Upgrade your home with new double glazing - a simple guide

This guide helps you through the process of fitting new double glazing, and will ensure you know your U-Values from your Sashes.

If you're considering getting new double glazing fitted in your home and want to know what's involved, this is definitely the place for you!

Installing new windows can seem a bit daunting when you're first starting out on the journey, but don't worry; it's actually pretty straightforward once you understand the steps involved. Here's a useful guide to help you through the process of fitting new double glazing, ensuring you know your U-values from your sashes.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Double Glazing

First things first: picking the right type of double glazing is absolutely crucial from the outset. Double glazed windows consist of two layers of glass with a gap in between, usually filled with an inert gas like argon, which helps to keep your home warm and reduce noise from outside.

When choosing, consider the U-value- the lower the U-value, the better the insulation will be. Also, look at the range of different styles, such as casement windows, sash windows, or maybe even those clever tilt and turn windows, depending on what suits your home's design - and your needs, of course.

Sash windows look modern, but keep their traditional style.

Step 2: Measuring Up

Once you've picked out your new windows, precise measurements need to be taken to ensure they fit perfectly. This is usually done by a professional, who will come round to your home or property and measure the window jambs, head, and sill these are the parts of the window frame that ensure your window sits correctly and works as it should.

Step 3: Removal of Old Windows

Before your shiny new windows can be installed, the old ones need to come out, obviously. This involves the fitter carefully removing the frame and ensuring the cill and surrounding area are undamaged. It's important to keep this area intact to support the new window, so the window fitter needs to be very careful when doing this. The process needs to be done carefully to avoid damage to your home's walls and cladding.

Step 4: Fitting Your New Double Glazed Windows

Now, for the exciting part - fitting your new windows! Your installer will start by setting the new window frame in place, making sure it's completely level and aligned. They'll use fixings and sealants to secure the frame, ensuring no drafts or leaks. The double glazed units are then fitted into the frame, and held in place with glazing beads and gaskets. These help to keep the glass stable and weatherproof the whole setup.

A good fitter will ensure that the new windows are fitted accurately for effective weather-proofing.

Step 5: Weatherproofing and Finishing Touches

Once your windows are in place (before you step back and admire the work) it's vital to make sure they're completely weatherproof. Weather stripping and additional sealants might be applied around the window to keep out drafts and prevent water ingress. This step is crucial for maintaining the energy efficiency of your double glazing. No one wants draughty windows, do they?

Step 6: The Cleanup

Fitting windows can be a messy job, but a decent installer will make sure they leave your home as clean as they found it. They'll clear away any debris, old frames, and materials they've used as they've fitted your new windows, leaving you with nothing but sparkling new windows - and a proud grin on your face.

The cleanup will include disposing of your old double glazed windows.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Double Glazed Windows

And that's it! You can now enjoy the benefits of your new double glazed windows, like better heat retention, reduced energy bills, less noise from outside, and jealous neighbours. Not only will your home feel more comfortable, but it will also have a fresh look that enhances its appearance and future selling value.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your double glazed windows is a fantastic way to improve your home in so many ways. While the process might sound a bit technical with terms like sill, jambs, and argon gas, remember that a good professional fitter - or firm - will handle all the difficult stuff, letting you sit back and enjoy the results. If you have any questions or need advice on choosing the right type of double glazing, don't hesitate to ask the experts. They're there to help!

Remember, it's important not to snap up the first quote you get. You'll be surprised at how much you can save if you compare prices from different window fitters - not just in your area but the national companies too.  Luckily, we have a free service allowing you to compare double glazing quotes from trusted fitters - and save up to 75% in the process.