8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE UPGRADING YOUR WINDOWS

Give your home kerb appeal while making it warmer and more energy efficient in time for winter by tackling old or outdated windows

- Hayley Gilbert

If you think your windows have seen better days, it may be time to get them replaced and upgraded to ensure your home is thermally efficient and secure. It can feel like a daunting prospect with planning permission to consider, where to find a reputable installer and the overall cost but by doing your research and using trusted trades, you will be making a great investment in your property, avoiding costly fixes later on and boosting its kerb appeal at the same time. Our step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process from start to finish.

I Know when to upgrade

If you're not sure whether your windows need replacing, visible damage is the most obvious sign. Look for cracked glass, condensation between the panes or damage to the hinges, handles or frames. If you find them difficult to open and close, you're also reducing your home's energy efficiency as well as making it less secure and more prone to water damage. In which case, it's more cost effective to get them replaced than waiting for the worst to happen.

Most windows come with a 10-year guarantee so if you're still in warranty, get your supplier to come out and assess. If you have timber frames that have cracks, gaps, swelling or peeling paint, then you could repair the damage yourself, but if you're not a confident DIYer, it's best to get the experts in.

2 Replacing standard windows

Before you upgrade, think about functionality, aesthetics, energy efficiency and longevity. 'One of the first things to consider is the material of the frames,' advises Edward Stobart, sales manager at innovative glazing company ID Systems. 'uPVC is usually the default option whereas high-performance aluminium offers slimmer frames, a wider range of opening options and larger panes of glass.' Timber is also an option but won't last as long.