Choosing The Right Double Glazing Company In The UK
If you’re considering new or replacement double glazing for your property it’s important that you choose the right company to go for. Because there is little access to double glazing grants in the UK right now cost and finance options are going to be major incentives. That said price shouldn’t be the main driver. You’re looking at a long term investment so it has to be right for you and the property. For that reason you should look at it from the point of view of what represents the best value for money rather than simply the cheapest cost.
You need to choose the right windows at the right price so let’s go through what you should be looking for when choosing the right double glazing company in the UK.
Choosing The Right Double Glazing Company For Their Range Of Windows
Does the company you are considering offer a full range of window types? This will indicate whether they are double glazing specialists. It’s also important in order that you get the right style for your property and location. The main types are:
- Double Glazed Casement Windows. By far the most popular style of double glazing. Windows open outwards and are hung from either the side, top or bottom by hinges.
- Flush Double Glazing. Similar to casement windows but the opening part of the window sits flush with the frame.
- Bay Windows. Angular or curved windows that project out from the internal wall of the property.
- Tilt and Turn Double Glazed Windows. These generally have a wider frame and are designed to be opened by tilting inwards or fully opening horizontally.
- Cottage Style Windows. Designed to fit in with characteristics of cottage style properties.
- Double Glazed Sash Windows. Two double glazed sashes that overlap slightly and open by vertically sliding either the top sash down or the bottom sash up.
- Velux. The tilt opening roof windows we often know as skylights.
There are other types too but the above are the most commonly fitted types of double glazing in the UK.
Materials Used In Double Glazing Frames
Any good double glazing company in the UK will offer at least three different frame materials
- uPVC. Probably the most common and popular material for double glazed windows. Light, strong and flexible it comes in an array of styles and design configuration along with different colours too which do not require painting.
- Timber. Wooden windows that look great in traditional building and modern buildings alike. They are natural, durable, eco-friendly and look great although they do require regular maintenance.
- Aluminium. Powder coated aluminium is perfect if you need lightweight, hardwearing and slim profiles
Along with the frame options there are also choices of glass too:
Double Glazing Glass Types
Clear, obscure, decorative, etched, fusion, bevelled, coloured, acoustic, toughened, safety, self-cleaning … so many different options to suit your property style and design inspirations. Talk to the company to make sure they provide a good range and that they explain the different options to ensure you get what’s right for you.
Window Furniture
By furniture we’re referring to the handles, hinges vents etc. These will come in different styles, materials and colours and will offer varying degrees of security too so make sure you are offered a good range of options as they are built into the window frames and hence difficult to change at a later stage.
Energy Efficiency When Choosing The Right Double Glazing Company In The UK
One of the main reasons for choosing the right double glazing company in the UK is the energy efficiency their windows can offer. This, apart from being eco-friendly can save you some serious money over the life of the windows.
The usual standard is the WER rating (Window Energy Rating) which was created by the British Fenestration Rating Council. It grades windows from A (being the best) to G with A being the best and made even better if followed by a single or multiple + sign.
Without getting technical the WER rating is made up of three key elements: U value (low heat loss), G value (solar gain) and an L value (air loss through ventilation).
Make sure that any company offering you windows can supply A rated (or better) windows.
Double Glazing Guarantees
You’re making a major financial investment so you want to ensure that you’re fully guaranteed. If a company is not offering you at least a 10 year guarantee then you should think carefully.
Also look to additional protection from the Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme or FENSA for short. This is basically a UK Government backed competent person scheme. It proves that installers are competent to carry out work and that it complies with building regulations.
Choosing The Right Double Glazing Company For Finance & Funding Options
Let’s face it, cost is very important. Don’t always go for the cheapest but look for the best value for money.
Whilst, in 2021, there may be little access to any for of double glazing grants in the UK unless you fall into low income categories it’s always worth checking with your local authority first in case they have any specific schemes that you may be able to tap into.
Failing that, when choosing the right double glazing company in the UK, look at the incentives, payment options and financial support the installers can offer. This could be in the form of a price promise to match any like for like quote, a scrappage or recycling scheme in the case of replacement double glazing, interest free finance, flexible finance and, of course a sale or special offer! Also consider buy at quieter times when companies may be more competitive in order to keep the cash flowing.
