When it comes to new or replacement windows, there is a huge amount of choice. There are aluminium, pvcu, timber and even hybrid windows. There are even the latest steel-look windows for those that wish to replace Crittall® and other metal windows. Here, we answer some of our commonly asked questions about new windows for the home.
What is best? PVCu or aluminium windows?
Today's modern PVCu and aluminium windows are both excellent regarding design, weather resistance and energy efficiency.
The choice between PVCu and aluminium windows comes down to some factors, including price, aesthetics, sizes, colour choices and your house type and style.
PVCu windows are cheaper than aluminium and ideal for general window replacements as well as into your new extension. They come in a more traditional style with chamfered, ovolo and sculptured frames, whereas aluminium is also available in a very flat appearance. For woodgrain colours, PVCu cannot be beaten with a huge choice of foils available.
Aluminium windows are slimmer, more modern in appearance and can accommodate larger sizes without the need for additional mullions and transoms. The great thing about current aluminium windows is they are now available in the latest 'steel-look' profiles. These steel replacement windows are perfect if you have old metal windows you want to replace but love the traditional appearance of your old metal windows.
The best thing to do if you're not sure is to contact us, and we can discuss your requirements and show you examples of the different types of windows.
How do I know when it is time to replace my windows?
The time to replace your windows comes down to many different factors, but if you have any of the following issues with your windows, it is worth talking to us.
- If you feel a draught through closed windows.
- If your timber windows are rotting and flaking.
- If you have any problems opening, closing and importantly, locking your windows.
- If you have double glazing that is misted up or condensation between the panes of glass.
- If your windows have basic security and you want to improve it.
Of course, you may just want to renovate your home and bring it up to a more modern standard with windows being part of your planned work.
Before you decide it is time to replace your windows, we offer a repair service were some basic issues with your windows can be resolved without resorting to new windows.
Which is better for maintenance, aluminium or upvc?
The great thing about both modern PVCu (upvc) and aluminium windows is that they should last for many many years with only routine cleaning required.
Powder coated finishes on aluminium windows have a minimum 15-year guarantee assuming you have routinely cleaned the windows. PVCu materials and foils are also designed to last with minimal maintenance required. Modern, high performance windows should last for decades to come, needing only minimal maintenance.
So your choice on which is best should come down to other factors as both window materials are very low maintenance indeed.
How do I prepare my house ready for my new windows?
We will advise you at the time of our survey what we may need from you before we install your new windows and doors. The following is a general guide.
- Take down curtains and blinds.
- Speak to your alarm company if sensors need to be deactivated or removed.
- Please move any furniture away from the windows. We will provide dust sheets while we work.
- Please remove any pictures, shelves or other wall mounted items immediately close to the windows.
- Any rugs or mats close to the windows should also be moved.
Will my new windows be installed from the inside or the outside?
In most cases, the installation of your new windows is from the outside. There are some situations where we may need to fit from inside your house.
We will make you fully aware of the window installations when we visit you to provide a quotation and when we carry out a survey following receipt of your deposit.
Will I save money on my energy bills with new windows?
If your property has old single glazed windows then you should see a noticeable improvement in the heat loss through the windows. It is worth bearing in mind that many factors contribute to how much heat is lost in your home such as how well insulated it is throughout, not just the windows and doors.
Our windows are chosen for their excellent thermal efficiency and energy saving features. The money you will save will, of course, depend on these and other factors.
If you are interested in seeing some examples of potential savings, The Energy Savings Trust has some information on potential savings and also a useful energy savings calculator.
How long will it take to fit my new windows?
The length of time it takes to supply and fit your windows from when you place your order with us can vary. Factors that affect the lead time on windows include:
- The number of windows required.
- Any special designs such as curved or shaped windows.
- The colour of the product, especially with aluminium windows.
- The seasonal workload of both our company and our suppliers.
We will give you the best lead time we can when we discuss your requirements with you. There may also be other factors such as any planning constraints.
At Newlite we source our windows from some of the UK's best and longest established suppliers that strive to give us good service so we, in turn, can do the same. We aim to keep you updated at every stage of the process and communicate with you at all times.
Window installations all vary depending on the product and what is involved in taking out the existing windows. Once we survey your property we will be able to give you a good indication of how long it will take to fit them.
Why should I buy my new windows from Newlite?
When it comes to buying new windows and doors we know that you have a lot of choices. When you contact us you are dealing with a local company that has a local reputation to maintain. Newlite has been fitting windows and doors in the area for over two decades and we know our customers well.
Many of our original customers have come back to us for new bifolding or sliding doors or to do more work in their home.
The one advantage we have over the national companies is you are dealing with the senior people in the business and not a call centre. Another advantage we have is we are not tied to any particular product or system. So if you have seen a particular brand you like, quite likely we can source it.
We believe in building relationships with our local customers. You can find out more about Newlite and of course, talk to us if you have any questions about our company or our service.
Are aluminium windows less energy efficient than PVCu?
How energy efficient your new windows will depend on the product and the glass used. The energy efficiency of windows varies.
All our aluminium windows have thermally insulated frames with a polyamide thermal barrier. These insulated frames, as well as the glass we use, create a very energy efficient window. The glass we use is typically 24mm or 28mm units with a soft-coat low-emissivity coating, warm edge spacer bars and argon gas fill. This glass type will be toughened where regulations dictate and in accordance with good working practice.
What types of new windows do you offer?
Newlite has access to virtually every type and style of aluminium and PVCu window. The design of your window will vary from house to house, so it is easier to tell you about the windows we offer based on how they open. We offer:
- Casement Windows that open outwards.
- Tilt and turn windows.
- Sliding Windows
- Windows integrated into doors and screens.
- Windows for conservatories.
- Rooflight Windows.
- Coloured PVCu and aluminium windows.
These window types are all available with both our aluminium and PVCu window ranges.
Do your PVCu windows have steel or aluminium reinforcement?
PVCu window technology has changed significantly in recent years and today's modern PVCu windows are better, stronger, more secure and more energy efficient.
Whether a window has steel or aluminium reinforcement depends on the brand and the design. Our Liniar windows as an example do not use reinforcement, as they have advanced multi-chamber frames. These chambers create a very strong and energy efficient window without the need for steel or aluminium reinforcement.
What is the process in buying new windows?
Every company is different because of where they might source their windows from and other factors. As a general guide, this is the process from when you first make contact with Newlite.
- We will visit you to discuss your requirements, and take measurements. We are professional at all times in our dealings with you, with no high-pressure selling, too-good-to-be-true offers or any incentives to commit there and then.
- We will prepare a competitive and thorough quotation.
- Should you wish to place an order with our company we will prepare the contract paperwork and you will give us a deposit.
- We will arrange a survey of your existing windows so we can tie up everything relating to your order and take the sizes required for your windows to be manufactured.
- We will update you on the progress of your new windows.
- We will fit your windows and upon completion and payment issue you with your final paperwork.