uPVC vs aluminium vs timber windows: cost and lifespan
What replacing six windows costs in the UK in uPVC, aluminium, composite, timber or aluminium-clad timber, how long each lasts and which suits your home.
For six average-sized windows, taken out and replaced with new frames, internal window boards and the plaster and reveals made good, uPVC is the cheapest frame at about £3,550 including VAT. Aluminium, composite and timber all cost more, and aluminium-clad timber costs the most at around £13,800. Frame material is the biggest single choice in a window quote, and it also decides how long the windows last and how much looking after they need.
Every frame on the same job
The table prices the same six windows and the same work, changing only the frame material. Figures include 20% VAT.
| Material | Typical | Usual range | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl / uPVC | £3,550 | £2,800 – £4,650 | 25-35 years |
| Aluminium (thermally broken) | £4,650 | £3,650 – £6,050 | 30-45 years |
| Timber | £9,400 | £7,350 – £12,200 | 30-60 years |
| Composite | £9,800 | £7,650 – £12,700 | 30-50 years |
| Aluminium-clad timber | £13,800 | £10,800 – £17,900 | 40-60 years |
The difference between two rows is roughly what the frame upgrade costs you across six windows. Change the number of windows and see every line in our Replacement windows.
The frame materials
uPVC
uPVC (£3,550) is by far the most common replacement window in the UK. It insulates well, needs no painting, and a 25-35 year life is typical. Frames are bulkier than aluminium, and white can yellow slightly with age on cheaper profiles. Woodgrain foils in colours cost more than plain white but are the easiest way to soften the look.
Aluminium
Modern aluminium windows (£4,650) use a thermal break between inner and outer frame, so they no longer run cold. Their strength allows slim sightlines and big panes, which is why they suit contemporary homes, extensions and large openings. Powder-coated finishes need little care, and 30-45 years is typical.
Composite
"Composite" windows (£9,800) combine materials - for example an insulating core with a tougher outer skin. The name covers quite different products, so ask exactly what the frame is made of and what the warranty covers. Well-made composite frames are low-maintenance and last 30-50 years.
Timber
Timber (£9,400) is the traditional choice and, on period homes and in conservation areas, often the expected one. Engineered, factory-finished timber lasts 30-60 years if the paint or stain is kept up, typically every few years on the most exposed elevations. It is the most repairable frame: rotten sections can be spliced rather than the whole window replaced.
Aluminium-clad timber
Aluclad windows (£13,800) have a timber frame inside and an aluminium shell outside. You get the warmth and look of wood in the room, and a weatherproof, low-maintenance exterior. They cost the most but last longest, at 40-60 years.
Cost per year, not just upfront
A frame that costs more but lasts twice as long, or saves repainting, can be the cheaper window over the time you own the house. Using the lifespans above, uPVC is hard to beat on cost alone; timber and aluclad make more sense if you plan to stay, if the house is period or listed, or if planning rules call for them.
What else affects the price
- Size and style. Our estimate uses a typical 1.2 x 1.4 m window. Sashes, bays, arched heads and large sliders cost more per window.
- Access. Windows reachable from inside are straightforward; upper floors needing scaffolding or a platform add cost.
- Glass. Acoustic, toughened, laminated or obscure glass adds to the price.
- Finish and colour. Dual colours, woodgrain foils and special hardware all add up.
We build these prices from the hours each window takes to remove and fit at local labour rates, plus the frames and materials, and check them against market prices and real quotes.
Planning and building regulations
- Building regulations. Replacement windows must meet building regulations. A FENSA or CERTASS registered installer self-certifies the work and you get a certificate - keep it for when you sell.
- Conservation areas and listed buildings. Changing frame material or style on a listed building, or in a conservation area where the council restricts it, can need consent. Timber sashes are often expected. Check with your local planning authority before ordering.
- VAT. Our window figures include 20% VAT.
Which to choose
- Best value, low maintenance: uPVC.
- Slim frames, big glass, modern homes: aluminium.
- Low maintenance with a wood-like look: composite, if you know what is inside.
- Period homes and conservation areas: timber.
- Wood inside, no painting outside: aluminium-clad timber.
Check your quote
Ask for quotes that name the frame material, the glass specification, the finish and colour, and show removal, fitting and making good as separate lines. Check the installer is FENSA or CERTASS registered. Then compare the total with typical prices where you live using our "Is my quote fair?" tool: Is my quote fair?.