New windows in a second floor flat

sarah_elton

I live in a second floor flat (i.e. ground-first-second), and want to replace my windows. I've checked, and although it's leasehold the windows are my responsibility.

One of my friends told me that if it's above first floor, the window company has to put up scaffolding to do it these days. Can anyone confirm if this is correct? I would imagine this increases the cost, and also means my neighbours below not being too happy with me....

I haven't started getting quotes yet as I need to save up to do this. It's a two-bed flat with 5 windows, and as a rough ball-park I was guessing £5-7k. Does anyone have any recent experience? I'd be going for white UPVC double glazing (all windows in my blocks are white-framed, originally wood, and based on other people's replacements I think the management company likes you to match the look, although I haven't yet spoken with them, but will do before doing anything).

If I'm way off and it's more like double that amount, I'm not sure it's worth it given the value of the flat. Having said that, primary motivation is to make me happier living there rather than add value.

OddjobKIA

As it is a flat you may need permision from the managment company to erect scaffolding, Some firms do use the portable towers that they take down at the end of the day and eliviates this problem.

The budget you have mentioned sounds reasonable But it all depends on how many windows you have their size and other factors.


I would get out 4-5 different firms to quote you on the job you don't have to sign any paperwork

Try a few nationals and a few local companies. To gauge the variations in price.


Also it is good to see you SAVING up and then having them done rather getting credit to do them.

sarah_elton

OddjobKIA wrote:

Also it is good to see you SAVING up and then having them done rather getting credit to do them.

I'm an ex DFW.

Thanks - so it would have to be scaffolding or tower... They can't use ladders or do it from inside? (never had windows replaced so don't laugh at the questions lol)

fatnbald

Mine were done from the inside, it will most likely depend on the existing windows as to whether they need access to them from outside.

Get in a good window company (there are some cowboys in the window game), recommended by someone you know or friend of a friend.

They will be able to advise you on access requirements.

sarah_elton

Yeah I'd never use a cheap'n'cheerful lot for windows - the last thing I want is hassle with them.

I've had one recommendation for an Essex firm, although I've heard they're very good but quite pricey. I don't know too many people who've had windows done unfortunately, so if anyone can recommend Essex-based or national companies I'd be very grateful.

Thanks to you both - of course I'd get a few quotes, but I like to know a bit about what I'm doing beforehand so I can ask the right questions but not sound like a completely daffy woman they can rip off.

Rex_Mundi

I've done plenty of flats above the first floor. I've always fitted the windows from the inside. The frames go in without the glass in. We lean through the frame to make good and seal the outside, then glaze the windows from the inside. This is easier if the windows are internal beading. I've never had to use scaffolding (or ladders) for this.

never_enough

Where abouts in Essex are you? A friend had windows done in Chelmsford that she was very happy with. I could ask for the details if any good for you.

sarah_elton

Witham, so just down the road... If you could get the company she used that would be brilliant, thanks!

never_enough

sarah_elton wrote:

Witham, so just down the road... If you could get the company she used that would be brilliant, thanks!

Sorry, she can't remember the name, only that it was a small company in Braintree. She got their details from the local paper. She's going to try to find the details, but is going a bit pre-Christmas bonkers at the mo, so I'm not holding my breath!

sarah_elton

Thanks - I'll have a look in yellow pages, can't see there being that many in Braintree.