Question 1

Why aluminium windows?

Accepted Answer

Aluminium windows have a range of benefits that make them a great alternative to uPVC windows. Developments in technology have meant that modern aluminium windows now have the same energy efficiency levels as uPVC. Plus, their strength and flexibility make them a more attractive choice to many homeowners, particularly for more modern buildings.

Aluminium frames are typically much thinner than uPVC frames, allowing more light in and wider views. The metal can also be moulded to suit custom shapes, making it ideal for unusually shaped windows. Aluminium windows are available in lots of different colours, so can be designed to suit a wide range of interiors and exteriors.

Question 2

What to put over a broken window?

Accepted Answer

A broken window is a nuisance and an unwanted expense, and it can often happen at the worst times, like overnight when installers aren’t available or when the weather is very bad. So you might need to put something over your broken window as a temporary measure before someone can come and replace it – but what should you use? If you’ve got a small crack, you could try using some masking tape. Cover the entire crack with the tape making sure that there is extra tape at each end of the crack. This will help to prevent the crack from growing further. However, this isn’t going to work on large impact cracks or shattered windows. For a shattered window, you need to make sure you remove all the remaining glass as the shards could easily cut someone. To make a broken window like this safe, you’ll need: Thick gloves A hammer A broom A vacuum cleaner Thick-soled shoes Safety goggles Put your gloves on and use the hammer to remove the rest of the glass. Make sure you hit the glass away from you. Using the broom, sweep away any loose glass from the area, making sure you do both inside and outside. Use your vacuum cleaner to remove any small pieces of glass that you might not have been able to see. Once you’ve cleared up the mess, you’ll want to cover your broken window with plastic and tape. It’s only a temporary measure so make sure you get in touch with a professional as soon as possible. Cut some heavy-duty plastic to fit the entire window. Using duct tape, secure the plastic over the window and make sure all the sides are sealed properly. It’s best to ensure that the plastic stays taught over the frame so it doesn’t get caught by the wind. Make sure you get in touch with a glazier or window installer as soon as you can – you'll notice a draught very quickly and someone could easily come and rip the plastic off. If you’re very worried about this you might want to add a chipboard over the top to make it more secure.

Question 3

Will double glazing increase my property’s value?

Accepted Answer

These days, buyers expect homes to have double glazing. People recognise the benefits of installing double glazing, so if you don’t have it installed you should consider it. You’ll increase your property’s value and give it a better chance of selling faster, since single glazed properties are also more likely to have problems with damp and mould which could put buyers off.

Question 4

How to fix a cracked glass window?

Accepted Answer

You can end up with a cracked glass window in a few ways. The most common one is when a rogue stone in the lawnmower hits the window or someone’s cricket or tennis game goes wrong and you end up with a ball through the window. Youi often end up with a ‘bullseye’ type crack that expands out from the point of impact. You can also get pressure and stress cracks from intense fluctuations in pressure and temperature. Unfortunately, there’s no way you can permanently fix cracked windows without replacing the entire sealed unit. An installer can replace a cracked glass window in less than an hour simply by taking out the sealed unit (the two panes of glass in double glazed windows) and replacing it with a new one. It costs an average of £110, but you could try to do it yourself for around £55. But what if you can’t get an installer to fix your window straight away? There is a DIY method you could try. As a temporary fix for your glass window, you can use a solvent-based adhesive like epoxy which will keep the glass intact and prevent further damage. You’ll also need: Washing up liquid Glass cleaner A lint-free cloth or rag A putty knife A paper plate Acetone First, you’ll want to clean the glass using the washing up liquid and a damp cloth to remove any dust or oils. Leave it for a few minutes to dry, then create a mixture of epoxy by combining the hardener and the resin and stirring it on a paper plate. Using the putty knife, spread the mixture on the cracks, making sure you press gently to fill them. Leave it for at least 5 minutes to dry, then get rid of any excess by using some acetone on a dry cloth. Clean the window using some glass cleaner and another dry cloth, and you should have a temporary fix!

Question 5

how to fit a double glazed window?

Accepted Answer

Did you just purchase a double glazed window and confused about how to have it installed? Fitting the window yourself can be quite easy with the help of this step by step guide. However, if you lack proper training or experience, we’d recommend you reach out to a trustworthy professional who can guarantee the best results for help. That said, now let’s take a look at the process.

• Remove the old windows by detaching the old beading and glass window safely. Then make some interval cuts using a hand saw before using a crowbar to pry it out.

• Cut the external double glazed window seal. Once done, take a measurement of the window area’s width once empty. Then transfer the measurement to the window sil to face outside and cut using a handsaw.

• Seal the window sil. Add a bead of clear silicone along both inside lip as well as the centre to seal the sil.

• Screw the double glazed window to the sil. Position the window on the top of the lipped section that was siliconed. Then pre-drill them together and screw in three places. You should make sure the screws do not go totally to the sil’s bottom.

• Install the double glazed window. After successfully screwing the double glazed window to the sil, you can now fit in the double glazing. Make use of packers to make sure it’s even in the slot.

• Screw the uPVC window to the wall. If you’re happy and satisfied with the position of the window, you can then pre-drill through the frame of the window and the brick wall. Once done, simply screw it in place using masonry screws or Spax screw as they do not require crawl plugs in bricks.

• Seal around the window. To do this, simply fill any gaps with expanding foam, wipe out the excess and seal with silicone.

Question 6

What happens to my old windows?

Accepted Answer

After fitting your new windows, your installer should take away and dispose of your old windows. If you want to keep them, just let your installer know before they start work. The UPVC frames are melted down and used on the unseen parts of new windows. Aluminium frames are re-smelted and wooden are broken down and used as chipboard.

Question 7

how to fit a double glazed window?

Accepted Answer