Timber windows - what to spec and pay?

[edb49]

I'm intending to replace 7 windows this year, they're all on the first floor and absolutely ancient. Some have been intentionally sealed shut because they are so fragile, I've been told they're about 100 years old.

So I want to get replacement windows. Approx window sizes are 1.5m x 1m (3 of) 1.2m x 1m (3 of) and 1m x 1m (1 of). So in total about 9.1sqm. They are all flush casement windows with bars.

I've had a few quotations in so far, they seem to vary massively in range. E.G. One for supply and fitting is £13k+VAT, I can't help thinking this is rip-off Britain. Another quote is less than half this, but then you start thinking about whether quality is comparable, etc?

What should I spec for windows? The options seem to be:
- Softwood, hardwood, engineered softwood
- Aluminium cladding
- Triple glazing
- Heat reflective coatings
- Inert gas filling

Also I've seen quite a bit of talk saying it can make sense ordering windows from abroad and getting a decent local tradesman to fit them.

Any words of wisdom and advice, or recommended companies?

 

[chippie244]

It's not that hard to fit casement windows but you will have to pay your local council a fee to inspect afterwards.
The spec is up to you but it will have to meet current building regs, ask the suppliers for a U value as that will give you a comparison.
I would go for engineered softwood then painted with Dulux Weathershield.