When planning a self-build, large scale renovation or simply replacing your windows, it can be hard to decide on the best windows for your home. Typically windows are the 3rd largest spend in a house-build project, so the decision is not to be taken lightly. With so many window styles and materials available, it only becomes more complicated.
Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking for new windows:
If you’re simply looking to replace existing windows, this is a simple process of measuring the space you have currently. If you’re looking to add a new window to the walls or expand an existing window space, you’ll need to understand where the support beams or studs are and what building permissions will be necessary to create this expansion.
You may have some requirements you’re looking to fulfil when replacing windows in your home. If the sounds of the street are coming right into your living room, looking for a window that has especially strong noise reduction qualities may be a top priority for you. For ground-level windows, perhaps those that are extremely secure will be at the forefront of your choices.
It’s also important to note that many homes now have energy-efficiency requirements, so choosing windows that help to meet those standards will be important. Glazing can have a big effect on the heat retention capabilities of your home.
The glazing type will help with heat retention on your windows and the higher the glazing, the less heat lost. Triple glazing is not always needed, but there certainly can be benefits to using it, depending on the specifications of the project. The efficacy of glazing is measured by U-Values for which lower numbers mean better heat retention.
The average single glazed window U-Value is around 5.0W/m2K while NorDan’s double glazed windows already reduce this to 1.2W/m2K. If you opt for the triple glazed windows, you might get a U-Value as low as 0.7W/m2K.
The handles on your windows will show indoors and choosing a colour that matches other metals or hardware in your home is important. For example, if you’ve replaced windows in your kitchen and have a grey or silvery fridge, then a chrome or matte chrome handle may suit you better. With NorDan, you’ll have four colour choices with white, brass, chrome or matte chrome as options. These handles also have three distinct styles including standard, lockable and one with a child safety restrictor. That way you can find a handle that meets your exact needs.
The material composition of the frame and sash can greatly affect a window’s energy efficiency and heat transfer ratings. We use timber that is aluminium-clad to ensure that our windows are long-lasting, sustainable and virtually zero maintenance. The timber is vacuum impregnated and powder coating, making them robust and resistant to rot and fungus as well. The powder coating can be done in a wide range of RAL colours, ensuring you are able to have windows that suit the colour palette of any room.
There are so many options when it comes to window styles and configurations. There’s a variety of opening directions (fixed, inward or outward), opening styles (Top swing, side swing, tilt and turn, etc.) and configurations (combination, single, multi-sash, etc). Choosing the perfect window type will come down to your personal requirements.
An inward opening window may be easier to clean from the indoors, for example. A tilt and turn window can allow for ventilation safely while children are present. A multi-sash window might fit the overall style of the house better than a more modern combination window. There are many different factors that can come into play – but it may be helpful to see the windows in person before making a decision.
Why not take some of the stress out of picking your windows and come into our showroom. Here you will be able to come and see our products and the various options available in person. You will be taken around the showroom by one of our highly experienced showroom coordinators who will be able to answer any questions or queries you have and be able to make the process as easy as possible for you. They’ll also give a comprehensive demonstration of the units you’re considering.
At NorDan, we’re continuously trying to improve our offering to make our customer’s experience as straightforward as possible and paying a visit to our showroom can take a lot of the uncertainty out of picking your windows.
We have them in Cork, Galway and Dublin so please get in touch to book a visit to your nearest showroom.
