Your home is probably the biggest single investment you will ever make and some 35% of the surface area is occupied by windows and doors. Older properties typically have timber window and door frames and despite care and attention, they eventually succumb to the harsh Aussie climate and single pane windows provide no insulation.
Made to measure
The units are not premade to standard specs, rather each unit is fabricated to the precise size of the aperture; a surveyor measures all windows and doors and the units are factory made and delivered to the site ready for installations. You choose the style, type of opening, frame colour etc and once the installation date arrives, the team arrive with all the premade units. The frames are fitted first, then the double-glazed units are set into place and neoprene gaskets complete the installation.
If your windows are made from wood, it is only a question of time before they have to be replaced, and with that in mind, here are some great reasons to start looking at replacement windows and doors.
- Boost security – Crime is on the up and when an opportunistic thief cases up houses for a job, they won’t go near a double-glazed property. They know how difficult it is to gain access and there are many unprotected homes that are much easier to target. Also, the openings have locks that you can use when you are on vacation; aside from all the other benefits, replacement windows are a deterrent to burglars. Toughened safety glass is standard with patio doors and full-length windows, which is essential to conform with Australia’s safety regulations.
- Excellent sound insulation – Ambient noise like the neighbour’s dogs barking or someone using their lawnmower are a thing of the past when you install double-glazed windows and doors. If you enjoy taking a power nap in the afternoons, close your bedroom window and you will soon drift off to sleep.
- Excellent thermal insulation – The interior stays cool in the summer while retaining the heat in the colder months and that saves you on your energy bills. The double-glazed units are hermetically sealed so they are condensation-free and the 20mm vacuum gap is enough to stop heat transfer.
- Increased property value – With stylish and elegant PVC windows and doors, your home will be in the upper price range, as this is a major feature that will appreciate in value as the years pass. Imagine what such windows and doors would cost 19 years from now? This is one investment that pays many dividends, not least the added value. Once the project is finished, why not ask a local real estate agent to value the property? You will be pleasantly surprised.
- Boost the kerb appeal of your home – The windows and doors are designed to blend with the property; frames can be made from aluminium or uPVC and they do a nice faux timber finish for rustic settings. Bronze aluminium is ideal for a futuristic look; white PVC brings a clean look and timber-grain is perfect for a country property. Take some before and after photos and you will be amazed.
- Merge the dining room and the garden – With double glazed sliding doors your dining room leads directly out to the deck; perfect for those summer parties and get togethers. With summer still a few months away, you have the time to call in a top replacement door and window company and design a 4-panel double slider to open up the deck and allow extra access. If you are planning a party to celebrate New Year, start prepping now and you’ll be glad you did!
- Maintenance free – Aside from the window cleaner, you won’t need to do anything to maintain the windows and doors. You could choose aluminium with a thermal break in the frame to prevent condensation or uPVC frames with alloy inner sections for added strength. The frames won’t fade, chip or crack, nor will they lose their colour.
How are double-glazed windows and doors made?
After an agreement is made with the customer, a qualified surveyor measures up the property, making note of the preferred options. An exhaustive measure-up is required and the units are made to these specs in the factory.
Aluminium frames
Aluminium frames are made from extruded lengths to precise dimensions; hinges are cantilever type and made to the highest quality, ensuring smooth operation. The frames are made up, while the sealed double glazed units are made elsewhere and when the two are married, you have finished units. A thermal break stops heat transfer, so no condensation.
Installation
The installation team work together to remove existing windows and prepare the apertures for the new frames. Using small timber blocks, the frames are fitted and plumbed – remedial work is done around the frames – then the glazed units are put in place and thick neoprene gasket seals the inside and out, creating a tight seal. Once fitted, you can look forward to the many benefits double glazing brings to the table. Each unit is checked and the customer is given all the keys for window locks, while door locks are internal and of German origin. Click here for some great kitchen remodelling ideas.
Finishing
If any plastering is required, the team do this then install mahogany interior sills, if they are requested. Many Australian homeowners redecorate after the new windows are in, which is the clever way to go about things.
If you would like a free design and quote, Google can take you to an established replacement window company and you might receive government help with a home improvement grant. Life will never be the same and you will wonder how you managed without your elegant and high-security double-glazed windows and doors.
