Top 10 tips for choosing double glazing
26 May 2010
Choosing the right double glazing isn't easy. Before you even start gathering quotes, there's a whole bunch of research to be done, from the benefits of wood finish versus PVCu to internal and external beading. Here's a few tips to help keep those headaches to a minimum.
1. First of all, make sure you've got the right permissions. If you live in a listed building or an area with planning restrictions, you'll need to check with your local authority before you start sifting through the catalogues.
2. As with most major decisions, be prepared for some compromise. PVCu windows may be substantially cheaper than those with wooden frames, but also be aware that they are usually a lot wider around the borders – meaning you could lose out on a lot of incoming light.
3. A wood finish also has its drawbacks. The frames will need be painted every few years, which is an expense you should factor in to your estimate.
4. Choose a style in keeping with your property. Take a walk around your area and see how different types of windows look off the page.
5. Don't feel restricted to what you see in the showroom. Plenty of firms offer bespoke design to help you bring your unique idea to life – all at a price, of course.
6. Make sure to ask about locks and other security features. Again, there are plenty of choices to be made, from the usual espagnolette multi-point type locking to security chains and more traditional bolt and key locks.
7. There's not much too choose between internal and external beading. Some say having beading on the inside is more secure as it can't be accessed by any prospective intruders, but most windows will have this protected with security tape.
8. Pay attention to proportion. Newer replacement windows are more likely to have smaller areas of glass for sections that don't open, leaving a bigger space for the sash itself. In older buildings, it's more usual for both to be roughly the same size.
9. When it comes to gaskets, the choice is black or white. Gaskets, or the seal around the window that is almost hidden when shut, usually come in two colours. Black is used by most installers as standard, but white is often best for PVC frames.
10. Consider your neighbours. If your neighbour has had, or is planning to have, new windows fitted, agreeing on a similar design can work wonders for both properties.