If you work within the working in the construction industry, you will be familiar with the concept of fenestration. However, it can often receive a misconceived definition. ‘Fenestra’, a Latin word that means ‘Window’. Fenestration is an architectural term and refers to the openings in a building’s façade and refers to the quality of any fenestration products that brings heat…
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…
You’d be forgiven for having a look at the title of this article and having a little chuckle to yourself, thinking we’ve completely lost the plot! Surely softwood is soft and hardwood is hard, no? It can’t be much simpler than that, you might think. But no, the terms softwood and hardwood timber don’t refer to the density or hardness…
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…
Flush casements are increasing in popularity for home improvement projects but what exactly does the term ‘flush casement window.’ mean? The easiest way to explain it is that when the window (or sash) is closed, it sits flush within the frame, creating a flat surface on the outside. A lipped casement window is a more widely known design today. This…
It’s highly unlikely you’d buy a car without first visiting the dealer’s showroom. The same should be said for your new windows and doors too. They are likely to be one of the largest investments you make, and arguably the most important when it comes to the look and value of your home. Even if you have a very good…
There is a stated guideline for an extension that the glass area must not exceed 25% of the overall floor area. However, this is a guideline and not a rule and there is a common misconception that this cannot be overcome. There are many ways to get around this issue to maximise the glazing in your extension and these are…
Many terms are used for a glazed extension these days including conservatory, orangery, lean-to, livin room or glass structure. Regardless of the description, they all fall under the same guidelines when it comes to planning permission for extending your home. Over the years, planning laws have changed and continue to do so. In recent times the majority of these changes have…
You may have heard a number of terms being banded around when looking for your sliding doors. These refer to the different types of operation and result in a variation in both their performance and looks. In-Line Sliding Doors are the conventional method that we are all familiar with. Normally in two, three or four-panel configurations, the doors sit on…
An engineered timber window is only as good as the environment it is built in. As discussed in our earlier blog, ‘What is the Difference Between Solid Timber and Engineered Timber?‘, the latter is by far the stronger, more robust of the two materials. Engineered timber is 60% stronger than solid timber, making it perfect for windows and doors where…
Engineered timber is created by joining three sheets of timber together, where the middle sheet sits against the grain of the one above and below it. This is known as laminated timber. Alternating the grain of the wood like this prevents the timber from moving, swelling, shrinking and warping, creating a very strong and stable piece of timber. The timber…
Part Q is the latest industry buzz word, but what does it mean and will it affect your project plans? Building regulation Part Q applies to new builds only (or where a new build is formed by a material change of use such as a renovation or refurbishment) and took effect on 1st October 2015 in England. Part Q does…
Anyone can make a dramatic visual change to the appearance of their home, regardless of the age or style of property. When was your property built? If you have a property that was built before 1950, it is likely that any changes made by the previous owners over the years have detracted from the original character of the building. A…
There’s no doubt that investing in new windows, doors or glazed extension is a bit of a daunting prospect. It can be overwhelming – especially in this time of information-overload that we live in. The research stage is probably the most fun. Who doesn’t love watching the likes of Kevin McCloud and George Clarke. Their passion and enthusiasm is enough…
Finding the right retailer to install your windows and doors is essential. Not only do you need to find a retailer with a solid reputation, you also need to find a company that can guide you through the latest window and door systems. What you have installed today, needs to last at least ten years, if not longer. So how…
We love this short 90 second video created by Hans-Jörn Eich. We have included the transcript below. While most people wouldn’t build to a full Passive House certification level, it is good practice to implement many of the ideals. High energy glazing is a good place to start! Passive House Explained in 90 Seconds Does your house have a heater in the…
Secondary glazing is a fully independent internal window, fitted on the room side of an existing window. The frames are slim but strong. They are made from durable aluminium and require little maintenance. Replacing your current windows isn’t always an option, particularly if you live in a listed building or conservation area. Secondary glazing gives you many of the benefits offered by…
We can provide you with full colour 3D visualisations, allowing you to explore options that you may not have considered, with complete peace of mind.
Our showroom consists of:
Thames Valley Window Company
Head Office & Showroom
44 Longshot Lane
Bracknell
Berkshire RG12 1RL
United Kingdom
Designed so you can view most of our product range, our show room will help you understand what options will work best for you and your home.
Making plans to improve your home is exciting. If you would like to download any of our product brochures, please visit our brochure download page.
