another double glazing question ;)

Sentinal73

Hi all

I've recently bought a 1930's semi which needs a heck of a lot of modernising done to it and in typical moneysaving style I'm hoping to do most of it myself, so I'm sure that this wont be my last cry for help I'm a fairly new Dyer but competent and conscientious and have lots of common sense so fairly confident i can do most things myself, within reason. Probably will struggle with the building terms and wording more than anything else

My first cry for help is that the first job i would like to do is to fit new UPVC double glazing (there is a mixture of single glazed UPVC and metal windows at the moment)

I don't know much about the technical terms at the moment and am hoping to find a company that sells windows for supply only. I realise once i have fitted them myself i need to obtain a building certificate??

So i need to know what questions i should be asking the companies?

the sort of thing i was thinking is:-

do i need trickle vents or not?
what profile they use? (i realise there are better profiles than others)
what is their windows efficiency rating? (not sure of the term)

anything else i should be asking them?

thanks for your help,

alanobrien

Just been through this myself here are some of my notes;

Make sure the glass is Pilkington K glass - "low e" - made into 28mm double glazed sealed units which gives high thermal insulation and noise reduction. It should meet the Building Regs. of April 2002 or later.

The frame should be reinforced and the full 70mm frame thickness. This is closest to most original window profile sizes and gives less of a mastic line on the outside.

Get fully welded frames, no screwed together joints. This makes them stronger.

The frames should be made entirely from virgin material for longer lasting whiteness and Ultra violet light stability.

Metal reinforcement in frame chambers is advised it gives increased strength to resist against forced entry.

Windows should be internally glazed so burgulars cannot remove the glazing beads from the outside.

Shoot bolt locks are best plus middle mortise bolt with each window opening secured at 5 points saracen locks rather than spag type.

The windows should meet or exceed the relevant British Standards, including the revised document L

Get a full 10 year guarantee on all frames against faulty materials and workmanship and also an Independent insurance company backed guarantee.

Be sure the fitters are FENSA registered and chase the up for the certificate.

Get the biggest trickle vents that are sensible

Get "easy clean" hinges on the upstairs windows

Get windows that "lock open" for ventilation and security with key locks

Argon filled glazed units are better for low thermal conductivity but cost more
as do the self cleaning glass type

Kitchen window handles are one third up the vertical opening window not in the middle - this makes them easier to open for someone leaning over a worktop.

One other point the profile is only half the battle. The best frames in the world will be of little use if badly fitted. Ideally ask to see a sample window then ask to see an installation they did for a previous customer.

Dont pay more than 20% deposit and pay by credit card if possible. if not you want a deposit guarentee (Fensa requirement).

Withold 10% of the total billl until you are satisfied with the installation.
Happy window shopping !