How Much Does Double Glazing Cost? [2024]

Installing double glazed windows can be one of the best ways to reduce heating and cooling costs and help you do your part in conserving energy. Studies suggest as much as 40 percent of heat loss within a home occurs through windows. Double  glazing can also limit heat penetrating your home in summer. In fact, double glazing and low-emission glass could help you save up to 25 percent on your energy bills.

But how much does double glazing cost, and is it worth it?

Read this guide to learn more about:

• What impacts the price of double glazed windows
• How much does double glazing cost
• How does double glazing work

What affects the price of double glazed windows? 

There are a number of factors which will impact the price of double glazing your windows, specifically:

• How many windows you are installing or replacing
• The size of the windows
• The type (e.g., tinted, low-e) and thickness of window glass used
• The quality of the materials used in the window frame or profile
• The number of latches, hinges etc. in the window
• The style of the window, with simpler designs being cheaper
• Access to your property, and if scaffolding is required

How much does double glazing cost?

You can expect to pay between $300 to $1,200 per square metre for double glazed windows.

Why the big price range? Because there are many variables to the cost of a window - like size, frame material, thickness and the type of glass used. In terms of materials, aluminium and composite or uPVC window frames are cheaper than timber-framed windows. 

In terms of styles, the cheapest style you can buy is a fixed window. However, if you want to open your window, you can expect to pay more for a sliding glass window, a casement window or a double-hung window. Expect double glazed windows to cost 25-35 percent more than a standard window.

If you look at the average cost per square metre of double glazed windows, here are some ballpark ranges for the three most popular material types:

• Aluminium - $300 - $500
• uPVC - $300 - $500
• Timber - $420 - $650

If you want the very best window material, you could be looking at:

• $800 to $1,500 per square metre for top quality timber-framed double glazed windows

• $600 to $1,250 per square metre for top quality aluminium framed double glazed windows

The best way of getting a firm idea of the cost of your double glazed windows is to double glazed window installers near you.

How does double glazing work?

A double glazed window consists of two panes of glass separated by a pocket of air or gas (usually argon) between the panes. This pocket is what makes a double glazed window an effective insulator, and it can also help reduce noise pollution from entering your home.

Double glazed windows are also called Insulated Glass Units (IGUs), because the panes of glass must be properly sealed into a single unit to provide adequate insulation. The gap between the panes can be anywhere between 6mm-20mm, with a greater gap providing greater insulation.

How much money can you save with double glazing?

Although the double glazing cost is higher than standard glazing, your new windows will pay for themselves over time, and could save as much as 25% on your energy consumption and bills. The average home can save $200 to $300 per year with double glazing, depending on factors such as:

• The number, size and position of windows
•  The design and orientation of your building
• The materials your home is made of 
• Your climate

Take the time to compare the "R-values" and "U-values" of double glazed windows. These will tell you how energy-efficient your new windows are. For even greater comfort and thermal efficiency, consider double glazing with one low-e glass panel.

Depending on your personal energy consumption, it may take 5 years or more to recoup the extra cost of double glazing. However, your one-time investment in windows will make your home more comfortable to live in no matter the season, and help to save in the long run.

Window styles and types

If you're installing new windows with double glazing, you should be aware of the various window styles and their features. The most common options are:

• Awning window – these windows open outward, and articulate and adjust on a chain winder. Awning windows are good for difficult to reach spots in your home.
• Bi-fold window – these fold in a concertina style, improving airflow and light.
• Casement window – one of the most common window styles, choose casement windows if you need maximum ventilation, as they open very wide.
• Double-hung window – with two separate panels that move up and down independently, double-hung windows are low profile windows that can be ideal for flyscreens.
• Fixed pane window – these windows are a fixed sheet of glass in a frame and cannot be opened.
• Louvre window – these windows are made of a series of glass panels that can be adjusted to regulate airflow.
• Sliding window – sliding windows slide horizontally along a runner. They are very versatile windows and relatively cheap. Sliding windows suit most styles of home, take up little space and are low maintenance. They are also lockable for extra security.

Getting quotes for double glazing

If you're in the market for double glazing, the best way to understand its costs is to get quotes from double glazed window installers near you. When it comes time to hire a glazier, it’s important to understand the exact service they’ll provide to make sure they're right for your job. Some questions to ask them 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 on?

Not all states require glaziers to be licensed, so it's worth checking. In NSW, glaziers do need to be licensed and are defined as anyone "installing glass or similar materials in windows, door panels or screens." All glass and glazing installed in your home also needs to meet the relevant Australian Safety Standards (AS1288 and AS2208).