Replacing windows in Switzerland: costs, selection, and what matters when replacing them .

Windows are not "standard goods" – even for similar sizes, quotes can vary greatly. To help you plan accurately, you will first find typical complete prices per window including installation (standard format, normal installation situation). Special sizes, soundproof or safety glass, and complex connections in old buildings can be significantly more expensive.

What drives the price the most? It's not just the frame material that's decisive—often it's the technology and installation that make an offer expensive or inexpensive: - Glazing: Triple glazing is now often standard in renovations; additional functions (sound insulation, sun protection, safety glass) increase the price. - Uw value: The better the insulation value (lower Uw), the higher the requirements for frames, glass, and spacers. - Security and fitting packages: Burglar-resistant designs (e.g., mushroom head pins) cost significantly more per window, but are worthwhile depending on the location. - Installation in old buildings: Crooked reveals, old frames, damaged connections, additional sealing and plastering work = more effort. - Installation type: Renovation frames can be cheaper, but only work if the existing frame still fits. - Accessibility: Upper floors, narrow access roads, lifting platform/crane, large elements – these factors have a direct impact on working time and logistics. - Demolition & disposal: Depending on the material and size, approx. $80–150 per window as a rough guide.

The material not only affects the price, but also maintenance, appearance, stability, and service life. Here are the most important systems—with practical classification. Plastic windows: budget-friendly and uncomplicated PVC windows are the most economical solution for many renovations. They insulate well, are easy to maintain, and are resistant to weathering. Their limitations tend to become apparent with very large formats or when a particularly high-quality appearance is desired. For solid energy savings on a manageable budget, plastic windows are usually the first choice. Wooden windows: classic, cozy – but require maintenance Wood has a warm appearance, fits perfectly with old buildings and high-quality renovations, and offers very good insulation values. However, depending on the weather side, surfaces must be checked regularly and repainted. If aesthetics, feel, and sustainability are important to you, wood is the best choice – as long as you consciously plan for maintenance. Wood-aluminum: premium solution with a long service life Wood-aluminum combines the cozy character of wood on the inside with a robust, weatherproof aluminum outer shell. This greatly reduces maintenance requirements and increases service life. In terms of price, this system is significantly more expensive than plastic, but it is very stable and often a "once and for all" decision in the long term. Aluminum windows: modern , stable, ideal for large elements Aluminum is extremely dimensionally stable and is particularly suitable for large window areas, lift-and-slide doors, or filigree frame designs. Modern aluminum systems are thermally separated and technically sophisticated—but they cost more. They are particularly useful for modern architecture and high stability or design requirements. Plastic-aluminum: more stable than PVC, cheaper than wood-aluminum This hybrid solution uses the advantages of plastic on the inside and an aluminum shell on the outside for weather and color design. This gives you a robust, low-maintenance window with good insulation performance – often with a very attractive combination of price, appearance, and durability. Skylights: more technology, more installation work Skylights are more exposed to the weather and must be perfectly sealed. Operation (pivot/tilt function), thermal insulation, heat protection, and connections to the roof determine price and service life. However, when well planned, skylights provide an enormous amount of daylight and significantly increase the usability of the attic space.

You don't have to wait until a window is "broken." Problems often become apparent early on—and replacing the window prevents further damage. - Drafts despite intact seals: This is often due to warped frames or old systems. - Condensation, damp reveals, mold at the connection: This can be a sign of poor insulation or incorrect connections. - High heating costs and cold glass surfaces: Old glazing loses a lot of heat, significantly reducing comfort. - Fittings stick, sashes jam, windows don't close properly: Over time, this becomes more expensive than planned replacement. - Noise from outside: Soundproof glazing brings enormous improvements, especially on roads or railway lines. - Outdated burglary protection: Modern fittings and security solutions significantly increase the level of security. - Age 25–30+ years: Even if everything "still works": Insulation values and tightness rarely meet today's standards.

When you can do a lot yourself Minor repairs, simple shelves, flat-pack furniture, or simple adjustments can be done well on your own with the right tools. This also applies to maintenance work such as oiling or minor trimming, if precision and appearance are not of the utmost importance. When a carpenter is the better (or only) choice As soon as custom work, complex installations, high loads, or high-quality materials are involved, it is worth hiring a professional. This applies in particular to kitchens, built-in cabinets, doors, roof projects, facades, and sophisticated interior design—anywhere where a precise fit and high-quality installation are crucial. Where DIY solutions remain sensible Where DIY store solutions remainsensible Standard products such as simple shelving systems, inexpensive cabinets, or floors for self-installation can be a pragmatic solution when budget is more important than durability or exact fit. Where custom-made products are clearly superior If you want to make use of niches, need special dimensions, or want a high-quality result, custom-made products show their strengths. Good carpentry solutions not only look better, but are often more durable and functional—for example, in stair cabinets, custom kitchens, or built-in units in sloping ceilings.

Replacing windows can reduce heating costs, improve indoor climate, reduce noise, and increase security. To really feel the effects, you need the right combination of frame material, glazing, and insulation value—and professional installation, especially in older buildings. If you compare several quotes with the same scope of services, you will quickly see where the price differences really come from – and find the solution that suits you in the long term.