Compare windows
Discover your options for replacement windows and compare prices from top-rated suppliers with SpotDif
Your guide to comparing windows in 2024
Windows are one of the most important features of any safe, secure and energy-efficient property. Not only do they contribute to a building’s structure and keep that all-important heat in, but they also add to your home’s aesthetic — they can even give your property’s value a boost, too. But with so many styles and designs available, how do you decide which is right for your home? That’s where SpotDif comes in — we believe that finding the perfect new windows shouldn’t be a challenge.
Our guide is here to help you compare your options. From shapes and sizes to glazing, we have all the information you need to make an informed choice. And once you’re ready to find a supplier, you can simply fill out our window comparison form and we’ll curate a list of trusted window companies that match your needs.
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The benefits of replacement windows
Upgrading to new windows is a smart choice that boosts both comfort and your home's aesthetic. Modern windows keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, helping you save on energy bills. They also come with better seals and multiple layers of glass that block out noise, making your home quieter.
Plus, new windows can make your home look fresh and inviting. They enhance its kerb appeal, catching the eye of neighbours and potential buyers.
With many styles available, you can find windows that match your home perfectly or give it a brand-new flair. This not only makes your home more enjoyable to live in but also can increase its value if you decide to sell.
Types of new windows for your home
Best for: Modern homes, cottages, and any property where maximising natural ventilation is key. They are especially popular in areas such as kitchens and bathrooms where airflow is crucial.
Best for: Apartments and residential units in multi-storey buildings because of their versatile opening options, which provide both security and ease of cleaning. They are also suitable for homes in urban areas where external space is limited.
Best for: Properties with scenic views or those leading to gardens and patios. This style is ideal for enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, such as in living rooms or dining areas.
Best for: Period homes and traditional properties aiming to maintain historical integrity. They are also a good choice for urban dwellings that require effective ventilation without the need for outward-opening windows.
Best for: Double-hung windows are ideal for almost any room in your home — especially bedrooms and living areas where adjustable ventilation and ease of cleaning are particularly beneficial.
Best for: Detached houses and larger residential properties that can accommodate the protruding design. They are particularly effective in living rooms or family rooms where extra space and light are desired.
Best for: Premium residential properties and larger homes that benefit from architectural enhancements. They are commonly installed in main living areas or luxury suites to add elegance and a panoramic view.
Before you can choose a window supplier, it’s important to get a good understanding of the styles of windows available. Different window types offer unique selling points, each bringing distinct character and charm.
The type of windows you choose will largely depend on the room’s specific needs, including size, desired ventilation, and aesthetic preferences. Let’s compare your window options…
Casement windows
Casement windows are hinged at the side and swing open like a door, making it super easy to adjust the airflow in any room. This design allows them to open fully, maximising ventilation and ensuring a snug seal when closed to keep drafts at bay and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
These windows usually feature large glass panes without any bars, offering a clear, unobstructed view. They're great for enjoying outdoor scenery, adding a simple, elegant look to any space. Whether you need a small window for your bathroom or a larger one for the living room, casement windows come in a range of sizes and materials, fitting perfectly with various home styles and personal preferences.
Tilt-and-turn windows
Tilt-and-turn windows are cleverly designed for dual use. They tilt open from the top for safe and gentle air entry, and can also swing open like a door, making them easy to clean. This is especially handy for windows on upper floors. They're safe for areas like children's bedrooms too, where controlled ventilation is important.
These windows look modern, with large glass panes that let in plenty of light. They come in many sizes and fit well in both new and old buildings. You can choose from different materials like wood, uPVC, or aluminium, depending on your style and needs. This versatility makes tilt-and-turn windows a practical choice for various room requirements.
French windows
French windows are designed to maximise your view and connect seamlessly with the outdoors, thanks to their lack of a central pillar. These windows swing open from the side, providing a completely unobstructed panorama.
They are available in a variety of sizes, so you can tailor them to fit different openings, ensuring a perfect match for both large and small spaces. You can also choose from materials like wood, uPVC, or aluminium, allowing you to coordinate with your home's design and durability needs. Their elegant, functional style makes them a popular choice for enhancing natural light and enjoying expansive views, too.
Sash windows
Sash windows are a traditional choice, adding a classic touch to any building. They consist of one or more panels, known as sashes, which slide vertically to open and close. This design is especially suitable for historic or period homes where maintaining architectural integrity is key. They fit well in urban settings too, where space is limited because they don't swing outward like casement or French windows.
These windows are available in a variety of sizes, making them adaptable to both large and small window openings. You can choose from materials such as traditional wood or more modern uPVC. Sash windows preserve the aesthetic qualities of older homes while providing excellent ventilation, making them a practical and attractive option for any residence.
Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows are a classic choice, featuring two sashes that slide vertically, allowing both the top and bottom parts to open. This design offers great ventilation flexibility and these windows are convenient to clean.
These windows are particularly convenient for easy maintenance. Both sashes tilt inward, enabling you to clean the outside glass from inside your home — ideal for higher floors. Double-hung windows also support efficient air circulation by allowing warm air to escape from the top while cooler air enters from below. They blend well into any setting, providing functionality and style in equal measure.
Bay windows
Bay windows are designed to project out from the wall, creating a unique, curved space inside the room. This design floods the room with natural light and offers broad views, making them ideal for living rooms or sitting areas where extra light and space create a welcoming environment.
You can adapt bay windows with different types of panels like casement or sash windows, depending on how you want the air to flow and your style preferences. Bay windows are a versatile choice that not only enhances the feel of a room but also adds a distinctive architectural feature to your home.
Bow windows
Bow windows are beautifully curved, creating a rounded look on the outside of your home. They work especially well in main living areas or master bedrooms, enhancing both the aesthetics and the sense of spaciousness. The panoramic views and the flood of natural light they provide make any room feel more inviting.
Bow windows are available with an array of glass types and frame materials. For added functionality, bow windows can incorporate operational panels like casement or double-hung windows, allowing for adjustable ventilation to suit your needs. This blend of visual appeal, energy efficiency, and customisation makes bow windows a great choice to enhance the comfort and value of your home.
Sliding windows
Sliding windows are designed to open horizontally along a track. The design ensures that no part of the window protrudes outward, avoiding obstruction of pathways or interference with outdoor living spaces. This makes them particularly suited for modern homes where maintaining clean, uncluttered lines is key.
These windows maximise the glass area, flooding rooms with natural light and offering unobstructed views. Available in a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, and aluminium, sliding windows can be tailored to match any home's decor.
Best for: Contemporary homes and compact spaces, like townhouses or modern apartments. They work well where space is at a premium but where light and practicality are important, such as bedrooms and family rooms facing restricted outdoor areas.
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Comparing window material options
As you can see, most window styles are available in a range of material choices — but how do each of these materials compare?
uPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride)
uPVC is a modern material that’s generally available in white but you can also find uPVC frames with a wood-effect finish or bold colour.
Durability: Good — this material is weather-resistant and doesn’t corrode or rot.
Cost: Economical — uPVC is one of the most affordable window materials.
Maintenance: Low — this material is easy to clean and doesn’t need painting or sealing.
Energy efficiency: Very good — uPVC provides excellent insulation.
Aluminium
Sleek and modern, aluminium frames are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, making them ideal for contemporary designs.
Durability: Excellent — aluminium frames are extremely strong and can last for many years.
Cost: Higher — these frames tend to be more expensive than uPVC but lower than wooden alternatives.
Maintenance: Low — resistant to rust and corrosion, aluminium windows require minimal upkeep.
Energy efficiency: Good — however, these window frames also require a thermal break to improve insulation. (A thermal break is a special layer inside the frame that helps keep heat out in summer and in during winter, making the window better at controlling temperature
Wood
Wooden (timber) window frames are classic and timeless, offering a sense of natural beauty and warmth that complements many architectural styles.
Durability: Good — however, wood window frames can be prone to warping, swelling, and rotting if they’re not properly maintained.
Cost: High — wood tends to be more expensive due to the craftsmanship involved.
Maintenance: High — timber needs regular painting and sealing to maintain its condition.
Energy efficiency: Excellent — wood is a naturally insulating material.
Fibreglass
You can paint fibreglass in any colour and can design it to mimic the texture of wood, offering a versatile appearance.
Durability: Excellent — fibreglass doesn’t warp, rot, or corrode.
Cost: Higher — this material is generally more costly than uPVC. It’s usually around the same price as, or slightly lower than, wood.
Maintenance: Low — although you can paint fibreglass, painting isn’t necessary and this material is easy to clean.
Energy efficiency: Excellent — fibreglass is one of the best insulators among window materials.
Composite
Composite window frames combine the best of both worlds, often using aluminium exteriors for a modern look and wood interiors for a traditional feel.
Durability: Excellent — composite windows are made from a combination of materials, including wood and aluminium, resulting in superior strength.
Cost: High — these window frames tend to be among the most expensive options.
Maintenance: Moderate — depending on the composition, these window frames usually need less maintenance than wood but more than options like uPVC
Energy efficiency: Very good — composite windows are designed to offer high thermal resistance.
Double vs. triple glazing
Another consideration to make is whether you’d like double-glazed windows or triple-glazing.
Double glazing
Double-glazed windows have two layers of glass. This setup improves heat retention and reduces noise more effectively than single-glazed windows, which have only one layer of glass. Double glazing is cheaper than triple glazing and still offers a significant improvement in energy efficiency and comfort.
Triple glazing
Triple-glazed windows include three layers of glass, which provide even better insulation and noise reduction. They are especially good for very cold climates or noisy areas. However, they are more expensive and heavier, which might require sturdier frame materials.
How do double and triple-glazed windows compare to single-glazing?
Both options are far superior to single glazing in keeping your home warm and quiet. Though more costly, triple glazing is top-tier for minimising heat loss and cutting down outside noise.
Wondering which type of glazing is best for you? Take a look at our article: Which is better, double or triple glazing?
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How much do replacement windows cost?
The big question: how much will your new windows cost? As with any home improvement, the price of replacement windows is influenced by a few key factors:
1. Size: The size of your new window will affect its price tag. Larger windows typically require more materials and labour, resulting in higher prices than smaller ones.
2. Material: As we can see from the section above, the material of the window frame greatly affects its cost. uPVC windows are generally the most affordable option, followed by aluminium and then timber, which tends to be the most expensive.
3. Glazing: Likewise, the type of glazing also impacts the cost. Double glazing is standard and more cost-effective than triple glazing, which offers enhanced insulation but comes at a higher price.
4. Labour costs: It’s also important to factor installation costs into your window. Labour costs vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the job, accessibility, and your location. Hiring professionals for installation ensures proper fitting and performance of the windows but will be more expensive than installing your windows yourself.
Average window costs in the UK
It’s always best to get a tailored quote from a window supplier to get a clear idea of the budget you’ll need. However, as a rough guide, you can expect the following ballpark figures:
A standard uPVC casement window will cost around £525, whereas the same window style in aluminium will cost an average of £1024.
For sash windows, you’re looking at an average of £1100 for a uPVC model and £3300 for a timber design.
And for bow or bay windows, you can expect to pay £1700 for uPVC, with costs rising to £3400 for an aluminium version and £5100 for a wooden design.
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, and prices will vary depending on your property, location, and requirements. To get an accurate quote from top-rated window companies in the UK, compare your window options with SpotDif.
Labour costs
As well as the window units themselves, you’ll need to budget for labour costs. This will again vary depending on the company you choose, the complexity of the installation, and your location.
For example, window installation tends to cost more in London and the South East than in other parts of the UK. As an average, you’re looking at an hourly rate of £25 to £70, with most window installations taking about three hours to complete.
Maintaining your windows
Preparing to install your new windows offers the perfect opportunity to familiarise yourself with the best practices for their upkeep. Here’s how to keep your windows sparkling and functioning beautifully throughout the year:
Cleaning your window panes
1. Begin by gently wiping away any cobwebs, dust, or debris using a soft cloth. This initial step helps avoid scratching the glass when you start cleaning.
2. Mix a solution of warm water and a mild detergent, or for an eco-friendly alternative, combine equal parts vinegar and water. Both are effective at cutting through grime without damaging the glass.
3. Apply your chosen solution with a soft cloth and carefully clean the glass in a circular motion to lift and remove any dirt or stains.
4. After washing, use a squeegee to strip away water from the glass, reducing streaks and speeding up the drying process.
Additional window maintenance tips
Regular maintenance not only preserves the appearance of your windows but also ensures they function as intended for years to come.
Check seals and weatherstripping regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replacing worn seals can improve insulation and prevent water ingress.
Open and close your windows every so often to ensure they function smoothly. This can prevent mechanisms from seizing up and highlight any issues with alignment or balance.
Depending on the material of your window frames, treat them accordingly to prevent weathering and decay.
Boost ventilation in your home to reduce moisture buildup, which can lead to condensation and eventually, mould growth around windows.
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