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New windows are a significant purchase for any homeowner, and it can be difficult to make the right choice.
Your new windows need to match the overall aesthetic of your property, be energy-efficient, comply with building regulations, be secure and meet your specific needs.
But with so many options available, how do you decide?
Don’t worry, we’ve turned our 25+ years of experience in providing and installing windows to create this comprehensive windows buying guide for you.
Here, we will cover everything from the different types of windows and materials to budgeting, maintenance and glazing options. Let’s begin.
Types of Windows
First, you must decide which type of window to go for. In most cases, the simplest thing is to replace your old windows like for like just with a newer model. This not only narrows down your choices, but it also means you will likely avoid the need for planning permission sometimes required when you change the style or material of your windows.
The most popular types of windows in the UK are as follows:
Casement Windows:
Casement windows are the most popular choice for UK homeowners. They sit within a frame and open outwards on hinges, similar to doors. You can get flush casement windows or stormproof.
They are very versatile and available in many colours and finishes, including wood-grains.
Pros:
- Versatile and can be easily modified
- Easy to operate
- Weather resistant
- Easy to clean
- Energy-efficient
- Secure
- Let in natural light
- Offer some privacy
- Suitable for most homes
- Customisable with your choice of hardware
Cons:
- Lack the period charm of sash windows
- Have more parts that could break
- Heavier so it can be harder to install
- They are harder to repair should they break
Sash Windows:
Famed for their elegance and beauty, sash windows operate on springs with a pulley system moving two sashes up and down for better ventilation than traditional sash windows. Our sliding sash windows are available in timer and UPVC and include inward tilting for easy cleaning.
Pros:
- Ideal for traditional properties, particularly Victorian and Georgian homes
- They cool a room much faster than other styles
- Easy to clean
- Can be locked while open for more secure ventilation
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Harder to operate – complicated systems
- Can get stuck
- Do not fully open
- Take longer to paint or repair
- Require more maintenance, especially if timber
Tilt and Turn Windows:
A relatively new invention, tilt and turn windows are a type of casement window whose hinges enable it to be opened in two ways – either at an angle for ventilation to the top or fully opening the window inwards, from the bottom.
Pros:
- Great for modern homes
- Good ventilation
- Excellent insulation
- Flexibility
- Easy cleaning and low maintenance
- Can be secured when tilted for safety
Cons:
- Can be complicated to operate
- Hard to repair if anything is wrong with one of the mechanisms
- Require more space than other windows.
- Can be expensive
Bay and Bow Windows:
Bay and bow windows are commonly used in living rooms. Both comprise three windows but while bay windows extend outwards at sharp angles, bow windows are more curved with more glass and are typically oversized.
Pros:
- Create space and let in more light
- They are visually appealing
- Can be customised
Cons:
- Cost significantly more than similar-sized windows
- Take up a lot of room
- Difficult to install
- Hard to repair
- More likely to require planning permission
Picture Windows:
Also known as fixed windows, picture windows are fixed in their frames (like a portrait) and can not be opened. They are designed to provide a permanent frame for your view.
Pros:
- Maximise views and natural light
- Can make a room feel bigger and brighter
- Add curb appeal
- Energy efficient
Cons:
- Can’t be opened for ventilation
- Rooms can feel hot and stuffy in warm weather
Window Materials: Which One is Best?
The material of your window frames can make a big difference to the overall performance, so choose wisely.
uPVC (Vinyl):
The most popular windows among UK homeowners, UPVC are appealing due to their cost-effectiveness, easy maintenance and energy efficiency but there are some drawbacks.
Pros:
- Affordable
- It fits most contemporary homes
- Require very little maintenance
- Easy to clean
- Energy-efficient
Cons:
- Can look cheap
- They are hard to repair if they do break
- Don’t last as long as other materials
Wood:
Traditionalists love timber frames, but there are some disadvantages.
Pros:
- Beautiful authentic appearance
- Great for traditional homes
- Natural, sustainably-sourced
Cons:
- Prone to warping and splitting if not treated
- Requires more maintenance
Aluminium:
Aluminium is the most eco-friendly choice, but aluminium windows aren’t for everyone.
Pros:
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Slim profiles
- Very strong
- Can be any shape or size
- Durable and long-lasting
- Weather-resistant
- Infinitely recyclable
Cons:
- Offer less insulation than other windows if there are no thermal breaks
- Can look too modern for some period properties
Composite Windows:
Blending materials, such as wood and aluminium, composite windows offer better performance than untreated timber.
Pros:
- Durable
- Energy-efficient
- Weather-resistant
- Great insulation
Cons:
- Prices vary widely – hard to budget for
- Thicker frames restrict the choice of glazing
- They are harder to recycle
Steel Windows:
Most ‘steel windows’ are timber cores coated in steel. They can be used in period or contemporary settings to great effect.
Pros:
- Industrial look
- Strong
- Slim profiles
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy, so it can be harder to install
Your choice will be determined by your preferences and priorities but, whichever Manchester Window Factory window you choose, you will be covered by a 10-year insurance-backed warranty as standard.
Which is the best window glass?
Double Glazing: Energy-Efficient and Cost-Effective
- Two glass panes with a gap filled with an inert gas between them for insulation.
- Reduces heat loss and lowers energy bills.
- Great for noise reduction and security
Acoustic Glass: A Quiet Solution for Noisy Areas
- Features multiple layers with an acoustic interlayer for maximum soundproofing.
- Designed to absorb sound, reducing external noise pollution.
- Ideal for homes near busy roads, airports, or urban environments
Low-E Glass: Maximise Energy Efficiency
- The special coating reflects heat while letting natural light in.
- Keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Perfect for reducing heating and cooling costs.
Laminated Glass: Enhanced Security and Safety
- Two or more layers of glass with a plastic interlayer.
- Shatter-resistant, holding together even when broken.
- Excellent for security and reducing UV rays.
Obscure Glass: Protect Your Privacy
- Frosted or tinted glass obscures and distorts
- Choose the level of obscurity with Pilkington patterns and designs
- Also offers some noise-reduction benefits
Which is the most Energy Efficient?
Energy-efficient windows are a combination of the glazing, the frame and the seals. All our windows feature airtight seals and are A-rated.
This means they are highly efficient at insulating while enabling proper airflow. Energy-efficient windows can help reduce your heating bills and carbon footprint and improve your comfort.
The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) determines the most energy-efficient windows, so look out for the BFRC rating.
Some features that make windows energy efficient are:
- Airtight seals
- Double, triple or Low-E (coated) glazing
- Thermal breaks
- Pane spacers
Double vs Triple Glazing:
Triple glazing is the same as double glazing, just with three panes of glass instead of two and two inert gas-filled gaps between them. Upgrading from single to double glazing will greatly impact your energy usage, with possible savings of around £120 a year, according to the Energy Savings Trust.
Triple glazing is a better insulator and slightly more energy efficient but is not always value for money compared to double glazing. An average double-glazed window will cost around £325 compared to a triple-glazed window at £485. That’s quite a big price difference, not typically reflected in your energy savings.
The UK Government is trying to phase out single-glazing in a bid to reach their 2050 energy goals and is offering financial incentives to some homeowners who are making energy efficiency improvements.
Low-E glass is the most energy-efficient but can be double or triple-glazed. It has an ultra-thin heat-reflecting metal oxide coating on one of the internal glass surfaces. With Low-E glass, you get all the natural light you need, with the heat reflecting into the home.
Noise Reduction: Consider Acoustic Windows
All three glass types mentioned above also offer noise reduction. However, if you live in a particularly noisy area, such as near a train station, a city centre or the flight path of an airport, you may need soundproof windows. Acoustic glass is designed to block ambient sounds, muffling them between multiple panes of glass of varying thicknesses. One of the panes will typically be coated. This coating, with the thicker glass, makes acoustic glass more effective soundproofing than standard double or triple glazing. Although they are more expensive (£400-£1,000 per window on average), acoustic windows can block noise pollution by up to 95% so they are well worth the investment if unwanted noise from outside is an issue.
Budget Considerations
When planning your budget for any project, you should factor in the initial cost, the cost of maintenance and any savings the change will generate, plus any value added to the property.
In the case of windows, it is relatively simple to calculate the cost over time vs the return on investment.
The average cost of a timber window is between £850 – £1,800 depending on the type of window – casement v sliding sash, the size and the complexity of installation.
Aluminium windows are approximately £360 – £600 with UPVC much cheaper at £250 – £400.
Your choice of glazing and hardware will also alter the price.
Calculate the overall cost of the windows and installation, compared with the yearly saving on your energy bills. Remember that labour costs will vary depending on the area of the UK you live in. Experts say you should allow 10% to go ‘over’ budget for any unforeseen expenses.
Likewise, you may save money on cleaning and fixing by going for a low-maintenance option such as UPVC, but a longer lifespan such as timber or aluminium also offers savings in the long run.
You can also have your home revalued after the installation to see if you have invested wisely and increased the property value. You will need to know the ceiling price and if you have already reached it before work commences. A-rated windows will nearly always increase your property value (provided they are well-fitted) while attractive windows such as sliding sash and bay windows increase your curb appeal.
We want to help you make your budget go further. That’s why we’ve teamed up with regulated credit broker Kandoo, to offer you highly flexible payment options.
Installation Tips
If you are on a tight budget, it can be tempting to try to claw back some money by engaging in some DIY. This isn’t always a bad decision, but you must be careful that windows are installed correctly to prevent problems such as drafts, condensation and damage occurring later on. You will also need to ensure that the windows adhere to the latest building regulations and that you obtain the correct FENSA certificate. Failure to do so could mean paying out again for the accreditation. It could also cause trouble when selling your home, as estate agents will raise it as a potential red flag for prospective buyers.
Hiring a professional such as our in-house fitters will cost more upfront, but you can have the job completed to the highest standards and obtain the necessary certificates within a couple of days at most.
You should always check reviews and ask about aftercare before going ahead with any purchase or installation.
DIY Window Installation
Pros
- It will save you money off the initial cost of the windows
- You can learn how to from an online tutorial
- You can spontaneously decide when to install the windows
Cons
- It can be dangerous, especially with high and less accessible windows
- If you mess up you can damage your home and it will cost more to fix
- You could run into an unforeseen problem and not know what to do
- You won’t get a FENSA certificate issued on the day
Hiring Professionals
Pros
- The installation is included in your 10-year, insurance-backed guarantee
- You can be sure everything will be completed to the highest standard
- We will issue your FENSA certificate on the same day
- We bring professional equipment
- We clean up after ourselves
- It’s much safer to watch the pros do it!
Cons
- It will cost a little more upfront
- You have to book a date and time for the fitting
To choose a professional fitter:
- Get a couple of free, no-obligation quotes to compare
- Check
- Ask about aftercare
Window Maintenance and Longevity
Windows require different levels of maintenance and cleaning, depending on the materials used, as well as the age and style of the window.
- uPVC: Regular cleaning with mild soap and water.
- Wood: Periodic painting or varnishing to protect from moisture.
- Aluminium: Simple cleaning, but check for thermal break maintenance.
You should clean and check your windows regularly to avoid condensation and other issues. Some extra care and attention can keep your windows looking and working their best for many more years, increasing the minimum lifespan and saving you money on repairs and replacements.
If mobility or accessibility is a problem or if the windows are in a busy area with lots of finger or paw prints, you should consider self-cleaning glass.
Let's Recap
To recap, you need to consider the style, function, materials and cost of your windows. You should always go for the highest energy efficiency rating you can afford, and think about noise reduction, privacy and security.
The right windows will be an investment into your future, so think about the initial cost versus the cost of maintenance and replacements. Not only will attractive, energy-efficient windows enhance your home’s aesthetic, reduce your heating bills and lower your carbon footprint, but they can also increase your property value.
Remember to factor in the cost of installation and always ask a professional if unsure.
It’s a big decision, and we hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any other questions or would like to arrange a free no-obligation consultation regarding window replacements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Get In Touch Today
At Manchester Window Factory, we are experts in providing and installing the highest quality UPVC, aluminium and timber windows. We can talk you through your options and offer a free, no-obligation quote for your consideration. We also offer a pay monthly scheme to help you spread the cost. If you would like further information on any of our products or services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We look forward to hearing from you!
