How Much Do Egress Windows Cost?

Egress windows are essential safety features in UK homes, designed to provide an emergency exit in basements, lower floors, or bedrooms below ground level. Typically larger than standard windows and equipped with easy-to-open mechanisms, they meet strict building regulations for fire safety and accessibility. In 2025, with updated glazing and material options, egress windows combine practicality with compliance. This guide explores their costs, benefits, and key factors to consider for installation or replacement in the UK.

Egress windows often blend into a home’s design—until an emergency highlights their importance. Estimating their cost involves navigating variables like size, material, and installation complexity, especially in retrofits. Whether you’re ensuring safety or meeting legal requirements, understanding the pricing is crucial.

Typical Egress Window Costs by Size

The cost of egress windows depends on their size and glazing type, with minimum dimensions set by UK building regulations (e.g., a clear opening of 0.33 m² and at least 450mm wide/high). Below is a table showing typical sizes and cost ranges in the UK for 2025 (including standard installation):

Width (mm)	Height (mm)	Glazing	Cost Range (uPVC)	Cost Range (Aluminium)
900	600	Double	£400-£600	£500-£750
1200	900	Double	£500-£800	£600-£900
1500	900	Double	£600-£950	£750-£1,100
1500	1200	Triple	£750-£1,200	£900-£1,400

In the UK, egress window costs typically range from £400 to £1,400 per window, depending on size, material, and glazing. Their critical role in safety justifies the investment, though exposure to dampness or soil (in basements) can degrade them over time. If yours don’t meet regulations or are hard to open, replacement is a priority.

Material Cost Comparison

Before installing egress windows, it’s smart to weigh your options. What’s the cost, and which material suits your needs? Your choice hinges on budget, durability, and ease of operation. Here’s a table comparing materials for a standard 1200mm x 900mm egress window:

Material	Cost Range	Pros	Cons
uPVC	£500-£800	Affordable, low maintenance	Less premium look
Aluminium	£600-£900	Durable, slim frames, modern	Less insulating, higher cost
Timber	£800-£1,200	Natural appeal, good insulation	Needs regular upkeep

How much do egress windows really cost? Beyond size and material, extras like triple glazing or reinforced frames can increase the price. uPVC is the budget-friendly choice, aluminium offers strength, and timber adds warmth—though it’s less common in damp basement settings.

Factors Affecting Egress Window Costs

Considering repairs instead? A jammed latch or cracked pane might not require a full replacement—repairs typically range from £100-£250, depending on the issue. But if the window doesn’t meet safety standards or is too small, replacement is non-negotiable. Here’s what drives egress window costs:

Factor	Description	Impact on Cost
Size	Must meet minimum egress standards	Adds £100-£300 per size increase
Glazing	Double vs. triple glazing	Triple glazing adds £50-£150
Material	uPVC, aluminium, timber	See material table
Labour	£200-£400 per window	Higher for basement retrofits
Window Well	Required for below-ground installs	£150-£500 extra

Repair or replace? If your egress window opens easily and meets regs, a repair might work. But if it’s undersized, stuck, or lacks a proper well, replacement ensures safety and compliance. Consult a professional to confirm requirements.

Additional Installation Costs

Choosing egress windows is about safety first, then style. Need a quick exit or a legal basement conversion? uPVC is practical, aluminium adds strength, and timber offers charm (though less common). Here’s a breakdown of extra costs:

Expense	Typical Cost	Notes
Removal of Old Window	£50-£150	Varies by condition
Excavation/Window Well	£300-£800	For below-ground access
Building Regulations	£100-£200	FENSA and safety compliance
Finishing (e.g., trim)	£50-£150	Interior/exterior work

Materials affect cost and durability—uPVC resists moisture, aluminium withstands wear, and timber needs protection in damp settings. Glazing upgrades like triple panes or low-e coatings add £50-£150, improving efficiency. A typical installation might total £700-£2,000 with extras like a window well.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Egress windows ensure safety and add value—here’s how they pay off:

Benefit	Estimated Savings/Value	Timeframe
Energy Savings	£50-£150/year	Ongoing with good glazing
Property Value Increase	2-4% of home value	Upon resale, especially basements
Payback Period	10-15 years	Based on savings and value

Final Thoughts

Egress window costs in 2025 range from £400 for a small uPVC unit to £1,400 for a large aluminium or timber one, with extras like wells pushing totals higher. Size, material, and installation factors shape the price, but their safety, compliance, and value make them essential. Get three quotes from FENSA-registered installers to ensure quality and adherence to regs—egress windows are a vital upgrade for UK homes.