Factors to Consider when Installing Replacement Windows – Daily Business

Some of the concepts to be aware of when having new windows installed, including their costs, the materials, the process involved, choosing your fitter, what FENSA is and how long it will take to complete the job.

This decision to have new windows installed is becoming an imperative rather than a ‘nice-to-do’ option, what with their ability to increase the value of your property, improve the aesthetics, while just as importantly, they reduce your energy bills thanks to better insulation. An all-round set of measures to make for a more comfortable home.

The modern window comes in a variety of materials, styles and colours. Aluminium is durable, sleek and very strong. They provide a modern look with provision for a larger pane of glass. Timber will demand some extra maintenance but gives a timeless aesthetic for period or heritage homes. Composite combine the best of a dual-material option. Steel often looks the part in loft conversions or renovations, while uPVC windows are budget-friendly, low maintenance and don’t suffer from rot or corrosion.

The cost of installing your elected choice will vary but be aware that between £500 to £3200 per window can be expected. Factors to key in are which material is being fitted, the size of the window, the type or style you have chosen, whether scaffolding will be erected and the overall installation costs.

It is advisable to get as many quotes as possible from companies who are members of FENSA. This is a government sponsored set of regulations covering building compliance when replacing windows and doors.

This scheme has brought together 6,300 approved fitters with endorsed competency being the watchword by which they are judged. The fitters are regularly assessed, and you can ask for a FENSA approved certificate, upon completion of the job, to pass on to the new owners if you decide to move home.

When considering how many of your property’s windows to change at once, you may opt for doing it in stages and spreading the cost and disruption but be aware that doing more at once can bring the overall costs down, without taking into account the potential cost of living increases that have to be calculated, over time.

Your fitter will need access to inside the property as well as from outside to do a complete job. A straightforward single window installation should take about an hour, given good preparations. Any previous window extraction may increase the overall time, while the number of operatives on site may affect the time necessary for completion too.

Be prepared for a fairly messy work area when replacing windows. There will be substantial dust and debris to clean up, particularly when removing old windows. An attentive fitter will use dust sheets and clear up after themselves at the end of each day.

You can protect some of your valuables by covering them before the fitters have undertaken their duties, and keeping hallways and entrances clear is also a thoughtful idea.

 Once all the debris has been removed, you should be left with nothing but some shiny new windows.