How much do Windows cost?

At a minimum, you can expect to pay between $120 and $150 per aluminium-framed or composite-framed window. Your window installation cost should include labour costs averaging $70 to $90 per hour. Large windows and sliding doors may cost much more, requiring $800 or even $1,250 per square metre.

 Within Australia, Oneflare customers have been quoted the following for aluminium windows:

City	Average Reported Cost
Melbourne	$150 – $200
Sydney	$250 – $500
Perth	$200

Window prices vary by the style, the frame material, glazing, and applications for emissions, tinting, and acoustic laminate. Also, installation costs vary by the level of difficulty, the number of storeys, and the number of windows. Standard window sizes will be less expensive than custom or unusual sizes.

Size of Installation

Pricing will be related to the number of windows and the type of installation. If you have old windows, they will need removal to prepare for the installation of new windows.

Window Style

Windows without architraves may make them look too bare. There are at least nine window styles available for you to choose. If you’re looking to sell your home, invest in a design that can maintain your home’s value. In some cases, the right windows could even increase saleability by adding a designer feel.

Moreover, a window that uses a spiral sash balance may require specialised installation expertise and hardware, which can ramp up installation costs.

The Material of Window Frames

You can choose from materials such as vinyl, fibreglass, and composite or go for a natural one such as wood or aluminium. As you might expect, timber is the most expensive. Each style will range in price according to their premium qualities and warranties, and high-end glass brands can increase the cost of installation. In addition, requests like waterproofing a window in a shower require special materials and techniques.

Type of Glazing

To reduce energy bills, you should choose double glazing. Double glazing windows can differ based on the U-values and R-values. U-values, measure the rate of the heat transfer, while R-values defines the resistance of a window to heat. A good quality window will have high R-values and low U-values. Low-emission glass is another option that can keep out harmful rays and is also energy efficient, keeping your home cooler during Summer.

Types of Windows

Fixed pane: Fixed pane windows generally the most affordable style. These windows cannot be opened or closed and provide an unrestricted view. For a 600mm x 60 mm double-glazed pane, you can expect to spend $120 per window with a composite frame.

Casement: Casement windows open from the hinges and is a typical style that allows for maximum airflow. Including installation costs, casement windows can start at about $500.

Sliding: Sliding windows open by sliding on a track. They are thin, taking up less space than other styles. A low emission sliding glass door may run $1,200 or more. A standard window may run $700 or more.

Single-hung: A single-hung window is a single pane of glass that opens, closes, and locks. Since it is more straightforward, it costs 25% less than double-hung windows. 

Double-hung: These low profile windows are made of two separate panels. Since the lower panel is often left opened and fitted with a flyscreen.

Bay: These wide windows make the space of a room feel very open. They are especially desirable if you have a good view. If you need privacy, these aren’t the best option. Also, since the pane of glass is vast, these windows are more expensive.

Bi-fold: These windows fold vertically, allowing you to open them at different intervals. You can find these in two-pane and four-pane varieties. At 1000mm x 1450mm, bi-fold windows are listed at $1,300.

Louvres: Window louvres open horizontally. Multiple rectangular openings allow for optimum airflow adjustment. These offer safety because a person couldn’t enter through the smaller openings. A 370mm x 982 mm window starts at $400.

Awning: This popular window choice swings upward as you crank it. A 514mm x 810mm window lists at $200, while a 1800mm x 1810mm starts at $500.

 

Type of Window Frames

Vinyl: Vinyl frames are an alternative to aluminium or wooden frames. If you’re opting for vinyl, clarify with your window installer if they are waterproof.  They are an excellent choice as they are effective at insulation compared to aluminium frames and therefore improve your energy efficiency.

Wood: Still the best natural choice, wood adds value to the home. It looks good and wears well, especially if it has the right paint and coating on it. You can paint it to match or leave it natural for an accent.

Aluminium: Aluminium won’t rust and is less prone to bending or deteriorating. Despite being waterproof and long-lasting, it can be a less visually appealing option.

Composite: Composite windows have the aesthetics of wooden windows and have low maintenance, just like vinyl and fibreglass windows. As with vinyl, ask about the waterproof qualities of composite frames before the installation.

 

Types of glass

No matter what type of glass you are deciding on, it’s important to ensure your choice is in line with the Australian Safety Standard, AS1288:2006. The standard will outline the thickness necessary depending on your type of property, for example, nursing homes must have a glass panel thickness of 1500mm.

Low emission: Low e glass comes in a hard and soft coat. Both types protect from infrared and ultraviolet light. Soft coat low e glass is often more fragile but has less up to 70% less UV transmission compared to standard glass. Hard coat shares similar features but since the glass panels have a higher U-value, they are less energy efficient. Low e glass cost is usually around $185 per square metre. 

Double-glazed: Double glazing consists of two panes of glass per panel. The distance between them ranges from 6mm to 20mm. This larger gap provides the best insulation.

 Tinted glass: Tinting your home windows reduces the heat transferred and light from the harsh Australian sun. You should expect it to add $40 per square metre on top of your window installation costs.

Acoustic glass: Acoustic glass is quite expensive, starting at $330 per square metre. The reason for the higher price point is because it is engineered to keep sound out.

To determine how much it will cost to put windows on your home, get online quotes from different glaziers. Multiple quotes will give you a cost framework as you decide what’s right for your home. With a window price list, you can consider the relative costs and benefits of styles before you make a final decision.

Before agreeing to any contract, you will want to check their credentials, glazing licenses (per state), business license, insurance and references. It is a good sign if they are a member of the Glass and Glazing Association of Australia.

Licencing and Qualifications

Be sure to check with your state to see what licenses are needed. Here’s a brief look at the differences:

Glazier Licences

State/Territory	Licencing Requirements
New South Wales	Glazing and Business Licence and Insurance
Victoria	No specific licence
Queensland	Scope of Work Licence including Glass, Glazing and Aluminium
South Australia	Business Licence and Restricted Builder’s Licence
Australian Capital Territory	Construction Induction Card, Business Licence and Safety Induction Training
Northern Territory	Home Improvement Licence (for jobs valued over $2,000)

 

Carpenter Licences

If having timber window frames, you should make sure to hire a joiner or carpenter with a licence for building trades.

Tip #1: If you want to reduce your costs, you can keep your current frames and add new glass. Adding new glass can average from $40 to $150 per panel, depending on your choice of single-pane, double-pane, or low e glass.

Tip #2: When discussing the purchase of windows, consider buying the windows from a wholesaler, this can be a point of negotiation if the glazier is also selling a specific brand.

 

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources