Wooden window frames prices
Wooden window frame costs 2026
A wooden window frame of one square metre costs on average between €950 and €1,150, depending on the type of wood, finish, and complexity of the installation. Wooden frames are the load-bearing structures in which windows and doors are placed, and they remain popular due to their natural appearance and insulating properties. In this price guide, you can read exactly what the purchase and installation of wooden frames cost and what you should look out for.
Table of Contents
- How much do wooden frames cost?
- Wooden frame costs per type
- Price-determining factors for wooden frames
- Additional costs and surcharges for wooden frames
- How does the professional work when installing wooden frames?
- How can you save on wooden frames?
- Common problems with wooden frames
- Find the best professional for wooden frames
- Frequently asked questions about wooden frames
- Book a professional for wooden frames
- Useful links
How much do wooden frames cost?
The costs for wooden frames range on average between €950 and €1,150 per square metre, including installation by a professional. This price includes both the material and the labour costs, but can increase depending on the type of wood and the complexity of the project.
Price structure of wooden frames
| Work | Costs |
|---|---|
| Labour costs | €50-€55 per hour |
| Frame price per metre | €350-€400 per metre |
| Scaffold hire | €60 per hour |
| Scaffold assembly | €100-€120 |
| Crane hire | €300-€700 |
The table shows that the total costs for wooden frames consist of several components. Besides the frame itself, labour costs play the largest role, especially in complex installations where scaffolding or a crane is required. The price of the frame per linear metre is €350 to €400, which means a standard window frame 1.5 metres wide can easily cost between €500 and €600, excluding installation.
Hardwood frames have a surcharge of €10 to €50 per frame compared to softwood frames. This difference is due to higher material costs and the longer lifespan of hardwood. When calculating the costs per square metre, you should also take into account any additional work such as removing old frames or adjustments to the wall.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour, unless stated otherwise.
Wooden frame costs per type
The costs for wooden frames vary significantly per type: a fixed window is the cheapest option at €200 to €250, while a front door is the most expensive variant at €1,400 to €2,550. Below is a complete overview of prices including installation for the most common types.
| Type of frame | Costs |
|---|---|
| Fixed window 100x100 cm | €200-€250 |
| Tilt and turn window 100x100 cm | €350-€450 |
| Bottom-hung window 100x80 cm | €250-€300 |
| Back door | €1,200-€2,100 |
| Front door | €1,400-€2,550 |
| French doors or sliding doors | €1,400-€2,400 |
Price-determining factors for wooden frames
The costs you ultimately pay for wooden frames depend on more than just the type of frame. From the choice between hardwood or softwood to the accessibility of the location: various factors determine whether you end up at the lower or upper end of the price spectrum.
Hardwood or softwood
Hardwood frames have a surcharge of €10 to €50 per frame but last 50 to 75 years. Softwood frames are more affordable to purchase and last about 25 years. The difference lies in the density of the wood: hardwood is more compact and resists moisture, rot, and insects better. This means less maintenance and a longer lifespan, which can justify the higher purchase price in the long term.
Frame type and dimensions
A door frame costs more than a window frame because it is larger and subjected to heavier loads. Larger dimensions mean more material and longer installation. For example, a front door of 210x90 cm requires more wood and labour hours than a fixed window of 100x100 cm. The type of opening (tilt and turn window, bottom-hung window, French doors) also influences the complexity and thus the labour time.
Finish
Frames are supplied in primer as standard. If you choose a specific RAL colour, you pay extra for the paint system and labour hours. Installing decorative mouldings or other decorative elements also increases the price. Every additional processing step requires time and material, which directly affects the final price.
Glass type
Single glazing is the cheapest but provides poor insulation. Double glazing offers better insulation, while HR++ (High Efficiency) or triple glazing significantly limit heat loss. Better insulating glazing is heavier and costs more, but lowers your energy bill. The choice of glass determines a significant part of the total costs.
Complexity and accessibility
Frames at height require scaffolding, with hire costs of €60 per hour plus €100 to €120 for assembly. For difficult-to-access locations, a crane is sometimes necessary, costing between €300 and €700. The more tools required, the higher the labour duration and thus the total price.
Region
In large cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, the costs for wooden frames are often higher than in rural areas. This is due to higher labour costs and sometimes limited parking options, which takes extra time. Regional differences can amount to 10 to 15 per cent of the total price.
Custom versus standard
Standard prefabricated frames are cheaper and available faster. Custom frames require extra production time and precision, which increases the price. For monuments or special architecture, customisation is often necessary, with all the resulting cost consequences.
Urgency versus planned
Urgent jobs are more expensive because the professional must adjust their planning. For planned work, the professional can work more efficiently and order materials in advance, which reduces costs. Expect a surcharge of 20 to 30 per cent for urgent work.
Weekend
Work in the weekend costs more due to surcharges. Most professionals use increased hourly rates for Saturday and Sunday. Therefore, preferably plan the installation during the week to avoid unnecessary additional costs.
Condition of the old frames
If the old frame must first be removed, this costs extra time. During demolition work, wood rot or mould in the wall may come to light, requiring repair work. Disposing of the old material also entails costs.
Extra options
Consider burglar-resistant hardware, mosquito screens, sun protection, or integrated ventilation. Each of these options increases the price but offers added value. Discuss beforehand which extras you desire, so the professional can include this in the quote.
Additional costs and surcharges for wooden frames
Extra costs depend on the situation. At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges.
- Urgency surcharge: A surcharge applies to urgent jobs because the professional must adjust their planning
- Weekend surcharge: Work at the weekend is more expensive than during the week
- Scaffold hire: €60 per hour, plus €100 to €120 for assembly for frames at height
- Crane hire: €300 to €700 for lifting heavy frames or at difficult-to-access locations
- Hardwood frames: Surcharge of €10 to €50 per frame compared to softwood
- Monumental buildings: Extra costs for permits, custom profiling, and cooperation with heritage conservation
How does the professional work when installing wooden frames?
The installation of wooden frames follows a set procedure to guarantee a sleek, watertight finish.
- The professional inspects the existing situation and takes accurate measurements for the new frames. This first step determines whether adjustments to the facade opening are necessary.
- The old frames are carefully removed without causing damage to the reveal. During demolition, wood rot or mould in the wall may become visible, requiring extra repair work.
- The reveal is cleaned and repaired or adjusted where necessary for a good fit. This prevents problems during assembly and ensures a stable base.
- The new wooden frame is placed and levelled using wedges and fasteners. Here, the frame is firmly anchored in the facade opening.
- The seams are insulated with PU foam (polyurethane foam, an expansion material) to prevent draughts and moisture ingress. This also improves the insulation value.
- All seams are sealed with sealant and the frame is touched up or painted if necessary. The installation of a single frame takes an average of 2 to 4 hours. With several frames, the total labour duration can increase significantly.
How can you save on wooden frames?
There are several ways to reduce the costs for wooden frames without compromising on quality.
- Preventive maintenance: Check annually for cracks, loose paint, and sealant seams. Carrying out small repairs in time prevents expensive replacements and extends the life of your frames.
- Good preparation: Clear the workspace, remove curtains, and move furniture. This saves the professional time and you money on labour costs.
- Plan smart: Do not book on the weekend or with urgency. Work planned during the week avoids surcharges and keeps costs low.
- Choose standard sizes: Standard frames are cheaper and available faster than custom-made (2-4 weeks versus 6-10 weeks delivery time).
- Ask about subsidies: When replacing for better insulation, you may qualify for the ISDE scheme (Incentive for Sustainable Energy Investment), which reduces the total costs.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after completion of the task.
Common problems with wooden frames
Wooden frames can show problems due to various causes that affect insulation and functionality.
Wood rot
Wood rot is caused by long-term exposure to moisture. You can recognise it by soft spots in the wood, discolouration, and peeling paint. Small rot spots can often be repaired, but in case of severe damage, replacement is necessary to prevent further damage to the facade opening.
Moisture damage and mould formation
Condensation on the inside of the frame indicates poor ventilation or leaking sealant seams. This leads to mould formation and damage to the wood. Timely repair of the sealant seams prevents larger damage and limits repair costs.
Draughts due to poor sealing
Wood expands and contracts due to moisture fluctuations, making windows difficult to open or close. Draught strips then no longer seal properly, which reduces living comfort and increases energy bills. Adjusting or replacing the draught strip often solves this.
Find the best professional for wooden frames
Correct installation of wooden frames prevents draughts, moisture damage, and unnecessary costs in the long term.
- No call-out charges: You never pay extra for the professional to come, only for the actual work on your wooden frames.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what the costs are before the job starts, without surprises afterwards.
- Quick booking without hassle with quotes: Choose a moment directly instead of requesting multiple quotes.
- Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the job is done and you are satisfied with the result.
- Reliable, verified professionals: All professionals are screened for quality and experience in installing wooden frames.
- Watch out for certifications: Ask for FSC or PEFC labels (Forest Stewardship Council, certification for sustainable wood) and KOMO certificates (Quality Mark, independent quality statement) for reliable craftsmanship.
Frequently asked questions about wooden frames
What does a wooden frame cost including installation?
The costs for wooden frames are between €950 and €1,150 per square metre including installation. This includes both the material and the labour costs. The exact price depends on wood type, dimensions, and complexity of the installation.
What does a wooden frame cost per metre?
A wooden frame costs €350 to €400 per linear metre, excluding installation. A standard window frame 1.5 metres wide thus comes to €500 to €600 for the material alone. Hardwood frames are €10 to €50 higher per frame.
What do 10 new window frames cost?
For 10 standard wooden window frames of approximately 1 square metre, you pay between €9,500 and €11,500 including installation. With larger dimensions or more complex situations, the costs can increase further.
Is a wooden frame more expensive than a plastic frame?
Yes, wooden frames are more expensive to purchase. Plastic frames with wood grain are about 30 to 40 per cent lower in price. However, wooden frames offer better insulation, a natural appearance, and a longer lifespan with good maintenance.
How long does it take to install wooden frames?
An individual frame installation takes 2 to 4 hours. With several frames or complex situations with scaffolding work, the project can take several days.
Do I need to apply for a permit for new frames?
For monumental buildings, protected cityscapes, or change of the facade layout, an environmental permit is often required. Contact your municipality in advance to check if this applies to your situation.
What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?
Hardwood frames last 50 to 75 years and are suitable for outdoors. Softwood frames last about 25 years and are mostly used indoors. Hardwood is denser and resists moisture better.
How well do wooden frames insulate?
Wood naturally insulates better than aluminium. In combination with HR++ or triple glass, you achieve excellent insulation values and save on energy costs.
Can I install wooden frames myself?
This is not recommended. Incorrect installation leads to draughts, moisture problems, and a shorter lifespan. Hire a professional carpenter for correct installation.
Am I eligible for a subsidy when replacing window frames?
When replacing for better insulation, you may be able to apply for an ISDE subsidy. Check the current conditions on the RVO website.
Book a professional for wooden frames
Ready to have wooden frames installed or replaced? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs beforehand, and Zoofy pairs you with a reliable professional who has been verified. You only pay once the work is done. Book a professional directly.