The top window questions answered for homeowners!
The wonderful world of windows isn’t as simple as choosing ‘new white windows’, but as they say, knowledge is power! Here we have answered some of the top questions we get asked during the process of researching & enquiring about replacing old windows. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any other queries that aren’t covered below or wish to get a quote.
Why is there condensation in my window, and do I need to replace it?
Condensation forms when water vapour gets into the glass unit within the window frame and liquifies in the form of pesky condensation. This often happens when a glass unit (the two panes of double glazing with air or argon gas in between) has failed and is letting air in somewhere. There are no permanent ways to remove this form of condensation because it’s often come through a small gap and this means the unit has failed and won’t be keeping the cold out/heat in. You have two main choices, you could replace the glass for a new, sealed unit or replace the whole glass and frame unit. It’s often a safer bet to replace the whole thing (glass & frame) because a new, modern whole window also comes with updates locks, better thermally efficient glass & a more modern frame that could again offer better energy efficiency. Your windows don’t have to look different from the others, our range of windows come in many styles & colours to suit your home. You may also want to upgrade that window to triple glazing if you’d like to improve its sound insulating properties, great for road facing windows. Find out more about our windows here.
What is uPVC?
uPVC is essentially reinforced plastic, one of the most common window materials and typically what most white windows are made from. uPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride. Because uPVC manufacturing is a more common operation more businesses are able to do so, resulting in typically cheaper prices than other materials like timber & aluminium. They might not always be the right choice for certain properties so make sure you do your material research. Thanks to advances uPVC production they can also be created in many colours apart from the traditional white option.
What can I replace wooden windows with?
You may currently have single glazed traditional timber (wood) windows that are really letting the cold air in and heat out. Good news, you have many material & style options you can replace your old windows with. One of the main points to research first is if you are in a protected area like an AONB, conservation area or a period property, is to find out if there are any restrictions. In situations like this, we can offer similar wood or wood-look windows but a more modern version to make sure the aesthetics aren’t dramatically changed but the energy efficiency is. We have a range of windows that are very often used in traditional homes when replacing older timber windows.
Can the glass be replaced if it’s broken?
If you’ve had a ball fly at the window or something that has broken the glass beyond a small crack, it’s worth knowing your options. Yes, you can have the glass replaced, but it may be a good time to consider replacing the whole unit (the frame around the glass and the glass itself). There are so many benefits to new windows & there’s no reason why they can’t blend in with your existing ones. You could also choose to replace it with a triple-glazed window if say it’s a road facing window where you’d like extra soundproofing from the outside noises. View our range of windows here.
Should I replace the windows to help with selling my house?
New windows will always be a key feature for any buyers because it’s a bigger job than some would rather have done already on the house. It’s worth bearing in mind that there will be several weeks between getting a quote and installation so make sure you plan ahead before marketing a property.
Is planning permission needed for new windows?
According to the official planning authority that works alongside every local authority across England & Wales, Planning Portal states that you do not need planning permission for ‘insertion of new windows and doors that are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the house’. It’s always worth visiting the website of your local planning department to check for any local stipulations especially if you are in a conservation area or live in a listed building.
What colours are new windows available in?
You can choose to have your new windows in many RAL colours. RAL is a colour matching standard and used for many varnish & powder coating product applications. Popular RAL colours on windows include Anthracite Grey, Chartwell Green & Cream. We also offer foil grain finishes to give a wood effect on our windows without having to commit to full timber windows.
If you have any other questions or would like to get a quote for new windows, do not hesitate to get in touch. You can use our easy online enquiry form, contact form or ring us on 01252 370917.
