Category: News

In the wake of escalating energy prices and the pressing need to mitigate climate change, the UK government has unveiled the ambitious Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).

The scheme aims to provide funding to facilitate the installation of low-cost insulation in homes across the UK. Some options will be fully-funded, whereas some people may be asked to make a contribution towards the cost.

This initiative is poised to revolutionise the energy efficiency landscape of homes across England, Scotland, and Wales. This comprehensive guide will explain what this new scheme is, the benefits of it, elgibility criteria, and how you can apply.

Introduction to the Great British Insulation Scheme

The GBIS, formerly known as ECO+, represents a significant stride in the UK government’s efforts to foster energy conservation and sustainability.

With a budget allocation of £1 billion, the scheme has opened for applications as of 14th September 2023, and continues until March 2026.

It is envisioned to facilitate approximately 300,000 households in retrofitting their homes with state-of-the-art insulation solutions, thereby unlocking substantial savings in energy bills, estimated to be in the range of £300 to £400 annually.

This initiative is designed to complement the existing ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) programme, with a pronounced focus on expediting the delivery of single, lower-cost insulation measures, such as loft insulation, to a broader spectrum of households (source).

What are the benefits of the scheme?

The aim of the scheme is to insulate homes to reduce heat loss and save on energy usage, thus cutting energy bills.

By implementing insulation measures, households can significantly curtail heat loss, thereby reducing heating costs and diminishing carbon emissions.

What type of insulation is available under the scheme?

The scheme encompasses a variety of insulation measures, including:

• Cavity wall insulation
• External and internal solid wall insulation
• Loft insulation
• Flat or pitched roof insulation
• Underfloor insulation
• Solid floor insulation
• Park home insulation
• Room-in-roof insulation

The options available to your particularly property will be assessed by your energy supplier to see what’s suitable for your home.

Eligibility Criteria: Do you qualify for the Great British Insulation Scheme?

The GBIS is tailored to cater to two distinct groups: individuals residing in homes that have secured an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating ranging from D to G, and are situated within specific council tax bands; and householders who are recipients of qualifying benefits and inhabit homes with an EPC rating of D or below.

Your property must fall into Council Tax bands A-D in England, or for Scotland and Wales, bands A-E.

You can be a homeowner, landlord, or tenant.

Applying for the scheme

The application process can be started online via the GOV UK website. The form will ask you a few questions about your home, household income, and some personal information. You can start the process online here.

If the tool determines you’re likely to be eligible, you will be offered the option to be referred to your energy supplier. If you accept, your energy supplier will receive a referral and will make contact with you within 10 working days.

Subsequently, eligible candidates will be approached by their respective energy suppliers to coordinate a home assessment.

During this visit, the energy companies will undertake a comprehensive assessment to determine the optimal type of insulation, whilst offering advice on energy-saving practices.

Costs involved in the scheme

It’s worth being aware that the scheme may not be entirely free for everyone. Some people may be asked to make a contribution towards the work, but it is based on your individual circumstances.

You will be advised of any contribution requirements after the assessment. You’re not obligated to continue with the process if you don’t wish to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Great British Insulation Scheme?

The GBIS is a government initiative aimed at enhancing the energy efficiency of homes across the UK, thereby facilitating substantial savings on energy bills, by insulating homes in lower Council Tax bands.

Who is eligible to apply for the scheme?

The scheme primarily targets individuals living in homes with an EPC rating of D or below and within specific council tax bands, as well as those receiving qualifying benefits.

How can I apply for the scheme?

Prospective applicants can initiate the application process by verifying their eligibility through an online tool available on the official GOV.UK website.

What types of insulation does the scheme cover?

The scheme predominantly focuses on low-cost insulation measures, including cavity wall insulation, external and internal solid wall insulation, and loft insulation.

Can tenants apply for the scheme?

Yes, tenants residing in qualifying properties can apply, provided they secure permission from their landlords. This provision extends to social housing tenants as well.

The Great British Insulation Scheme stands as a beacon of hope in the quest for a greener and more sustainable future. By facilitating the insulation of homes, the scheme not only promises significant savings on energy bills but also heralds a new era of environmental consciousness and sustainability.

Fixing a loose uPVC window handle may seem challenging at first, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be relatively straightforward. Follow these steps to repair your uPVC window handle effectively.

Step 1: Identify the Issue

The first step in fixing a loose uPVC window handle is to identify the cause of the problem. The looseness might be due to screws that have become undone over time, or the handle mechanism may have worn out. By understanding what’s causing the problem, you can determine the most suitable solution.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

To fix the loose window handle, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• A Philips or flat head screwdriver
• A pair of pliers
• A new handle (if necessary)
• Replacement screws (if necessary)

Step 3: Tighten the Screws

Most often, the looseness in the handle comes from the screws. In this case, you’ll need to tighten the screws. Place the screwdriver into the screw heads and turn them clockwise to tighten. If the screwdriver does not grip the screw head well, try using pliers.

Step 4: Replace the Screws

If the screws are stripped or damaged, you might need to replace them. Remove the old screws with your screwdriver and insert the new screws. Tighten them, ensuring the handle is secure and firm.

Step 5: Replace the Handle

If the handle itself is worn out and causing the problem, you’ll need to replace it. Unscrew and remove the handle, then insert the new one. Align it correctly with the holes for the screws, then tighten the screws securely.

Step 6: Test the Handle

Once you’ve tightened the screws or replaced the handle, you should test the window to ensure that the handle operates correctly. It should turn smoothly and lock securely without any looseness.

Remember to follow these steps carefully. If you still have issues after trying these solutions, it might be best to contact a local window company to avoid causing any further damage.

uPVC door handles can become loose over time due to frequent use or improper installation. A loose handle can compromise your home’s security, so it’s essential to address this issue promptly. Here’s a guide on how to tighten a loose uPVC door handle.

Step 1: Determine the Problem

Start by finding out what’s causing the handle to be loose. It could be due to the handle mechanism being worn out or the screws that attach the handle to the door loosening. By identifying the problem, you can fix it effectively.

Step 2: Prepare Your Tools

To tighten your uPVC door handle, gather these tools:

• A Philips or flat head screwdriver
• A pair of pliers
• A new door handle (if necessary)
• Replacement screws (if necessary)

Step 3: Tighten the Screws

Often, loose door handles are due to loose screws. Tighten the screws by turning them clockwise using the screwdriver. If the screws are too difficult to grip with the screwdriver, try using pliers.

Step 4: Replace Damaged Screws

If the screws are damaged or stripped, you will need to replace them. Carefully remove the old screws and replace them with new ones. Once the new screws are in, tighten them using your screwdriver.

Step 5: Replace the Handle

If the handle is the issue, you might need to replace it entirely. Remove the screws holding it in place, and then take off the handle. Install the new handle, aligning the screw holes correctly. Then, insert the screws and tighten them.

Step 6: Test the Handle

After you’ve tightened or replaced the handle, test it to ensure it’s functioning correctly. The handle should be firm, and it should turn and lock smoothly without any wobbling.

By following these steps, you should be able to tighten your loose uPVC door handle. If you’re still having trouble, consider contacting a local door company for assistance. Remember, it’s essential to maintain the safety and functionality of your home, so addressing issues like loose handles promptly is always a good idea.

What is uPVC?

uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) is a type of plastic that is used in a variety of applications, including windows, doors, siding, and roofing. It is a strong, durable, and low-maintenance material that is resistant to weathering, corrosion, and rot. uPVC is also a good insulator, which can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

The name “unplasticised” refers to the fact that uPVC does not contain any plasticisers, which are chemicals that are added to some plastics to make them more flexible. The lack of plasticizers makes UPVC more rigid and durable, but it also makes it more difficult to work with.

uPVC is a relatively affordable material, and it is becoming increasingly popular as a building material. It is a good choice for homes in areas with harsh weather conditions, and it is also a good option for those who are looking for a low-maintenance material.

PVC vs uPVC

PVC and uPVC are both types of plastic, but they have different properties. While uPVC stands forunplasticised polyvinyl chloride, PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and it is a versatile material that is used in a variety of applications.

uPVC is more rigid due to the lack of plasticisers, which makes it ideal for applications requiring strength and sturdiness, whereas PVC is more flexible and easier to work with.

As a result of the lack of plasticisers, uPVC is a better choice for applications where durability is important, such as windows and doors. PVC is a better choice for applications where flexibility is important, such as wire insulation.

The table below summarises the different properties of uPVC and PVC.

Uses of uPVC

Windows and Doors

uPVC windows and doors are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance. UPVC is resistant to weathering, corrosion, and rot. UPVC is also a good insulator, which can help to reduce your heating costs, as the windows and doors will retain heat in your home better.

Siding

uPVC siding is a type of exterior cladding that is made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride.

uPVC siding is available in a variety of colours and styles, so you can find a look that matches your home’s décor.

Guttering and Downpipes

uPVC gutters and downpipes are the most common type of roofline found on UK properties, and this is because the properties of uPVC mean that they can withstand the unpredictable British weather (yes, even the rain!) and therefore are longer lasting.

What’s more, if you’re keen on keeping up your home’s appearance, then they’re also easy to keep clean.

Other uses of uPVC

In addition to windows, doors, siding, and gutters, uPVC is also used in a variety of other applications in homes, including:

• Pipes
• Fittings
• Fencing
• Conservatories
• Garden furniture
• Electrical enclosures

uPVC is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications in homes. It is a good choice for applications where durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance are important. But due to its relatively low cost, it’s also a great option if you’re looking for an affordable option.

What are the benefits of using uPVC for doors and window frames?

There are many benefits to having uPVC windows and doors. Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits that you can expect.

• Durability: uPVC windows and doors are very durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions and everyday wear and tear. They are not susceptible to rotting, warping, or cracking, so it can last for many years with minimal maintenance.
• Low maintenance: Using a low-maintenance material like uPVC for your windows and doors makes perfect sense, as they will naturally attract dirt and grime just simply by being outside, and as UPVC requires very little upkeep, you can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to keep it clean.
• Energy efficiency: uPVC windows and doors, coupled with a high performant glass and double or triple glazed, offers extremely good energy efficiency. Therefore, having uPVC windows and doors in your home can result in lower energy bills.
• Affordability: uPVC is a relatively affordable material, making it a good option for those on a budget. Additionally, because it’s affordable, it also means it’s quite common, which means that in most areas of the UK, having uPVC windows and doors will fit in with your local area, whilst still being able to make them your own by customising the colour, glazing styles, and hardware.
• Appearance: uPVC is available in a variety of colours and styles, so you can find a look that matches your home’s décor. It can also be painted or stained to match your desired look.
• Security: uPVC door and window frames are often more secure than other types of doors and window frames. This is because they are made from a strong material that is difficult to break or pry open. Of course, you’ll want to couple that with a good quality lock as well.

Are uPVC windows and doors dangerous?

uPVC windows and doors are not dangerous. uPVC is a non-combustible material, so it acts as a fire retardant and will not worsen an already worrying situation.

You may also hear that uPVC contains harmful chemicals. Whilst this is true, this is not really an issue during everyday use, as the chemicals are sealed within the unit and are not easily exposed. The chemicals contained become more of an issue during the recycling process. But from a homeowners perspective, there is nothing to worry about.

What uPVC window styles can you get?

There are a wide variety of uPVC window styles available, each with their own benefits. The common styles you’ll come across include:

• Casement windows
• French windows
• Sash windows
• Tilt and turn windows
• Sliding windows

In addition to the styles, you will also have plenty of other customisation options for your new windows and doors, including colour, handles, glazing, locking systems, and level of energy efficiency (single, double, or triple glazed).

If you’re looking to install uPVC products in your home, why not design your windows and doors online?

Your front door is the first thing people see when they come to your home, so it’s important to choose one that you love. But with so many different types and styles of front doors available, it can be tough to know where to start.

One of the first things you’ll need to decide is what material you want your front door to be made of. There are four main types of front doors available in the UK: uPVC, composite, aluminium, and timber. Each of these have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and all come with their own varying price points.

Let’s take a look at what impacts the price of a front door and help you to make an informed decision.

How Much Does a New Front Door Cost in the UK?

uPVC Front Doors

uPVC is the most popular type of front door in the UK. It’s relatively inexpensive, easy to maintain, and weatherproof. uPVC doors are also available in a wide range of styles and colours, so you can find one that matches your home’s exterior and the local area.

Price range: £300-£1,500

Advantages:

• Inexpensive
• Low-maintenance
• Weatherproof
• Wide range of styles and colors available

Disadvantages:

• Not as strong as other types of doors
• Can look cheaper than more expensive options

Composite Front Doors

Composite doors are made from a thick core of reinforced frame and filled with a thermally efficient material, which makes them strong and energy efficient. They are made from a mix of materials, typically GRP (glass reinforced plastic) and timber.

They can be designed to create a variety of different looks in terms of style. They are available in a wide range of colours and styles, along with the ability to customise how many, if any, panes of glass you would like in your door.

Composite front doors work well with more premium hardware, such as long handles.

Price range: £500-£2,500

Advantages:

• Strong and durable
• Low-maintenance
• Weatherproof
• Wide range of styles and colors available
• Premium look and feel

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than uPVC doors
• Can be difficult to repair

Aluminium Front Doors

Aluminium doors are a good choice for people who want a modern, contemporary look for their home. They’re strong, durable, and weatherproof, and they come in a variety of colours and finishes. However, aluminium doors can be more expensive than other types of front doors.

Price range: £1,000-£4,000

Advantages:

• Strong and durable
• Weatherproof
• Modern, contemporary look

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than other types of doors
• Can be noisy in high wind

Timber Front Doors

Timber doors are the traditional choice for front doors, and they’re still a popular option for many homeowners. Timber doors are beautiful, stylish, and they can add a touch of luxury to your home. However, timber doors require more maintenance than other types of doors, and they’re not as weatherproof as uPVC or composite doors.

If you live in a conservation area or listed building, timber front doors are typically your main option when looking to have a new front door.

Price range: £500-£2,000

Advantages:

• Beautiful and stylish
• Suitable for conservation areas or listed buildings

Disadvantages:

• Requires more maintenance than other types of doors
• Not as weatherproof as other types of doors

Supply Only Doors vs. Fitted Doors

When you’re buying a new front door, you have the option of buying it as a supply only door, or having it installed by a professional, known as a fitted door. If you buy a supply-only door, you’ll need to find a local installer to do the work, unless you can fit it yourself. This can be a good option if you’re on a tight budget, or if you want to have more control over the installation process.

However, if you’re not comfortable installing a front door yourself, or if you want to make sure that the job is done right, it’s a good idea to have it installed by a local door fitter.

Door Furniture

In addition to the door itself, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of door furniture. This includes items like the doorknob, hinges, and letterbox. Door furniture can vary in price depending on the quality and style you choose.

Often, the cost of standard door furniture is included, but you may wish to upgrade the furniture, such as to add a more premium handle, or upgrade the lock security.

Total cost of a new front door

The total cost of a new front door will vary depending on the type of door you choose, the size of the door, and the cost of installation. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from £300 to £4,000 for a new front door.

Choosing a new front door is a big decision, but it’s one that’s worth taking your time with. By considering the factors in this article, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect front door for your home.

Our homes are our safe spaces, a place where we can feel comfortable, at ease, and importantly, relax from increasingly busy lives. But sometimes that downtime can be interrupted or ‘put you on edge’ through lack of privacy. There are many ways to create privacy through your windows, such as the options we’ll take a look at today:

• Frosted glass
• Privacy window films
• In-window blinds (integral blinds)
• Curtains and blinds

After all, our homes are full of windows and doors that are designed to be transparent to allow natural light in and to allow us to look outside. There are, however, situations where we want an increased level of privacy.

Whilst double glazed windows are typically transparent, they don’t have to be. You probably have a window in your bathroom that has a frosted effect, which allows natural light through, but creates by privacy by obscuring what you can see through it.

But what if you want to create privacy in other areas of your home? We will take a look at the options available to create privacy in your home and how you can go about doing it yourself, or calling in the experts.

Options for creating window privacy

Frosted (obscured) glass

As mentioned previously, frosted (also known as obscured) glass, is likely already prevalent in your bathroom, but it is an ideal option for creating window privacy in other areas of the home as well, if you know that you will never want full visibility through that particular window.

Frosted glass is a permanent solution which requires no additional maintenance and will provide one of the highest-quality window privacy finishes.

The main downside to frosted glass is that, as it is permanent, you won’t be able to have flexibility to decide when you want additional privacy and when you don’t. Not only does it require a qualified window fitter to replace the glass to fit it in the first place, but it would require the removal as well, should you ever want visibility through the window again.

As it requires replacing the glass, or in some cases, the entire window, it is one of the more expensive solutions to creating privacy. But if you’re looking for a high-quality finish that provides permanent privacy, then replacing the windows in your home with obscured glass is a good option.

If you are wanting to go down this route, see how much replacing your windows with frosted glass will cost by designing your windows online and getting an online window quote.

Privacy window films

If you’re not comfortable, or it’s not practical, to replace your windows or glass, then privacy window films provide a more accessible route to creating window privacy.

Rather than replacing the windows or glass, a film is applied over the top of the existing glass to add an effect to it, which then creates the privacy.

There are various types of privacy window film available.

Typically, you will find self-adhesive or ‘static cling’ window films. These window films are commonly stuck onto the interior glass and remain in place by creating a static bond. These are often provided on a DIY basis, as they are relatively easy to install yourself using a mixture of water and washing up liquid, though sometimes it can be tricky to create a perfect finish, as it’s easy to create bubbles or miscut the film.

There are also more premium window films available, often installed by a professional who will perfectly cut the film to size and fit it to your windows. This can be a better option if you’re looking for a tidier, more professional-looking finish.

In-window blinds (integral blinds)

Combining the privacy-enhancing properties of privacy window films with the flexibility of curtains and blinds, integral blinds provide a suitable alternative, such as those offered by Morley Glass.

With integral blinds, the blind is fitted within the glass, allowing you to create privacy when you want and create visibility when you want to look out. Integral blinds don’t take up any additional space, and can be fitted in windows, bifold doors, sliding doors, and conservatories.

What’s more, as the blind is contained within the glass unit itself, there is no maintenance required, such as dusting or vacuuming, as it is all self-contained and not exposed to day-to-day life.

As with installing frosted glass however, integral blinds is a more involved option, requiring the replacement of the glass or the window, and comes at a higher price tag than installing privacy films.

Curtains and blinds

It might seem obvious, but the easiest way to create privacy from your windows and doors is to close the curtains or blinds.

The main disadvantage to this, however, is that you’re blocking out natural light, which consequently means you’re likely to have the lights switched on more often, which also increases energy costs.

If you are going down the route of using blinds, then you could choose non-blackout blinds, that way they will let some level of natural light through, giving you the best of both worlds.

Common scenarios

To help provide you with some specific advice, we’ve taken a look at the common places in the home where people are looking to create privacy and look at the best option for your situation.

What can I put on my bathroom window for privacy?

If you’re wanting to create privacy in your bathroom, then ideally you would have frosted glass within your bathroom window.

We typically wouldn’t recommend using privacy window films in this situation as the amount of moisture in a bathroom can cause the film to lose its bond to the glass and begin to slip down.

Another option is to install a blind, preferably one made out of plastic (to prevent mould growth and moisture absorption), which can be closed when you’re using the bathroom, whilst having the added benefit of allowing you to open the window to let out moist air whilst maintaining privacy.

What to put on my front door for privacy?

For front doors, door curtains are a good option to add some privacy, especially if your door has tall windows within it, like many composite doors do.

Whilst you could add window film to your door, depending on the size and number of glass panes, you may find yourself having to do a lot of cutting and trimming!

Windows you can’t see in but can see out

If you’re wanting to be able to see out of your window but not allow others to see in, then there is a special type of privacy window film called one-way window privacy film. This film typically has a reflective exterior that faces the outside, helping to reflect heat and prevent people seeing in, whilst on the inside, you’ll be able to look out, albeit with a darkened view of the outside world.

Frequently asked questions

There’s a wide variety of questions people ask when they’re looking to make their windows more private. We have answered some of the most common questions here.

We hope that this has proved to be a useful resource and that you’re now equipped with the information needed to make your home more private.

With all of the different window styles available on the market, you might be wondering what the difference is between them. Today, we’ll be taking a look at French windows, as the French window style often raises some eyebrows.

Despite what you may assume, French windows did not actually originate from France. In fact, French windows came to be in Italy, during the Italian renaissance era. In France, however, these windows are known as “door-sized windows” or “windowed doors”. The reason for this is that French windows can be tall enough to walk through, and often used for floor-to-ceiling windows.

With the background out of the way, we will now take a look at the best places to install French windows, some colour options, as well as how much French windows cost on average. So, if you’ve been wondering what a French window is, keep reading to find out.

Which rooms are most suitable for French windows?

French windows have a variety of uses and placements in the home. Whilst they can be used in practically any room or setting, they’re especially well suited to properties with Juliette balconies, as the windows create an elegant feel alongside the balcony, whilst flooding the room with natural light.

But as previously mentioned, French windows can be used like doors in some situations, and this makes them ideal for use in spaces where the size of a traditional door is not suitable, and instead, a French window can be an appropriate alternative, especially for allowing access to a garden.

That said, due to the unobstructed views and the amount of natural light that French windows offer, they are perfectly placed to complement a living or dining room area, where you’ll no doubt entertain guests and want to allow plenty of light in.

Popular colours for uPVC French Windows

Whilst French windows are available in a raft of different colours, often it’s the classic colours that take the top spot. Common French window colours include Anthracite Grey, black, or white.

The colour you choose for your windows should reflect your local area, your house’s character, and your personal style. Here’s just a handful of other colours that you could choose to have your French windows foiled in:

• Chartwell Green
• Dark blue
• Rosewood
• Golden Oak
• Dark red

To see a full list of French window colours, take a look at our window frame colour options.

Which material type should I choose?

French windows are available in a few different materials. Traditionally, French windows would have been constructed out of timber, but as time has gone on, so too has the type of materials on offer.

You’ll be able to choose from uPVC, timber, and aluminium.

French Windows Prices

To help you see which options fit within your budget, we’ve taken some average prices for different types of French windows. Please note, these are rough costs and there are many factors that impact the price. We always recommend getting a quote or having a local installer assess your requirements.

uPVC French windows cost

For those looking for low-maintenance, easy-clean, customisable, long-wearing, and budget-friendly French windows, then uPVC is the recommended option. uPVC French windows offer a wallet-friendly option to replacing the windows in your home, whilst offering a large number of the aforementioned benefits as well.

For a double glazed uPVC French window, you should expect to see a cost of around £700 – £1,200, depending on the exact specification, quality of materials, your chosen installer, and your local area.

If you wanted to enhance your energy efficiency further, you could opt for a triple glazed French window, in which case you would be looking at a cost of around £1,500 – £1,700.

Wooden French windows cost

Wooden (or timber) French windows are ideal in conservation areas where the original look and feel needs to be maintained, however, they typically aren’t as hard-wearing and, in some cases, can’t match the energy efficiency levels achieved by uPVC or aluminium. Nonetheless, timber French windows provide a traditional look that blends neatly into countryside and village surroundings.

French windows will typically cost around £1,200 – £1,800, depending on the type of wood used.

Aluminium French windows cost

For a modern, premium look and feel, aluminium French windows are an option. As it’s a more expensive material, it’s not as commonplace as uPVC, and often can’t be used in conservation areas, however, aluminium offers high levels of durability and can set your house apart from others in the area.

Aluminium windows could cost anywhere from £700 to £1,000 or more.

With all of this mind, you should be able to make an informed decision on whether French windows are right for you and your property, where you could place them, how you could customise them, and which options fit within your budget.

The front door is the first thing that people will see of your home. It portrays your personality to visiting guests, braves harsh weather, but most importantly protects your home from intruders. At the forefront of your home, your front door is one of the most crucial elements of your home’s security.

As well as thermal efficiency and style, considering the amount of security that your front door can provide should be a crucial element of the purchasing process.

Security is one of the most important features that homeowners look for when purchasing a new property, and that includes front door security. So when you’re looking to upgrade your front door, it’s important to understand what different types are available, and what is going to be most suitable for your home’s security needs.

What is the most secure material for a front door?

Front doors come in all different shapes and sizes. Some homeowners might opt for glazed doors, where others might prefer solid panels. Whilst there are some styles that are more secure than others, it’s important to consider material when it comes to buying a secure front door.

Timber

Solid wood doors are not only a very luxurious alternative to other front doors, they also provide substantial security to your home. A timber door panel is made from solid wood, which provides a solid secure structure, as opposed to being made of different components that feature several points of vulnerability.

Timber doors also allow for additional security measures to be installed, including internal deadbolts and secure letterboxes.

uPVC

As some of the most common doors across the UK, the security of uPVC doors has increased exponentially over the years. Readily accessible, affordable, and thermally efficient, uPVC doors are a go-to for most homeowners. 

Regardless of their low price point, uPVC doors are an excellent solution for home security. With thick profiles up to 70mm, uPVC doors are steady and sturdy. Installed with multi-locking points as standard, these are some of the most secure front doors on the market. Our uPVC residential doors come installed with Yale Lockmaster® multipoint locking to provide the most reassurance when it comes to home security.

With a lifespan of up to 35 years, a well-maintained uPVC door can provide incredible security to your home for many years to come.

Composite

Composite doors are made of a variety of high stability, durable materials. Including wood, metal, and PVC, a composite door core is highly durable, thermally efficient, and an affordable front door solution for many homeowners.

These materials are also great at braving harsh weather conditions, making a composite front door more durable than other doors like timber, which can warp and fade in harsh weather.

Front Door Security Systems

Now you’ve decided what material to choose for your new secure front door, make sure you consider what else might be necessary for your home. 

Toughened glazing

If you are opting for a door with glazing, look out for toughened glazing options. Compared to regular glazing, toughened glazing is more difficult to break and can withstand much more impact.

Fire doors

Fire doors are necessary for residential buildings. They provide a substantial amount of fire resistance, with the office FD rating which determines how long a fire door and sustain exposure to fire.

Long hinge screws

If your door is installed with short screws, opt for longer screws of around 4”. Longer screws provide structural integrity for your front door and can help protect against forced intrusion.

When it comes to improving your home’s efficiency, upgraded glazing can provide a wealth of value. New windows not only freshen your home’s aesthetics, they provide a wealth of benefits across the board.

You know you need to improve your glazing, but where do you begin? We look at the benefits of both double and triple glazing so you can decide which is right for your home.

The difference between double and triple glazing

The main difference between double glazing and triple glazing is the amount of panes of glass: double glazing features two panes of glass, whereas triple glazing features three panes of glass. 

The difference in the amount of panes can make a huge difference to certain aspects of your glazing. Energy efficiency, draughts, and security are all different between double glazing and triple glazing, but there are many considerations to make before you make a decision.

Initially there can be a vast difference in cost between double and triple glazing. Less widely accessible, triple glazing can front a higher cost than most double glazing alternatives. Double glazing on the other hand is very widely manufactured across the UK with an extensive amount of professional installers.

U-values may also differ between triple and double glazing. In most cases, triple glazing will boast high efficiency due to its additional thermal properties, but you should always compare the u-values between the products you are looking at.

The benefits of Double Glazing

Double glazing is highly popular within most private, residential and commercial properties. Double glazed windows and double glazed doors are among the most common types of glazed products, and both can boast superior thermal efficiency against single-glazed alternatives.

In some cases single-glazing windows may be present in a property. This is common in older properties, and listed buildings that do not allow the installation of different windows. 

In the case that your home still has single glazed windows or doors, double glazing can provide a wealth of benefits:

1. Increased insulation: compared to single glazed windows, double glazing can exponentially increase your home’s insulation, resulting in lower energy consumption. This can help reduce your energy bills by reducing the amount of heat lost within your home. 
2. Heightened Security: Not only do single glazed windows offer minimal thermal efficiency, they also provide very poor security. By adding an additional layer of thick glass with a double glazed window there is an additional physical barrier between your home and the outside.
3. Noise Reduction: The space between the 2 panes of glass acts as a sound barrier. You may notice a huge increase in noise reduction if you are upgrading to double glazed windows.
4. Cost-Effective: Double glazing is widely manufactured and supplied across the UK. It is easily accessible and much cheaper to produce than triple glazing. There are many double glazing installers around the UK that have years of experience installing double glazing. Triple glazing on the other hand is a more expensive alternative that is less accessible.

The benefits of Triple Glazing

Understanding how your home can benefit from double glazing is an important factor before upgrading your windows and doors. Double glazing might look like “it’ll do”, but will it really provide your home with the improvements that it needs?

In some circumstances triple glazing can provide additional benefits that double glazing cannot:

1. Increased Efficiency/Lower Bills: most triple glazing windows produce a lower u-value than double glazing windows, making them much more efficient. This in turn can reduce your heating bills throughout the year, especially in the colder months. It will also help keep your home cooler in the summer, as heat is harder to transfer.
2. Superior Security: where double glazing improved upon single glazing in terms of security, triple glazing adds another layer. This can exponentially help protection from break ins. 
3. Increased Home Value: when it comes to purchasing a new home, many homeowners are looking for energy efficient homes. If your home can provide sustainable heating throughout the colder months, you can promise prospects that your home will retain its heat throughout the winter.
4. High Durability & Lifespan: triple glazing, when installed correctly, can boast an increased lifespan over double glazed alternatives. 

Should I get double glazing or triple glazing?

If you are looking to upgrade your glazing in your home then it’s important to consider what it is that your home needs. If you’re looking to improve your glazing on a budget, then there are many double glazing options that might be more suitable for you. 

The most important thing to consider when it comes to efficiency is the u-value of your upgraded glazing. Always look for lower u-values if you are looking for better efficiency from your glazing.

Double Glazing Windows

One of the most effective home improvement methods that can increase the value of your home is to upgrade your double glazing. Double glazed windows deteriorate over time and have a lifespan up to 35 years. If your windows are looking worse for wear, are damaged, or are not operating correctly, then it might be time to replace them.

Replacing your double glazed windows will not only freshen up your home’s exterior aesthetics, but it can also improve your energy efficiency. Old and worn windows can be detrimental to your home’s thermal insulation.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

Energy efficient homes are becoming increasingly popular on the housing market. With increased energy bills that have been rising over the past year, a home’s energy efficiency is more important than ever.

Whilst there are many large scale projects that can increase the energy efficiency of your home, such as upgraded double glazed windows and doors, there are many smaller, more affordable changes that can make a significant difference.

For a cheap and quick investment, consider replacing old inefficient bulbs with up-to-date LED bulbs. These are easy to obtain and install, and won’t take much of your time.

For a more substantial, yet still affordable upgrade, consider replacing old flooring with thermally insulated flooring. Projects like this can be considered DIY, but there are many professionals who can advise and install new thermally efficient floors for your home.

Another investment that will provide a wealth of value to your home is up-to-date boilers. In the winter months, an inefficient boiler can be one of the biggest causes of high heating bills. 

Garden and Patio Makeover

Homeowners spend a lot of time renovating their internal living spaces. This is where they spend most of their time, so it is important that it works for them. Whilst internal spaces are important, having a freshly renovated garden can make the world of difference to the value of your home. 

For gardens with less space, take a look at paving walkways within the garden. Creating space for flower beds and vegetable gardens can be an appealing factor for any green thumbs looking to purchase your property. 

If your home has a larger garden, a conservatory might be the perfect solution to add value to your home. Not only does a conservatory add a lavish and luxury element to your home, it also creates an additional living space for you and your family. Conservatories are highly versatile, and there are many affordable options available.