5 Things To Check When Buying uPVC Windows

Most home owners are aware that installing double glazing should be an excellent long-term investment. But make sure that you don’t fall into any of the common traps because all double glazed windows are not the same.

Double glazing has many hidden aspects, which make it quite a large and complicated subject. Whatever you do, do not make important decisions about your uPVC double glazed windows until you have ensured that the following criteria are adequately met.

1. High quality uPVC profile

Never underestimate the huge difference that exists between different types of uPVC profile. The profile is the (normally white) plastic frame from which your upvc double glazed windows are constructed. It is widely held that Germany manufactures the most advanced profile including companies such as the market leading and unrivalled Kommerling.which leads the market for technical excellence, versatility and aesthetic beauty. Kommerling tends to be used by high quality manufacturers of upvc double glazed windows such as Alexander Windows of Stockport.

In an ideal world the profile would have been tested to suit every environment and for installations from a small private house to some of the biggest and most prestigious developments around the world. But of course certain profiles suit moderate climate conditions. You can guess what can happen in extremes of temperatures. Don’t cut corners on the uPVC profile and insist on a high quality German profile such as Kommerling which will also additionally offer high impact resistance and resistance to chemical corrosion.

It is also important to ensure that the profile is reinforced with steel or aluminium depending on performance requirements. Steel is better and poor or no reinforcement is another way in which the profile that you purchase can appear to be a “good deal”, when actually you are being sold an inferior product.

Multi-chambered construction of the profile with internal webs for additional stability, enables drainage takes place whilst still maintaining an insulated reinforcement chamber. Other benefits include excellent insulation against heat loss and noise.

2. Energy efficient glass

If you are wondering how one window can save more energy than the next and what makes a window energy efficient, you will be surprised to learn that glass is one of the most vital components.

Low E (short for emissivity) glass contains an invisible metal coating that sits between the layers of glazing and causes the glass to be reflective. This has the effect of keeping a house warmer in winter and cooler in the summer. Insist on checking the energy efficiency rating of the glass in your upvc double glazed frames and compare with other companies. Glass is an expensive commodity and is a way in which unscrupulous companies can offer lower prices forr an apparently similar product. But you will lose money in the long term as you heating will have more cool air to heat and that means larger heating bills.

3. Good quality handles, locks and hinges

Now here’s one that trips up a lot of people. You go through the whole process of buying your windows. They’re measured, ordered, manufactured, delivered and finally fitted. Then you take one look at them and see the cheapest of flimsy handles. And that’s just the handles. Think about the corresponding poor quality hinges and locks that may be invisible but are no less important in terms of security and also to ensure longevity of usage.

Before you sign on the dotted line, always discuss the door furniture and choose high quality products and handles to match your taste and interior design.

4. Internally glazed frames

Internal glazing is a vitally important security issue. If the glass is glazed into the window frame from the external perspective, then it is far easier to gain access to the property by removing the glazed unit from the frame. Always ask your supplier if they offer an internally glazed uPVC frame.

5. Supplied Direct By A Reputable and Established Company

You’ve heard the old adage about double glazing salesmen. I’ll say no more. Choose a company that has been around for many years (there’s reasons for that) and do make some checks. Unscrupulous operators can disappear and reappear with a different company name in quick succession. And some companies that have been around for a while are serving a particular sector of the market – in some case the lower end of the market. This aspect often comes down to judgment and is often conveyed through the strength of a brand. Think about the companies that you have heard of and also that you have a good feeling about. Then check, ask others and research online and remember to ask about the after sales service.

It is also a good idea to ensure that the fitters that will come to your home to fit the new uPVC windows are salaried by the company from whom you purchase. Often the company you buy from is simply a middle-man who has few overheads and purchases the frames from a dubious manufacturer and sub-contracts local tradesmen to fit the windows who are inexperienced and who’s goal is to do the work in the minimum time and with minimum additional expense. Many of these companies tend to close down and re-open at regular intervals and cannot be relied upon if and when things go wrong.

If you are thinking of adding uPVC double glazed windows to your home, consider carefully the above five items and if necessary call us at Alexander Windows and we can advise further.