Timber windows have a classical touch that can’t be replaced by more modern window materials, like uPVC, aluminium and composite where a contemporary feel dominates.
In fact, some types of properties that have classical architecture or those that are listed buildings could even look quite bizarre without timber window frames.
So how much can you expect to pay for timber windows? And what types of timber/wood are available?
Table of Contents
Advantages of Timber Windows
It’s hard to ignore the numerous list of advantages when it comes to timber windows. Not only is their traditional appearance a thing of beauty, but their natural qualities also help to reduce heat loss and keep your energy bills as efficient as possible.
Energy Efficient
Timber is a great insulator thanks to the natural characteristic of wood, this means it helps to keep heat in your home for longer and slows down the process of it escaping from your home.
This is a good quality, which combined with double, or triple glazing glass panes can help you drastically cut your heating bills and make your home feel warmer and comfortable for longer.
Durable & Strong
Wood windows can last for decades if taken proper care of, being able to withstand the elements almost as well as more modern window materials.
For additional peace of mine, you can now even purchase timber window frames that have been treated to withstand the external environment better than ever. If you are looking for this type of timber frame, ensure the windows you select are installed to standards set out by the TRADA Q-Mark High Performance Timber Windows Scheme.
Eco-Friendly Material
Unlike plastics and composites, timber window frames will not take thousands of years to degrade and end up in a landfill for generations.
Additionally, timber i.e. wood from trees has been naturally produced by trees absorbing carbon from the atmosphere, so are in affect carbon neutral.
However, if this factor is especially important to you and your values, you should ensure the wood they used to construct the windows was sustainably sourced.
Traditional Appeal
Wood or timber windows might not be as resilient or offer the same contemporary styling as the likes of uPVC, but they definitely can offer that traditional aesthetic so many people are looking for.
Some homes in the UK can only use wood for their window frames too, such as historically listed buildings, or simply those that have a more classical architecture and/or construction, where anything but a wooden frame wood look out of place.
How long do timber windows last?
One of the main concerns people have when considering installing timber windows in their homes is their longevity.
So, how many years can timber windows last?
It’s a common misconception that they don’t last as long as uPVC windows, but they do. In fact, timber windows can last as long as 50 years, while uPVC windows last around 30 on average.
With proper care and maintenance, there is no reason timber window frames can’t last for even longer than 50 years.
Check out our complete guide on the price of new windows, if you want a rough idea of how much you can expect to pay (including installation). You can also read about the various window styles available, as well as double glazing, triple glazing and decorative windows.
Types of Timber Windows
Today, you can get wooden windows in almost any type of wood, colour, grain and texture. However, the types of timber frames are divided into two main types:
Hardwood windows
Hardwood is a much slower growing type of wood than softwood, meaning that the trees take longer to mature. As a result, hardwood is much denser and more durable, making it a popular choice for floors, furniture, and other construction projects. Some of the most common hardwoods include oak, walnut, and maple.
Softwood windows
Softwoods like beech are cheaper than hardwood, but also provide a more contemporary feel that often looks better on modern homes. They aren’t as durable as hardwoods, so need more maintenance and don’t tend to last as long.
Disadvantages of Timer Windows
Timber is a natural material which means it expands and contracts depending on the weather. This causes windows to become harder to open and close, and can sometimes cause structural damage. Despite its drawbacks, timber is a popular material for windows. It has a natural beauty which can be enhanced with staining and other decorative techniques.
However, warping isn’t so much of an issue in modern timber frames, since they are constructed in such a way that any expansion is limited.
How much do timber windows cost?
What is the real cost of timber windows (including installation)?
Timber is an expensive material for new windows. The size and type of window being installed impact the final cost, but prices can exceed £20,000 for the average UK property.
This table shows the average costs of timber windows in 2022:
| Size of Window (mm) | Price per Timber Casement Window (Ground floor) | Price per Timber Casement Window (Second floor) |
|---|---|---|
| 600 x 900 | £900 – £1,000 | £1000 – £1,200 |
| 900 x 1200 | £1,300 – £1,500 | £1,400 – £1,500 |
| 1200 x 1200 | £1,500 – £1,600 | £1,500 – £1,700 |
Hardwood framed windows are typically more costly than softwood, costing between £9,000 to £25,000 for the average sized home. On average this is around 3 times the cost of softwoods.
Softwood timber windows can cost from around £7,000 to £20,000 for the average UK home, but significantly less than this if glazed on-site.
Get a Free Quote for your New Aluminium Windows Today
The number one advice when shopping for new windows for your home is to secure at least three quotes from local installers.
Your priority shouldn’t necessarily always be price, since the reputation of the company, aftercare and the warranty are also all important factors.
Going for the cheapest may mean paying less upfront, but in the long term you may pay more in terms of time, stress and repairs.
Here at Window Central, we have a network of reliable and trustworthy window installers throughout the UK. Request your free quote now and you should receive a range of quotes from our network in the next 24 hours (at the latest).
