Replacing all of your windows at once can be significantly disruptive. However, most people find the short-term disruption worthwhile for the long-term benefits. These benefits can include improved insulation, energy efficiency, aesthetic uniformity, and just knowing that the job is one hundred percent finished. Usually, replacing all of the windows at once can even be more cost-effective. This could be due to bulk discounts and potentially lower labour costs, compared to replacing them individually. However, when considering the question, ‘should I replace all of my double glazed windows at once?’ it is important to be fully aware of what the process involves.
Reasons you may not want to replace all windows at the same time
Significant rooms in your home will become out-of-action during the installation process. This can make family life difficult to work around. Furniture will need to be moved or covered, there will be cold drafts (especially in winter), mess and dust. Working from home will also be very challenging. You will have workers in the house and there will be noise from both the removal and installation processes throughout the day. The noise and extra vehicles on the road may also disturb your neighbours. However, installing all windows at once can minimise the inconvenience of repeated visits and disruptions compared to replacing them individually.
Benefits of replacing all double glazing in one go
Despite any disruption, replacing all of your windows at once offers several advantages. It ensures a uniform and aesthetically pleasing look across your home, both outside and inside. Energy efficiency and security could be higher too. This is because all of the windows will be benefiting from the same improved performance levels and locks. Replacing all windows together can be more cost-effective in terms of labour and installation expenses. Many companies offer lower prices per window when replacing multiple windows simultaneously. This effectively provides a bulk discount. In addition to this, installers can work more efficiently when replacing multiple windows simultaneously.
Replacing double glazed windows individually
The alternative would be to have a partial replacement of your windows. This is where you choose to replace some windows now and others later. The advantage would be spreading out the disruption. A partial replacement also gives you the flexibility to prioritise urgent window replacements, such as damaged units. By replacing windows at different times, you would still be able to use certain rooms in your house as normal, and might be easier for families with young children. This is also a good way to spread out the cost of the project if you have budget constraints.
However, replacing windows individually may result in variations in appearance and performance in future windows, especially if a significant amount of time passes between the installations.
The decision will be based on your own personal situation and circumstances. However, it is completely possible to replace all of your double glazed windows at once. As long as you know what disruptions to expect and plan accordingly.
If it is important to you to benefit from potential bulk discounts, reduced long-term disruption, and a more uniform appearance of your home, then it would be better to have all of your new double glazed windows installed at the same time.