Why look for an approved supplier when buying Double Glazing Replacement Windows in Lancashire?
Seemed like a reasonable question – so I guess the first thing is “what is an approved supplier of double glazing replacement windows” and follow it up with “where do I find an approved supplier.”
OK – so having asked around the bad news 1is that there is more than one definition of “supplier” but the good news is that the rules apply to all of them. So in my view there are up to three types of supplier – 1- the main manufacturer, 2 – where you buy them from and 3 – the installer if different from numbers 1 and 2.
So – back to the first question – what is an approved supplier?
If we are taking about the product itself then it must comply with the rules set by the British Fenestration Rating Council – this sets the energy rating – so be aware that the product MUST meet minimum levels – so look for this
The rest seems pretty simple – it mainly refers to membership of FENSA which is the Fenestration Self-Assessment scheme – this is government approved and is basically where the standards or benchmarks are set, and anyone who is anyone in this market place needs to be a member (and thus – approved) – If not members then tread with care especially with the next bit which until I did my research – I was blissfully unaware of:-
The installation of double glazing replacement windows is subject to the Building Regulations and the installation MUST comply. If the installer is not approved by FENSA then YOU (the house owner) are RESPONSIBLE for getting the local authority to inspect and approve the installation – imagine the repercussions if it does not comply
Last year alone 22,000 double glazing related cases were reported to the office of fair trading so take all the protection you can get and make sure you get an approved supplier.
Another body that is worth checking out is the Glass and Glazing Federation who, as I understand it, own FENSA - they also do a lot of checking up on installers and suppliers and they also offer additional protection with things like deposit protection indemnity insurance etc
In both cases they don’t just look at the capability of the installer at the time of assessment they will look at the history of the company, previous complaints, financial stability, number of owners etc
There are considerable benefits to be obtained by using an approved supplier in Lancashire
So how come lots of people (possibly up to 22,000 last year) don’t get an approved supplier
Firstly, it could be like me – I didn’t know they existed or what FENSA did.
I could come out with all kinds of reasons why many of us don’t get approved suppliers but the main reason is that many of us are just too nervous to ask them searching questions or demand proof of the reply. Even if we get an answer how would you know if it was true – we have very little opportunity to verify the facts
ALMOST All OF US WOULD PREFER SOMEONE TO DO ALL THIS FOR US.
So simply search and you will find organisations which are pleased to help and point you towards approved suppliers
Having gone through this lot and sitting comfortably with my new “approved supplier” on board do I know what I want and why I want it?
Advantages of Double Glazing and the benefits of replacing the windows
- Reduced energy bills.
- Lower carbon footprint.
- More comfortable home.
- Peace and quite.
- Low maintenance no need to constantly re-paint.
- Reduced condensation.
- Easier to sell the home.
I think it is probably a bit pointless looking at the differences in glass – this is going to depend upon the energy saving rating you select and almost all of the glass types will fit the various frame types which is where you will find are the main differences.
So let’s start by checking out the three main window types
Sash windows
Sash windows or sliding sash windows are old friends having been around for centuries and are mostly seen in period homes, such as Victorian or Georgian style houses.
The modern double glazed sash windows will tend to avoid the traditional pitfalls which were centred on sticking and rattling plus the traditional requirements of weights and cords have gone.
Tilt and turn windows
These are a fairly modern invention, are very popular in double glazing replacement window installations. They are a great benefit where it is not safe to open the windows outwardly such as perhaps a ground floor opening onto a pavement.
They often have a dual function handle which allows the “tilt” for secure ventilation, the “turn” for cleaning, and excellent safety features especially for fire egress.
Casement windows
Most of us have lived at some time in houses with casement windows - these open away from the property and can be either left or right-hand opening. They are an open design letting in lots of light and in areas where there will be lots of glass are designed to take coloured or leaded top lights in order to add design interest, if required.
Aluminium window frames
Aluminium window frames are fairly hard to find now for the domestic home and often difficult to source unless you are looking for the commercial versions. They are quite expensive, have a tendency to suffer from condensation more easily than other types. They may be declined in conservation areas. To be fair they were immensely popular when double glazing was first seen but have been somewhat overtaken by their more junior successors.
Wooden window frames
Probably the choice of the traditionalist and certainly was until recently, the natural choice for period style properties. Since the UPVC styles also offer quality Woodgrain finishes it is not the automatic choice any longer. Wooden frames can look very impressive but they do err toward expensive and will require maintenance and will be prone to adverse weather conditions such as prolong sun. Check on the types of joints used and the age and quality of the timbers used – cheaper materials may be prone to warp or split
uPVC / PVCu / UPVC window frames
These are very popular and now and usually are the least expensive option. The plastics are one of the best insulates making them ideal for the purpose. They are very durable which, during its lengthy lifetime will require little or no maintenance. UPVC never rots, flakes, rusts or fades.
Most commonly seen in white, the technology has increased the range so that it can also now be acquired in Woodgrain finishes such as Mahogany and Oak.
uPVC frames, PVCu frames or UPVC frames are very secure as they are difficult to break or damage
Can I get Energy savings from double glazing?
“Just how much will I save on energy costs?”
The question, without a detailed examination and assessment every home is difficult to answer.
All properties lose some heat through the windows doors, the roof the walls, up chimneys etc. Double glazing is an effective way of helping to reduce energy loss (and also reducing heating bills) but it should always be done in conjunction with other sensible energy saving methods.
The windows and doors will save more or less energy dependant upon the level of energy saving glass you opted for. Rather like the rating we now get on fridges etc approved suppliers will often offer energy rated windows with an A-rated window being the most efficient.
It is almost impossible to estimated what you will save on your energy bills as it will vary from house to house dependent upon – the number of windows, the age of the property, the condition of the roof, if the doors are double glazed, does it have cavity wall insulation, sufficient loft insulation, and draft-proofing etc?
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