new windows, what spec ?
- Thread starter kazzab
- Start date
Yes that's standard, get gas filled.
The specification of the glazed units is pretty much standard, more important is the quality of the profile, the hinges & locking mechanisms. The quality of name branded units is generally comparable so its installation quality that makes the difference. You won’t necessarily get a better product/installation from the large national companies but you will probably pay a lot more for the privilege. Get written quotes from at least 3 smaller, local companies & make sure they list exactly whet they are providing; Get several quotes & you need to see what your buying to ensure your comparing like with like. Look closely at the quality of the frame welding, fittings & locking mechanisms, ask to see a very recent & much older installation (18-24 months) & make sure you speak to the customer themselves for a reference. Make sure the company includes for any scaffolding needed for installation access - a popular ‘extra’ charge once you’ve committed! Get them to include fitting new, good quality internal cill boards (Pollyboard is good) & they at least include making good externally – internally as well if you want it but that will most likely be extra. Don’t pay more than 20% up front (10% if you can get away with it), don’t pay the balance until you’re entirely happy with the work & get an independent 10 year warranty if you can. Never, ever sign up for a ‘special deal’ on the day – they aren’t special & you’ll probably get ripped off. Get written quotes, ask questions & decide in your own time; if they try & pressure you, cross them off your list!
Replacement windows (except conservatories) must have low “e” glass to meet thermal requirements (e.g. Pilkington ‘K’), it’s not an option & shouldn’t be presented to you as a extra! Door glass and any adjacent window panels below 1500mm from finished floor level must have toughened glass, as must all windows with a cill height below 800mm. Regulations only require that replacement windows are no worse than the original installation with regard to escape & ventilation so you don’t have to fit trickle vents unless they were previously fitted & fire escape windows unless you want them (another popular extra!) but obviously these may be desirable in specific locations. The installer doesn’t have to be FENSA registered but it makes life easier & make sure you get the certificate. If non-registered (& there are some good ones), make sure they notify BC about the work, get it inspected & that BC give you a compliance certificate or you could have future problems when selling; make sure the installer pays for it!
Replacement windows (except conservatories) must have low “e” glass to meet thermal requirements (e.g. Pilkington ‘K’), it’s not an option & shouldn’t be presented to you as a extra! Door glass and any adjacent window panels below 1500mm from finished floor level must have toughened glass, as must all windows with a cill height below 800mm. Regulations only require that replacement windows are no worse than the original installation with regard to escape & ventilation so you don’t have to fit trickle vents unless they were previously fitted & fire escape windows unless you want them (another popular extra!) but obviously these may be desirable in specific locations. The installer doesn’t have to be FENSA registered but it makes life easier & make sure you get the certificate. If non-registered (& there are some good ones), make sure they notify BC about the work, get it inspected & that BC give you a compliance certificate or you could have future problems when selling; make sure the installer pays for it!
I think that is top advice from richard C.
I recently had some windows fitted - i had three local companies around and their prices were all with in £300. However, one company really really pushed their A rated windows which I couldn't see any benifit in - natually they were the most expensive.
We went the the cheapest quote in the end - turned out the company fitted A rated glass as standard and they used Duraflex frames. very happy with the quality.
Internal sill are very much a personal preference - I asked them not to fit any becuase I prefer wooden ones and added these later.
I recently had some windows fitted - i had three local companies around and their prices were all with in £300. However, one company really really pushed their A rated windows which I couldn't see any benifit in - natually they were the most expensive.
We went the the cheapest quote in the end - turned out the company fitted A rated glass as standard and they used Duraflex frames. very happy with the quality.
Internal sill are very much a personal preference - I asked them not to fit any becuase I prefer wooden ones and added these later.
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