Jan
Replacement Windows - A Buyers Guide
Fitting replacement windows can prove to be a great investment in your house. Not only will they improve the appearance & resale value of your house, but they can become an invaluable lifestyle asset too.
There really has never been a better time to consider replacement windows thanks to the new glass technologies that are entering the market. OK. Simply put, glass isn’t just glass anymore; it has become something that could considerably improve your living environment.
Getting the Most from Replacement Windows
Developments in the glass industry mean that now you can get windows that offer features such as:
Self-Cleaning ? Glass that uses the sun’s UV rays & rain to clean itself, meaning that you will not waste precious time & money trying to clean hard-to-reach windows as Self-cleaning glass helps to reduce maintenance.
Solar Control ? Adding a solar control feature to your replacement windows means that the glass will manage the amount of sun light that enters a room through the replacement window so in the summer months, glass with solar control can assist stop heat build up by significantly reducing the amount of heat allowed to pass through the window. This is a particularly useful feature for skylight windows & conservatories.
Thermal Insulation ? Glass is a good conductor of heat, so the warmth in your house often literally goes straight out the window. Windows with thermal insulation limit the warmth that escapes through glass on cold days.
Noise Control ? Ensure that you block out unnecessary outside sounds with the correct specification of glass. There is more. This is ideal for people who live near busy roads or in vibrant areas & seek to create a more tranquil setting within their home.
Extra Strength ? There’re a number of types of glass that are strengthened thanks to a film or the process in which they were created that toughens glass. Perfect for areas prone to accidents or vandalism ? & it is far more attractive than burglar bars!
Fire Protection ? Fire-resistant glass will help to control the damage in the event of the fire. Just ensure that the glass you select for your windows does reach adequate safety standards.
Decoration ? Gone are the days when you only had a basic range of glass styles to select from. Now you can get a variety of textures & patterns that will turn your replacement windows into a feature that will add character to your home.
What’s more, you can often combine these features together to create replacement windows that suit your needs perfectly, thereby making the most of your new replacement windows.
Installing Replacement Windows
The first thing to do is decide on what type of replacement windows you would like to install. It’s very important that they fit in with the style of the house & do not create an eyesore.
You also have a choice of the kind of material you would like for your window frames; metal, wooden or composite frames. PVC-U or aluminum frames require next to no maintenance. Timber frames are traditional & homely, yet require the most attention. Composite (like fiberglass) offer many of the aesthetic advantages of timber, but they’re more durable.
Before you commit to fitting new replacement windows, ensure that you hire a reputable installer. Hiring an installer based closely on the cost of the service alone may lead to shoddy workmanship that will end up costing you far more money & time than you had initially budgeted for. Find out what their credentials are & maybe ask them for some references. It never hurts to be on the safe side!
If you’re looking to fit the replacement windows yourself, do not take on the task lightly. Whilst DIY installation of replacement windows obviously cuts out the cost of labour, it’s not a project for novices. If you are not comfortable doing basic home alterations, it might be best to leave your replacement windows in the hands of professionals.
When it comes to your replacement windows, make choices that best suit you… Assess each room’s individual needs & decide on which glass features will make them more comfortable. It is your home, so it is all about making your glass work for you.
Having been in the glass industry for 179 years, Pilkington is recognised as the world’s technological leader in glass. Out of all of their innovative products, Pilkington Activ? - the world’s first self-cleaning glassis one of their greatest products. Right. What could be better than self-cleaning replacement window products for your home?
