What Is the Average Cost of an Aluminium Window?
What is the average cost of an aluminium window? A straightforward aluminium window may cost several hundred dollars, while larger custom, double-glazed and architectural aluminium windows can cost $1,000 to several thousand dollars per unit.
There is no single average price that accurately represents every aluminium window.
Size, window type, glazing, aluminium system, hardware, colour and installation can all significantly affect the final cost.
For accurate pricing, aluminium windows should be quoted from the actual dimensions and specifications required for the project.
How Much Does an Aluminium Window Cost?
For preliminary budgeting, aluminium windows can range from several hundred dollars for smaller straightforward windows to several thousand dollars for large or high-performance architectural windows.
A small fixed window is generally at the lower end.
A large double-glazed window with multiple opening sashes and premium hardware will cost considerably more.
This is why advertised “price per window” figures need to be treated carefully.
What Determines the Price of an Aluminium Window?
The major factors affecting aluminium window prices include:
- Width
- Height
- Window configuration
- Aluminium system
- Glass type
- Single or double glazing
- Hardware
- Locks
- Flyscreens
- Powder-coat finish
- Energy-performance requirements
- Installation
- Access
- Quantity
Even relatively small changes to a window specification can affect its price.
How Much Does a Fixed Aluminium Window Cost?
Fixed windows are generally among the most economical aluminium window configurations.
They don’t require opening sashes, hinges, handles, locks or operating hardware.
This simplicity can reduce manufacturing costs.
However, a very large fixed window can still be expensive because of the amount and specification of glass required.
Fixed windows are commonly used where natural light and views are required but ventilation isn’t necessary.
How Much Does an Aluminium Sliding Window Cost?
Sliding windows generally cost more than comparable simple fixed windows because they contain moving sashes, tracks, rollers, locks and additional framing.
Pricing depends on:
- Window dimensions
- Number of panels
- Glass
- Frame system
- Rollers
- Locks
- Flyscreens
- Colour
Sliding windows remain a popular choice for Australian homes because they are simple to operate and don’t require the sash to project outside the building.
How Much Does an Aluminium Awning Window Cost?
Awning windows use sashes hinged at the top.
The opening sash requires additional aluminium framing, hinges or stays, seals and operating hardware.
An awning window can therefore cost more than a fixed window of similar dimensions.
Multiple awning sashes within the same frame can further increase the price.
How Much Do Double-Glazed Aluminium Windows Cost?
Double-glazed aluminium windows generally cost more than single-glazed windows.
An insulated glass unit contains two panes of glass separated by a sealed cavity.
Depending on the specification, it may also incorporate:
- Low-E glass
- Different glass thicknesses
- Specialised spacers
- Gas-filled cavities
- Laminated glass
- Toughened glass
The aluminium framing system must also be suitable for the selected glass.
For this reason, double-glazing prices should be assessed as part of the complete window specification.
How Much Do Thermally Broken Aluminium Windows Cost?
Thermally broken aluminium windows are generally more expensive than conventional aluminium systems.
A thermal break separates sections of the aluminium frame using a material with lower thermal conductivity.
This reduces heat transfer through the frame.
Thermally broken windows can be particularly relevant for projects targeting higher levels of energy efficiency.
The additional cost should therefore be assessed against the required building performance rather than price alone.
Does Window Size Affect Aluminium Window Cost?
Yes, but size isn’t the only factor.
Larger windows require more aluminium and glass.
Large glass panels may also require thicker or different glass specifications.
However, a large fixed window can sometimes be simpler to manufacture than a smaller window containing multiple operable sashes.
The configuration and specification can therefore be just as important as the dimensions.
Does Glass Affect the Cost of Aluminium Windows?
Significantly.
Glass represents an important component of the finished window price.
Options can include:
- Standard glass
- Toughened glass
- Laminated glass
- Double glazing
- Low-E glass
- Obscure glass
- Tinted glass
- Acoustic glass
The appropriate glass depends on the location, dimensions and performance requirements.
Does the Aluminium Window System Affect the Price?
Yes.
Not all aluminium window systems are the same.
Different systems are designed for different markets and performance levels.
A straightforward residential system may be more economical than a premium architectural system designed for large panels and demanding performance requirements.
Similarly, thermally broken systems generally cost more than conventional aluminium framing.
The correct approach is to select a system appropriate for the project.
Does Window Colour Affect the Cost?
It can.
Aluminium windows are commonly powder coated.
Standard colours may be readily available, while special colours or coating specifications can increase cost or lead time.
Coating requirements may also differ depending on environmental exposure.
Colour should ideally be selected early in the quotation process.
How Much Does Aluminium Window Installation Cost?
Installation can represent a significant part of a replacement window project.
The cost depends on:
- Number of windows
- Building type
- Access
- Window size
- Removal of existing windows
- Opening preparation
- Flashing
- Fixing
- Sealing
- Caulking
- Internal finishes
- External finishes
Installing windows during new construction is also different from replacing windows in an existing home.
Always confirm whether a quotation is supply only or supply and installation.
Why Are Replacement Aluminium Windows More Expensive?
Replacement projects involve work that doesn’t exist when supplying windows to a new building.
Existing windows may need to be removed carefully.
The openings may require preparation or rectification.
Installers may also need to work around existing:
- Brickwork
- Render
- Plaster
- Timber
- Cladding
- Flashings
- Internal finishes
These factors can increase labour and installation costs.
Is It Cheaper to Replace Multiple Windows at Once?
It can be more efficient.
Ordering multiple windows together may improve efficiencies across:
- Quoting
- Manufacturing
- Delivery
- Installation
- Site mobilisation
For a home requiring extensive window replacement, obtaining one complete window schedule can make it easier to evaluate the overall project cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace All Windows in a House?
The cost can vary enormously.
A small home with relatively straightforward windows may be very different from a large architectural house containing:
- Large windows
- Sliding doors
- Bifold doors
- Double glazing
- Feature glazing
- Multiple storeys
Whole-house replacement projects can therefore range into tens of thousands of dollars and potentially substantially more for large premium homes.
The number of bedrooms alone doesn’t determine the price.
The actual windows and doors do.
Is Aluminium Cheaper Than Timber Windows?
It depends on the products being compared.
Premium timber windows can be expensive because of material, manufacturing and joinery requirements.
Timber may also require greater ongoing maintenance.
Aluminium provides a low-maintenance alternative with excellent capability for large windows and doors.
Is Aluminium Cheaper Than uPVC Windows?
There is no universal answer.
Both aluminium and uPVC are available at different price and performance levels.
A useful comparison needs to consider equivalent:
- Window dimensions
- Glass
- Energy performance
- Hardware
- Installation
- Warranty
Comparing two quotations based only on the frame material can be misleading.
Are Cheap Aluminium Windows Worth Buying?
Price matters, but the cheapest quotation isn’t always the best value.
Before choosing an aluminium window, check:
- Aluminium system
- Glass specification
- Hardware
- Locks
- Seals
- Fabrication
- Powder coating
- Installation
- Warranty
A window is expected to remain part of the building for decades.
Saving a relatively small amount during construction may not be worthwhile if it compromises the required performance.
How Long Do Aluminium Windows Last?
Quality aluminium frames can provide decades of service when appropriately specified, manufactured, installed and maintained.
The aluminium frame itself can be extremely durable.
Components such as rollers, locks, seals and other hardware may require servicing or replacement during the life of the window.
This longevity is one reason aluminium remains widely used throughout Australian construction.
How Can You Reduce the Cost of Aluminium Windows?
Good design can help control costs.
Consider:
- Standardising window sizes
- Using fixed glazing where ventilation isn’t required
- Avoiding unnecessary configurations
- Selecting the appropriate aluminium system
- Confirming glass early
- Finalising colours
- Ordering windows together
- Providing accurate plans and schedules
The objective shouldn’t simply be to make every window cheaper.
It should be to spend money where it provides the greatest benefit.
Should You Compare Aluminium Window Quotes?
Yes.
But compare like for like.
Make sure each quotation identifies:
- Window system
- Dimensions
- Configuration
- Glass
- Hardware
- Flyscreens
- Colour
- Delivery
- Installation
- Warranty
A $900 window and a $1,200 window may not actually be equivalent products.
What Is the Average Cost of Aluminium Windows in Melbourne?
Melbourne aluminium window pricing follows the same basic principles.
Straightforward residential windows can start from several hundred dollars, while large double-glazed or architectural windows can cost several thousand dollars.
Replacement projects can also carry additional installation costs compared with windows supplied for new construction.
The most accurate approach is to obtain a quotation based on the actual window schedule.
How Do You Get an Accurate Aluminium Window Price?
Provide the window supplier with:
- Width and height
- Window type
- Quantity
- Glass requirements
- Colour
- Flyscreen requirements
- Project location
- Supply-only or installed requirement
For builders, architects and developers, architectural drawings and window schedules are generally the best starting point.
Aluminium Windows and Doors from EZ Windows
EZ Windows provides aluminium windows and doors for residential, architectural and commercial projects.
Different projects have different requirements, so window systems can be selected according to the project’s design, performance and budget.
Products can include:
- Fixed windows
- Sliding windows
- Awning windows
- Double-glazed windows
- Aluminium sliding doors
- Stacking doors
- Bifold doors
- Architectural window and door systems
So, What Should You Budget for an Aluminium Window?
For preliminary planning, think in terms of a broad range rather than one average price.
A straightforward aluminium window may cost several hundred dollars, while large custom, double-glazed and architectural windows can cost $1,000 to several thousand dollars each.
But the only meaningful price is the price for the window you actually need.
Provide the dimensions, configuration and specification and have the complete window quoted.
That gives you a much more accurate answer than relying on a generic average.
The right system. The right specification. The right price.
Do It Easy @ EZ Windows.
0 Comments