How to Choose New Windows: From Window Styles to Finding the Right Window Installation Service

Not only can replacing your windows enhance the appearance of your home, but installing new windows can also reduce your energy bills, improve the security of your property, increase your comfort and even add value to your home. 

Below, we share our top tips for choosing the right windows for your home, taking style, cost, material and efficiency into consideration. 

Windows come in a whole range of different styles, sizes, designs and finishes. The first thing to decide is what type of window frame material you’d like for your property. You should aim to choose a frame that complements the style and architecture of your home, and one that is also functional and practical. 

PVCu windows are a common choice for homeowners. They’re affordable, durable and long-lasting, yet easy to maintain and look after. PVCu offers excellent insulation abilities for heat and sound and can enhance the security of your home. 

Wooden framed windows are timeless. While they require more maintenance than other window frame materials, wooden framed and timber windows are protected against heat loss and external sound and will keep your property secure. It’s important to carry out the correct maintenance as wooden frames can rot without the correct treatment. 

Aluminium frames are lightweight and flexible, yet sturdy and secure. As aluminium can be easily manipulated, it’s the perfect material for homes with unusual windows or oddly shaped designs. Aluminium frames are generally easy to maintain and are very affordable too. 

The glazing option you go for will have a huge impact on how effective your new windows will be. There are a few different options to choose from: 

Single-pane glass is unsuitable in most situations. Generally, you’d only choose single-pane glass windows if you live in a very mild climate. Single-paned windows only provide one pane of glass between your home and the outside world, meaning they won’t insulate your home well and both noise and cold air will get in. 

Double glazing 

Double glazing consists of two panes of glass with a sealed air space in between them. This helps to retain heat and insulate your home, ensuring both cold and hot air cannot enter your home. The two panes coupled with the thickness of the glass also reduces the amount of external noise that enters your home. Finally, double glazing is also great for reducing condensation in the home; by reducing condensation build up in your windows, you’ll have less mould and damp in your property. 

If you live in a very cold climate, you may consider triple glazed windows. Triple glazing is the process of fitting an extra pane of glass to your window, resulting in a total of three panes of glass. It’s the best at reducing heat loss out of all the options and offers excellent heat insulation properties. 

Choosing a window style is an important part of the process; you want to choose a style that complements the aesthetic of your home yet meets your needs too. Here are a few different types to consider: 

Casement windows are an elegant yet modern option. They’re usually taller than they are wide and have pivot hinges on the side of the window frame, allowing them to open out like doors. Casement windows are ideal for ventilating rooms as they open wide; they also offer an unobstructed view. 

Sliding windows are a great option for those looking to save a bit of money. Sliding windows are affordable and they require little maintenance, making them ideal for those with a busy schedule. As they only open halfway, sliding windows don’t provide as much ventilation as other styles - but they offer an obstructed view. 

Bay windows are a great way to open up a room, making it look and feel bigger than it is. Timeless and elegant, bay windows look great in both contemporary and traditional settings. They let lots of natural light into a room and, when fitted with a comfortable seating area, they make the perfect cosy corner to read a book. 

Double-hung windows are the perfect addition to traditional homes. This style of window slides up and down, allowing you to let in as much or as little air into the room as you wish. Modern double-hung windows have a spring mounted mechanism instead of the old weight and pulley style, making them easier to use. 

There are lots of other window styles and designs to explore too; it’s always worth doing your research before you choose a style. 

Choose the right supplier for your new window installation 

When it comes to your window installation, it’s important to choose the right supplier. There are lots of window installation companies around, but how do you make sure you choose the right one? There are a few things you should do before choosing a supplier to ensure you receive the highest quality products. 

The best way to find a reliable window company is to simply ask around for recommendations. Ask friends, family members and neighbours whether they’ve hired a window company before and if they have any recommendations. There’s a good chance someone will be able to recommend you someone they had a good experience with. 

If you’re stuck for recommendations, the internet can be a useful tool for finding reliable window suppliers and installers. When checking out a company online, always read customer reviews and testimonials. Reliable and reputable companies will be more than happy to display reviews on their website and provide you with customer references. 

Gather quotes and ask about window installation costs

It’s a good idea to shop around and gather quotes instead of simply going with the first window company you come across. We recommend gathering three quotes from different suppliers to compare against each other. Remember, if a quote is particularly low or cheap, this could be a sign they’re cutting corners or using cheaper materials. Always ask for a full breakdown of the costs in your quote, including any hidden fees. 

If you’re looking for a reliable metal window company in London, you needn’t look further than Metali Window Service. We’re proud to have the reputation as one of the best window manufacturers in the area; our experienced and skilled team have expertise in steel and aluminium windows. We complete every installation with intricate precision, care and excellent customer service. 

We offer window and door installations to both domestic and commercial clients, and are experts in window repairs and maintenance. For more information about us, visit our website. Alternatively, get in touch with a friendly member of our team to discuss your requirements, from skylight installation costs to window repair advice.