Sussex-Windows.co.uk – Finding
the right supplier for you
Are you ready to go for those replacement windows?
For so long now I have been grumbling about the state of my windows, the constant rubbing down, sanding, filling, painting, re-applying putty and removing mildew and would be thrilled to think that with some new double glazing all this could be a thing of the past.
Of course, moaning is one thing but doing something about it is quite another thing. I took so advice from a mate of mine and although it all sounded like I was about to step into some sort of peat-bog it was OK once I followed the rules he suggested that I set myself.
Rule number one – know roughly what you want in window type.
Take a good look at what you have now in terms of window type and styling – so if say you live in an older styled property you may have sash windows. These are the ones that open up and down and in front of one another, and if your house is genuinely old they may well stick and rattle like mad when you try to move them.
In a more modern estate type property you may have casement windows which roughly are the sort that open outwards and are usually either L/H or R/H side hinged. Some of the double glazing systems offer tilt and turn windows which are worth checking out and are often based upon a casement style but quite clever and convenient for cleaning or getting ventilation.
Within these you may have a bay or bow window.
Alternatively you may already have some early double glazed system which is due for replacement and may want something similar, but needless to say look around at neighbours or similar properties that have already had some glazing work done and see what you think looks good, tasteful and will reflect well the feel and architectural styling our your property.
Rule number two - know what style of frame you want.
So know you know roughly the type of window that you are considering, now what about the construction of the frame? Firstly understand that there are, in simple terms about four main types and there are advantages and disadvantages to all of them – so weigh up what suits you and your circumstances and also perhaps what your long term aim is – if you are not planning to move then you could be living with your decisions and choices for a long time!
Wooden window frames – these look good usually and please the natural environment lovers amongst us – they are especially good if you have any weird sized windows and need something bespoke made. However a downside is that unlike the others, wooden window frames will need maintenance so this selection still leaves you with those 5-yearly chores to do – but hey you may enjoy it. They can lean towards being expensive but if you are going this way then get hardwood frames – softwood is more inclined to split or warp and is unlikely to last as well as the alternatives.
Aluminium – Not that commonly seen today – and yet was all the rage in the early days of double glazing. Very slim and strong and great if you have any real home security issues – it’s almost intruder proof (which is why you still see it on commercial buildings sometimes) but once its popularity declined the price rose and its availability was harder to find. Virtually maintenance free. Aluminium can still have the odd problem with condensation so talk to others who have this system.
UPVC / PVCU window frames – what a lot of us think of as double glazing and by far the most popular now. Tends to be less expensive than the others yet is very strong and durable and has excellent insulation properties. Virtually maintenance free which is a blessing. Although it is available also in Woodgrain finishes, from some suppliers it can still be a bit limited on colour so see what they have first.
Composite frames – I can’t claim to be an expert on these, but as I understand it they are usually made up from a mixture of materials – most often timber on the inside and then aluminium or UPVC on the outside. Ideal for bespoke solutions and as I understand it, a goof insulator as timber is good especially when protected from the elements. Almost maintenance free, but again can tend towards being expensive and you may not have a supplier on your doorstep.
Rule number three – check with the local authority.
Of course all of this may be irrelevant if you live in a conservation area or in a listed property so before you waste your time check out that you have the decision to make - you may only be allowed to go in the direction of timber framed windows anyway!
Rule number four – how energy efficient are they.
With the windows themselves, check out the energy efficiency rating. Yes – you did hear me correctly – it’s a bit like the energy labels you now get when you are buying a new washing machine or tumble dryer. The British Fenestration Rating Council introduced a rating scheme for energy efficient windows by rating them from A to G where A is the most energy efficient. There is a lot of info on the label as a part of the rating such as how much the product is:
- Helping you contain and conserve heat within your building in the winter
- Helping to resist condensation
- Helping to keep out the wind and reduce draughts
- Helping with sound insulation
New build installations within the UK now have to conform to a minimum C rating so quite frankly I would even consider a system below a C rating.
Rule number four – get like for like quotes in Sussex.
So now you know what you want – you have made your list so now you can get some quotes in.
Stick to your guns and give the two or three double glazing companies you invite in the same information – you want to be comparing like with like – tell them you want the best price and don’t be persuaded that this deal only holds if you sign now – sorry heard it too often – if the price is good it will still be good tomorrow.
Search for an approved supplier in Sussex – We cover all the following areas:
Angmering, Arundel, Barnham, Billingshurst, Bognor Regis, Burgess Hill, Chichester, Crawley, Cuckfield, East Grinstead, East Preston, Faygate, Fernhurst, Findon, Gatwick, Handcross, Hassocks, Haywards Heath, Henfield, Hickstead, Horsham, Hurstpierpoint, Keymer, Kirdford, Littlehampton, Lurgashall, Midhurst, Partridge Green, Petworth, Plaistow, Pulborough, Robertsbridge, Rusper, Rustington, Scayne's Hill, Selsey, Shoreham-by-Sea, Sompting, South Lancing, Southwater, Steyning, Storrington, Tillington, Walberton, Warnham, West Chiltington and Worthing.
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