Key Takeaways
- When budgeting for double glazed windows, plan per window opening, not per home. Standard windows typically cost about $1,700 to $3,600 installed in Melbourne, and your total depends on size, style, glass and access.
- Replace the windows with the biggest problems first: security, then damage, then comfort and efficiency. You do not have to upgrade the whole house at once.
- Ask for a written, itemised, fixed-price quote that spells out inclusions, exclusions and what happens if hidden damage turns up.
- Check rebates and finance before you commit, but confirm eligibility directly, because they vary by state and provider.
How Much Should You Budget for Double Glazed Windows?
Most Melbourne suppliers quote per opening rather than per square metre, so budgeting for double glazed windows works best when you count openings. Typical installed prices for standard residential windows run from about $1,700 to $3,600 each. Larger bay, corner and bifold units, and doors, cost more.
Whole-home totals give a rough range. Eight to ten windows in a three-bedroom home typically budget at $18,000 to $30,000, and twelve to fifteen windows plus a sliding door in a four-bedroom home at $30,000 to $48,000. These are indicative figures for like-for-like replacement with standard access, based on typical Melbourne projects, so ask for a quote for your own area. For a breakdown by window type, see our guide to how much double glazing costs in Melbourne.
Which Windows Should You Replace First?
You do not need to replace every window at once. Rank them by the severity of the problem, starting with safety and security, then damage, then comfort and efficiency.
1. Windows That Will Not Open, Close or Lock
These come first because they affect the security of your home and the safety of your family.
2. Windows With Damaged Frames or Glass
Cracked glass and damaged frames let in draughts and moisture. Frames with rot or damp should be dealt with early, because moisture can lead to mould and may affect the surrounding wall.
3. Windows With Draughts, Condensation or Noise
Next are the windows that are failing to insulate. Cold air in certain rooms, condensation on the inside of the glass or outside noise in bedrooms and living areas are all signs the window is no longer doing its job. If you are unsure which ones are failing, our list of 7 signs it is time to replace your windows is a good checklist.
4. Outdated or Worn Windows
Less urgent, but still worth planning for, are windows that look dated or are simply worn out. Replacing them improves curb appeal and energy efficiency.
What Affects the Price of a Window Replacement Quote?
Differences in window replacement cost usually come from size, style, glass, hardware and site conditions rather than from one headline price. These are the biggest levers:
- Size and span: larger openings need more glass, stronger reinforcement and heavier hardware.
- Window style: fixed windows are the most economical because nothing moves. Sliding, awning, casement and tilt and turn windows add hardware, and doors cost more again.
- Glass specification: Low-E coating typically adds 10% to 20% to the price and acoustic laminated glass 20% to 35%. Argon gas is standard in our glass at no extra cost.
- Hardware and locking systems: better hardware costs more but affects how smoothly the window operates and how secure it is.
- Site access: second-storey windows may need scaffolding, and narrow side access or steep blocks add labour time.
Large gaps between quotes often come down to thinner glass, simplified hardware or work that has been left out, such as removal and finishing. Compare written specifications, not headline prices.
What Hidden Costs Should You Plan For?
Hidden costs are the ones that are not in the first quote, so ask about them early. The most common are:
- Structural changes: enlarging an opening or replacing a lintel is quoted separately after a site measure.
- Repairs found on removal: if rot or water damage is uncovered when the old windows come out, it needs fixing before the new windows go in.
- Approvals: heritage overlays and body corporate rules for units can apply, so check with your council or body corporate whether approval is needed before work begins.
- Finishing work: major brick or render repairs, and anything beyond basic internal finishing around the frame, are generally outside a standard installed price.
Older homes carry one more risk. Asbestos is commonly found in many homes built before 1990, according to the Victorian Government asbestos fact sheet for homeowners. Its advice is to treat any suspect material as if it is asbestos, have it tested, and use a licensed removalist where the law requires. Finding it during a renovation can add cost and time.
The best protection is a clear, itemised, fixed-price quote. Our quotes are fixed-price, and we explain exactly what is included. Ask any installer what happens to the price if rot or structural damage is found once the old windows are out.
Are There Rebates, Finance or Payment Options?
Yes, but eligibility depends on your state and provider, so confirm the details before you rely on them. Here is what applies where we work:
Victoria: the Victorian Energy Upgrades program offers discounts when households replace single-glazed windows with double glazing. A double glazed windows rebate under the program is listed at up to $210 for upgrading four large single-glazed windows, about 10 square metres in total, with final costs varying by product, location and installer. See the Victorian Energy Upgrades window glazing page for current details. It is a useful contribution towards your budget, not a substitute for it.
ACT: the ACT Sustainable Household Scheme offers low-interest loans, but its list of eligible products does not currently include windows or glazing. Check with the ACT Government for any other support available to you.
Finance: at Ultimate Windows we have partnered with an Australian finance company to offer 100% finance for the replacement of your windows, so you can spread the cost over time. Finance is subject to approval and eligibility criteria, and the lender’s terms and conditions apply. This is general information only and does not take your personal circumstances into account.
How Do You Compare Window Quotes?
Get two or three written quotes, then compare them line by line rather than by total. For replacement windows in Melbourne or anywhere else, check that each quote states:
- The frame system, glass specification and hardware.
- Removal and disposal of your old windows.
- Installation, sealing and finishing around the frame.
- What is excluded, and how unforeseen issues will be priced.
- The guarantee, and whether GST is included.
It also helps to ask who does the installation. We manufacture our windows in our Wodonga factory and install with our own qualified teams, so one team looks after every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for double glazed windows?
Standard double glazed windows typically cost about $1,700 to $3,600 installed per opening, based on Melbourne projects. A three-bedroom home with eight to ten windows is commonly budgeted at $18,000 to $30,000. Size, style, glass and access change the total, so a free measure gives you an accurate figure.
Can I replace my windows in stages?
Yes. You can start with the windows that have the biggest problems, such as those that will not open, close or lock, then move on to damaged frames and draughty or noisy rooms. Ask for a quote that shows the cost of each stage as well as the whole project.
Is there a rebate for double glazed windows in Victoria?
Eligible Victorian households may receive discounts under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program when replacing single-glazed windows with double glazing. The program lists up to $210 for four large windows, and final amounts vary by product, location and installer. We can explain how the current rebate applies to your project.
Does Ultimate Windows offer finance?
Yes. We have partnered with an Australian finance company to provide 100% finance for window replacement. Finance is subject to approval and eligibility, and the lender’s terms and conditions apply. Ask our team during your free measure and quote about the current options for your project.
Ready to Plan Your Upgrade?
The most reliable way to finish your budget is a free on-site measure. Request your free measure and fixed-price quote, and our team will give you a clear price and help you plan which windows to tackle first.
