

You also want some windows that allow you to ventilate your home. Ideally, your windows should create cross ventilation, allowing cool breezes to enter the home and hot air to escape.

#hiptip: Windows should create cross ventilation, allowing cool breezes to enter your home and hot air to escape

What type of new window?

There are several different types or styles of windows, with varying features.  Here are some of the most common:

Double-hung – with two separate panels that move up and down independently, double-hung are low profile windows that are great if you need to fit flyscreens.  
Fixed Pane – these windows are a fixed sheet of glass in a frame and cannot be opened. 
Casement – one of the most common window styles, choose casement windows if you need maximum ventilation, as they open very wide.
Louvres – these windows are made up of a series of glass panels that can be adjusted to regulate airflow.
Awning – a window that opens outward and articulates and adjusts on a chain winder. Awning windows are good for difficult to reach spots in your home. 
Bi-fold – these concertina making them great for maximum airflow and light.
 

 

 

Sliding – sliding windows slide horizontally along a runner.  They are very versatile windows and are relatively cheap.  Sliding windows suit most styles of home, take up little space and are low maintenance.  They are lockable for extra security.

New windows can help you save

Did you know your windows could help save?

Double glazing and low-emission glass costs more, but they could help you save up to 25 percent on your energy bills. If your window frames are in good condition, hiring a glazier to install more energy-efficient glass can be more cost-effective than replacing your windows. Take the time to compare the "R-values" and "U-values" of the windows. These will tell you how energy-efficient the windows are. Paying a little more for windows with a higher R-value will pay dividends in the form of reduced energy bills.

Read: How much are double-glazed windows?

What affects the cost of new windows?

When you start shopping for windows, you'll find the greatest determiners of their cost will be:
 

1. The material the window frames are made from
2. The window style
3. The type of glazing used
4. The size of your installation

Aluminium and composite window frames are usually cheaper than timber-framed windows. The cheapest style you can buy is a fixed window. If you want to open your window, you will pay more for a sliding glass window, a casement window or a double-hung window. Single pane windows are about 25 to 35 percent less expensive than double glazed windows.

How much do new windows cost?

In terms of labour costs, expect a glazier to charge between $70 and $90 per hour plus the cost of glass and other materials. They will probably charge a minimum fee for coming to your home and doing a small job. On average, repairs for a single pane of window glass (standard float) will cost in the region of $100-$150.

On the lower end of the price scale, you can buy aluminium framed double glazed windows in standard sizes from window suppliers and some hardware stores. They might cost (supply only):

• $150 for a 600 x 600mm (fixed window)
• $180 for a hinged 600 x 600mm
• $380 for a hinged 600 x 1200mm

On the higher end of the scale, some manufacturers offer windows with powder-coated aluminium frames on the outside and timber frames on the inside. Double glazed with one low-e pane these windows might cost (supply only):

• $720 for a fixed window, 800 x 1290mm
• $820 per square metre for a tilt and turn window
• $1250 per square metre for bifold windows and doors

How much does glass cost?

If you are only replacing the glazing, expect to pay from:

• $38 per square metre for float glass
• $145 per square metre for low iron glass
• $220 per square metre for low emission glass
• $200 per square metre for double-glazed glass
• $320 per square metre for laminated glass

 

Who can install your new windows?

It depends where you live. For example, in NSW your installer should be a glazier and hold a valid licence. If they are timber windows your installer could be a joiner or carpenter.

Your windows (and glazing) also need to meet the relevant Australian Safety Standards (AS1288 and AS2208), which covers windows and doors. Check with your local licensing authority or council if you are unsure what applies where you live.

Hiring a window installer

Do you check the qualifications and licence of your tradie before you hire them? Depending on where you live, it could be a legal requirement for you to hire someone licensed to install your windows. It also gives you the peace of mind that they have the right training and experience to get it done properly.

When it comes time to hiring a window installer make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask then include:

• Are you licensed?

• Are you insured to work in my home?

• Can you provide a written quote?

• Do you have references I can follow up?

 

#hiptip: Get at least three quotes before you commit to hiring anyone, so you can compare price and level of service

Getting quotes for new windows

 

Getting quotes from window installers is the best way of working out the cost of your job. This will give you a sense of what market rates currently are.  

You can also get visual inspiration in our Window Styles photo gallery.

* All the costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are indicative, may vary locally, are subject to market forces and should only be used as a guide.