How much do windows and doors cost?

Planning to replace or install new windows and doors in your home? It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the associated costs and factors that influence them. In this guide, we’ll explore the expenses involved in getting the perfect windows and doors for your home.

What Makes Windows and Doors Expensive

Windows and doors are crucial components of any home, providing security, insulation, and aesthetic appeal. However, several factors contribute to their cost:

Materials:

The type of material used significantly affects the overall cost. Windows and doors are available in various materials, including uPVC, timber, aluclad, and aluminum, each with its unique characteristics and price range.

Design Complexity:

Intricate designs and customizations can add to the cost. The complexity of your chosen design, whether it’s a classic casement window or a modern sliding door, will impact the final price.

Glazing:

The choice between double and triple glazing can affect costs. Triple glazing offers better insulation but comes at a higher price than double glazing.

Hardware:

Factors like handles, locks, and childproof mechanisms can contribute to the overall cost. High-end hardware options can increase expenses.

How to Budget for Windows and Doors in Your Build

Budgeting for windows and doors can be challenging, but it’s a crucial aspect of any construction or renovation project. Without a well-planned budget, you risk overspending. Here are some steps to help you create a reasonable budget:

Define Your Needs:

Determine the number of windows and doors you need, their sizes, and any specific design preferences. This will give you a clear starting point for budgeting.

Get Multiple Quotes:

Reach out to several window and door suppliers and contractors to obtain detailed quotes. Having multiple quotes allows you to compare prices and select the most cost-effective option.

Consider Installation Costs:

Don’t forget to include installation costs in your budget. Professional installation ensures proper fitting and performance.

Account for Potential Extras:

Factor in any additional expenses, such as hardware upgrades or special finishes, that you may want for your windows and doors.

Allocate a Contingency:

Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses that may arise during the project. A 10% to 20% contingency is generally recommended.

The Impact of Choice of Framing Material

The choice of framing material for your windows and doors plays a significant role in both cost and performance. Here are four common framing materials and their cost implications:

uPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride):

Provides good thermal comfort.
Known for durability and longevity.
Typically cost-effective, ranging from €300 to €350 per sqm.

Timber:

Various timber types and styles available.
High-end options, such as sliding sash windows or hardwood units, can be expensive (€1,200+ per sqm).
Softwood or finger-jointed units in standard casement openings are more budget-friendly (€600-€750 per sqm).
Consider ongoing maintenance costs for timber windows.

Aluclad:

Combines an aluminum exterior with a timber finish internally.
Offers the warmth of timber without the need for future maintenance.
Costs around €600 to €800 per sqm.

Aluminum:

Lightweight and malleable metal.
Suitable for large-scale window systems.
Architecturally clean lines but generally more expensive, exceeding €850 per sqm.

The frame orientation, whether inward or outward opening, also influences costs and functionality. Inward opening units are common in Europe and offer advantages like natural ventilation and easier cleaning, but outward opening units are more typical in Ireland.

The Impact of Window Size and Design

Window size and design choices can significantly affect the overall cost of your project:

Size Matters:

Traditional window and door sizes may not align with modern design preferences.
Increasingly, floor-to-ceiling glazed units of 2400mm or even 2700mm height are in demand.
Manufacturing limitations and weight considerations may require combining units to achieve desired heights.

Width and Materials:

Materials like uPVC and timber may have limitations in width, particularly for sliding door systems or large glazed screen panels.
Aluminum offers greater flexibility for wider spans.

Window Design:

Window design and operation have remained relatively consistent over the years.
Options include traditional sash, sliding sash, casement, and the versatile tilt and turn.

Evolution of Doors Over the Years

While window design has seen relatively few changes over the years, doors have evolved significantly:

Traditional single door systems have expanded to include door and screen, double door (French doors), sliding door, bi-folding, and concertina arrangements.
The variety of options available for doors can impact costs significantly.
Prices range from under a thousand euros for a single uPVC door to large five-figure sums for bi-folding, concertina, and large aluminum sliding screens.

When planning your budget, it’s crucial to align it with your design intent, especially considering the potential high costs associated with doors.

How Much More Does Triple Glazing Cost?

The choice between double and triple glazing is a crucial decision when installing windows. Double glazing is the more common option, but triple glazing offers superior insulation. Here’s what you need to know about the cost difference:

The cost difference between double and triple glazing varies among manufacturers.
In some cases, triple glazing can add up to 30% to the glazing costs.
It’s common to specify triple glazing on north-facing elevations for improved insulation while using double glazing on south-facing sides to reduce the risk of overheating.

Cost Surveys

Understanding the current cost landscape is essential when budgeting for windows and doors. Here are some insights from recent cost surveys:

According to tradesmen.ie’s 2022/2023 window cost survey, two external uPVC doors, front and back, and average-sized uPVC double glazed windows were priced around €7,500 to €8,000, with some reaching €12,000, including VAT.
A breakdown from a tradesman included €800 for a standard uPVC back door, and €1,000 to €1,200 for a standard front door. uPVC windows ranged from €350 to €2,450 each.
According to window24.ie, uPVC double glazed windows cost approximately €6,000 for 15 windows in a detached house, averaging at €600 per 1200x1800mm casement window.

In Conclusion: Windows and doors costs

Windows and doors are essential elements of your home, impacting its appearance, energy efficiency, and security. Budgeting for these components is a crucial step in any construction or renovation project. By considering factors such as framing material, size, design, and glazing options, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget and design goals. Remember to obtain multiple quotes, plan for contingencies, and stay updated on current cost trends to ensure a successful project that enhances your home.