In the UK today uPVC windows are by far the most popular choice for property owners. Not only is uPVC (un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) the cheapest option of all double glazing materials, up to three times cheaper than traditional wooden frames, but it is also the most energy efficient. Available in a variety of colours and finishes, although white is the most popular, uPVC or PVC-u is also recyclable and incredibly durable. Window suppliers offer very competitive prices for replacement windows of this type.
It's a fact that double glazing reduces your homes carbon footprint. Statistics vary, but it is estimated that double glazing can reduce the amount of heat escaping through a home's windows by up to 50%. It's this ability to retain heat that makes double glazing so energy efficient compared to single pane windows. Put simply, less heat required equals less fuel burnt, be it gas, electricity or open fire. It all equates to an ultimate reduction in CO2 which in environmental terms is always a good thing.
Door security is a standard requirement for anyone looking to install or replace an exterior facing door. Weather proofing and energy efficiency are all well and good, but a doors ability to keep out intruders is probably at the top of most people's priority list when choosing a door. Front door security is particularly tricky to get right; you want to be safe, but if you're just popping out or someone is patiently waiting on your doorstep, you don't want to be fussing around with padlock and codes.
The good news is that the installation and replacement of double glazing is a competitive industry in the UK which means better prices for consumers. It is nevertheless an investment product with considerable technological discoveries and techniques behind it and so it is not a cheap or disposable item. Due care needs to be given to finding the right supplier and fitter at the right price. There can also be issues with the quality of information and ethics of some dealers, so it's important to have your wits about you and keep clear of cowboys who may use bully boy tactics to sell you cheap low quality windows at extortionate prices.
Whichever you are looking for: external doors, internal doors, wooden doors, uPVC doors, French doors, patio doors? Let us know and we will be able to give you the details of up to 5 trustworthy door fitters and suppliers operating in your local area. From bi-fold doors to security doors we operate a comprehensive database of fully researched double glazing companies, leaving you free to compare the best prices. We are here to help; information on the latest regulations governing the installation of double glazed doors and door fitting can be found on our door regulations page, alternatively visit our replacement door tips page for handy hints and advice for anyone looking to replace wooden or uPVC double glazed doors in their home or business.
If you've taken the time to source a quality local fitter, FENSA or CERTASS registered and hopefully in the game for a long time, then chances are you'll have an experienced team of fitters and have absolutely nothing to worry about during the installation process, other than putting the kettle on. There is an art to installing double glazing, which is why DIY double glazing is such an extreme learning curve. Providing the surveyor has done his job properly and the supplier has met the exact specifications, all should run smoothly.
A good double glazing contract is designed to protect you as well as the supplier and fitter. Always make sure you understand and agree to a contract before you sign it. Obviously never sign a contract you haven't read thoroughly and don't ever sign a blank form to save time. It matters where you sign a double glazing contract. If you sign in your own home you will be covered by Cancellation of Contracts regulations, governing agreements made in a consumer's home or place of work. These give you a 7 day cooling off period starting from when the supplier explains your rights to you in writing.
If you are looking for replacement windows there are a lot of people and companies prepared to sell them to you. It's important that you know you are dealing with a reputable fitter or supplier who you can trust, are selecting a product that is of a suitable level of quality and security and of course that you are paying a fair price. We can also help you locate local vetted tradespeople so that you can get a range of honest quotes from local, reputable double glazing firms. The list goes on. In today's world installing windows isn't straight forward - whether it's replacement sash windows, replacement uPVC windows or normal double glazing.