How Much Does Glass & Glazing Cost? [2024]

It'd be pretty chilly at home without your windows, right? Glass and glazing are something we tend to take for granted until we need to replace it. And then, ouch, we realise that good glass comes at a price.

Are you wondering how much to reglaze windows? Well, there are two things you'll need to consider—the cost of the glass and the cost of the installation, which is usually done by a professional glazier.

In this article, we delve into all things glass window replacement, including:

• What is the cost ost of glass per m2 
• How much does a glazier cost? 
• 24/7 emergency glass repairs 
• How much does it cost to replace a window 
• How much does replacement glass for windows cost?
• What do glaziers do?
• How to hire the right glazier for you
• Installing new windows for energy efficiency 

What is the cost of glass per square metre?

How much does glass cost? Well, that depends on the type of glass you choose. Think about what you need it to do: Do you need extra insulation, noise reduction, energy efficiency, privacy, or extra safety? If you're not sure, a professional glazier can help you choose the right glass for the job.

Float glass 

Float glass is a basic and economical glass used in windows and other general applications. It is transparent and colourless. Sheet glass is another budget option, but it has a slight green tinge. You can expect to pay $38 - $46 per m2 for float glass. 

Low iron glass

The low iron content means this type of glass is super clear with top-notch light transmission and clarity. You can expect to pay $140 - $145 per m2 for this type of glass. 

Toughened glass, tempered glass or safety glass

Toughened glass, AKA tempered glass, is a type of safety glass that has been heat-treated to be stronger and more impact-resistant than regular glass. It's actually four to five times stronger than standard glass and doesn't shatter if it's broken. It's used a lot for kitchen splashbacks where heat resistance and durability are important. Cost of toughened glass per m2 varies on size and thickness. You can expect this type of glass to cost approximately $230 per m2.

Laminated glass 

Another type of safety glass, laminated glass has a flexible interlayer between two sheets of glass, which prevents it from shattering and improves durability. Laminated glass typically costs $403 per m2. 

Low emission glass

Also known as Low-e glass, low emission glass has thermal properties from a special transparent layer that filters infrared radiation, helping to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Yes, please. You can expect to pay $288 per m2 for this type of glass.

Double-glazed windows

Double-glazed glass, also known as insulating glass, consists of two layers of glass with an air—or gas-filled space between them. This provides excellent noise reduction and thermal insulation. Double glazed glass price per m2 varies depending on glass thickness and other factors. You can expect to pay $265 per m2 for double glazed glass. 

Did you know that double glazing and low-e glass cost more, but can save up to 25 percent on your energy bills? 

Tinted glass

Tinted glass is a glass that has been treated with a tinting material to reduce glare and heat from sunlight while also providing extra privacy. Tinted glass usually costs around $40 per m2. 

Fire rated glass

This is a special type of glass designed to withstand high temperatures and provide a barrier against flames and smoke. Ideal for bushfire prone areas. Fire rated glass cost per m2 varies depending on the specifications, so it’s best to check with your local tradie for a more accurate quote. 

How much does a glazier cost?

A glazier's average hourly rate is between $65 and $105 during normal working hours, plus the cost of glass and any other materials needed. They may also have a minimum fee for small jobs.

Typical jobs and their costs include:

• Replace window glass: On average, repairing a single pane of standard float glass costs around $150-$550. This does depend on window size, type of window and access
• Cost to replace windows: On average, replacing an entire window could cost anything from $800 - $1,500 upwards. This varies a lot, based on the type of glass, size of the window, and type of window frame (aluminium frames, wood frames, vinyl frames), as well as style of window (double hung, fixed-pane windows, bay windows etc.) 

24/7 emergency glass repairs

Emergency repairs are never fun and always come with a price premium. However, not getting glass windows or doors fixed pronto can quickly lead to rain damage, cold draughts and security issues.

You might find yourself needing an emergency glass repair service due to a whole host of things, including storm damage, accidental breakages, or house break-ins.

Whatever the issue, an emergency service can usually come out right away to fix it. Typically, glaziers charge $65 to $105 per hour, but the call out fee for emergency glass repair can be anything from $100-$600, plus a higher hourly rate.

How much does it cost to replace a window?

When figuring out window replacement cost, factor in glass cost, frame cost, and installation by a glazier. Prices vary, but a good starting point for the window itself is:

• Single Hung – $180 – $300
• Double Hung – $250 – $450
• Casement – $200 – $300
• Sliding – $200 – $380
• Skylight – $450 – $1,800

Replacement glass for windows prices

Sometimes, you won't need to replace a whole window but just do a window repair. The total price will depend on:

• The size of the pane of glass, although that's actually not always the biggest determinant
• Window frame material: Proud owner of timber windows? Expect to pay a premium to reglaze them, as it's more labour-intensive than aluminium. When glaziers replace glass in old timber sash or double-hung windows, they often find issues like rotting timber. Sometimes, the window can be repaired on-site, but other times, it may need workshop repairs or full replacement.
• If a window is sticking in its frame, it could be for a number of reasons. In a best case scenario, it will be a minor problem that can be fixed easily. In a worst case scenario, the window and frame will need to be removed and replaced

Remember: always replace glass with a product that complies with Australian Standards for window glass.

What do glaziers do?

Glaziers do more than just install windows and make window repairs. They can also: 

• Install and replace glass furniture parts (such as a glass-top table)
• Install and repair glass shower screens
• Cut glass to suit your needs 
• Weatherproof glass joints
• Reglaze windows and doors
• Install kitchen splashbacks

If you’re looking to hire a professional glazier, it may also be worth checking if you need any of the jobs above done as well to kill multiple birds with one stone. 

How to hire a glazier

First, do your due diligence and hire a glazier who you know you can trust to do a good job.

While not all states require glaziers to be licensed, in NSW, glaziers installing glass in windows, doors, or screens must be licensed. It’s also a good idea to choose a glazier who is a member of the Glass and Glazing Association of Australia (GGAA). When hiring a glazier, we recommend asking:

• 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?
• Can you guarantee all glazing meets Australian Safety Standards AS1288 and AS2208?

Installing new windows for energy-efficiency

Many homeowners are upgrading their windows for better energy efficiency and comfort. Double glazing cost and low-e window cost might be more, but they're often worth it in the long run, saving up to 25% on energy bills.

If you're keen to keep costs down and your frames are in good shape, a glazier can install energy-efficient glass or an extra pane inside, which is often cheaper and less messy than full window replacement.

Another cost-effective solution for double-glazed windows is frameless secondary double glazing, where an 8mm glass pane is added inside existing frames.

Read: How much are double-glazed windows?

* 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.