Whether it's from a DIY accident or a cricket ball that's gone through your glass window, broken window glass isn't only a security hazard – it also lets the weather into your home, and can lead to steep energy bills. Glaziers can replace broken window glass in the frame, or replace existing glass with a more energy-efficient option.

Get quotes from window glass replacement services in your area on hipages and learn more about:

• Why do you need to hire a window glass replacement service?
• What are typical window glass replacement services?
• What are the different types of window glass?
• How much does window glass replacement cost?
• What factors affect window glass replacement costs?
• How long does it take to install window glass?
• How often does window glass need to be replaced?
• What are some tips to take care of your windows?
• What licences or qualifications does a window glass installer have?
• Questions to ask when hiring a window glass installer

Why do you need to hire a window glass replacement service?

If a window gets damaged, it may sometimes be possible to repair window glass, but for more serious damage, the glass will need to be replaced. There are other reasons to consider window glass replacement too, such as upgrading to double glazing or another insulated option to lower your energy bills in the long term.

A glazier or window glass replacement service will replace your old or damaged glass with new glass in the right size to fit the frame. This can save you the cost of replacing a whole window when the frame is still in good condition.

What are typical window glass replacement services?

Glaziers or window replacement services specialise in the design and installation of window glass in homes and business premises. They can recommend different glass options, and will take measurements to determine the right size and thickness of panes you need.

If you want to insulate your home against the heat, cold and noise, a glass installer might also be able to double glaze your windows. Some window glass replacement companies may also offer other services, such as installing or repairing flyscreens, glass splashbacks, shower screens, pet doors or glass pool fencing.

What are the different types of window glass?

Window glass installers are qualified to replace old or shattered window glass with a variety of glass types, including:

• Acrylic glass
• Sheet glass
• Float glass
• Double glazing
• Energy-efficient glass
• Patterned glass
• Safety glass
• Laminated glass.

How much does window glass replacement cost?

The cost of window glass replacement includes the cost of the pane itself and the cost of professional installation.

Glaziers or window replacement professionals can charge between $50 and $95 per hour, depending on your location and the type of glass. If you need emergency glass replacement, this service could cost up to $150 per hour, not including the cost of the glass.

The cost of window glass can be anywhere from $40 to $350 per square metre, depending on the type of glass you choose. For a large window, the total cost of window glass replacement could be $1,000 or more.

Generally, you can save around 50% on costs by replacing window glass rather than replacing the whole window, but this varies from case to case.

What factors affect window glass replacement costs?

The main factor that can affect window replacement cost is the type of glass used. Average prices are around:

• Float glass- $40 per m2
• Tinted glass - $40 per m2
• Low-iron glass - $145 per m2
• Double-glazed glass - $210 per m2
• Low-emission glass - $220 per m2
• Acoustic laminated glass - $340 per m2

While options such as double glazing and low-emission glass cost more to install, they can help to lower your energy bills in the long term by improving insulation in your home.

Other factors that can determine the cost of replacing window glass are the size of the glass pane and the type of frame, with some materials involving more work than others.

How long does it take to install window glass?

Installing a glass window pane can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on how complex the task is. Replacing standard window panes in frames that are still in good condition will take less time than custom windows.

If you're having glass replaced in multiple windows, this may take more than one day to complete.

How often does window glass need to be replaced?

Window glass should be replaced whenever it's damaged or shows signs of age and wear. Most house windows have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years on average, depending on the type of window. After this time, it's usually recommended to replace the whole window, rather than just the panes.

What are some tips to take care of your windows?

If you've had your windows for many years, you should check the panes, frames and caulking at least twice a year to see if they're coming loose or developing cracks or other faults. Regular window cleaning can also help to keep glass in good condition, and window glass repair and frame repair could help to extend the life of your windows.

What licences or qualifications does a window glass installer have?

Glaziers and glass installers in Australia do not normally need to be licensed, unless they are working on a large, high-cost project. They should hold a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing or similar qualification.

Questions to ask when hiring a window glass installer

To make sure you hire a skilled and experienced professional for your glazing job, check that they have appropriate qualifications and ask for references or examples of their previous work.

When you request quotes from local window glass installers in your area, read through them carefully to make sure everything you need has been included.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.