Did you know that replacing the old, drab windows in your UK home with double glazed windows will help you limit the amount of heat loss by as much as 10%. That translates into significantly lower energy consumption and, thus, lower heating bills. Over time, you end up saving more on your electricity bills. Than you had spent on your double glazed styles in the first place.
Double glazing is a type of window that has two panes of glass separated by a layer of air or gas. This makes the window more energy-efficient, as it helps to keep the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer. Double glazing can also reduce noise pollution and improve security.
There are many different double glazing styles available, each with its own unique look and benefits.
Different Double Glazing styles
Casement Windows – A casement window is the standard and most common window sold and asked for currently in the UK. Hinged at the side (or the top) for opening, usually with a single or pair of opening windows in one frame. Casement windows in white uPVC are the most economical style of window you can buy. A casement window can normally range in price from anywhere as little as £400 to £1700 pending size and materials.
Sash Windows – A sash window or hung sash window is made of one or more movable panels, or “sashes”. uPVC sash windows have become available since the first PVC window frames were being introduced in Germany in the 1960s. The waterproof nature of uPVC and ease of installation are also benefits. With average prices for sash windows normally around £1000 – £1500.
Tilt and Turn Windows – Tilt and turn windows have long been a popular choice for homeowners on the continent due to their excellent weather proofing and security features. These windows are very practical and versatile as they feature a hinge mechanism which means they can be opened in 2 ways. Average Window prices for tilt and turn turn are normally between £500 – £1000
Bay Windows – A bay window is a statement window which is configured from at least three individual window units in an angled projection. It can be arranged in a variety of different shapes, including circular, splay or square bays. One of the main benefits of building a bay window into your home is that it adds a projection to the wall of the building it is built in, which creates more space in the room for you to occupy and relax in. On average bay window can cost around £1200 but can easily go over £2000
Window Frame Materials
There are a few different materials that are commonly used for double glazing window frames. These include:
- uPVC: Vinyl is a popular choice for double glazing window frames because it is durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. It is also relatively inexpensive.
- Wood: Wood is a classic choice for double glazing window frames that can add warmth and character to a home. It is also a good insulator, which can help to save energy costs. However, wood window frames require more maintenance than vinyl window frames.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a synthetic material that is similar to wood in appearance. It is also durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. Fiberglass window frames are often more expensive than vinyl window frames, but they are less expensive than wood window frames.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is a lightweight material that is often used for the frames of double glazed windows. It is strong and durable, but it is not as energy-efficient as other materials.
- Clad wood: Clad wood windows are made with a wood interior and an aluminum or vinyl exterior. This combination of materials provides the beauty of wood with the durability of aluminum or vinyl. Clad wood windows are often more expensive than other types of windows, but they can be a good option for homeowners who want the look of wood without the maintenance.
The best material for your double glazing window frame will depend on your budget, your climate, and your personal preferences.
Can colour effect the price
Here are some reasons why:
- More popular colors are more expensive: Manufacturers typically charge more for windows in popular colors, such as white, black, and gray. This is because these colors are in high demand and manufacturers need to charge more to cover their costs.
- Less popular colors are less expensive: Manufacturers typically charge less for windows in less popular colors, such as green, blue, and pink. This is because these colors are not in high demand and manufacturers can charge less without losing money.
- Custom colors are the most expensive: Manufacturers typically charge the most for windows in custom colors. This is because custom colors require special manufacturing processes, which adds to the cost of the window.
If you are considering buying colored windows, it is important to factor in the cost of the color when making your decision. You may want to choose a less popular color or a custom color if you are willing to pay more for the color.
Double glazing vs triple glazing
Based on a like-for-like double glazing styles, opting for coloured uPVC windows instead of the more traditional white one. Can easily increase the cost of your windows by as little as15% to 20%. But don’t forget that uPVC double glazing is much cheaper than some of the alternatives available on the market.
Do you need planning permission
If your planning on replacing a window which is like for like and is the same double glazing styles which was used for the current build of the house then you don’t need to apply for planning permission.
If you are wanting to add new windows to the property then in some cases you are going to need to apply for planning permission. There are guidelines for what is allowed under permitted developments and when you will need to apply for planning permission.
You do need planning permission if: Fitting a skylight/roof light that protrudes more than 150mm beyond the plane of the roof slope or is higher than the highest point of your roof. You could need to get planning permission if you live in a listed building, designated area or fall under an Article 4 Directive.
Bay Windows though will depend on if you have an existing bay window installed then you don’t have to worry about planning permission if you want to replace it. But if you want to add a new bay window to the front of house then you are going to have to apply for planning permission as you will be considered to extending your house.
How long do new windows last
The lifespan of new windows depends on a variety of factors, including the type of window, the climate, and the quality of installation.
- Single-pane windows: Single-pane windows are the least expensive type of window and have the shortest lifespan. They typically last 10-15 years.
- Double-pane windows: Double-pane windows are more expensive than single-pane windows but have a longer lifespan. They typically last 20-25 years.
- Triple-pane windows: Triple-pane windows are the most expensive type of window but have the longest lifespan. They typically last 30-35 years.
In addition to the type of window, the climate also plays a role in the lifespan of windows. Windows in cold climates are more likely to experience condensation and frost, which can shorten their lifespan. Windows in hot climates are more likely to experience warping and fading, which can also shorten their lifespan.
Finally, the quality of installation also plays a role in the lifespan of windows. Windows that are not properly installed are more likely to leak air and water, which can damage the window and shorten its lifespan.
If you are considering replacing your windows, it is important to factor in the lifespan of the windows when making your decision. You may want to choose a more expensive window with a longer lifespan if you live in a climate with extreme weather conditions or if you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Want quotes for double glazing?
At Smart Home Improvement People, we can help you connect with the industry’s best double glazing companies. We can even help you save 50% on double glazed windows because we know how important it is to have double glazed windows. Get in touch with us today at 0800 2461367 or contact us on the website to get up to 4 quotes.
Conclusion
Double glazing is a great way to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, security, and value of your home. With so many different double glazing styles available, you can choose the style that best suits your needs and your home.
If you are considering double glazing for your home, be sure to compare prices from multiple companies and get quotes for installation. By comparing prices and getting quotes, you can find the best deal on double glazing for your home.
