Windows & Double Glazing | 5 Essential Things You Should Know BEFORE You Go Window Shopping!

Windows

It’s often easy to overlook components of a new room when you are designing an extension or remodeling your house: but each aspect should be thought of carefully so that you get the most out of your new space and meet government safety regulations.

What different types of windows are there?

Windows vary in the way that they open, for example a fixed window does not open at all, while a hinged window opens outwards, a sash window slides across and a vertical sliding, or boxsash window, slides vertically. Hinged windows can be hinged at the top, side or bottom of the frame: you need to consider how you would like the window to open. Tilt and turn windows offer flexibility as they can be tilted to let in a little air or swung completely open. Skylights are a popular option for loft-conversions but they need to be fitted with flashings to make sure that they remain water-tight.

What are the benefits of choosing a hinged window over a slide window?

Personal preference and window-space available is the most important aspect when choosing the type of window you wish to install but you should also consider that hinged windows are usually more airtight than sliding windows and can be opened the whole way (whereas a sliding window can only be opened half way).

Should I invest in double-glazed windows?

Double glazing is a good home improvement and one that will reduce your heating bills and increase the value of your home. Per square metre more heat is lost through windows than any other area of the house, so it is a crucial component of your energy consumption. If you invest in double glazing you will benefit from better security, ventilation and fire safety. The air gap between the two panes also reduces the impact of outside noise. If you do decide to invest in double-glazing, make sure you work with a reputable company and ask to see some of their previous work, compare several quotes and don’t feel pressured to agree before you are sure you a working with the right double glazing fitter.

Are there different types of glass to choose from?

You may think that the only decision to make is single or double glazed – but in fact there are also different types of glass to choose from which may be more appropriate depending on the position and purpose of your window. ‘Float’ glass is the term given to normal glass. If you want a stronger glass you may consider one of the ‘safety glasses’ on the market. These include toughened glass that has been baked longer to make it five times stronger than normal glass, laminated glass that improves the safety of your home by including a thin plastic film that stops it from collapsing if broken and fire resistant glass that has a thin wire mesh in-built that also stops it collapsing.

Low-e glass allows heat to enter but not escape, although more expensive you can imagine the benefits to your heating bills with this energy-smart treated glass. On the other hand, in a particularly sunny spot you may consider solar-control glass that controls the amount of solar heat let in and reduces glare.

There are also aesthetics to consider. Self-cleaning glass contains a thin layer of titanium dioxide that helps repel dirt and attract water, spreading moisture evenly over the surface so that droplets don’t form. For a bathroom obscured glass is an option that lets light in but keeps your modesty in tact.

Are there any building regulations to consider when choosing windows?

Building regulations dictate all aspects of the health and safety standards that new buildings need to meet – and windows are no exception. When buying new windows you should bear in mind that all windows need to energy efficient – by law this means if a whole window (including the frame) is being added or replaced it needs to be an argon-filled double glazed window. According to building regulations windows must also have adequate ventilation via a draught-excluding strip and ‘trickle vents’. Building regulations state that safety glass needs to be fitted to any window less than 80cm above the floor level or 30cm from a door. Windows are also important as a fire exit when building a basement conversion: as a fire escape they need to be fitted with safety glass and open at least 45cm in width and height.