Introduction Spring is in the air. Time to refresh your home ready for the new season. The tracks in which sliding doors slide can become dirty and cluttered over time – affecting their smooth operation. This is extremely important for coastal properties, as the sea air is known to leave deposits, so regular cleaning and maintenance will help you avoid…
Triple Glazing U Values When the topic of windows or glass arises, you may often hear the term U value being used. The U value is often used when comparing the energy performance of double or triple-glazed windows or glass units. It is a standard industry term to describe the level of thermal transmittance that a window or piece of…
Read Our Latest Guide on Double Glazing for Listed Buildings (Grade 1 & 2) Owning a listed building allows you to enjoy a piece of history and provides a unique living opportunity. Still, it also includes restrictions on replacing windows and home renovations, requiring you to follow specific guidelines. You will need to submit a planning application to the local…
How Might New Windows and Doors Lower Energy Bills? There is no denying that the cost of living is steadily going up, including the price of gas and electricity which are currently soaring. Cheap energy tariffs have disappeared over the last few months and very few if any energy suppliers are offering fixed tariffs. Based on Ofgem’s calculations in April…
There is nothing worse than installing beautiful bi-fold doors only for the track to fill with water and leak into your home. If this is happening to you, then you will want to find an effective solution. Check out the most common reasons for this problem and find out how to fix them with our handy guide. Problem 1 –…
If you live in a period property or conservation area you want to create a classic look for your home’s exterior, then choosing between Astragal or Georgian bars for your window may be causing you stress. The majority of people who purchase new windows are not aware that there is a difference between these two types of bars, nor do…
Aluminium window frames offer a host of benefits to homeowners, so it isn’t too surprising that many people opt for them over the alternatives. However, if the paint on the window frame becomes chipped, what can you do about it? Here, we offer you some top tips to point you in the right direction. The Benefits Of Aluminium Windows Some…
Coloured window frames are a great addition to any home, adding aesthetic appeal to your property. However, coloured frames are, unfortunately, no less susceptible to damage than plain white ones. Although uPVC is remarkably resilient and durable, it can still be scratched and pitted by mechanical means. For example, if you accidentally scrape a mortar trowel on the window frame…
No matter what type of building you live in, whether it be a period property or a new-build home, you may experience an issue with energy-efficient windows and condensation. While it may appear to be a minor problem, if you don’t deal with it quickly it could cause long-lasting problems that can be costly to fix including mould and dampness….
Are you considering replacement double glazed windows for your home or you’re choosing windows for new build project or home improvement renovation? You’ll need to consider which window frame material is right for you and your home, be it wood, uPVC, aluminium, or composite windows. To help you choose we’ve collated a few FAQ’s from homeowners in Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire,…
Are looking to buy a new modern front door for your home? We’ve put together a few FAQ’s from homeowners in Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Oxfordshire and Southeast which may help you decide on the best entrance door. · What materials can I choose from? Include the pros and cons of each. There are four materials you can choose for your…
Double glazing repairs and maintenance at Thames Valley Windows is for our own customers where we have installed double and triple glazing into properties in Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire and beyond. I’ve got mould on my window Windows don’t cause mould; what could be causing it is condensation. We would advise for increased ventilation. My door handle spins round and round…
Replacing and installing windows doors is a home improvement project that should only ever be installed by reputable double glazing installers. FENSA certificate for windows the survey, installation of energy-efficient double glazing is an assurance that you receive the best quality and what’s more, you’re going to need to know that the expertise and service you receive are of a…
Planning permission is a question many homeowners ask when making home improvements to their property. If you are thinking about installing a glass roof lantern to a new flat roof home extension, or replacement roof for orangery or conservatory, let’s take a look if you need planning permission from local planning authority to install a roof lantern. What is a…
What Are Window Mullions and Transoms? Here at Thames Valley Windows, we make sure to keep homeowners informed about all the architectural window jargon. You may not have heard of window mullions and transoms before; however, you have likely seen them! Ultimately, they are the specific names for the beams on modern windows. Let’s take a closer look. What Are…
Corner bifold doors and sliding doors are one of the fastest evolving glazing trends for homeowners who want an open corner in their homes, for seamless indoor-outdoor, contemporary living. An open corner in both modern and traditional properties creates the ultimate wow-factor and is a must-have feature in new kitchen extensions. The trend that seems to have the most staying…
Often referred to as concertina doors, sliding doors and even zig-zag doors, doors that fold back along a track to create a room that is fully opened on at least one side are now very well known, even if their name isn’t. The term ‘bi-fold door’ relates to the fact that there will be a minimum of two panels that…
A window is a window, until you come to purchase new windows and suddenly you’re hearing terms that can mean very little, but can make all the difference to the aesthetics and workings of your windows. Here’s a handy double glazing windows glossary of the industry terms. Casement: Another name for the sash. Concealed Drainage: Drains water underneath the window out…
This is a question we are often asked. Both are extensions of your living space, both have a mix of brick and glazed areas and both have glass roofs. So, what is the difference between a Conservatory and an Orangery? The simplest explanation is that a Conservatory has a roof that is all glass whereas an Orangery has a roof…
If you’re looking to add a conservatory to your home, you may not need planning permission. Conservatories are usually exempt from building regulations when: They are built at ground level and are less than 30 square metres in floor area The conservatory is separated from the house by external walls, doors or windows There is an independent heating system with…