Window installation: compare quotes and prices

Distinguish installation, replacement and repair

Window installation can mean replacing existing units, fitting windows in a new building or creating openings in an existing wall. If the products have been purchased already, the job mainly covers fitting and suitable junctions. These starting points should be distinct in the quote.

A window that closes poorly does not automatically need complete replacement. Hardware, seals and frame condition can be assessed. Repair may be sensible where the existing fabric allows it; new thermal, acoustic or security needs may require a different system.

Creating or enlarging an opening involves more than fitting a window: structure, facade, weather protection and local requirements matter. For protected buildings or shared parts, establish appearance and necessary agreement before ordering.

Count complete units and describe their dimensions

Count complete window units, rather than panes or opening sashes. A two-sash window in one common frame counts as one unit. Balcony doors, large sliding units and unusual shapes can be requested together, but should remain identifiable.

Give approximate known widths and heights with units. Different windows can be described in one short answer: for example, three windows at 120 × 140 cm and two balcony doors at different sizes. This is enough to start an enquiry, not to manufacture the windows.

A confirmed survey is needed before ordering. Masonry opening, outer frame size and glazed area are different measurements. Junctions, fitting allowances, sills and opening direction belong in the final design.

Select frames, openings and glass as one system

PVC, timber, timber-metal, PVC-metal and aluminium offer different appearance and care options. Material alone establishes neither burglary resistance nor thermal quality. Compare the actual frame together with glazing, hardware and fitting.

Turn, tilt, fixed and sliding units need different movement space and operation. Consider cleaning and handle access. A fixed glazed area also needs a practical way to clean the outside.

For low-level or full-height units, injury prevention and protection against falls are different issues. Safety glass alone does not automatically provide complete fall protection. Glass, support and any additional protection need to suit the location.

Compare heat loss, noise and solar protection

Uw describes the thermal performance of the whole window; Ug describes the glazing alone. These figures are not interchangeable. Under the same comparison conditions, a lower thermal transmittance means less heat loss. Check the reference window dimensions used for the evidence.

Triple glazing alone does not establish a particular noise reduction. Glass build-up, frame, seals, junctions and other sound paths need to suit the problem. Describe the disturbing noise; the specialist determines suitable performance and construction.

Solar-control glass, shading, orientation and ventilation affect summer comfort. Daylight transmission and solar gains matter too. A good winter energy-label result does not automatically describe summer performance in a strongly sunlit room.

Consider fitting, facade and ventilation together

A good window needs suitable fixings and durable junctions. Weather outside, heat and moisture inside and building movement need consideration. One sealing tape or fitting foam does not describe the complete solution.

For replacement, examine existing frames, reveals, sills and blind boxes. Retaining an old frame and removing it completely involve different interfaces. Agree on included finishing work and any future facade insulation.

More airtight windows change the previous uncontrolled air exchange. Ventilation and indoor moisture still need managing. Condensation can have different causes; replacing windows is not a universal mould treatment.

Before disturbing old windows or junction materials, assess possible hazardous substances. Older putties in particular can contain asbestos. Appearance is not a substitute for appropriate assessment before work.

What does window installation cost?

A manufacturer guide published in June 2026 gives approximately CHF 800–3400 per unit including fitting for different ordinary window types. This is neither a Swiss average nor a fixed price. Reference sizes, VAT, removal and special junction work are not consistently specified.

Small standard windows, large sliding units, roof windows and new wall openings are not equivalent price units. Material, glazing, fittings, dimensions, access and preparatory work affect the cost. Older prices per square metre cannot simply be averaged with current per-unit figures.

Compare the complete scope for the same units. Access, scaffolding or lifting equipment, disposal and painting or plastering can change the total. Work arranged separately must retain its cost and responsibility in the comparison.

Prepare installation and check handover

Start with scope, quantity, known dimensions, preferences, location and timing. The specialist refines the product, fitting situation and junction details before ordering. Already purchased windows should be checked against their documents and the openings.

Agree on room protection, access, removal sequence and temporary weather protection. Whether the property can remain occupied depends on the work. New openings and extensive finishing need a different programme from straightforward replacement.

At handover, try opening, closing and locking, and check surfaces and agreed finishing. Ask about operation, ventilation and care. Keep product data and performance evidence, and record outstanding items.

1. Define the need. Existing situation, units and known dimensions.
2. Confirm the solution. Survey, glazing, frame and junctions.
3. Coordinate fitting. Access, removal, protection and finishes.
4. Check the result. Operation, records and completion.