Aluminium Windows Cost UK: What You'll Actually Pay in 2026

Aluminium windows have become the go-to choice for homeowners who want a clean, contemporary look with maximum glass area. But the pricing can feel opaque — quotes vary wildly, and it is hard to know whether you are getting a fair deal. This guide breaks down the real cost of aluminium windows in the UK in 2026, based on current market pricing and our experience installing hundreds of sets every year.

What Determines the Price of Aluminium Windows?

Several factors combine to set the final price. Understanding them helps you compare quotes accurately and make informed specification decisions.

Frame System and Manufacturer

The aluminium profile system is the single biggest cost variable. Budget systems from lesser-known manufacturers start lower but often have thicker sightlines, fewer colour options and shorter warranty periods. Premium systems from Cortizo and Schuco cost more but deliver slimmer profiles, better thermal performance and a finish that lasts decades.

• Budget systems: Functional but with sightlines of 65mm+ and limited colour ranges
• Mid-range systems (Smart, Aluk): Good balance of aesthetics and performance, sightlines around 55-60mm
• Premium systems (Cortizo, Schuco): Ultra-slim sightlines of 35-50mm, advanced thermal breaks, marine-grade finish options

Window Size and Configuration

Larger windows cost more, but not proportionally. A window twice the size does not cost twice as much because much of the cost is in the manufacturing setup, hardware and installation labour. Complex configurations — such as shaped windows, arched heads or bay configurations — add to the price.

Glazing Specification

Standard double glazing with a low-E coating and argon gas fill is included in most quotes. Upgrades that add cost include:

• Triple glazing: Adds £80-£150 per window
• Acoustic glass: Adds £60-£120 per window
• Self-cleaning glass: Adds £40-£80 per window
• Laminated or toughened safety glass: Adds £30-£60 per pane

Colour and Finish

Standard colours like anthracite grey (RAL 7016) and black (RAL 9005) are typically included in the base price. Non-standard RAL colours may add £30-£80 per window. Dual-colour finishes — different colours inside and outside — add approximately £50-£120 per window.

Installation Complexity

A straightforward like-for-like replacement is the most affordable installation scenario. Additional costs arise when:

• Openings need to be enlarged or reduced
• Structural lintels are required
• Scaffolding is needed for upper floors
• Electrical or plumbing must be rerouted
• Old timber sub-frames need removing

Aluminium Window Prices by Type

Here are realistic fully-installed prices for individual aluminium windows in 2026. All prices include supply, installation, all trims and a full site survey.

Casement Windows

The most common type. A standard two-pane aluminium casement window (1200mm x 1200mm) costs:

• Budget system: £550-£750
• Mid-range system: £750-£1,000
• Premium system (Cortizo/Schuco): £1,000-£1,400

Flush Casement Windows

Flush casement windows sit flat within the frame for a sleeker appearance. They cost approximately 10-15% more than standard casement:

• Mid-range: £850-£1,100
• Premium: £1,100-£1,600

Fixed Windows

Non-opening fixed windows are the most affordable option per square metre. A fixed pane (1200mm x 1200mm) typically costs:

• Mid-range: £400-£650
• Premium: £600-£900

Shaped and Feature Windows

Arched, circular or triangular windows are bespoke and priced accordingly. Expect to pay £800-£2,000+ per unit depending on size and complexity.

Whole-House Pricing

Most homeowners are replacing all windows at once, so whole-house pricing is the most relevant comparison. Here are realistic costs for a full set of aluminium windows in 2026:

Two-Bedroom Flat (4-6 windows) - **Mid-range:** £3,000-£5,000 - **Premium:** £5,000-£7,500

Three-Bedroom Semi-Detached (8-10 windows) - **Mid-range:** £6,500-£9,000 - **Premium:** £8,500-£13,000

Four-Bedroom Detached (12-16 windows) - **Mid-range:** £9,000-£14,000 - **Premium:** £13,000-£20,000+

Large or Architectural Projects (20+ windows) - **Premium with bespoke elements:** £20,000-£40,000+

These prices include standard double glazing, a standard RAL colour, all hardware, full installation and removal of old windows. VAT is included.

How Aluminium Compares to Other Materials

For context, here is how aluminium pricing sits relative to uPVC and timber:

• uPVC: 30-40% less than aluminium. A whole house costs £3,500-£7,500 for a three-bed semi
• Aluminium: The mid-point. Premium aesthetics with a 40-50 year lifespan
• Timber: 20-50% more than aluminium. Beautiful but requires regular maintenance (repainting every 5-8 years)

When you factor in lifespan, aluminium offers the best cost-per-year of any window material. A £10,000 aluminium installation lasting 45 years works out at approximately £222 per year. A £6,000 uPVC installation lasting 27 years costs approximately £222 per year — but you will need to replace the uPVC set during the same period, making the total outlay higher.

What Should Be Included in Your Quote

A reputable installer's quote should include all of the following with no extras on installation day:

• Full site survey and technical assessment
• Manufacture to your exact specification
• Delivery to site
• Professional installation by qualified fitters
• All internal and external trims and finishing
• Removal and disposal of old windows
• FENSA certificate (Building Regulations compliance)
• Thorough clean-up on completion
• Manufacturer's guarantee (typically 10-20 years on the frame)
• Installer's workmanship guarantee

At Vitrum Solutions, every quote includes all of the above. We do not charge for surveys, and there are no hidden costs. Our standard warranty covers the frames for 20 years and the glazing units for 10 years.

How to Get the Best Value

• Replace all windows at once — bulk pricing reduces the per-window cost significantly
• Choose a standard colour — anthracite grey and black are included in most systems at no extra cost
• Stick with double glazing unless you have a specific reason for triple (the energy saving is modest in most UK homes)
• Get three quotes — but compare like for like. Ensure every quote specifies the same system, glazing and colour
• Ask about the frame system by name — if an installer cannot tell you which aluminium system they use, that is a red flag

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do aluminium windows cost per window in the UK?

Individual aluminium windows cost between £550 and £1,400 fully installed, depending on the size, system and specification. A standard 1200mm x 1200mm casement window in a mid-range system typically costs £750-£1,000 including installation.

Are aluminium windows more expensive than uPVC?

Yes, aluminium windows typically cost 40-70% more than equivalent uPVC windows upfront. However, aluminium lasts 40-50 years compared to 25-30 for uPVC, making the cost per year of ownership comparable or even lower.

What is the cheapest aluminium window system?

Budget aluminium systems start from around £550 per window installed. However, we recommend mid-range systems as the minimum specification — the difference in sightline width, thermal performance and finish quality is significant and well worth the additional £150-£250 per window.

Do aluminium windows add value to a property?

Yes. Estate agents consistently identify aluminium windows as a feature that adds kerb appeal and market value. In modern and contemporary properties, aluminium windows can add 5-10% to the perceived value of a home. They are particularly valued in areas like Buckinghamshire and West London where buyers expect premium finishes.

How long does it take to install aluminium windows for a whole house?

A full house of aluminium windows (8-12 windows) typically takes 2-3 days to install. This assumes straightforward like-for-like replacements with no structural alterations. If openings need widening or lintels installing, the timeline extends accordingly.