Size, opening type, and number of openers
Fixed panes are usually cheaper than openers. A house with lots of small openers can cost more than a house with fewer, larger fixed panes — even if the total glass area is similar. Bay windows and unusual shapes also change complexity and labour.
Glass spec and comfort
Two quotes can both say “double glazing” and still feel totally different in winter and summer. Ask about insulation performance, and if you have a noisy street, ask about acoustic options. Comfort is not just “warmth” — it’s also noise reduction and condensation behaviour.
Ventilation details
Trickle vents, vent positions, and airflow planning matter. Poor ventilation choices can lead to condensation issues, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.
Security and hardware
Locking systems and hinge quality affect how windows feel after a few years. A window that sticks or drops out of alignment becomes annoying fast.
Installation, making good, and waste removal
Like doors, “windows only” pricing isn’t the same as a finished job. Confirm what is included: internal trims, external sealant quality, disposal, and any repair work around old frames.
If your window job is part of improving an entrance area (common when people do windows + front door + a small enclosed space), the Porch Cost Calculator is a helpful extra reference point for overall budget planning. It’s especially useful if you’re weighing up whether a porch would add comfort, reduce drafts, or improve security alongside the window upgrade.
uPVC window cost becomes predictable when you treat it as: openings + glass spec + installation scope. Get those clear, and comparing quotes becomes much easier.\
