If you’ve stared at a draughty window on a cold Dublin morning and wondered whether it’s time to call in the pros, you’re not alone. Replacing old windows can cut heating bills by up to 30%, but knowing what you’ll actually pay – and who to trust with the job – is the real challenge. This guide breaks down the costs, hourly rates, and decision points that matter for homeowners in Ireland and the UK.

4 related posts

Average cost per window (supply & fit): £300–£500 · Typical hourly rate for a window fitter: £20–£40 per hour · Energy savings after replacing 20-year-old windows: Up to 30% on heating bills · Number of window fitters listed on Checkatrade in Dublin: 8 · Common window material in Ireland: uPVC

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact cost varies by region, window size, and fitter experience – no fixed national price list exists
  • Energy savings depend on existing insulation, heating system, and building orientation
  • Government grant availability (e.g., SEAI schemes) changes annually
3Timeline signal
4What’s next
  • Get three itemised quotes from certified fitters near you
  • Check references, insurance, and membership in trade bodies
  • Compare uPVC, aluminium, and timber options based on budget and style

Five key figures paint the picture: from labour ranges to material cost differences.

Label Value
Average cost per window (supply & fit) £300–£500
Average hourly rate £20–£40
Common window material uPVC
Typical lifespan of new windows 20–30 years
Energy savings potential Up to 30%

How much does it cost to fit a new window?

What is the average cost of uPVC window fitting?

How much should it cost to fit a window?

For a straight swap of an existing window (no structural changes), most quotes land between £250 and £550 including labour and materials. CalcIreland (cost calculator site) suggests that in Ireland the total per window ranges from €300 to €900, with uPVC at the lower end and timber at the top. The trade-off: cheap quotes may skip proper sealing or guarantees.

The implication: always ask for a line-item breakdown of supply, labour, and disposal fees.

Does the cost vary by window size or type?

  • Sash windows cost more: uPVC sash models run €560–€1,200 before VAT and installation (Window24 – Irish online window pricing guide).
  • Timber casement windows are pricier at €790–€1,700, while aluminium casement falls in the middle at €600–€1,000 (Window24 – Irish online window pricing guide).
  • Bigger windows (e.g., bay or picture windows) increase both material and labour costs. Fenbro (Irish window fitting specialist) notes that new-build installation starts at about €25 per linear metre, while renovation work runs closer to €50 per linear metre.

The catch: size and glazing upgrades can double the base price, so get a quote tailored to your exact opening.

What is the average hourly rate for a window fitter?

How much do window fitters charge per hour in the UK?

  • Experienced fitters typically charge £25–£35 per hour, based on Checkatrade (UK tradesperson directory).
  • In Ireland, day rates for certified fitters run €170–€250 per day, with labourers around €150 per day (before VAT and materials), per Window24 (Irish online window pricing guide).

Are there differences between London and other regions?

London rates sit at the higher end – often £35–£40 per hour – while northern England and rural Ireland tend to be 10–20% lower. ExpertWindows (Irish window installation company) adds that labour makes up 20%–30% of total window replacement cost, so a higher hourly rate doesn’t always mean a higher total if the fitter works fast.

Why this matters: comparing a day-rate quote with an hourly quote is apples-to-oranges unless you know the expected hours per window.

Is it worth replacing 20-year-old windows?

What are the signs that windows need replacing?

  • Condensation between panes (failed seals), visible draughts, rotting frames, and high heating bills are clear indicators.
  • Twenty-year-old windows typically have single glazing or early double glazing with poor U-values. Modern double-glazed uPVC units cut heat loss by up to 30% compared to 20-year-old stock.

How much can I save on energy bills after replacement?

Replacing old windows can lower annual heating costs by 20–30%, according to industry estimates. On a typical Irish semi-detached home, that translates to €200–€400 saved per year. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grant support for energy upgrades, though the exact schemes change each budget cycle.

The trade-off: upfront investment of €3,000–€6,000 for a standard house pays back in 7–10 years, plus you gain noise reduction and higher resale value. Home value can increase by up to 10% after full window replacement, per estate agent surveys.

The upshot

For a homeowner with 20-year-old draughty windows, the decision is not if, but when. Delaying replacement costs you €200–€400 in extra heating each year – money that would otherwise go toward a modern, airtight upgrade.

How much does it cost to install new windows in Ireland?

What is the price for uPVC window installation in Dublin?

Are there government grants for window replacement in Ireland?

The SEAI’s Home Energy Grant scheme currently offers up to €2,400 for a full home energy upgrade including windows, but the funding is subject to budget cycles and household eligibility. SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) provides details on qualifying works. Note that VAT on home improvements in Ireland is 13.5%, not the standard 23%.

The pattern: grants make replacement more accessible, but they rarely cover the full cost – expect to cover at least 60% out of pocket.

How do I find and choose a window fitter near me?

What should I ask when getting quotes?

  • Ask for a fixed-price quote that includes supply, fitting, disposal of old windows, and VAT.
  • Request a timeline: how many windows per day, and total project duration.
  • Confirm warranty: new uPVC windows typically come with a 10-year guarantee on the frame and a separate guarantee on the glazing unit.

How do I check reviews and credentials?

  • In the UK, look for FENSA or CERTASS registration – these are competent person schemes for window installation.
  • In Ireland, check membership in the Irish Fenestration Association or verified listings on Checkatrade (UK tradesperson directory) and Golden Pages.
  • Read recent reviews on Google, Yelp, and trade platforms. One bad review is not a deal-breaker, but a pattern of call-backs or poor sealing is a red flag.

Should I get multiple quotes?

Yes – three quotes minimum. This practice is standard across the industry and helps you spot outliers (too cheap often means corners cut; too high may be a premium brand markup). MyBuilder (crowdsourced tradesperson platform) advises homeowners to compare like-for-like specifications, not just bottom-line prices.

The catch: the cheapest quote often uses lower-grade materials or shorter labour times that compromise sealing and finish.

What to watch

A fitter who can’t provide proof of insurance or a written warranty is a risk you don’t need. One bad installation can cost more in repairs than a proper job from the start.

Upsides of professional window fitting

  • Proper sealing and insulation – no draughts
  • Warranty on labour and materials
  • Compliance with building regulations (FENSA/CERTASS or equivalent)
  • Time savings – a crew can fit 8–10 windows in a day

Downsides to consider

  • Higher upfront cost vs. DIY
  • Need to vet and compare multiple fitters
  • Risk of poor workmanship if you skip checks
  • Scheduling delays in peak seasons

Steps to find and hire a window fitter near you

  1. Define your needs – Measure your windows or note the rough sizes. Decide on material (uPVC, aluminium, or timber) and glazing type (double or triple).
  2. Gather recommendations – Ask neighbours, check local Facebook community groups, and search directories like Checkatrade or Golden Pages. Aim for at least three potential fitters within 20 miles of your home.
  3. Request detailed quotes – Send the same specification to all three. Ask for line-item breakdown: materials, labour, disposal, VAT. Request proof of insurance and certification.
  4. Check references – Ask for at least two recent customer references. Follow up to ask about punctuality, cleanliness, and whether the windows performed well after a year.
  5. Compare and decide – Compare quotes on total price, warranty length, material quality, and start date. Do not choose solely on price – the middle quote with solid credentials is often the sweet spot.

What the experts say

“We see many homeowners who postpone replacement and end up paying 30% more in heating costs over five winters. The payback is real, especially with current energy prices.”

– Checkatrade cost guide (2026)

“In Ireland, the labour portion of window installation is often underestimated. When you factor in dismantling old frames (up to €60 per window) and finishing work, the total can surprise people.”

– Fenbro (Irish window fitting specialist)

“SEAI grants make a real difference for households that need to stagger the cost. But the grant covers only part of the bill, so it’s worth planning ahead.”

– Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)

Additional sources

buildtech.ie, perfecthome.ie

For a detailed breakdown of pricing and grants, check out this guide on window replacement costs in Ireland.

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Frequently asked questions

Do window fitters need to be certified?

In the UK, FENSA or CERTASS certification is required for compliance with building regulations. In Ireland, there is no mandatory certification, but membership in the Irish Fenestration Association is a mark of professionalism.

How long does window fitting take per window?

Typically 0.5 to 1 hour per window for a straightforward swap. A full house of 10 windows can be completed in one day with a two-person crew, as per Fenbro (Irish window fitting specialist).

What is the best time of year to replace windows?

Spring and autumn offer milder weather and greater fitter availability. Winter is possible but may involve colder working conditions and longer drying times for sealants.

Can I replace windows myself to save money?

It is possible, but you risk invalidating guarantees, missing building regulations, and poor sealing. Professional fitting is recommended unless you have significant construction experience.

What warranty comes with new uPVC windows?

Most reputable manufacturers offer a 10-year guarantee on the uPVC profile and a separate 5–10 year warranty on the sealed glazing unit. Always get the warranty in writing.

Do I need planning permission to replace windows in Ireland?

Generally no for like-for-like replacements. However, if you change the size or style significantly, you may need planning permission. Check with your local county council.

Are there financing options for window replacement?

Some fitters offer payment plans, and SEAI grants reduce upfront costs. Personal loans or home improvement loans from banks are also an option.

Related reading

For homeowners across Ireland and the UK, replacing old windows is one of the most effective energy-saving investments available. The upfront cost – typically £200–£600 per window – is offset by 20–30% lower heating bills, increased comfort, and a 10% boost in property value. The decision is clear: get three quotes, verify credentials, and invest in modern uPVC double glazing. For the Irish homeowner, the combination of SEAI grants and the 13.5% VAT rate makes replacement more affordable than ever. The cost of inaction? Hundreds of euros lost to draughts each winter.