Installing double glazed windows has many benefits including lowering your energy bills and making your home a lot warmer. However, double glazing installation is a substantial expense so its essential buyers make the right decision when shopping for new windows.
Read on to find out the top ten things to look out for when buying double glazed windows.
- Price
As mentioned above double glazing is not cheap but it should be noted that the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term costs. For example you’ll save on energy bills and maintenance costs that would have otherwise been incurred had you kept single glazed windows. Prices for double glazing vary so have a good look around and see what options are available. Take a look online by searching in your local area such as “Double glazing Glasgow“ and see which companies come up.
- Security
Security is another feature of double glazing installation as would-be burglars may struggle to damage or penetrate them as they have robust window frames combined with durable locking mechanisms. That said you also need to be able to get out of the house in an emergency so always check if windows have easy access options.
- Thermal Insulation
If you are struggling with the cold weather inside your home, then double glazing is normally the best long term solution, outside of fully reinsulating your property. Aagin an online search can be the best place to start, so if you live in the Essex area for example, query “replacement double glazing Essex” to find a selection of local companies who can help you. Remember, double glazed windows will offer thermal insulation, allowing you to keep warm throughout the colder days and nights.
- Maintenance
The great things about double glazed windows is that they are very easy to maintain and keep clean. Most of them have uPVC frames which are easy to wipe clean whilst also being durable and robust. Contrast this with old style timber frames which can deteriorate over time and will require repainting over the years,
- Style and Aesthetics
Double glazed windows are available in many styles. Most window retailers will present you with various designs to consider so you will have plenty of choice when it comes to picking the right windows for your property. Remember if you change your mind over the years it is possible to get the frames spray painted a different colour.
- Colours
It is probably right to say 90% of double glazed windows come with white uPVC frames as they are the cheapest and most popular choices people make. However other colours are becoming increasingly prevalent nowadays such as anthracite grey. The colour you pick should be dictated by your own style and taste with a consideration for the style of other houses in the immediate vicinity.
- Customer Service
Good customer service is another point to look out for when purchasing double glazing. No one likes a rude or pushy salesperson, so do you research beforehand and look for reviews of companies from previous customers for an insight into how they operate.
- Guarantees
Always ask about the guarantees the company offers post-installation. You should get at least a 10 year guarantee with your windows, although some companies may offer something longer than this.
- Installation
Always ask who will be installing the windows themselves. Do they work for the double glazing company themselves or are they a sub contractor? Another point to raise is how long will the windows take to install and will the person installing them take away your old windows?
- Payment Terms
Check what payment terms are available, which is particularly useful if you want to spread the costs. Often you can get double glazed windows on interest free credit which avoids having to stump up the whole cost upfront.