Five Tips for Choosing New Windows

When it comes to choosing new windows for your home, the whole process can seem overwhelming and complicated. Whether you’re refurbishing and redecorating your existing property or choosing windows for a brand-new build, functionality, quality and cost are of the utmost importance. Many homeowners also find themselves wrapped up in the style and material of their new windows, of which there is plenty to choose from.

Choosing new windows during your renovation project should be a top priority for any homeowner. Different window styles can transform your property’s aesthetics. The style you choose can also secure your home from unwelcome intruders and the effects of adverse weather. So, what should you look for when choosing your new windows?

Opt for optimal energy efficiency ratings

When refurbishing an existing property or building your home, it is paramount to choose new windows with the highest possible energy efficiency rating. Choosing new windows with optimal energy efficiency and thermal retention ratings will ensure your home is kept safe, warm and dry. Insulating your property from the effects of adverse weather also saves you the hassle of poor energy efficiency later down the line. From damp and condensation to mould and rot, failure to choose new windows with the appropriate thermal retention rating can have a catastrophic effect on the interior of your home. It can also impact the health of you and your family.

When choosing your new windows make sure to look for an A+14 rating on the Window Energy Rating (WER) scale. Your new windows should also benefit from superior craftsmanship and engineering. Look for features such as secure internal beading, warm edge thermal spacer bars and argon gas sealed units.

Think about elevating your security

Much like energy efficiency, ensuring your new windows are highly secure is also of the utmost importance. It’s important to look for additional security features such as internal beading, multi-point locking mechanisms and other security features. Ensuring your new windows benefit from elevated security means your home will be better equipped to protect you and your family from unwelcome intruders.

Choose the correct material for you

These days, most homeowners opt for uPVC or aluminium when it comes to their windows. At the end of the day, the material you choose for your new windows will come down to the unique specifications of your home.

uPVC windows are one of the more durable, cost-effective options on the market. In addition to boasting a long life span and exceptional energy efficiency ratings, uPVC is also incredibly resilient to the effects of adverse weather. They require very little upkeep. They are also highly secure and will not warp, rot or otherwise deteriorate over time. uPVC windows make an excellent replacement for older style windows. This is especially pertinent during historically sensitive renovation projects where retaining period aesthetics is key.

Aluminium is also a popular option for contemporary and traditional properties alike. Advancements in the window industry in recent years mean your aluminium windows can now be manufactured with larger, more expansive panes of double-glazed glass and minimum hardware. This allows for an influx of natural light without compromising on energy efficiency ratings or security.

Browse aesthetics

These days, new windows are available in a variety of different styles. The most reputable companies will also be able to tailor the size, colour and style of their window range to your home. They will design, engineer and install your new windows to your exact specifications. This results in a truly unique finish for your property in an aesthetic you admire.

So, what style of window should you choose? Functionality and practicality are crucial. As a result, it’s important to consider how your new windows will function within your interior and exterior spaces. At the end of the day, the style you choose for your new windows will come down to your own tastes. In some circumstances, the material you choose for your new window will also determine which style you go for.

Casement window

Casement windows are available in both uPVC and aluminium. The casement window combines modern convenience with traditional style. They are an enduring choice on the market here in the UK, being virtually maintenance-free and effortlessly elegant.

Flush Casement window

Offering the durability and easy operation of a traditional casement window, a flush casement window sits flush within its frame – hence the name. A flush casement window can elevate any property regardless of aesthetic with simple elegance and practicality.

Sash window

uPVC vertical sliding sash windows are ideal in both traditional and contemporary properties but are particularly suitable for installation in historically sensitive renovation projects. In an older home with more traditional aesthetics and period features, this style of window is ideal. The classic design of uPVC sashes can help to maintain the historical character of your property. In a more modern home, the same style of window is ideal for elevating a property with the elegant aesthetics of a bygone era.

Bay window

Bay windows are a practical, elegant option that can maximise natural light and space within your interior spaces. An iconic symbol of Britain’s Victorian era, bay windows are an elegant and understated style of window which remain a popular and enduring choice for homeowners across the UK and abroad.

Bow window

A bow window is similar in shape and function to a bay window. They are ideal for maximising natural light and space within your home. Also known as a compass window, bow windows can effortlessly complement any property regardless of age or aesthetics.

Tilt & turn window

Tilt and turn windows combine functionality with contemporary style. A tilt and turns window offers a practical dual-opening operation. They are a fantastic way of improving airflow without compromising on space within your home.

Leaded & Georgian window

If you’re looking to update your current windows or add a historical flair to your new build, Leaded and Georgian windows may be the solution you’re after. Leaded and Georgian windows combine modern conveniences such as optimal energy efficiency ratings and heightened security with classic period features. You won’t have to compromise on your home’s classic features when refurbishing your traditional window. Leaded and Georgian windows can also add an elegant flourish to contemporary homes.

Choose a credible company

Last but not least, it’s important to choose a credible manufacturer and installer. Choosing a reputable company is a key step toward hassle-free home improvements and refurbishments.

Perhaps most important, it is crucial to watch out for ‘cowboy’ installers. One easy way you can do a little background research on a company is by checking its third-party accreditations. The most reputable companies in the UK will be accredited by organisations such as FENSA. You can also check sites such as Trustmark and HomePro to ensure you are choosing a trustworthy company.

If your installer is credible, you’ll also be able to find plenty of positive reviews from happy clients. Majestic Designs for example have over 2900 independent reviews with an average score of 9.49/10 for customer satisfaction on FairTrades.

New windows at Majestic Designs

From ensuring your home is protected from the elements to adding a little style and flair, there are many factors to consider when it comes to new windows for your property. New windows can transform your property’s aesthetics. They can also insulate your home from the effects of adverse weather and unwelcome intruders.

Majestic Designs have been engineering our range for more than 19 years. A fixture within the community of Somerset, our FENSA accredited and MTC registered leading teams of expert installers have cultivated a country-wide reputation for friendly, approachable customer service and superior craftsmanship that truly goes above and beyond.

If you have any questions about your new windows or are ready to book your at-home consultation, contact the team at Majestic Designs today.