Quick Answer
Window replacement in Melbourne costs $300–$900 per window for standard aluminium single-glazed windows installed. Upgrading to double glazing costs $600–$1,800 per window. A full house of 10–15 windows typically runs $6,000–$18,000 depending on glazing type, frame material and window count. Most Melbourne homeowners prioritise living areas and south-facing windows for the best thermal return.
Melbourne winters are cold, and poorly performing windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in Australian homes. Whether you’re replacing broken panes, upgrading ageing timber frames or switching to double glazing to cut your energy bills, this guide covers what window replacement costs in Melbourne in 2026 and what drives the price up or down.
Window Replacement Costs by Type
Standard Aluminium Windows (Single Glazed)
| Window Type | Size | Supply + Install Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding window | 900×900mm | $300–$500 | Most common; aluminium frame |
| Sliding window | 1200×900mm | $380–$600 | Standard bedroom size |
| Awning window | 900×600mm | $280–$480 | Popular for bathrooms and high openings |
| Casement window | 900×1200mm | $350–$600 | Hinged; better seal than sliding |
| Fixed/picture window | 1200×900mm | $250–$450 | No moving parts; lowest cost |
| Double hung window | 900×1200mm | $400–$650 | Both sashes slide; popular in older homes |
Double Glazed Windows (uPVC or Aluminium Frame)
| Window Type | Size | Supply + Install Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double glazed sliding | 900×900mm | $600–$900 | Standard aluminium thermally broken frame |
| Double glazed awning | 900×600mm | $550–$850 | Good for condensation-prone rooms |
| Double glazed casement | 900×1200mm | $700–$1,100 | Better acoustic performance |
| uPVC double glazed | 1200×1200mm | $900–$1,400 | Best thermal performance; white or woodgrain finish |
| Triple glazed | 1200×1200mm | $1,200–$2,000 | Limited use in Melbourne; better suited to colder climates |
Timber Frame Windows
| Window Type | Size | Supply + Install Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timber single glazed | 900×1200mm | $500–$900 | Suits heritage homes; needs sealing every 5–7 years |
| Timber double glazed | 900×1200mm | $900–$1,600 | Premium option; excellent thermal performance |
| Aluminium-clad timber | 900×1200mm | $1,000–$1,800 | Timber inside, aluminium outside; low maintenance |
Labour and Installation Costs
Labour typically adds $150–$350 per window on top of the window supply cost, depending on access difficulty, frame preparation required and whether any structural work is needed around the opening.
| Task | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard window swap (like-for-like) | $150–$250 per window | Existing frame stays; new window inserted |
| Full frame removal and replacement | $250–$400 per window | Old frame cut out; new frame fitted |
| Render or plasterwork repairs after fitting | $100–$300 per window | Common on brick veneer and double brick homes |
| Two-storey access (scaffolding or elevated platform) | $200–$600 extra per window | Depends on facade access |
| Disposal of old windows | $30–$80 per window | Often included in larger jobs; confirm before signing |
What Affects Window Replacement Cost?
Frame Material
Aluminium is the cheapest and most common frame material in Melbourne homes built after 1970. uPVC offers better thermal performance for double glazing and doesn’t need painting — but costs 20–40% more than aluminium. Timber suits heritage homes but requires more maintenance. Aluminium-clad timber (timber inside, aluminium outside) gives the best of both worlds at a premium price.
Glass Specification
Standard 4mm clear glass is the baseline. Low-e (low emissivity) glass has a thin metallic coating that reflects radiant heat — it’s worth the extra $50–$100 per window in Melbourne for both winter and summer performance. Laminated glass adds security and acoustic performance. Tinted glass reduces solar gain on north and west-facing windows.
Number of Windows and Volume Discount
Replacing 10 or more windows in one job typically attracts a 10–20% discount on both supply and installation. The fixed costs of a tradesperson’s visit (travel, setup, tools) are spread across more windows, reducing per-window labour significantly.
Signs You Need Window Replacement
| Problem | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Condensation between panes | Double-glazed seal failed | Replace window unit or IGU |
| Draughts around frame | Worn seals or frame warping | Resealing first; replace if frame damaged |
| Window won’t stay open | Worn friction stay or hinge | Replace stay — DIY possible ($20–$60 part) |
| Cracked or broken pane | Impact or thermal stress | Glass replacement; full window if frame also damaged |
| Frame is rotting or corroding | Moisture damage over years | Full frame and window replacement needed |
| High power bills, cold rooms | Poor thermal performance | Consider double glazing upgrade |
Top 10 Tips and Gotchas
- Thermally broken aluminium is worth it. Standard aluminium frames conduct cold directly from outside to inside. A thermally broken frame has a plastic insulating strip — it costs 15–25% more but dramatically reduces heat transfer and condensation on the frame itself.
- Prioritise south-facing and living room windows. South-facing windows lose the most heat in Melbourne winters. Replacing these first gives the best energy return, especially if they’re large picture windows or sliding doors.
- Double glazing payback is 7–15 years. Based on Melbourne energy costs in 2026, upgrading a full house of 12 windows from single to double glazing typically pays back in 10–12 years in heating/cooling savings. It adds immediate resale value and livability comfort.
- Check council rules before ordering. Heritage overlays, bushfire zones (BAL rated) and body corporate rules can restrict window materials or glass specs. Confirm requirements before ordering — changes after delivery add significant cost.
- Measure twice, order once. Window suppliers need exact opening dimensions, not guesses. Measure width and height at three points (top, middle, bottom) — openings are rarely perfectly square, especially in older homes.
- IGU replacement is cheaper than full window. If the glass seal has failed on a double-glazed window (condensation between panes) but the frame is in good shape, you can replace just the insulated glazing unit (IGU) for $150–$350 rather than the whole window.
- Low-e glass is worth the upgrade. Low-e glass costs $50–$100 extra per window but reduces radiant heat loss in winter and solar heat gain in summer. In Melbourne’s climate it’s a good investment for any window replacement.
- Security glass on low windows. Any window less than 500mm above floor level requires safety glass under the NCC. If you’re replacing windows near floor level, factor in the upgrade — laminated or toughened glass adds $50–$150 per unit.
- uPVC doesn’t need painting. Aluminium window frames need repainting every 10–15 years; uPVC frames are maintenance-free for life. Factor this into the total cost comparison over a 20-year period.
- Get a written quote, not a phone estimate. Window installation quotes vary enormously. Always get a written quote that specifies the brand, glass spec, frame type, labour, disposal and warranty — not just a per-window figure.
Local Melbourne Resources
- Viridian Glass — Window Glass and Double Glazing Melbourne
- Arlec Hardware — Window Stays and Hardware
- Bunnings — Window Hardware, Seals and Accessories
- Window Factory Outlet — Melbourne Showroom
- Victorian Building Authority — When Window Replacement Needs a Permit
Frequently Asked Questions
Does window replacement require a building permit in Melbourne?
Like-for-like window replacement (same size, same position) generally doesn’t require a building permit in Victoria. However, changing a window opening size, altering a load-bearing wall, or working on a heritage-listed property may require permits. Check with your local council or a registered building practitioner if you’re unsure.
How long do replacement windows last in Melbourne?
Aluminium-framed windows typically last 20–30 years before frames need replacing. uPVC frames can last 30–40 years with minimal maintenance. Double-glazed glass units have a seal warranty of 10–15 years; the glass itself can last much longer if the seal holds. Melbourne’s UV levels degrade rubber seals faster than cooler climates, so check seals every 5–7 years.
Is it worth replacing single glazed windows with double glazing?
For Melbourne homes, the answer is almost always yes if you plan to stay in the home for more than 10 years. Double glazing reduces heat loss through windows by up to 50%, significantly cuts condensation and mould, improves acoustic insulation, and adds resale value. South-facing, living room and bedroom windows give the highest return.
Can I replace a window myself in Melbourne?
You can replace a standard window yourself if the frame opening stays the same size and no structural work is needed. However, any work involving structural changes to walls, electrical wiring near windows, or heritage properties must use a licensed professional. For most Melbourne homeowners, professional installation ensures weathertightness and avoids voiding window warranties.
What is the most energy-efficient window for Melbourne?
A thermally broken aluminium frame or uPVC frame with double-glazed low-e glass provides the best energy performance for Melbourne’s climate. The WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme) star rating system allows direct comparison — look for 5+ stars for heating and 2+ stars for cooling in Melbourne’s temperate climate zone (Zone 6).
Final Thoughts
For most Melbourne homes, replacing old single-glazed windows with thermally broken double-glazed units is one of the most impactful upgrades for winter comfort and energy costs. Start with the highest-priority windows — living areas, south-facing rooms and any that are already failing — before tackling the whole house.
- Standard aluminium single-glazed: $300–$600 per window installed
- Double glazed upgrades: $600–$1,400 per window — worth it for Melbourne winters
- Always check heritage and council requirements before ordering
- Get at least three quotes specifying frame type, glass spec and warranty
