What Happens to Your Old Windows After They Are Replaced? A Homeowner’s Guide to Window Disposal and Recycling

When you decide to replace your windows, there’s usually plenty of focus on choosing the right frames, glazing type, colour, and installer. But there’s one question that often goes unasked, what happens to the old windows after they’re removed?

Whether you’re replacing fogged double glazing, improving energy efficiency, or upgrading your kerb appeal, you may wonder: do old windows get recycled? Do they end up in landfill? Can I keep them? 

In this guide, we’ll explore exactly what happens to your existing windows during and after replacement, from removal and materials sorting, to recycling options, reuse ideas, and environmentally responsible disposal.

What Happens During Window Removal?

Before new windows go in, the existing ones need to come out, carefully and safely. Professional installers follow a step-by-step process to minimise damage to your property and make sure as much of the old material as possible is salvageable or recyclable.

Step-by-Step Overview of the Removal Process

1. Protecting the Area – Installers typically cover flooring and surrounding walls to prevent debris damage.
2. Removing Glazing First – The glass panes are removed from the frames using suction tools or by carefully cutting around the seals. This is often done first to reduce weight and avoid injury.
3. Detaching the Frame – Once the glass is removed, the frame is taken out by unscrewing fixings and carefully prying it from the wall without damaging the plaster or brickwork.
4. Clearing Sealant and Waste – Old sealant, trims, and debris are cleared away to prepare the opening for the new unit.

At this stage, you’re left with a pile of materials, glass, uPVC or timber frame, screws, hinges, sealants, and maybe even handles and locks. So, what happens next?

Are Old Windows Recycled in the UK?

What Parts Are Recyclable?

Yes, many components of old windows can be recycled, though not always together. Here’s what’s generally recyclable:

• uPVC – One of the most recyclable materials. It can be ground down, purified, and re-extruded into new window profiles.
• Glass – Float glass can sometimes be recycled, but it depends on contamination and collection methods.
• Aluminium – Often found in older or premium windows, this is highly recyclable.
• Timber – Salvageable if in good condition, but painted or treated wood is less recyclable.

How uPVC Recycling Works

Modern uPVC windows are recyclable through a closed-loop system. This means the uPVC from old frames can be cleaned, shredded, and melted down to create new windows. Some manufacturers can reuse uPVC up to 10 times without losing quality, making it one of the more sustainable options in construction.

The UK has seen increasing investment in this sector, with companies working in partnership with Recovinyl, VEKA Recycling, and other organisations to create more circular supply chains for uPVC window waste.

Why Not All Windows Get Recycled

Despite the potential, not every removed window gets recycled. Here’s why:

• Contamination: Windows covered in adhesive, paint, or silicone may be unsuitable for recycling.
• Poor sorting: Mixed materials make recycling more difficult unless properly separated.
• Installer practice: Not all companies have agreements with recycling processors, some may still send old windows to landfill.
• Damage during removal: If the window breaks during extraction, some parts become non-recyclable.

What Do Installers Typically Do With Removed Windows?

Responsibility of FENSA and Certass Registered Installers

In the UK, most reputable installers are registered with FENSA, Certass, or similar bodies. While these organisations do not directly manage waste, registered companies are expected to meet Building Regulations, which include guidelines for safe removal and proper disposal.

Installers will typically:

• Transport the old windows back to their yard or recycling facility.
• Separate uPVC, aluminium, and glass where possible.
• Work with licensed waste management companies.

When you hire a certified installer, you’re more likely to benefit from environmentally sound waste handling practices.

Are There Green Installers That Recycle More?

Yes. Some double glazing companies now promote zero-landfill policies, which means every part of your old window, down to the last screw, is either reused, repurposed, or recycled. These companies often:

• Work directly with uPVC recycling plants.
• Collect scrap metal for processing.
• Offer take-back schemes or green disposal guarantees.

If sustainability is a priority for you, it’s worth asking your installer what their policy is before you commit.

Can Homeowners Reuse or Repurpose Old Windows?

You don’t have to throw your old windows away. In fact, many homeowners repurpose them creatively or pass them on to others.

Creative Ideas for Reuse

Old windows can make charming and practical additions to gardens and interiors:

• Cold frames or greenhouses – Timber or uPVC frames with intact glass are ideal for DIY gardeners.
• Room dividers or feature walls – Especially with wooden frames, old sash windows can be mounted indoors for vintage-style partitions.
• Wall art or picture frames – Remove the glass, repaint the frame, and use it as a rustic photo holder.
• Coffee tables – Glazed panels can become the top surface for bespoke furniture.

Pinterest and home improvement blogs are full of ways to turn old windows into talking points.

Donating or Selling Old Windows

If you’d rather pass them on, consider:

• Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree – DIYers and upcyclers regularly search for salvage materials.
• Architectural salvage yards – These may collect and resell vintage or reusable windows.
• Community projects or allotments – Schools and gardening groups often accept old windows for greenhouses or shelters.

Just ensure the windows are safe to transport and aren’t damaged with sharp edges.

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Environmental Impact of Landfilling Windows

When old windows are simply thrown away, they usually end up in landfill, contributing to long-term waste and pollution. Consider the impact:

• uPVC doesn’t biodegrade – It can take hundreds of years to break down.
• Treated timber may leach chemicals – Especially if painted with lead-based paints or preservatives.
• Glass doesn’t decompose – It may shatter and create hazards for wildlife or people.

In short, landfill disposal wastes valuable materials and poses long-term environmental risks.

Benefits of Recycling for Homeowners and the Planet

• Reduces demand for virgin materials like plastic, aluminium, and silica.
• Lowers carbon emissions from manufacturing.
• Minimises landfill pressure in the UK.
• Supports local green jobs in recycling and materials recovery.

For homeowners, knowing your old windows are recycled gives peace of mind, especially if you’re upgrading in the name of sustainability.

How to Make Sure Your Old Windows Are Handled Responsibly

You have more influence over your waste than you might think. Here’s how to make sure your window replacement is environmentally responsible.

Questions to Ask Your Installer

Before signing a contract, ask:

• What happens to my old windows after removal?
• Do you recycle uPVC, timber, or aluminium?
• Can I keep the old windows if I want to reuse them?
• Do you work with recycling partners or landfill-free processors?

If the installer can’t answer these, or doesn’t have a clear policy, consider looking elsewhere.

Choosing Environmentally Conscious Glazing Companies

Look for:

• Recycling commitments on their website or quotes.
• Certifications or affiliations with waste management schemes.
• Customer reviews mentioning eco-conscious practices.
• Partnerships with recyclers like Recovinyl, VEKA, or British Glass.

Some installers even offer digital tracking of where your old windows go, a great option if sustainability is top of mind.

Choose a Reputable Installer with the Double Glazing Network

So, what really happens to your old windows after they’re replaced?

If you’ve chosen a reputable installer, chances are the materials will be responsibly removed, sorted, and either recycled or properly disposed of. In many cases, the uPVC will be reused to make new frames, the metal will be recycled, and even some of the glass can find new life in future projects.

Still, not all installers follow the same green standards. That’s why it’s so important to ask the right questions, consider reuse opportunities, and choose companies committed to reducing waste.

Replacing your windows can be a positive step, not only for your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and appearance, but also for the planet, if done thoughtfully.