Are Replacement Windows A Good Investment In 2019

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Are Replacement Windows A Good Investment In 2019

June 22, 2022
Have you been considering a few home-based alterations during the coming year? If so, are replacement windows a good investment? While these accessories may initially appear to be quite minor when compared to a kitchen upgrade or a garage renovation, the truth of the matter is that they are associated with amazing benefits. Let’s first look at some of the key advantages that you can expect to enjoy before examining some important variables to address during the decision-making process.

The Undeniable Benefits of Replacing Your Windows and Doors

Thermal Insulation

Modern windows and doors have been manufactured in such a way as to help reduce heating and cooling costs over time. Thanks to the presence of cutting-edge materials and configurations such as double glazing, your energy bills will be dramatically reduced.

Aesthetic Beauty

New windows and doors will provide your property with an entirely new personality. You can choose from a kaleidoscope of styles and designs, so even the most demanding of requirements will be satisfied. Let’s also not forget to mention that this sense of aesthetic beauty is enhanced due to their superior levels of functionality.
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The Use of Modern Materials

Our windows and doors can be chosen based upon the material used within their construction. Some examples include:
  • Aluminum
  • Traditional timber
  • UPVC
  • Composite materials
Of course, the inherent material will depend upon your discrete needs as well as your budget. The main takeaway point is that there is certainly a configuration which will address modern requirements.
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A Fresh Start for 2019: What to Take Into Account

Colour and Style

Try to select windows and doors that will complement the existing decor of your home. It is best to employ designs which will not appear out of place, as this will detract from their overall appeal. The good news is that Generation Windows provides you with numerous varieties to select.

The Added Value to Your Property

One of the most impressive aspects of replacing your existing windows and doors is that new units will increase the value of your property. In fact, these additions are some of the first variables that potential buyers look for when evaluating a home. Even if you are not planning to sell your property in the near future, always keep in mind that replacements can come in handy down the road.

Efficient, Attractive and Versatile

So, are replacement windows a good investment? The simple answer is a resounding “yes”. This is actually one of the most cost-effective ways to transform the entire look and feel of your home. There is also a great deal of flexibility in such a project, as numerous price ranges can be addressed. You will therefore not have to worry about exceeding a limited budget.
It should still be mentioned that there can be other variables to consider before committing to a specific style, material or configuration. This is why it is prudent to obtain advice from industry experts. Generation Windows provides a personalised sense of attention, so you will always be in good hands when working with our team.

Give us a call today to find out more on 0208 644 3535!

Replacing Windows For Thermal Efficiency

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Replacing Windows For Thermal Efficiency

June 22, 2022

Choose the Best Replacement Windows to Improve Your Home's Thermal Efficiency

If you are of a certain age, you will remember winter in previous decades, waking up to find frost patterned on your windows, shivering your way out of bed and into your slippers and dressing gown, putting your school uniform on the radiator to warm up before slipping into it. Children these days, tend to think of these sorts of stories as something rather exotic and unreal, accustomed as they are to central heating, wall-to-wall carpeting and windows that are designed to resist frosty build-up and that are double glazed for extra insulation. The best energy efficient windows are indeed double or even triple-glazed, providing literal layers of both glass and air between the outside world and the interior of the room.
If you have a broken window or if you want to renovate or improve your home, it could be worth your while to look at all the options available as far as energy efficient replacement windows go. Improvements on the efficiency of energy saving windows have continued year on year, and you might be surprised at the options available to you. There are a number of ways to make your home both warmer and more secure.
Double and triple glazing, as mentioned above, keep a home warm and dry. The premise is simple: sandwiching two or three panes of glass together, with small spaces in between them, can dramatically improve the performance of said windows. This is because any draughts or rainwater do not have to penetrate just one seal, be it putty, silicon caulking, or a foam product, they have to get through two or three layers of sealant. The air spaces between the glass panels are important too, as they act as an insulating layer, retaining any cold that does make it through the first pane of glass.
Door seals too can be an issue, with icy draughts making their way through uneven or broken seals, and even letter-boxes can push the cost of heating your home up by letting in damp and cold winter air. If your doors are old, or damaged, or simply do not fit the door space correctly, think about investing in a replacement – like the best energy efficient windows, energy efficient doors can make a real difference to your home. Not to mention that modern locks tend to be more secure than older door locks, which were designed in less suspicious times, as mild deterrents rather than to keep out serious criminals.
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You may think that you cannot afford to invest in energy efficient replacement windows and doors, but perhaps you should change that thinking: with the saving to be had in heating and insurance costs, not to mention the added peace of mind from keeping your home secure, can you afford not to make that investment?
Eighteen percent of all heat loss in the average home occurs through the windows. Replacing windows with more energy efficient products can save money on a heating bill from the moment they are installed. The average home will see a saving on their heating bill of about £130 per year, with the best savings being seen on those who opt for A-rated windows, which are the most energy efficient products on the market.
If you want to make savings and keep your home both more secure and cosier, give us a call with any questions today on 0208 644 3535! A warmer cheaper home could be just a query away!

Replacing Your Old Windows

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Replacing Your Old Windows

June 22, 2022
Would you like to change the aesthetic appearance of your home? Perhaps you are looking for ways to save on mounting energy bills. These are two of the most common reasons why property owners will buy replacement windows. However, there are other bespoke advantages associated with modern windows that you might not have been aware of. Let us take a look at why double-glazed windows can represent ideal choices as well as the additional advantages that the best home replacement windows in the industry will offer.

Why Choose Double Glazing?

Double-glazed windows consist of a thin portion of air sandwiched between two panes of glass. These are in direct contrast to traditional models that only contained a single layer. The main intention behind double glazing is to provide you with an additional means of thermal insulation (air is a poor conductor of heat). Therefore, such windows will keep your home warmer in the winter and refreshingly cool in the summer. However, this not the only reason to consider upgrading your current windows.

Acoustic Benefits

Were you aware that new window designs can cut down on noise pollution originating from the outside environment? Not only is this a direct result of the double glazing method mentioned previously, but it also stems from the use of cutting-edge materials such as composites and uPVC (a type of plastic). This is important if you happen to live within an urban environment or close to a busy intersection.
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Protection Against the Ultraviolet Rays of the Sun

This is one of the lesser-known advantages and yet, it cannot be overstated. Windows that are constantly exposed to a significant amount of sunlight will naturally be subject to ultraviolet rays. These rays can cause certain interior objects such as carpets and upholstery to fade over time. Double-glazed variants will help to protect against such debilitating situations; avoiding the need to purchase replacement items.

Common Wear and Tear

There is no doubt that windows are meant to stand up to harsh exterior elements such as rain, wind, ice, and excessive heat. Unfortunately, older models tend to break down over time. This can lead to issues such as leaks, dampness within the home, rot, and mould. Let’s also mention once again that damaged windows are less likely to offer ample amounts of insulation during the colder months of the year. Cutting-edge solutions are built to last and if cared for properly, their functionality can be retained for decades at a time.
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Changing the Visual Appearance (and Value) of Your Property

You might simply wish to enhance the look and appeal of your home with the help of the best home replacement windows. Not only can you select from double- and even triple-glazed models, but the materials will also vary. Aluminium, uPVC and timber are some of the most common options. These are available in a wide array of styles and configurations; enabling you to match the existing decor of your property. Many units are likewise able to be stained and painted although materials such as aluminium and uPVC do not necessarily require any special protective coating. It is also worth mentioning that new windows can add as much as ten per cent to the value of your home; a massive windfall if you plan on placing it on the market in the future.

Choosing the Right Firm

Quality begins and ends with the supplier. Those who are looking to buy replacement windows should therefore work with a trustworthy firm that boasts a substantial amount of experience in the industry. A handful of benefits which you can leverage include:
  • Choosing from a massive inventory.
  • Receiving expert and objective advice.
  • Accurate no-obligation quotations.
  • Real-time customer support in the event of a question.
  • Solid and transparent warranties.

Would you like to learn more about how modern replacement windows can transform your entire home? If so, please give us a call on 020 3871 7989, a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

The Benefits Of Installing Bifold Doors

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The Benefits Of Installing Bifold Doors

June 22, 2022

What are the Advantages of Bi-Fold Doors Within Your Home?

Have you been looking for a door that exhibits a balance between aesthetic appeal and sheep functionality? Do you require a design that offers a modern and streamlined appearance? If so, the selection of good quality bifold doors offered by Generation Windows aims to please. Let us take a look at some of the surprising advantages associated with these models as well as a handful of reasons why they could represent the perfect addition to your property.

Are Bifold Doors a Good Idea? A Look at the Practical Basics

The main principle behind a bi-folding door is that it offers the ability to fold itself back while simultaneously sliding upon a built-in track. To put this another way, they can be viewed as somewhat of a hybrid between traditional French doors and sliding doors (such as those which are often used to access a back garden or deck). However, the main difference is that these units are extremely flexible in terms of their design. You can obtain bifold doors for small openings as well as variants intended to address a spacious partition between two different rooms. Now that we have a basic understanding of the mechanics behind bi-fold doors, let’s examine some of the qualities which have allowed them to offer such innovative solutions.
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Let There be Light

One of the drawbacks often associated with traditional doors is that they only allow a limited amount of light to enter into the home. This can be problematic if you have been hoping to enjoy an unfettered view of your back garden or you wish to provide the illusion of more space within your home. Bi-fold doors will maximise the impact of solar rays; ideal during the colder months of the year as well as any time when you want to appreciate the outdoor environment.

A Bespoke Sense of Flexibility

Most traditional doors have two main statuses: open and shut. Bi-fold doors are much different due to the fact that they can be partially opened or closed as might be needed throughout the day. For instance, you might want to fold them completely back during a house party while they can just as easily be closed in the event that pets might otherwise leave the house. This sense of agility is quite unique to bi-fold doors and it is also the reason why they are suited for those who desire a maximum amount of configuration options.

Safety First

Security is an important issue within any home. Good quality bifold doors are equipped with all of the latest technological innovations in order to ensure the security of you and your family. Strong and durable materials, robust locking mechanisms and tempered glass are a handful of characteristics which the units supplied by Generation Windows have to offer.

An Excellent Return on Investment: The Reliable Edge

Modern bi-fold doors can last for decades at a time if they are properly maintained. Thanks to the use of robust materials alongside cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, you can rest assured that durability is not an issue. This also translates to their overall return on investment. Bi-fold doors boast a number of thermal benefits; allowing you to reduce your energy bills over time. Not only does this signify that they will eventually pay for themselves, but they will also contribute to the value of your property (always a concern if you plan to place it on the real estate market in the future).

All About Versatility

The design and style of doors can sometimes make or break the appearance of a home. This is why bi-fold doors are available in a wide array of sizes, materials, colours, and design options. Not only will they be able to match existing elements such as furniture and outdoor siding, but they can help to accentuate the environment itself thanks to their streamlined appearance.

Space-Saving Options

The accordion-like mechanics associated with bi-fold doors is also an excellent attribute if you desire a configuration that is able to save a significant amount of space without compromising convenience. When completely opened, the individual panels will neatly tuck themselves into place; becoming virtually invisible to the naked eye. Still, they can be easily retracted when the door needs to be partially or fully closed. The same certainly cannot be said about traditional models.
Are bifold doors a good idea? The answer to this question is a resounding “yes”. Boasting versatility, a massive array of design options, enhanced security features, and an impressive return on investment, there is no doubt that these units will provide turnkey solutions within your home. Would you like to learn more about the selection of bi-fold doors offered by Generation Windows? Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.

Windows In Period Properties

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Windows In Period Properties

June 22, 2022

Period properties are often appealing widely for their ‘personality’. Whereas modern houses are often build to appear in a similar fashion, older properties often possess far more ‘kwerks’. Unfortunately, each aspect of the home will not last forever and they will need to be updated over time. One common example is the windows within them. They withstand heavy usage and it only makes sense that they might break down over time.

Modern windows are very different to those crafted many years ago and newer solutions will likely provide many benefits which you will be thankful for, as they will better suit a contemporary lifestyle.

Problems Found With Single Glazed Windows

Traditional windows in period homes are likely crafted from simple single glazing. In our modern era, however, we have discovered the likes of not only double-glazing and also triple-glazing. Once considered to be an expensive extra, they are now commonplace in our homes.

Single glazing comes with many difficulties. Not only does it provide homes with poor thermal efficiency, but will also increase your energy costs as a result. By letting your heating out, you will be living in a colder home which is much more difficult to keep warm and will find you need to use the heating much more to compensate for this.

Newer windows offering double-glazing as a minimum will help to provide an effective barrier of insulation to the cold outdoors. As a result, you will find that your home is now not only much cosier, but also much cheaper to keep that way.

Caring For The Environment

Old windows are not only costing you more, but are also not at all environmentally friendly. We should all be doing our best to ensure we care for the world around us. Keeping your single glazed windows will dramatically increase the carbon footprint of your home, as you will keep your heating on for much longer – increasing your consumption of fossil fuels. The energy saving benefits of modern double or triple glazed windows is certainly worth considering.

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Keep The Classic Aesthetics

One of the major concerns that period property owners have is whether their newer modern windows will be able to match the style and character of the home. This is certainly possible.
Replicating styles from a specific period is absolutely possible, meaning you can keep the aesthetic appeal of your property whilst benefiting from modern solutions.

Maintain Higher Levels Of Security

New windows offer a much higher level of security. Not only are they crafted from more durable materials, but also benefit from modern, secure locking systems which meet all of the latest standards and regulations. This will help to ensure your home remains much more secure, so you can rest at ease.

How Can Generation Windows Help?

If you have a period property and are considering having your windows or doors replaced, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss your needs.
Give us a call today on 020 3962 0211 !

Brighten Up Your Home With Bifold Doors

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Brighten Up Your Home With Bifold Doors

June 22, 2022
Have you been looking for a door that exhibits a balance between aesthetic appeal and sheep functionality? Do you require a design that offers a modern and streamlined appearance? If so, the selection of good quality bifold doors offered by Generation Windows aims to please. Let us take a look at some of the surprising advantages associated with these models as well as a handful of reasons why they could represent the perfect addition to your property.

Are Bifold Doors a Good Idea? A Look at the Practical Basics

The main principle behind a bi-folding door is that it offers the ability to fold itself back while simultaneously sliding upon a built-in track. To put this another way, they can be viewed as somewhat of a hybrid between traditional French doors and sliding doors (such as those which are often used to access a back garden or deck). However, the main difference is that these units are extremely flexible in terms of their design. You can obtain bifold doors for small openings as well as variants intended to address a spacious partition between two different rooms. Now that we have a basic understanding of the mechanics behind bi-fold doors, let’s examine some of the qualities which have allowed them to offer such innovative solutions.

Let There be Light

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One of the drawbacks often associated with traditional doors is that they only allow a limited amount of light to enter into the home. This can be problematic if you have been hoping to enjoy an unfettered view of your back garden or you wish to provide the illusion of more space within your home. Bi-fold doors will maximise the impact of solar rays; ideal during the colder months of the year as well as any time when you want to appreciate the outdoor environment.

A Bespoke Sense of Flexibility

Most traditional doors have two main statuses: open and shut. Bi-fold doors are much different due to the fact that they can be partially opened or closed as might be needed throughout the day. For instance, you might want to fold them completely back during a house party while they can just as easily be closed in the event that pets might otherwise leave the house. This sense of agility is quite unique to bi-fold doors and it is also the reason why they are suited for those who desire a maximum amount of configuration options.

Safety First

Security is an important issue within any home. Good quality bifold doors are equipped with all of the latest technological innovations in order to ensure the security of you and your family. Strong and durable materials, robust locking mechanisms and tempered glass are a handful of characteristics which the units supplied by Generation Windows have to offer.

An Excellent Return on Investment: The Reliable Edge

Modern bi-fold doors can last for decades at a time if they are properly maintained. Thanks to the use of robust materials alongside cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, you can rest assured that durability is not an issue. This also translates to their overall return on investment. Bi-fold doors boast a number of thermal benefits; allowing you to reduce your energy bills over time. Not only does this signify that they will eventually pay for themselves, but they will also contribute to the value of your property (always a concern if you plan to place it on the real estate market in the future).

All About Versatility

The design and style of doors can sometimes make or break the appearance of a home. This is why bi-fold doors are available in a wide array of sizes, materials, colours, and design options. Not only will they be able to match existing elements such as furniture and outdoor siding, but they can help to accentuate the environment itself thanks to their streamlined appearance.

Space-Saving Options

The accordion-like mechanics associated with bi-fold doors is also an excellent attribute if you desire a configuration that is able to save a significant amount of space without compromising convenience. When completely opened, the individual panels will neatly tuck themselves into place; becoming virtually invisible to the naked eye. Still, they can be easily retracted when the door needs to be partially or fully closed. The same certainly cannot be said about traditional models.
Are bifold doors a good idea? The answer to this question is a resounding “yes”. Boasting versatility, a massive array of design options, enhanced security features, and an impressive return on investment, there is no doubt that these units will provide turnkey solutions within your home. Would you like to learn more about the selection of bi-fold doors offered by Generation Windows? Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.

The Right Window And Door Colour Combinations

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The Right Window And Door Colour Combinations

June 22, 2022

Choose The Right Window And Door Colour Combinations For Your Home

You have decided to install new windows and doors into your home, but with so much choice on offer, you just don’t know which ones to choose. Doors and windows will be in place for decades, so it’s an important decision to make, but it can be daunting with such a broad range of colours and styles available. Here are our suggestions for selecting the best window and door colour combinations for your property.

Look At The Existing Architecture

Go outside and have a good look at what your home is made of and the colours that already exist. The shade of the bricks, timber, rendering and roof tiles will have an impact on the way window frames and front doors look. A yellow brick with cream coloured UPVC windows might look a bit insipid for example. If the architecture has quite a lot of colour in it, it might be wise to go for a more classic tone like white or grey to keep things muted. Selecting windows and doors of the same hue avoids adding extra shades to an already colourful façade.

Look At Your Neighbours

Walk around the nearby streets and take a look at other properties of a similar age and build to your place. Take note of how the different door and window combinations affect the overall look of the outside. Analyse what gives a home the best kerb appeal. While you are looking, also remember what clearly does not work so you can avoid making similar mistakes.
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Dark coloured UPVC doors and windows can have a dramatic effect on a property. It could be just the style you are looking for. These shades can also look quite flat so take time to consider this option. Light colours highlight an area and make it stand out, which is not good for camouflaging an ugly part of your home. For window and door combinations, you could choose a contrast and mix light and dark hues for a great affect. Use a colour wheel to help and go for either colours that are next to each other for a complementary combination, or on complete opposite sides of the wheel for a bold contrast. Another option would be to use the same colour, but in different tones. This works nicely with greys – a dark grey door and light grey windows creates a smart, elegant look.

Matt Or Gloss Finish

A matt finish often looks lighter than the colour actually is and this finish will create a subtly different look on a door to a gloss finish. Gloss intensifies a colour choice making it stronger and more prominent. Doors and windows look better if they are all in the same finish, so if you go for matt, everything should match unless you have a particularly good eye for this kind of detail.

Interior Of The Frames

Consider what things will look like inside your home. You are more like to change the interior décor before you change the windows and doors, so pick something that will look great with future alterations. Dark shades around a window inside will steal light from a room, whereas a white or cream window frame will add some light. This is the same for the front door, so think about the hallway and how the colour used will affect the light in this area. If your door is going to have glass panels within it or around it, this is not such an issue.

Our Top Tips

  • Trends come and go, but windows and doors remain in place for many years. If you pick something that is very current and on trend now, it will become dated in the future and make your place look old fashioned. Try to choose something that will stand the test of time and stay looking good for a long period of years.
  • Make sure your home isn’t in a conservation area where you can only select certain colours and styles for replacement windows and doors. If you have something fitted that doesn’t comply with the rules, you will be asked to remove them at your expense.
  • If you don’t want to stand out from the neighbours, choose colour combinations that blend in well with the rest of the street. You should also think about how your choice affects the resale of your property. You might not want to move just yet, but have a part of your mind on the future too.
  • To add just a pop of colour without being too bold, choose brightly coloured UPVC doors, but opt for white for your windows. It’s a combination that is classical, and it gives you the splash of colour you are after.
Now you have more of a clear idea in mind, why not take a look at our door designer to bring your visions to life? Alternatively, give us a call with any questions you have today on 020 3962 0380.

The Benefits Of Choosing Residence Windows For Your Home

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The Benefits Of Choosing Residence Windows For Your Home

June 22, 2022
There are many elements within a home that serve to define its personality. However, a handful also reflect a functional edge that could be difficult to achieve with generic options. Windows certainly fall into this category and homeowners need to appreciate the fact that countless options are available. Some styles and manufacturers naturally rise above their counterparts and the Residence window collection is a perfect example of what customers can expect when nothing but the best will suffice. Why choose Residence windows? What bespoke options can you select and what are some of the benefits attributed to each category? What additional advantages can you expect upon their installation? Whether you are about to perform a small renovation or you are instead looking to transform the entire exterior of your home, all of these questions are perfectly relevant.

The Benefits of Residence Windows: Two Variants to Select

The Residence window collection is available in two different categories:
  • Residence 7 windows
  • Residence 9 windows
While the Residence 7 line is generally suited for more modern properties, the Residence 9 variants can represent excellent replacements if you have been looking to mirror the appeal of an older structure. However, it is critical to point out that both are manufactured from a highly durable plastic-like material known as uPVC. Not only is this a cost-effective solution, but uPVC can withstand the elements for decades at a time with only a minimal amount of timely maintenance.
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Why Choose Residence Windows? A Look at Functionality

Functionality was briefly mentioned in the previous paragraph and it should be highlighted here in greater detail. Both the Residence 7 and Residence 9 collections are flush casement windows, so they will allow an ample amount of light to enter. Their uPVC finishes will not fade as a result of exposure to the sun and installation is quite straightforward thanks to their lightweight nature. Furthermore, it is possible to choose from a variety of bespoke hardware such as handles and hinges. These will often be employed to achieve a specific ambience without sacrificing the durability of the windows themselves.

A Flexible Sense of Aesthetic Beauty

Variety is the spice of life and this observation certainly holds true when referring to modern windows that exhibit a traditional appeal. Customers can select from an incredibly wide range of colours and finishes; easily accommodating the exterior design needs of a home. It should also be mentioned that the Residence 9 line provides users with the ability to select two-tone colour schemes; one for the inside and one for the outside. Of course, it is still possible to opt for more traditional hues such as standard white. The appearance of simulated timber grains likewise adds a sense of realism to their overall design and it can actually be rather difficult to spot the differences between these modern uPVC windows and their age-old counterparts.

Saving Money Over Time

There are also several hidden benefits which should not be overlooked when discussing Residence windows. These units can accommodate double and triple glazing, so owners can leverage a superior level of thermal efficiency. The house will remain cool in the summer and much warmer in the winter; cutting down on energy bills over time. Soundproofing is another advantage to highlight here, as multiple panes help to enhance acoustic insulation. Those who happen to live within urban areas or close to major motorways will enjoy the tranquillity that these windows offer.
Whether you have been looking to imbue your home with a modern and chic appearance or your intention is to mirror a more traditional style, the sheer variety of available designs will suit your unique requirements. Thanks to their maintenance-free nature, upkeep is straightforward and durability is never called into question. We nonetheless appreciate the fact that choosing the correct make and model can be somewhat challenging. This is why we encourage you to fill out our online contact form. A customer service specialist will be happy to discuss your options in greater detail.

Double Glazing Versus Single Glazing: What are the Differences?

Leaded Glass Window

Double Glazing Versus Single Glazing: What are the Differences?

June 21, 2022
Windows serve a very real functional purpose within the home. Not only do they allow in ample amounts of light and fresh air, but they contribute to the overall ambience of your property. There are many advancements which have taken place over the years. Some serve purely aesthetic purposes. Others include the use of cutting-edge materials such as uPVC. However, it can be argued that the most important innovation involves the presence of double glazing. First and foremost, how are double-glazed windows different than traditional designs? What benefits can be enjoyed when upgrading your existing windows to a double-glazed variant? Let’s take a look at the science behind double glazing before comparing these two options.

How do Double-Glazed Windows Function?

The name “double glazing” essentially describes the design of this type of window. Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass. A thin layer of air (mostly a vacuum) is trapped in between these two separate layers. The panes themselves are held in place by the frame and naturally, there are a nearly limitless number of styles to choose from. Notwithstanding this unique design feature, double-glazed windows appear nearly identical to their single-glazed counterparts. The main difference lies within the efficiency of each type. So, why are double-glazed windows in such high demand and what are some of the reasons why customers are choosing to make an upgrade?

Double Glazing vs Secondary Glass: What are the Differences?

As you might have already guessed, single-glazed windows contain only one pane of glass. This is important for one main reason. Windows tend to lose a great deal of heat. If you have noticed extremely high energy bills, the chances are high that outdated windows are the culprit. The main reason why double-glazed windows are much more thermally efficient involves a rather surprising substance element.
Leaded Glass Window
Air and vacuums are actually excellent insulators. This is why winter jackets made of down are so warm. The air trapped within the fabric helps to retain body heat while preventing colder temperatures from penetrating within. This is the very same principle associated with double-glazed windows. The small vacuum between the two panes effectively blocks heat from escaping your home. Thus, not as much energy is required to maintain the interior at an agreeable temperature. Let us also point out that insulation goes both ways. While heat will be retained during the winter months, cooler air can be trapped within the home when the temperatures outside begin to rise.
Sometimes you are required to have obscure glass fitted as part of UK planning rules. Windows that overlook a neighbour at tSingle glazing (sometimes referred to as “secondary glass”) is a very poor insulator of heat. This is why you might have noticed a buildup of moisture or condensation on the panes when there is a significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior environments. This is one of the leading causes of high energy consumption and exorbitant monthly statements. So, upgrading is an excellent idea.he side, for example, must have glass that isn’t transparent to protect their privacy. This could apply to upstairs or downstairs windows, each case is different. Even if you don’t need planning permission for the work you’re having done, you must still abide by the rules otherwise you could be forced to change things at an added expense.

The Acoustic Properties Associated with Double Glazed Windows

You might also be surprised to learn that double-glazed windows offer superior acoustic insulation. The very same vacuum which was mentioned above helps to block sound waves from entering (or existing) your home. Not only is this great in terms of privacy, but it can work wonders if you happen to live within a loud urban centre or near a busy motorway. Single-glazed configurations offer essentially no acoustic benefits.

Putting it All Together: Double Glazing vs Secondary Glass

The benefits associated with double-glazed windows should now be quite clear. If you currently own single-glazed models, it is a good idea to consider an upgrade in the near future. You will be able to save a great deal on energy costs and over time, the windows will literally pay for themselves. If you would like to learn more about the styles and designs offered at Generation Windows.
Give us a call today on 020 3962 0211 !

What Causes Condensation on Windows?

Cleaning condensate on a plasic framed window

What Causes Condensation on Windows?

June 21, 2022
Have you noticed a film of moisture on the interior or exterior of your windows from time to time? Not only can this be slightly annoying due to the fact that you might be required to wipe this water away, but the fact of the matter is that condensation on window elements can damage the frame and nearby materials. Furthermore, this level of humidity is the perfect breeding ground for mould; not a nice situation if children are present or if anyone in the home suffers from a respiratory condition. In order to get to the root of the issue, it is important to take a look at some of the most common reasons why this situation is present within certain households. By determining what causes condensation on windows, it will be much easier to encounter the appropriate solution.
Cleaning condensate on a plasic framed window

The Scientific Principle Behind Condensation

What causes condensation on windows? The simplest answer involves a stark difference in the air temperature of two different environments (such as the interior and the exterior). When warmer air that is saturated with moisture comes into contact with a cold surface, this moisture is “pulled” from the environment; causing small drops of water to form on any surface between these two temperature ranges. This is why we often witness condensation on windows during the colder months of the year, as the temperature inside of your home is markedly warmer than the outside. Still, there are other factors which come into play.

Surprising Issues to Address

As we pointed out in the last paragraph, there are two main factors associated with condensation:
  • A temperature variation between two different locations.
  • Humidity within the air.
It, therefore, stands to reason that extremely dry homes will normally not be associated with high levels of window condensation; even if the temperature differences are extreme. However, this is rarely the case. The majority of homes have a relatively high moisture content due to seemingly innocuous activities such as cooking, washing up, showering, and even breathing. This is why it is important to appreciate some of the steps that can be taken in order to deal with condensation before it evolves into a major issue.

Targeted Condensation Solutions: Simple and Highly Effective

One of the most common recommendations is to increase the air circulation throughout your home. This can be accomplished through the use of extractor fans (such as those found within a kitchen), HVAC systems or even opening up a handful of windows for a few minutes at a time. A well-ventilated home is much less likely to suffer from condensation issues. This is particularly useful when performing activities that would otherwise cause the interior humidity levels to rise.
Another extremely effective option is to consider double-glazed windows if your current models consist of only a single layer. Double-glazed windows employ two panes of glass separated by a small vacuum. This vacuum acts as an insulator; effectively nullifying the temperature differences that might otherwise cause condensation to form on the surface. Arctic jackets actually utilise the same principle, as air is a surprisingly effective thermal insulator. If the windows in your home are more than 30 years old, the chances are high that you could benefit from an upgrade.

Keys to Identifying the Root Cause

Diagnosing this problem will also involve understanding where the condensation is forming and why. For instance, condensation that is seen on the inside of the glass signals that the window surface is too low to maintain the water content in the nearby air. Thus, the moisture is pulled out and adheres to the pane. In this case, try to ventilate the area properly and increase the interior temperature (when practical). However, condensation on the exterior of your windows is normally nothing to worry about.
If you notice that condensation has formed between the panes of a double-glazed window, it is probable that the airtight seal has somehow been compromised. This will normally require a professional inspection in order to determine whether the glass needs to be replaced or the seal itself can be repaired. Still, putting such a task off will only exacerbate the problem from a long-term point of view.

Stopping Condensation in its Tracks

If you happen to notice that one or more windows is suffering from condensation on a regular basis, the chances are high that a bit of intervention will be required. Understanding some of the situations which can cause condensation is the first step towards discovering a viable and cost-effective solution.
If you suspect that your windows may need replacing and the installation of double glazing would be beneficial, give us a call today on 020 3962 0211!