How much do custom windows cost in Australia, and are they really worth the added investment compared to standard options? This is one of the most common questions asked by homeowners, builders, and design professionals when planning window installations.
The short answer: custom windows typically cost more, but they also offer more. While standard windows are pre-sized and readily available, custom windows are built to fit your exact dimensions and preferences. This can include the size, frame colour, glass performance, and style configuration.
Standard windows are ideal if you are working with flexible wall openings or new builds where framing can be adjusted. They are also faster to install and generally more budget-friendly. On the other hand, custom windows are often the best solution when precision matters, design is a priority, or performance requirements go beyond what standard products offer.
If you are managing a new construction project, upgrading specific areas of your home, or planning a renovation, understanding the true cost and benefits of custom windows can help you make informed choices before you commit.
Which Projects Benefit Most from Custom Windows?
Custom windows are not always a luxury. In many cases, they are a practical necessity. If your project involves fixed openings, non-standard dimensions, or performance upgrades, choosing a made-to-measure option can save time, cost, and future complications.
Here are the most common scenarios where custom windows are the smarter choice:
- Homes with non-standard or fixed openings
If your wall openings cannot be easily altered, such as in brick or older constructions, standard windows may not fit. Custom windows are built to precise dimensions, reducing the need for structural modifications.
- Design-led builds
When architectural detail or visual consistency is critical, custom sizing allows you to achieve exact proportions and aesthetic alignment. You also gain flexibility in frame colours and finishes not commonly available in standard ranges.
- Noise-sensitive areas
Bedrooms, offices, or living spaces near traffic or other noise sources benefit from custom windows with acoustic glass. These are purpose-built to reduce sound transfer and improve comfort.
- Energy-conscious households
If insulation and energy efficiency are priorities, custom windows give you access to upgraded glazing options designed to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy loss.
In each of these situations, the added cost of a custom window is offset by the functional or design advantage it brings to the overall project.
How Much Do Custom Windows Cost?
Custom windows generally start from $199 and can reach over $1,000, depending on size, performance features, and finish selections.
Each upgrade adds a specific value depending on your needs. Here is a breakdown of the most relevant options:
- Revealed frame
Keeps the window frame visible for a defined, architectural edge.
Average percentage of base cost: 25% – 30%
- Laminated acoustic glass
Uses a bonded interlayer between two glass panes to reduce external noise and improve impact resistance.
Average percentage of base cost: 50% – 55%
- Low-E energy glass
Enhances insulation by reflecting infrared heat and maintaining more consistent indoor temperatures.
Average percentage of base cost: 40% – 45%
- Grey glass
A tinted glazing option that reduces glare and solar heat gain while maintaining a natural light appearance. Often selected for rooms exposed to strong sunlight.
Average percentage of base cost: 28% – 32%
Only one energy upgrade (such as Low-E or grey glass) can be applied per window, and laminated glass is typically selected separately for acoustic control.
Example: Custom Window Pricing with Upgrades
Aluminium Sliding Window 1200 H x 1210 W
| Item | Cost (AUD) | % of Base Price |
| Base window | $368 | — |
| Revealed frame | +$96 | 26% |
| Laminated acoustic glass | +$189 | 51% |
| Low-E energy glass | +$145 | 39% |
| Estimated Total | $798 | 117% over base |
This configuration results in a fully upgraded custom window, offering:
- A clean, visible frame line
- Reduced external noise
- Improved indoor comfort and energy efficiency
Actual upgrade costs and their percentage impact will vary depending on the window’s size, base price, and configuration. However, using this breakdown as a benchmark gives you a clear picture of what to expect and how much to prepare if you are considering similar enhancements for your custom windows.
How Long Do Custom Windows Take to Make?
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing custom windows is production time. While standard sizes are often kept in stock and ready for same-day pickup or fast delivery, custom windows are built to your specifications and require a lead time before they can be delivered and installed.
Custom windows typically require a production lead time, often ranging between 3 to 4 weeks depending on the configuration and selected upgrades. It is best to confirm current timelines directly with your supplier.
What Affects Lead Time?
Several factors can influence how long your custom window takes:
- Volume of your order: Larger orders may require more processing and batching time.
- Selected upgrades: Features such as powder-coated frame colours, acoustic glass, or Low-E glazing may extend the timeline slightly, especially if materials need to be sourced or processed separately.
- Time of year: Lead times can vary during peak seasons or holidays. Ordering early in your project can help you avoid delays later in the build.
When to Place Your Order
To avoid project delays, the best time to place your custom window order is immediately after your final measurements are confirmed. This allows the manufacturer to begin production while the rest of your build or renovation progresses.
For standard windows, shorter lead times are available. In-stock models are typically available within 1 to 2 business days, which makes them ideal for tight construction schedules or last-minute replacements.
Planning your window selections and order timing early ensures your installer or builder can keep moving without costly rescheduling or site hold-ups.
Choosing the Right Supplier for Custom Windows
Selecting the right supplier is just as important as selecting the right window. A well-built custom window depends on accuracy, clear communication, and a supplier that understands both product quality and project requirements.
Here are the most important factors to consider:
- Transparent Pricing Structure
Choose a supplier that provides detailed, itemised pricing. This includes the base cost of the window and common upgrades such as acoustic glass, Low-E glazing, and revealed frames. Transparent pricing helps you compare options and plan your budget with confidence.
- Reliable Lead Times
Ask how long it typically takes to produce and deliver your specific configuration. A professional supplier will set clear expectations.
- Local Manufacturing and Support
Working with suppliers who manufacture locally or partner with trusted local fabricators can reduce delivery delays and help maintain quality control. Local support also means your product is more likely to meet regional building standards and climate needs.
- Performance-Driven Options
The best suppliers offer more than design variety. Look for energy-efficient glass, acoustic upgrades, and colour selections that improve comfort and match the look of your home. These features should be backed by clear specifications and available add-on pricing.
- Warranty and Service
Always confirm the warranty coverage for your windows. After-sales service is also important, especially if you need guidance during installation or assistance with adjustments.
Planning Ahead for the Right Custom Window
Custom windows offer more than just sizing flexibility. When chosen well, they improve comfort, energy performance, noise insulation, and visual consistency across your home. Even if you are selecting just one or planning multiple custom windows, understanding the real cost drivers behind customisation will help you make decisions that fit both your budget and your build.
To recap:
- Base prices vary by size, but upgrades like Low-E glass, laminated glass, and revealed frames can significantly enhance functionality.
- Each upgrade typically adds 25 to 50 percent to the base price, depending on the specification.
- Lead times average 3 to 4 weeks for custom windows, so early planning is essential to avoid delays.
- Choosing the right supplier ensures a quality product and accurate pricing, dependable timelines, and strong support throughout your project.
With the right approach, custom windows can deliver long-term value, better living conditions, and a more tailored finish, all while helping you stay in control of timing and costs.
If you would like help exploring your options, you are welcome to reach out to our team for a free quote on your custom window. We can walk you through available sizes, upgrade combinations, and expected lead times so you can make a confident and informed choice for your space.
