Things to Consider before Choosing Double Glazing
If your home has become progressively less efficient energy wise, and you have decided that perhaps replacing your doors and windows could help, then you may be on the right track. Before getting started though, you need to do your research on double glazing and upvc replacement windows and doors, as these increasingly popular home improvement solutions are extremely efficient as well as attractive. And if in the end you decide on double glazing, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.
Double glazing is such an attractive alternative for many who are replacing windows and doors because it is a model of efficiency. It is a system in which two panes of glass are placed several millimeters apart in order to form the window. In this way, air is trapped and an insulating layer is formed. Replacing your standard windows and doors with double glazing upvc windows and doors can possibly cut your heat loss in half. They also help decrease noise from outside and practically eliminate internal condensation.
When considering the double glazing company, you should be able to review a range of double glazing windows and doors either in their showroom or on their website. Visiting the website of companies is a good way to get a feel for the products you are considering before actually visiting the showroom, and it also saves you time.
When you are researching companies that offer double glazing, a few things to keep in mind are:
- If you are allowed to choose from a full range of products or just a few styles.
- If the company can provide you with a listing of satisfied customers in the area.
- If the company use a qualified surveyor to "measure up" and assess any complications before work is started.
- If a code of practice covers the installers.
- If the work is guaranteed.
and any other pertinent questions you may have.
If the company satisfactorily addresses your concerns, then you can relatively safely request a quote for your replacement windows and doors.
Once you have decided which company you will be choosing for your double glazing, then it imperative that you receive a contract for the work. Be sure that your contract addresses the price for the double glazing as well as any fees for additional work. There should also be a full detailed description of what work is included in the contract, including any extras. It should also detail when the double glazing installation will start and how the work will proceed to completion.
Before your windows and doors are replaced, be sure that you are aware of the payment options and terms for double glazing. Some typical options include financing and payment in stages. You should also understand what types of fees are levied for late payments. When you accept a quote, the double glazing company will typically require a deposit of 20-30% of the total price. But if you are able, try to negotiate for as little deposit as possible. This will help you in the event that the company does not perform the work as stated.
Essentially, when replacing your windows and doors with double glazing, you should exercise the same caution that you would for any other large purchase. By performing adequate research on several double glazing companies, you will most likely find yourself satisfied with the end result.

*Based on a independently audited survey submitted to 3216 customers. The survey ran from January 2011 until April 2011 with a 70% return rate.