Are you looking for cheap ways to upgrade your windows?
Window replacements or upgrades are some of the most cost-effective investments in a home. But there’s a problem…
Many homeowners wrongly assume window replacement must be prohibitively expensive. There’s good news though. There are plenty of cheap ways to upgrade your windows. They can cut energy costs and dramatically improve comfort.
Plus…
Some upgrades are as easy as a weekend job. Others require professionals but can still cost a fraction of full replacements.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover…
- Why your windows are way more important than you think
- Cheap ways to upgrade
- When full replacement is best
- How to choose the right materials for your windows
Read on for top tips to give your windows an affordable makeover.
Why Your Windows Are Way More Important Than You Think
Let me share a little-known statistic with you…
Did you know that up to 18% of a home’s heat escapes through the windows? Nearly 1 in 5 of the energy used to heat a house escapes through ill-fitting, single-glazed windows.
Pause a second and think about that for a second.
When heating is on during the colder months, the energy is literally leaking out of your house. In the warmer months, those same old inefficient windows let all the heat in. Guess what? That makes your air-con work harder than it needs to.
This is why improving your home’s windows should be right at the top of your list.
New modern windows keep heat where it should be. Double-glazed and triple-glazed windows create thermal barriers that lock energy in. Premium aluminium windows combine a sleek modern aesthetic with excellent thermal performance.
The result? Lower energy bills and a more comfortable house all year round.
You can find more about windows like these by visiting https://thehomedesigngroup.co.uk/products/aluminium-windows/.
Budget-Friendly Window Upgrade Options
Ok, so ripping out every window and starting again might be a bit beyond some homeowners’ budget. Don’t worry, plenty of cost-effective alternatives achieve great results without needing to sell the family car.
Draught Proofing
The cheapest place to start is with draught-proofing. Spaces around window frames are like open doors for cold air and make it easy for warm air to escape.
Simple weatherstripping and caulking cost next to nothing but can make a real difference.
Test for draughts by holding a candle flame near the window edges. Flickering indicates a draught that needs to be sealed.
Secondary Glazing
Secondary glazing is another excellent alternative to a full replacement. Secondary glazing involves adding an extra pane inside the original window frame.
It is much cheaper than a full replacement and works well for period properties where you cannot change the original windows.
You can even remove secondary glazing for the summer if you want. Magnetic or clip-on fitting systems make it easy to seasonally adjust windows.
This flexibility is also a reason secondary glazing is an excellent option for many renters.
Low-E Glass Retrofits
Another great way to reduce costs is to replace only the glass rather than the entire window frame. Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through the window.
Even this single retrofit upgrade can transform a poorly performing window into a super-efficient one without replacing the window frame.
Window Film
Insulating window film is another affordable window upgrade option. Window film is applied directly to the glass, adding a thermal layer that reduces heat transfer.
Professional installation will give the best results, but there are also plenty of DIY kits available for those on a budget.
Full Window Replacement
Sometimes, a bit of dabbing around the edges just won’t do. Full window replacement becomes the more sensible option when frames are rotting, warped, damaged beyond repair, or let in cold draughts. Condensation between panes is another giveaway sign the seal is broken.
Households can save up to 13% on their energy bills when upgrading from single-pane to ENERGY STAR certified windows, according to Energy Saving Trust. For an average family home, that’s significant over time.
Modern replacement windows also come with better security features, reduced noise levels, and improved curb appeal. All of these increase the value of the property – so the investment pays even more dividends.
The trick is to shop around for quotes. Installation costs can vary wildly, and a bit of comparison will ensure the best deal.
The Best Way to Choose Materials
Choosing the right frame material is just as crucial as choosing the right type of glass. Different materials have advantages and disadvantages depending on your budget, the look you want to achieve, and your performance requirements.
uPVC Windows
uPVC is the cheapest option and also virtually maintenance-free. Multi-chamber design provides good insulation, and uPVC windows have a much sleeker, more modern appearance than the bulky frames of years gone by.
They are a practical option for most homes on most budgets.
Aluminium Windows
Aluminium frames have a slimmer frame and a more contemporary look. Thermal break technology has long solved the traditional issue of aluminium conducting heat, so modern aluminium windows are also highly energy efficient.
A popular option for large windows where strength is required.
Timber Windows
Timber is a natural insulator and looks perfect in traditional or period homes. The downside is wood needs regular maintenance to prevent rot and warping. The maintenance is the price to pay for the high levels of character you get in return. Timber windows are an excellent choice for homeowners happy to take on that level of upkeep.
Composite Windows
Composite frames are a combination of materials such as timber and aluminium to get the best of both. They are the lowest maintenance windows with a premium look and feel. Frames made of composite materials are a high end of the price spectrum. But they offer exceptional value for money over the long term.
Saving On Window Replacements With Government Incentives
Before you sign up for any window project, be sure to check what government incentives are available to you.
Local, regional, and national governments frequently offer grants or rebates for energy-efficient home improvements. Tax credits may also be available to offset a portion of the cost of qualifying installations.
Programmes vary and change frequently, so do a little research before committing to anything.
Local councils also often run schemes for insulation and glazing upgrades. If you take advantage of these, it could turn an otherwise expensive project into one you can more easily afford.
The Bottom Line
Window replacement or upgrading need not empty your bank account. From quick-fix draught proofing to strategic glass replacement, there are options for every budget.
The trick is to do something. Even a small improvement makes a big difference over time:
- Cheaper energy bills
- More comfortable home
- Less impact on the environment
- Increased value of your property
Choose the upgrades that fit your budget. Prioritise windows that give you the most problems first and then work through the rest over time. Smart home improvements make your home work harder without having to spend more than you want to. And when it comes to windows? It’s totally doable.
Photo by Rob Wingate on Unsplash