Window Replacement Costs in Wales 2026: uPVC, Timber, and Aluminium

By besttrades.wales editorialUpdated May 2026900 words · ~5 min read

Window Replacement Costs in Wales 2026

Window replacement costs in Wales in 2026 depend on window type, material, number of windows, and any special requirements such as conservation area compliance.

Typical replacement window costs (supply and install, per window):

Window type uPVC Aluminium Timber
Standard casement (600×900mm) £400–£700 £600–£1,000 £500–£900
Bay window (3-section) £900–£1,600 £1,400–£2,500 £1,200–£2,200
Sash window (replacement) £600–£1,100 £900–£1,500 £800–£1,800
Tilt-and-turn £450–£800 £700–£1,200 £600–£1,100

Typical full-house replacement costs (Wales, 2026):

Property type uPVC (approx) Aluminium (approx)
2-bed terrace £2,500–£4,500 £4,000–£7,000
3-bed semi £3,500–£6,500 £5,500–£9,500
4-bed detached £5,000–£10,000 £8,000–£15,000

uPVC vs Timber vs Aluminium for Welsh Homes

uPVC is the most popular choice in Wales — low maintenance, good thermal performance, durable in the wet climate. Modern uPVC systems come in a wide range of colours and styles including realistic wood-grain finishes.

Aluminium offers slimmer sightlines (more glass, less frame) and is increasingly popular for contemporary designs and extensions. More expensive than uPVC but very durable and recyclable.

Timber remains the premium choice for traditional Welsh properties, period homes, and where authenticity matters. Requires more maintenance than uPVC or aluminium — repainting every 5–8 years depending on exposure. Modern engineered timber systems are more stable than solid timber in Wales's humid conditions.

Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings in Wales

Approximately 500 conservation areas exist in Wales, covering historic town centres, villages, and landscapes. Many Welsh towns and city areas (Cardiff Bay, Pontcanna, Penarth seafront, Llandaff, most of Conwy, Ruthin, and many others) have conservation area designation.

In conservation areas: uPVC windows may not be permitted; timber or aluminium windows matching the original style are typically required. Always check with your local planning authority before ordering windows in a conservation area.

Listed buildings in Wales require Listed Building Consent for any changes to windows — this includes repair and replacement. Your local authority's conservation officer should be consulted first.

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