Double Glazing & UPVC Windows Tips for Buyers

When you look at our selection of double glazing, UPVC window and door styles, here are a few tips for you to consider when buying replacement windows and doors.

It is always preferable to choose a style that matches your type of property and enhances its appearance. This is particularly important with UPVC and aluminium designs if they are being fitted to older properties. Take a look at similar properties in your area and compare the effect of fitting various types of double glazing.

Make sure you have enough windows that actually open. Simple designs with very few openings are cheaper, but may turn out to be impractical and ultimately a bad investment.

Always ask your supplier how long before the installation takes place and once there how long will the installation team expect to be on site.

Although rare, planning permission may sometimes be required to fit double glazing. This is especially true in the case of 'listed' buildings and properties located in 'conservation areas'. If you are converting a flat window into a bow or bay window, you may also need planning permission. You can check this yourself by calling the local authority.

With UPVC windows, it's reasonable to ask your supplier if the windows are fully welded or if window components are mechanically fixed. Mechanical fixing is generally considered to be a more economic method of manufacture, but it's possible that with wear and tear, particularly on doors, that the mechanical (screw) fixing will come apart, weakening the frames and reducing performance.

For this reason, we advise specifying welded construction with the possible exception of woodgrain style UPVC frames, which can look neater if a mechanical fixing is used.

Double glazing will reduce heat loss through your windows by an estimated 10-12%, but whilst you will save on heating bills it will be a considerable time before you achieve a high enough return to 'pay for the double glazing' so don't replace them for this reason alone!

Fitting double glazing will provide some sound insulation, but if this is your primary motivation then you should consider secondary glazing where a new single glazed frame is fitted in front of the existing window. The greater the 'air gap', the more efficient the sound insulation will prove to be.

It may seem obvious, but don't accept the first price you are quoted. If you have the time, try and obtain at least two or three estimates and visit a showroom. Make the effort to view other work carried out by the company you are considering and if this not practical ask to speak to other customers on the telephone. Whilst these will, no doubt, be 'satisfied' you can gain a good idea of how the company operates by asking specific questions such as "Did they turn up on time?" and "Was the site left clean and tidy?"

Most companies will require a deposit with your order. Generally speaking, 10% is usual unless your work is particularly unique as in the case of 'one off' timber designs. A percentage of the final cost should be withheld until the work has been completed entirely to your satisfaction.

Find out exactly what the guarantee covers. Most double glazing companies guarantee their frames and sealed units for a minimum of ten years, but it's best to ask a potential supplier to be specific. You may well be offered an 'insurance backed' guarantee, but these are really just insolvency guarantees and only become effective should the company go into liquidation.

Check what type of locks and security features are being fitted to your windows. Most modern double glazing and UPVC windows have multi-point espagnolette type locking mechanisms, which can be locked partially open in a 'night-vent' position. It may be possible to specify a higher class of locking system so ask if any security upgrades are available. It is also worth checking if the double glazing can be equipped with any special 'fire escape' features, but remember that these will not be standard items and will carry an extra cost.

Ask if your supplier will make good around the new frames once they have been fitted. Most will expect to do this as part of the overall installation, but it is worth checking that this is part of the service.

Once the double glazing has been installed, it is worth remembering that although UPVC and aluminium frames are virtually maintenance-free, the hinges and locks will benefit from regular lubrication to keep them working smoothly. Special UPVC cleaners are also available to clean the frames when required. Timber frames will need to be pained every three to five years or, in the case of natural hardwood, oiled or varnished as appropriate.

Double glazing companies have built up a wealth of experience over the years. Be prepared to listen to their advice as it's in their interest to make sure you're happy with the finished job. Whilst they're on your property to replace your windows not socialise, the installation team would probably appreciate a cold drink in Summer or a bowl of soup in Winter. A friendly working relationship will undoubtedly result in a satisfactory installation for you.