Window frames shape the face of a house. In The Hague you see everything from tall sash-style windows in 19th-century townhouses to the horizontal steel-look frames of the 1930s and standard frames in post-war homes. Replacing them is a chance to improve comfort without losing character.
Why replace your frames?
- Comfort: no more draughts or cold spots near the windows.
- Energy: modern frames with HR++ or triple glazing lose far less heat than single glazing.
- Noise: better glass and seals keep out traffic and tram noise.
- Maintenance: rotten wood and failing seals come back every year until the frame is replaced.
- Security: new frames come with modern locks and fittings.
Materials
Wood remains the best fit for most period homes. It can be profiled to match the original details and painted in the right colour. uPVC frames need little maintenance and are often chosen for post-war homes. Aluminium frames are strong and slim, ideal for large garden doors in a new extension.
Glass
HR++ double glazing is the standard choice. Triple glazing insulates even better and is worth considering if you plan a heat pump. For monuments there is thin insulating glass that fits in slim historic frames. Read more about the right order of improvements in heat pump, solar panels or insulation first?.
Protected cityscapes and monuments
Large parts of older neighbourhoods such as the Archipelbuurt, Willemspark and the city centre have protected status, and some homes are listed buildings. Changing the look of the front facade there often requires a permit. We help you check the rules for your address and advise on frames that respect the original design.
How we work
We measure every opening, advise on material, profiles and glass, and give you an itemised quote. The frames are made to measure, which takes a few weeks. On site they are usually fitted one at a time, finished on the inside and outside, and painted where needed. See our window frame project for an example of a rear facade.
Apartments
In an apartment building the frames are usually part of the shared facade. You then need approval from the VvE. Read how VvE approval works.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to replace my window frames?
If the new frames look the same as the old ones, often not. On a monument, in a protected cityscape or when you change the look of the front facade, a permit is often required. In apartment buildings the VvE usually has to agree as well.
Wood, uPVC or aluminium: what is best?
Wood is the traditional choice for older homes and can be detailed exactly like the original frames. uPVC is affordable and low maintenance. Aluminium allows slim profiles and large glass surfaces, popular for garden doors and extensions.
Can you only replace the glass?
Sometimes. If the existing frames are in good condition and deep enough, HR++ glass can often be fitted in the old frames. For listed buildings there is thin insulating glass that fits historic frames.
Is it messy to replace window frames?
There is some dust and noise, but frames are usually replaced one by one, so the house is closed again at the end of each working day.
