In Switzerland, a high-performance window generally costs between CHF 1,000 and CHF 2,000 each, including fitting. The price depends on the size, the frame material and the glazing. Choosing the right windows improves comfort, reduces heating costs and provides protection against noise.
How much does a window cost in Switzerland?
| Item | Approximate price |
|---|---|
| High-performance window, including fitting | approx. CHF 1,000 to 2,000 per window |
| Double glazing, wooden frame | from approx. 350 CHF/m² |
| Double glazing, aluminium frame | up to approx. 450 CHF/m² |
| Fitting | often from 100 CHF per hour |
Sources: Neho and Immobilier.ch. These figures vary depending on the canton, town, window size and site access: only quotes are binding.
Example: for a house with 12 windows, expect to pay between 12,000 and 24,000 CHF, excluding shutters and blinds.
Wood, PVC, aluminium: which frame should you choose?
| Frame | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | Good value for money, very durable, low maintenance. Accounts for around half of the Swiss market | Less warm appearance |
| Wood | Warm and inviting, suitable for old and listed buildings | Wood stain or paint needs to be reapplied every 5 to 8 years |
| Wood-aluminium | Wood on the inside, aluminium on the outside: attractive and maintenance-free | The most expensive |
| Aluminium | Very durable, slim frames | Less effective at insulating, less common in homes |
Source: Immobilier.ch.
Double or triple glazing?
For renovation projects, triple glazing is now recommended. The Conference of Cantonal Energy Directors recommends glazing with a Ug value of 0.7 or less, and the standard sets a limit of 1.0 W/m²K for an entire window (Uw value) facing the outside (EnDK).
By way of comparison, older double glazing from before 1980 has a Ug value of around 2.7: it lets through nearly four times as much heat as the glass in a modern window.
Ask for the Uw and Ug values to be included in the quote. This is the only way to compare quotes and check what has actually been fitted.
Subsidies for windows
In the canton of Vaud, replacing windows alone is not eligible for a grant under the insulation measure of the Buildings Programme. However, windows may be eligible for funding as part of a more comprehensive renovation (Vaud). The rules vary from canton to canton: check with your canton and municipality (francsenergie.ch) before signing. More energy-efficient windows may also be tax-deductible, depending on your canton.
The steps involved in replacing windows
- Have each window measured by the tradesperson: windows are made to measure.
- Compare quotes: same material, same glazing, same Uw and Ug values.
- Check for planning permission: in a condominium ownership (PPE) property, windows affect the façade and are often the responsibility of the owners’ association. In a listed building, the municipality may specify the material and appearance.
- Wait for the windows to be manufactured: this often takes several weeks.
- Fitting: generally quick; the care taken with the joints and sealing ensures a high-quality result.
- Inspection: airtightness, closing mechanism, adjustments.
Bespoke doors and joinery
- Front door: check the insulation, weatherproofing and burglary resistance. RC 2 rating is often recommended for residential properties.
- Interior doors: a joiner can adapt a door to fit an older, non-standard-sized opening.
- Bespoke walk-in wardrobes and fitted cupboards: they make the most of every centimetre, whether under a sloping roof or in a recess. The price depends mainly on the material and the interior fittings (drawers, lighting).
Do you need soundproof windows?
If you’re near a road or railway line, ask for the sound insulation rating in decibels (dB). Laminated or asymmetrical glazing significantly improves sound insulation.