Category: News

Whether you’re looking for ways to cut down on energy bills, boost property value or simply keep your home healthy, one extremely effective investment is double glazing.

If you don’t already have double glazing or your old windows could use some TLC, the first question you’re likely to ask is how much does double glazing cost? While the average price for double glazing a whole house stands at £3000-5000, there are a number of factors which can impact this.

In this guide, we help walk you through everything you need to know about double glazing and give you a rough idea of what double glazed window prices you’ll be looking at.

What can impact this cost?

There are a multitude of factors that can affect the cost of your double glazing. From the style of windows you’re interested in, the number of windows you have in your home and the materials of the frame and mechanisms every choice will have an impact. Here are some of the key points to consider.

Window type

One of the biggest deciders in what you’ll be paying for your double glazing is the style of window you’re investing in. Different window types have different performance benefits and, of course, aesthetic properties. Below are some of the most common window types:

Casement windows

The most common window, and therefore the best to use when calculating the average cost of new windows in the UK, are casement windows. Attached by a single hinge at the side, these windows are the cheapest for double glazing repairs, as well as for a first time fitting.

Average cost (based on uPVC frame):
£275 to £420

French casement windows

A slight variation of the above, French casement windows consist of two casements positioned side by side, which open outwards from the centre. These windows are generally slightly more expensive than regular casement windows, but their design does allow for a lot more in terms of light and ventilation. 

Average cost (based on uPVC frame):
£455-£570

Tilt and turn windows

Tilt and turn windows are an incredibly versatile fitting, which is perfect for modern homes. Twisting the handle halfway allows you to tilt the window inwards from the top, providing ventilation without compromising security. However, you can also fully twist the handle to open the window as a classic casement, allowing for full ventilation and easy cleaning. These windows are generally more costly than casement windows.

Average cost (based on uPVC frame):
£445-£625

Sash windows

This type of window is perfect for a property that wants to retain its period aesthetic. While original sash windows are tough to double glaze due to thin glass and the glazing bars used, modern double-glazed sash window options are available. The latest sash windows are created to be thicker and more sturdy but are pricier than the previous window types.

Average cost (based on uPVC frame):
£590-£820

Bay/Bow Windows

Box and bay windows are one of the greatest ways to open up a room and increase the amount of light in your home. Understandably, due to the increased amount of glass panes and materials needed to create these types of windows, they’re much more expensive to install and double glaze. 

However, the benefits can easily outweigh the cost. Bow windows tend to have the higher price of the two, as they typically have more sections but the price of both bay and bow windows rises depending on how many sections it is you want. 

Bay window average cost (based on uPVC frame):
£1,070-£2,205 dependent on window size and amount of sections.

Bow window average cost (based on uPVC frame):

£1,085-£2195 dependent on window size and amount of sections.

Frame materials

There are a number of materials that can be used to construct double-glazed window frames. Making your choice will often depend on a number of factors, ranging from your house aesthetic to your overall budget. Some of the most common frame materials are listed below.

uPVC

uPVC is the cheapest material used to model window frames — and by far the lowest maintenance option. With a high resistance to mould and rot, and no need for painting, uPVC frames can simply be wiped clean and look as good as new! They’re also great for insulation and are recyclable, making them brilliant for those wanting to make greener choices.

Average cost (based on 1200 x 1200mm):

£350 – £900

Aluminium

While aluminium is considerably more expensive than uPVC, it also comes with a different set of benefits. Aluminium is the strongest frame material and therefore can be used to create windows with a slimmer frame and a larger glass area — perfect for a modern home or corporate building. It’s also a highly durable material, meaning they’re built to last. 

Average cost (based on 1200 x 1200mm):

£770 – £960

Timber

Wooden frames are full of character and add a real sense of warmth to a property. As a bonus, if treated correctly, they’re a great insulator and can have a long lifetime. Due to this, they are one of the most expensive window frame materials, while also requiring the most maintenance — as without regular upkeep, they can start to deteriorate. 

Average cost (based on 1200 x 1200mm):

£1,370 – £1,500

Spacer bars

Just when you thought there couldn’t possibly be any more options when it comes to your windows, along come the spacer bars. 

Spacer bars (or profiles) are the hollow frame which separates the two panes of glass used in a double-glazed window. The spacer bar is bonded to the two frames to create a cavity, which is then filled with air, or another gas such as argon. 

The spacer bar itself can be one of two types:

Metal bar

The most common type of spacer bar used is a metal edge spacer bar. These are usually formed from aluminium, which is chosen due to the fact it’s lightweight and flexible while still being strong. The bar is then filled with a desiccant, which absorbs moisture and prevents the windows from becoming foggy.

Steel can also be used for spacer bars, however, this is usually a material associated with fire-rated safety glass. Aluminium spacer bars are the most low-cost spacer bar choice but are not the most heat effective option.

Warm edge spacer bar

A warm-edge is exactly what the name suggests. This bar insulates the edges of the sealed window, which is where most heat is lost. In turn, this slows the rate at which heat is lost through your windows.

Warm-edge spacer bars are made from materials with a low heat conductivity, such as specially-designed plastics. This makes them considerably more expensive than the typical aluminium spacer bar, but can save you money on heating costs over time. 

Product Specifications

The above are all general costs associated with double glazing, but if there are unique specifications that you require for your windows then these will also add to the overall cost.

Adding colour, or a texture like a wood grain finish or having a specialist request such as the use of safety glass are factors which can bump up the price of your double glazing. Locks or fastenings, such as child-safe options can also impact your bottom line.

Along with this, prices typically change between different vendors and can fluctuate at different times of the year. Therefore, it is essential that you do your research and ensure that you have a reputable company on your hands to avoid overpaying.

Alternative double glazing options

In some scenarios, getting a whole new set of windows installed will likely be essential. However, if you’re only experiencing minor problems with your existing windows, there are cheaper options available.

If your double glazing is frequently misting up and obstructing your view or you’re beginning to notice a draft coming from any of your windows, chances are that your double glazing is failing. Your first reaction may be to price up a whole new set of windows, but in most cases, it can save you money and be just as effective to fix what you already have.

At Cloudy2Clear we offer free consultations and quotes for double glazing repairs as well as repairs for faulty handles, broken windows and other common problems. Simply get in touch with our experts today and you’ll be well on your way to receiving a personalised quote to bring your double glazing back to life.

Whether you’re improving your home’s energy efficiency or replacing old, misted units, investing in double-glazed windows is a smart move. But if you want to keep your windows performing at their best and get the most from your money, regular window maintenance is non-negotiable.

In this guide, we’ll share our top tips for maintaining double-glazed windows, from cleaning your glass and frames to protecting your seals and fittings.

Cleaning double-glazed windows: Essential tips

Nobody wants dirty windows, which is why it’s important to clean them. But keeping up appearances isn’t the only reason to give your double-glazed windows a wash. Cleaning your windows can also help you spot issues before they become serious.

Here’s our advice for when and how to clean your windows:

1. Use gentle, homemade cleaners

Stay clear of harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage your windows and frames over time. Instead:

• Combine one part white vinegar with four parts water.
• Apply the solution with a soft microfibre cloth using circular motions.
• For tight corners or hard-to-reach areas, use cotton buds or a soft toothbrush.

Of course, shop-bought cleaners are also fine, but choose eco-friendly products to protect your windows from any damage.

2. Choose the right day to clean

Cleaning your windows on a bright sunny day may seem like the ideal scenario. However, the sun causes cleaners to dry too quickly, which leaves you with those dreaded window streaks. Instead, clean your windows on a cloudy day for streak-free results.

3. Buff your windows with newspaper

Here’s an old trick that never gets old: Use scrunched-up newspaper to buff your windows and achieve a lovely streak-free finish. This tip gets bonus points because it’s both budget-friendly and environmentally friendly.

4. Don’t use abrasive materials

Using abrasive materials such as rough sponges or brushes on your windows is a big no no, as these can scratch your window glass and frames.

5. Be gentle with debris removal

Before cleaning, gently remove abrasive debris like sand, stones, or bird droppings with water to prevent scratching the glass surface.

6. Be wary of pressure washers

Pressure washers can damage window seals and frames. If you need to rinse your windows, use a garden hose instead and set it to low pressure.

Top Tip: Not sure how to avoid harsh chemicals? Make your windows sparkle using these household items:

• Baking soda: Ideal for removing stubborn marks without scratching the glass.
• Lemon juice: A natural degreaser perfect for tackling greasy fingerprints and grime.
• Dishwasher soap: Mix a few drops of mild dishwasher soap with warm water for an easy, streak-free clean.
• Cornstarch: Combine a teaspoon of cornstarch with vinegar and water to create a solution that breaks down water bonds for spotless, streak-free windows.

Caring for UPVC frames and rubber seals

It’s not just window glass that needs your attention. Proper care of UPVC frames and rubber seals is just as important for extending the lifespan and efficiency of your windows.

Inspect and maintain window seals

Rubber seals help keep moisture out and warmth in. Here’s how to care for them:

• Regular inspection: Check seals regularly for gaps, lumps, or damage. Gently push minor issues back into place.
• Gentle cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to remove dirt or mould without damaging the rubber.

If you’re experiencing reoccurring issues with your window seals, they may need expert repair.

Keeping UPVC frames clean

Regularly cleaning UPVC frames prevents discoloration and maintains their appearance. For a step-by-step guide, see our complete guide to cleaning UPVC window frames.

Prevent mould and condensation

Condensation buildup on double glazing can lead to mould growth and potential health concerns if left untreated.

Follow these tips to manage and prevent condensation:

• Regularly wipe any moisture away with a sponge or squeegee.
• Position furniture so it’s spaced away from walls to improve airflow.
• Open windows or use extractor fans when you’re cooking, showering, or drying clothes.
• Review your home’s insulation and consider using a dehumidifier if necessary.

For more detailed tips, check out our guide to reducing condensation in double-glazed windows.

Maintain window locks, hinges and handles

Your window hardware is vital for both security and effective insulation. Regular checks and simple maintenance will keep them functioning smoothly.

Regularly clean and lubricate locks hinges and handles

• Wipe locks, hinges, and handles regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
• Apply silicone-based lubricant or a small amount of light machine oil (such as WD-40) every six months to stop stiffness and corrosion.

Signs your hardware needs attention:

• You find it difficult to open or close your windows
• Your locks and handles are stiff or stick
• Your window hinges are looser than they should be and cause draughts

Routine maintenance will help to keep your windows going for longer, but be mindful that some issues will need professional intervention. If you’re experiencing persistent condensation between panes, damaged seals, or problems with locks and handles, our team is ready to help.

Book a free, no-obligation assessment today and discover how we can restore your double glazing.

If your home is fitted with double glazed windows, you may have noticed mist forming in between the panes.

This problem is more common than you might think — and it can lead to more serious issues. Not only do cloudy windows obscure your view, but they can even cause your home to lose heat and pose a security risk.

Thankfully, double glazing is like bread and butter to our crack team of engineers. They’re always looking for new ways to understand how double glazing becomes ineffective and identify innovative solutions to solve the problem.

To help you understand why double glazing can fail, we asked our operations manager, Kirk, for his expert opinion. Below, he explains what causes double glazing to become cloudy or misted and what you can do to make sure your windows are always in the best condition.

How to tell if double glazing has failed

If you have cloudy or blown double glazing, there are a few telltale signs that you can look out for.

The most obvious way of knowing that your double glazing has failed is that your windows become cloudy or foggy between the panes of glass. Take a look at a comparison:

You can spot earlier signs, too. Water leaking through the window frame of draughts is also an indicator that there is an issue with your double glazing.

What causes cloudy double glazing?

1. Poorly fitted windows

If your windows were improperly installed, they’ll deteriorate quickly. In extreme cases, they could become cloudy in less than a year. But why does this happen?

When double glazing is fitted incorrectly, your window panes and frames won’t be suitably aligned. This means your seals won’t last and gaps will form, allowing air and moisture into your panes.

It’s important to do your research and make sure you choose a highly recommended window fitting company with a proven track record for quality.

2. Using the wrong products

You’d be surprised at how often double glazing can be damaged by human error alone. Many people use harsh chemical products to clean their windows, which is not only unnecessary but can reduce the effectiveness of your windows.

A simple mixture of warm water and white vinegar is the perfect combination to care for your windows and leave them sparkling for longer. Take a look at our full guide to window maintenance to ensure you’re doing everything you can to preserve the life of your double glazing.

3. Damaged seals

Whether it’s due to poor installation or simply wear and tear, broken or faulty seals are one of the most common causes of cloudy and blown double glazing.

Windows are affected by weather conditions and will therefore expand and contract when temperatures rise and fall. Although not visible to homeowners, this movement takes its toll on window seals, made worse by poor materials or shoddy craftsmanship.

Damaged seals allow moisture to find its way between the window panes, which is notoriously difficult to remove. Once inside, the moisture causes condensation and means windows will become misted.

4. Window age

Time is another factor that plays a part in the health of your double glazing. The date that your double glazing was first installed impacts how well they will perform. Not only because the seals will become less effective over time, but also due to modern fitting methods being more reliable than those in previous years.

How to clear misted double glazed windows

Fixing cloudy double glazing is usually a case of replacing your windows altogether. This can be an expensive endeavour, especially if only one misted window needs replacing, as most window fitters will require that you buy an entirely new unit.

This is where we come in.

At Cloudy2Clear, we’ve perfected the technique of repairing faulty double glazing by removing just the pane, not the frame. This method, which we’ve honed over years of service and thousands of happy customers, is not only cheaper but a reliable way to replace faulty double glazing. You can see exactly how much money you could save here.

Our double glazing replacement service is carried out by trained professionals and comes with a 25-year guarantee, so you know you’re in safe hands. Contact your local branch of Cloudy2Clear today for your free, no-obligation quote.