Broken Window Pane? All You Need to Know and Cost Guide
Replacing a broken window pane can be a daunting task for many homeowners. Whether it’s due to a storm or an accidental hit, it’s essential to know the average costs of replacing a single window pane in the UK. This guide provides information on the cost of hiring a professional or doing it yourself, factors that affect the cost, and the types of window and glass available.
The average cost of window glass replacement in the UK ranges from £55 to £300 for supply and installation of double-glazed units per window.
If you’re planning to do the job yourself, a 200mm x 400mm double-glazed unit can cost around £25, while a 900mm x 1200mm double-glazed unit can cost around £100. Additionally, replacing window glass pinned and putty can cost around £30 per unit.
In the following section, we’ll delve deeper into the factors that affect the cost of window glass replacement and provide you with a useful checklist.
Key Takeaways
- Window glass replacement costs in the UK range from £55 to £300 for supply and installation of double-glazed units per window.
- If you’re planning to do the job yourself, a 200mm x 400mm double-glazed unit can cost around £25, while a 900mm x 1200mm double-glazed unit can cost around £100.
- Replacing window glass pinned and putty can cost around £30 per unit.
Reasons to Replace a Window Glass
There are several reasons why you may need to replace a pane of glass in your window. Below are some of the most common reasons:
- Broken Panes: This is the most common reason for window glass replacement. Whether it is a chip, crack or gaping hole, broken panes can cause further damage or shattering.
- Major Scratches: Major scratches can weaken the window glass and cause an eyesore. It can also lead to further damage, which may require replacement.
- Condensation: If you notice condensation in between double-glazed glass, it is a sign that the window glass needs to be replaced.
- Draught Issues: Damaged glass or a window pane coming away from the frame can cause draught issues. This can be resolved by replacing the window glass or the entire window.
It is important to address any issues with your window glass promptly to ensure your safety and comfort.
Consider seeking professional help from a trusted tradesperson for your window replacement needs.
Labour Costs
If you decide to hire a professional to replace your window glass, you’ll need to factor in the cost of labour.
Hourly rates for experienced window fitters can be between £25 – £35 per hour.
When working with window fitters, you may be charged for labour by a day rate, or you may be charged by the hour.
Where you live may also have an impact on the cost, with rates in London and the South East being higher than the average.
If you’re a competent DIYer, repairing wooden frames could work out cheaper, taking approximately four to eight hours per window, ranging from £100 to £200.
Enhancement and improvement costs
When it comes to window glass replacement, sometimes it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire window unit instead of just the glass.
This is especially true if the seal on your window has failed, the dividers within the window are also broken, or your window has a wooden frame that has begun to rot.
In this case, the cost of replacing the whole window unit may be more than just the replacement glass for your window, but it may be the better option.
Window glass replacement cost calculator
If you’re looking to calculate the cost of a window glass replacement, you’ll need to consider a few factors.
Firstly, you’ll need to count how many windows need their glass replaced.
From there, you’ll need to measure the height and width of each window glass to know the size of the panes to replace.
You’ll also need to factor in the type and thickness of the glass to determine the total window glass replacement cost.
Keep in mind that this is just an estimator for the window glass replacement cost. For accurate prices, we recommend speaking to your local window specialists and asking for a breakdown of costs and the options available.
Window glass replacement quote
When organising the replacement of window glass, it’s always a good idea to get at least three quotes from a number of local window specialists.
This way, you can make sure you’re being quoted fair and competitive prices in your area.
We recommend asking for a clear breakdown of costs, so you can easily compare the quotes you receive.
To get three quotes now, you can speak to your local window specialists and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs and options available.
Window glass replacement cost – hourly rates
Tradespeople typically quote per window for window glass replacement jobs, rather than an hourly rate. The average cost per window is around £110 to £120.
Smashed Window Repair Cost
If you have a smashed window, it’s usually beyond repair and will need to be replaced.
The cost of replacing a broken window will depend on the number of windows that need to be replaced.
If it’s just one pane of glass, it will be cheaper than replacing all of them.
On average, the cost of repairing a broken window is £110 for a single glazed pane of glass or £120 for a double-glazed window. This cost includes both repairs and installations.
Additional Considerations
When replacing your window glass, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
- If your windows are under warranty, it’s best to contact the manufacturer before attempting to replace the glass yourself, as you could unintentionally void the warranty.
- Ensure that the new glass is the correct size and thickness for your window frame.
- Check the condition of your window locks, handles, and hinges, and replace them if necessary.
- Consider using energy-efficient glass to help reduce your energy bills.
- Ensure that your windows are properly sealed to prevent draughts, condensation, and damp.
- Regularly check your windows for cracks, leaks, and mould, and address any issues promptly to ensure the longevity of your windows.
- Consider adding additional protection and security features to your windows, such as window film or security bars, to deter intruders.
Types of Window
If you’re looking to replace your windows, you’ll need to choose the right type of window for your home. Here are the four most popular types of window in the UK:
Casement Windows
Casement windows are one of the most common types of window found in UK homes. They are versatile and come in a variety of sizes, materials, and finishes.
They have a hinge on one side and open outwards, making them easy to open and close. Casement windows can be made from wood, uPVC, or aluminium.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are most commonly found in Georgian and Victorian homes. They feature vertically sliding panes of glass that use a weighted system.
This can increase the cost of window replacement if the weight needs to be adjusted. Sash windows are available in a range of materials, including wood and uPVC.
Tilt and Turn Windows
Tilt and turn windows are a modern option that opens inwards into the room, making them easier to clean and maintain.
They also allow you to control how wide they open, so they’re ideal for homes with young children. Tilt and turn windows are typically made from uPVC or aluminium.
Bay Windows
Bay windows protrude out from the external wall of a home and create a bay area within the room.
They are a popular choice with UK homeowners for both their style and the ability to add space to a room. Bay windows can be made from a range of materials, including wood, uPVC, and aluminium.
When choosing the right type of window, it’s important to consider the style of your home, the amount of light you want to let in, and the level of insulation you need.
Each type of window has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh up your options before making a decision.
Types of Glass
When it comes to window glass replacement, the type of glass you choose will affect the price you pay. Here are some of the most common types of glass you can choose from:
Standard Glass
Standard glass is the most basic type of window glass. It is energy-efficient and safe, and it should meet most of your basic needs in terms of avoiding draughts, condensation and energy loss.
Standard glass is also the cheapest option for window glass replacement, making it ideal if you’re trying to keep costs low.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is a popular choice for homeowners who want an extra level of safety. It has a protective layer of vinyl between the two pieces of glass, which makes it more difficult to break.
This layer also provides sound reduction and improved impact and shatter resistance. Laminated glass is more expensive than standard glass, but it is worth the investment if you value safety and security.
Toughened Glass
Toughened glass is five times stronger than laminated glass of the same thickness, making it an excellent choice for areas where safety is a concern.
It is also more resistant to breaking, which means it is less likely to shatter into dangerous shards. However, toughened glass is more expensive than standard or laminated glass.
Double and Triple Glazing
Double and triple glazing is an excellent choice if you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
These types of windows consist of 2 or 3 panes of glass, and the air gaps between the panes are typically filled with an inert gas such as argon.
This makes these sealed units thermally efficient, which can help you save money on your energy bills.
Double and triple glazing is more expensive than standard glass, but it is worth the investment if you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Useful Glass Replacement Checklist
If you need to replace a broken window glass, here is a helpful checklist to ensure you get the job done right:
- Identify the type of window and frame, as well as the glass that needs replacing.
- Consider whether it’s just the glass that needs replacing or if it might be more cost-effective to replace the whole frame/window.
- Check if your modern double glazed windows are fitted with anti-theft blocks, as this can make installing new glass more complicated.
- Establish the type of glass you want to replace it with, considering safety, quality, and budget.
- Speak to a window specialist for advice on the best window glass options for you.
- Shop around and speak to a number of suppliers and/or professional tradespeople to get a good idea of average costs.
- Ensure you have all the right tools for the job, including a putty knife, sandpaper, window putty, glass cutter, and utility knife.
- Factor in the cost of tools as part of the price for the window glass replacement.
- If you’re unsure about replacing the glass yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a broken window pane, you may be able to replace it yourself.
To replace a damaged pane in a window, follow these simple steps:
- Remove the broken glass: Wear gloves and safety goggles. Then, carefully remove any loose pieces of glass from the frame using pliers or a putty knife. Be sure to dispose of the broken glass safely.
- Measure the window opening: Measure the width and height of the opening to determine the size of the new glass pane you need.
- Order the replacement glass: You can order a replacement glass pane from a local hardware store or online. Make sure to specify the exact size and thickness of the glass pane you need.
- Install the new glass pane: Place the new glass pane into the frame and secure it with glazing points. Then, apply a thin layer of glazing putty around the edges of the pane to hold it in place.
The cost of a new glass pane for a window can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Size: Larger panes of glass will generally be more expensive than smaller ones.
- Thickness: Thicker glass panes will be more expensive than thinner ones.
- Type of glass: Different types of glass, such as tempered or laminated glass, will have different costs.
- Installation: If you hire a professional to install the glass pane, this will add to the overall cost.
Internal and external window panes differ in their location and function.
Internal window panes are located on the inside of the window frame and are designed to provide insulation and soundproofing. Meanwhile, external window panes are located on the outside of the window frame and are designed to protect the interior of the building from the elements.
To measure a window for pane replacement, follow these steps:
- Measure the width of the window frame from edge to edge.
- Measure the height of the window frame from top to bottom.
- Measure the thickness of the frame to determine the depth of the glass pane needed.
- Subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to allow for a snug fit.
To keep your window panes clean and clear, follow these best practices:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth or sponge to clean the glass.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or materials that could scratch the glass.
- Use a mixture of water and mild soap to clean the glass.
- Dry the glass with a clean, dry cloth or squeegee to prevent streaks.
There are several types of glass that are commonly used in window panes. These include:
- Float glass: This is the most common type of glass used in windows. It is clear and has good optical quality.
- Tempered glass: This type of glass is stronger and more durable than float glass. It is also safer because it breaks into small, rounded pieces when shattered.
- Laminated glass: This type of glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic between two layers of glass. It is strong and durable, and provides good sound insulation.
- Low-e glass: This type of glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room, making it more energy-efficient.
Each type of glass has its own benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right type of glass for your specific needs.
