How much do grey and coloured upvc windows cost? Are they worth it?

9th January 2018

Investing in new double glazing is a big decision, so it’s important to choose windows which are of the highest quality.

Coloured uPVC windows certainly fit the bill. 

Made from relatively inexpensive raw materials and easy to manufacture, they are much cheaper to buy than those made from aluminium or timber.

Although white upvc windows continue to be the most popular window style with UK homeowners, there is a growing trend for coloured UPVC windows - fuelled partly by industrial-inspired architecture and TV programs like Grand Designs.

The aim of this in-depth article is to explain how they are made and try to help answer the question…

How much do coloured upvc windows cost?

Based on a like-for-like window, opting for a coloured UPVC window instead of a traditional white one will increase the cost by around 15% to 20%.

But don’t forget that UPVC double glazing is much cheaper than some of alternatives. 

For example, UPVC windows and doors usually cost around 50% less than aluminium and 100% less than timber windows (on a like-for-like basis).

If you are considering fitting replacement double glazing or new coloured uPVC windows, you also need to take their size, style and design into account.

Here’s why…

Understanding the UPVC windows manufacturing process

Before trying to work out whether the amount your coloured upvc windows cost is good value for money, it’s important to know a little bit about how they are manufactured.

What is UPVC?

A hard-wearing material which is widely used in the building and construction industry, UPVC is an abbreviation for Un-Plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride – a rigid vinyl polymer that can be easily shaped and formed.

Coloured upvc window frames are made from long chambered sections of UPVC, known as profiles, which can also contain lengths of galvanised metal to add structural strength.

Because UPVC is a good insulator, it’s ideal for the manufacture of double glazing – and will reduce condensation and noise, as well as looking great.

Here at EYG, every one of the coloured upvc windows we manufacture are made by chemically bonding the colour with the UPVC material. This ensures the colour does not fade or discolour and provides a tougher more durable surface with a longer lifespan.

There is a cheaper way to manufacture coloured UPVC windows, which involves numerous layers of paint being sprayed onto a white frame using lacquers, before being heat treated or ‘baked’. Some manufacturers use this technique to reduce the cost of each unit they make, but we do not offer this product in our portfolio because we believe the finish is not as robust or hard wearing.

Why is the coloured upvc windows cost dependant on colour choice?

Now that you know how double glazing is made, it’s important to understand why the colour you choose will also influence the price you pay.

As you would expect, your coloured upvc windows cost will be influenced by whether the colour needs adding to both the inside and outside. The cost will also vary depending on the type of colour you choose.

Although there are more than 200 RAL colours to choose from, these can effectively be broken down into three categories.

• Level 1: Standard colours
• Level 2: Non-standard colours
• Level 3: Bespoke metallic colours

Obviously, the amount you’ll pay per window depends on which bracket the unit falls into under the above three-tier pricing structure – with the price increasing from Level 1 up to Level 3.

Why are there so many variations in replacement window prices?

The reasons there are such wide variations in double glazing prices is usually because of differences in specification such as style and size.

The important elements to take into consideration when weighing up your coloured upvc windows cost are:

Style: Window prices are largely determined by the style you require. Expect a casement UPVC window to cost around 50% less than a sliding sash window with the same measurements because the latter is more complicated to design and manufacture.

Size: The double glazing cost per window depends on the size of the unit. As you would expect, a window measuring 1800 x 1200mm will cost a lot more than one which is half its size.

Fitting costs: Labour costs obviously vary depending on where you live and this will impact on the final cost. As a general rule of thumb, the more windows you get fitted at one time, the more cost effective it becomes.

Non-standard shapes are more expensive than non-standard: If you want arches or ovals, they’re going to cost more than a simple square or rectangle.

What handles and hardware do you want? If you want something a bit more bespoke, it may cost more than a standard single-handled lever.

Do you need air vents, grids or internal window sills? All of these extras add to the cost and are often not factored in to the price by online retailers.

What glass detailing finish do you want to be applied? Opting for a double glazed window with Georgian bars or lead lights will increase the cost.

Is toughened glass needed? Any window frame which is 80cm or less from the floor must be made from toughened glass. In the event of the pane being broken, it will not shatter and instead breaks up into harmless crystals. Each toughened glass pane will add around 20% to the price of your window.

What is ACTUALLY included in your double glazing cost?

Here’s something you may be surprised to see us admit…

We know you can often get a better price if you buy a supply-only window online or if you agree for an independent one-man band to carry out your installation.

That’s right, there are a wide variety of cheap double glazing suppliers in the UK market.

But if you opt to go down that route instead of choosing an established double glazing installer, we believe you’re taking an unnecessary risk.

Here’s why…

When you buy from EYG, you don’t just get a very competitive price – you also benefit from:

• Dealing with an experienced company established in 1971
• A full technical on-site suitability survey
• Extensive choice of styles, sizes and colour
• A-rated energy-efficient glass as standard
• Wide range of glass finishes
• Internal and external window cill
• Choice of handles to suit your home
• Colour-matched trims, fixings, silicones and sealants
• Removal and recycling of your old units
• Full installation cost and VAT included in price
• Ability to buy now and pay nothing for 12 months
• No deposit needed on ALL products

Is it really worth saving a few pounds to give up all of these benefits?

Or would you rather pay a little bit more for the added protection of knowing that your full installation will be carried out by a FENSA-registered company that’s been in existence for decades?

Complete peace of mind

Most suppliers of coloured upvc windows will offer a guarantee against fading, peeling, cracking and any other faults.

At EYG, we offer a 10-year ‘repair or replace’ warranty – so you can make an investment in your future with complete peace of mind. Should you have any problems, we promise to repair or replace the windows promptly. No fuss. No arguments.

What’s even better is that the warranty applies to your windows and not the homeowner. If you decide to sell up and move house during this 10-year period, the remaining years can be transferred to the new owner – adding extra value to your property.

Easy ways to pay

If you want to update your home and install new coloured upvc windows immediately, EYG will help you to do so without paying a penny. No deposit. Nothing.

You can then decide whether to fund the entire project yourself or take advantage of our buy now, pay later option where you don’t have to pay a penny until 12 months after your installation is complete. If you don’t want to do either of those, simply opt for one of our flexible and affordable monthly payment plans.

Consider all the options before making a decision

Providing an accurate quote for coloured and grey upvc windows is difficult because each project is completely unique and, as outlined above, the cost depends on many different factors.

Typically, the coloured upvc windows cost will be around 15% to 20% more expensive than the exact same window in white.

Before making a decision either way, it’s worth remembering that uPVC windows can reduce heat loss up to 30% and will help you save money on your energy bills. It’s also a good idea to research ALL your options carefully as this will help you choose a solution that’s best for your budget, property style and personal circumstances.

If you do need any free help or advice, please get in touch or call 0800 181888 to discuss your project with one of our experts.

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