Who knew choosing windows was such a difficult task?
Until you start weighing up your options, you don’t realize just about many styles and materials are available.
So, whether you’re looking to spruce up your current property or are planning to get a good dose of natural light into your new extension, this buying guide should help you choose the right windows for your home.
Basics to help with your decision
When it comes to window styles, a lot of people go with the option that is the cheapest at the time. However, it is much better to take a look at the history of your property and match it.
Rural cottages, for example, typically have much smaller windows than what is usually seen in modern homes, and Sash windows often look more suited to period properties rather than standard casement options.
When renovating, you might want to replace the windows like for like. Similarly, in an extension, it would cost much less to install the same windows as everywhere else in the house, rather than replacing the full set.
You also need to consider energy efficiency standards. Your windows will need to be fully compliant, meaning some styles and materials may not be suitable for your current setup.
Finally, materials will significantly impact the price of your windows. While plastic framework will likely be the cheapest, it may not look quite right with your Victorian-era home, for example.
Replicating old styles
When scouting out windows West Midlands, there are plenty of companies that can replicate old styles with new materials.
Double glazing and plastic framework have become cheaper over the years, meaning it’s almost always the first choice. However, that doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to styles based on the materials used.
If you’re looking to replace the original windows of an old property, it might be better to find a company to replicate the old style with new materials and glazing that’s compliant with today’s standards. That way, very little about the aesthetic of the house will change.
Factoring in the cost of material…
If you need to stick to a tight budget, it’s worth ringing around local window companies for specific quotes to ensure you’ve got a full picture of your options. Installation costs can massively differ depending on the number of windows, materials, and size.
PVCu is, of course, the cheapest. However, softwood windows – which you may not have heard of – can be just as affordable with a more natural effect for both modern and traditional homes.
Other types of windows – such as hardwood, composite, and aluminum are often much more expensive.
…and style
Of course, just like materials, window style does change the cost. Casement windows are typically the most affordable and are great for providing ventilation to the house. Meanwhile, tilt and turn windows are better for those needing to save space as these tilt downwards rather than opening out into the room.
Suppose you don’t need the windows to open, and they’re merely there to let in natural light. In that case, fixed windows automatically become the cheapest option as there are no mechanisms to incorporate.
There is a lot to think about, and any decision you make shouldn’t be taken lightly. Sit down and think about what you want in your windows, and what’s most important: Cost, style, or material?
