Manchester Window Factory provides the North West with a variety of flush and stormproof casement windows in UPVC, aluminium, and timber designed to improve your home’s appearance and energy efficiency.
But, if your budget allows, bespoke casement windows can further enhance your property. Customised casement windows can be created to fit any size, match any decor, and incorporate the latest technology, providing solutions to common issues such as energy inefficiency and noise pollution.
In this blog, we will outline the benefits of choosing made-to-measure casement windows and selecting each element that works best for you.
Why Choose Bespoke Casement Windows?
Since replacing your windows is a significant investment, you want to get it right.
Mass-produced casement windows will slot neatly into standard-sized spaces and function perfectly well in the average home. However, you may be limited in the shape, colour and finish.
If you wish to have a custom colour or a specific wood grain finish, for example, bespoke windows are the way to go.
Homes with non-standard-sized windows will need the custom measurements you get with bespoke units.
If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, your property may be subject to stricter guidelines regarding the appearance and integrity of any window replacements.
Our custom casement windows can be created to perfectly match the look of period windows while affording you all the convenience and comfort of modern technology.
Finally, if you want to put your stamp on your property and make a statement, bespoke windows enable you to translate your ideas into reality.
Benefits of Choosing Custom-Sized Casement Windows
Made-to-measure windows do what they say on the tin. Instead of a standard fit that may not be quite right, custom-sized casement windows can be tailored to fit seamlessly into any sized space. This perfect fit ensures:
- Enhanced aesthetics – a seamless fit creates a smooth finish
- Improved energy efficiency – a tighter fit means no gaps, reducing heat loss
- More eco-friendly – you will release fewer harmful emissions
- Tailored functionality – choose the bits you need and put them together in one window
The Pros and Cons of Bespoke Casement Windows
Window Type | Pros | Cons |
Bespoke Casement Windows | Tailored fit for any opening; Fully customisable design & material; Enhanced energy efficiency due to precise sizing; Ideal for period or unique properties. | Higher upfront cost; Longer lead times due to custom manufacturing. |
Standard Casement Windows | More affordable and readily available with faster installation. | Limited sizing and design options; May not fit unusual openings perfectly. |
Sliding Windows | Space-saving (no need to swing open); Easy to operate. | Less effective seal vs casement; Limited design customisation. |
Fixed Windows | Maximum energy efficiency (no moving parts); Cost-effective. | Cannot open for ventilation; Limited function to views only. |
Sash Windows | Traditional look, great for period properties; Good ventilation control. | More maintenance (especially timber sash); Can be less energy efficient. |
Tilt and Turn Windows | Versatile opening mechanisms; Easy cleaning from inside. | More expensive than standard casements; Complex hardware can require maintenance. |
Material Options
One of the most important decisions you will make with a bespoke window is the frame material. UPVC, aluminium, and timber are the most popular choices, and each offers different benefits and potential drawbacks. We have previously covered these different types of frames in an earlier blog, but here is a quick recap.
UPVC
The most affordable and low-maintenance option, UPVC also offers good insulation and weather resistance. It is available in several colours and finishes, such as wood grain, and it can be recycled, albeit 10 times max.
The downsides of UPVC are that it can sometimes look cheap, it has to be thick to accommodate the weight of the glass, it can discolour or crack over time and is hard to repair. It also doesn’t typically last as long as aluminium or timber.
Aluminium
Aluminium is more expensive than UPVC but offers a sleek, slimline look while being weather-resistant and extremely durable. It can be recycled indefinitely and is just as strong at any thickness. It doesn’t rust, warp or crack and requires very little maintenance. Aluminium can be sprayed in most RAL colours, and it lasts around 45 years.
The only real issue apart from the extra cost, is that if aluminium frames are not equipped with thermal breaks, they are not the best insulator.
Timber
Timber frames are usually the most expensive and require the most maintenance. They can crack, warp or rot if not given the proper care and attention.
On the other hand, they are timeless and authentic, the best natural insulators, recyclable and sustainable. They can also be stained or painted several times after installation.
Design Options
With bespoke casement windows, you can mix and match design options to create the perfect window.
Glazing
One of the most significant aspects of customisation is choosing which glass best suits your needs. All our casement windows come with double glazing as standard. However, you can upgrade to triple glazing, energy-efficient Planitherm glazing, acoustic glass for noise control or obscure glass to control your level of privacy.
Traditional leaded glass is a good option for recreating original stained glass, while self-cleaning glass is excellent for those who require a low-maintenance option.
Last but not least, internal blinds can help you control temperature, privacy and light penetration without the hassle of blinds or curtains.
Security
Another aspect of the window you can customise is the lock and security features. We offer the latest window locks, including safety features and the potential to link to a SMART home system.
Hardware
The final piece of the puzzle is getting the hardware just right. The wrong colour or finish can seem out of place and ruin the look of the windows.
Fortunately, we have a collection of handles, bars, fixtures and fittings in tones and effects such as brushed chrome, gold, silver and more.
Installation Process
The installation process for bespoke windows doesn’t differ too much from standard units. However, you should allow longer for the arrival of the units and for their installation.
Our professionally certified in-house fitters are well-versed in fitting custom-sized casement windows and will ensure a perfect fit with minimal disruption.
We will take exact measurements at the initial consultation and create a bespoke quote so you know what you will be paying if you choose to go ahead.
Not only does it make sense to have your window providers install them, but we are highly recommended by many happy customers.
We will then manufacture your windows to your precise specifications.
As mentioned, bespoke windows have a longer wait time, but we will keep you informed at every step, ensuring your peace of mind.
On installation day, we will work efficiently and complete the job to the highest standard. Your windows come with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee as standard. You will also receive a FENSA certificate indicating that your windows and installation comply with building regulations. You will likely need this if you wish to sell your home in the future.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Aftercare is important with any windows but, having paid more and designed your windows so carefully, you will want them to last as long as possible.
How much maintenance is required will depend on the material of the frame, the glazing and the fixtures and fittings.
UPVC windows can generally just be wiped down with a microfibre cloth and some warm soapy water or a non-abrasive cleaning solution. Ditto aluminium frames. Timber frames can also be cleaned with a damp cloth, but don’t get them too wet as this could cause rot and damage. Timber frames may also need resealing and painting more often than other materials.
With all bespoke windows – be sure to check and lubricate hinges and handles etc, to ensure they don’t get stuck.
Cost Factors
A bespoke casement window is typically more expensive than a standard casement window.
The average cost of a standard, mass-produced UPVC, aluminium or timber window is between £370 – £1,820 approximately, depending on the size and the materials used.
For a bespoke casement window, costs can increase significantly, up to around £2,000 for a single unit. This is due to the materials and the custom size and design. Since bespoke windows are made to order, you pay extra for the craftsmanship and specifics, such as customised colours and finishes.
Installing bespoke windows can also be more expensive, as they may need to be fitted to a non-standard opening, which is more complicated and may take longer.
However, bespoke windows will enhance your home’s curb appeal and may increase the property value. They are also likely more energy efficient, saving you money on your heating bills.
Conclusion
Bespoke casement windows can help your home blend perfectly with its surroundings or stand out from the crowd. They can restore a period property to its former glory and increase your energy efficiency. In a nutshell, they perfectly combine form and function for high curb appeal and optimal performance.
If you would like to know more about our bespoke windows service, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation.
How to Get in Touch
If you want to find out more about creating customised windows, doors, and conservatories, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call us on 0161 976 4739, use our contact form or chat with us via the chat button at the bottom right of this website. If you live locally, you can also visit our Altrincham showroom, and check our contacts page for up-to-date opening hours.
We look forward to hearing from you!
FAQs
Yes, bespoke casement windows usually offer better energy efficiency than mass-produced casement windows, reasons include:
- A perfect fit – bespoke windows are tailored to match your exact specifications.
- Materials – you can choose the most energy-efficient combination of frame, glass and seals.
- The latest technology – you can incorporate the latest advances in windows, such as thermal breaks, safety locks and automatic openers to prevent excess heat loss.
- Airtight seals – all our casement windows have airtight seals, but bespoke windows can be crafted with even tighter seals as part of their construction.
- Glazing – you can choose the most energy-efficient glazing on the UK market – Planitherm.
Yes, depending on the material of the frame, you can choose from a veritable rainbow of RAL colours to find the exact shade you want. We offer authentic-looking wood grain finishes, metallic effects and even dual colours, so you can create a different interior look to the outside of your home.
Bespoke window orders can take anywhere from 4-14 weeks to arrive. This is dependent on how busy the manufacturers are, and the availability and complexity of the customised elements you have chosen. Manchester Window Factory will always keep you updated with the progress of your order, so you’re never left wondering when it will arrive.
Depending on the grading of the listed building and the period it was built, bespoke casement windows may be a suitable choice. With a listed building, you are generally looking to replicate the look of the original windows but with modern technology. You will likely need planning permission and/or listed building consent, and be sure to match the materials used as closely as possible while improving energy efficiency and insulation.
Unsurprisingly, bespoke windows tend to be more expensive than standard units. You pay for skilled craftsmanship and ‘extras’ such as colour sprays or special finishes. The materials used, size, shape, and complexity of the design will all affect the cost.
