The best property exteriors begin with your window frames and glazing. The question is, is your family 100% protected against teeth-chattering draughts and determined intruders? What can you do to make your windows more efficient, secure, and pleasing to the eye?… Packed full of essential information, discover the best window replacements with this handy quick windows buying guide.

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What should I look for when buying new windows?

  1. Window material, e.g. uPVC, aluminium, timber, timber alternative.

Is it stronger than your existing windows?...

  1. Window style, e.g. casement, flush sash, sliding sash, tilt & turn, bay & bow.

Which window style compliments your property most?...

  1. Window opening configuration, e.g. side top, bottom, inward or outward opening.

  2. Window frame width, e.g. aluminium windows feature the thinnest sightlines.

  3. Modern multi-point locking mechanisms.

How many locking points do they have?...

Are they internally beaded for extra security?...

Additional hardware, e.g. window restrictors or fire escape hinges?...

  1. Window security accreditations? E.g. PAS 24, Secured by Design...
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What to look for continued....

  • Thermal insulation qualities e.g. Energy ratings A++ to C
  • Secondary glazing?...

    Double glazing?...

    Energy saving / Low-e glass?…

    Laminated glazing?...

    Solar control glazing?...

    Self cleaning glazing?...

    1. Window designs, colours and finishing touches.

    Custom design options?...

    Colour palettes?...

    Dual colour possibilities?

    Matching handles and hardware?...

    1. High performance weather resistance e.g. ‘Marine grade’ finished aluminium windows for coastal locations.

    Are they tested to the highest Building Regulation standards?...

    1. Decorative glazing options e.g. stained or etched glass.

    2. Low maintenance qualities.

    3. Sound proofing qualities.

    4. 10-year product guarantee (or more).

    5. Double glazing installer accreditations, e.g. DGCOS, Checkatrade, Assure.
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    White uPVC sliding sash windows interior view
    Black aluminium casement window interior view

    Which type of windows are best for my home?

    When it comes to the best window material, it all depends on your household’s specific needs. Classic timber windows and innovative timber alternative windows are often approved for use in restricted locations such as conservation areas and listed buildings. Aluminium windows suit contemporary developments best and uPVC windows remain a firm favourite for budget-friendly style, security, and efficiency.

    What is the difference between window material types?

    In terms of security, Hampshire households tend to opt for tough aluminium windows or practical uPVC windows. Or if the replacement window project requires a large made-to-measure window, aluminium windows are preferred as they can be made much bigger yet feature considerably thinner frames than uPVC windows.

    For longevity, timber windows come out on top as they can last a lifetime if treated right. Closely followed by aluminium windows, lasting at least 45 years with minimal maintenance. uPVC windows can last between 20 – 30 years.

    Read more about the most popular window & door colours of 2020

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    Which windows are the most energy efficient?

    Quality replacement windows display a multicoloured BFRC energy rating label similar to those found on fridges and washing machines, showing that your new window has been independently verified by experts to perform as promised. The most important things to take note of is the windows energy rating and its U-value. The U-value shows how easily heat can pass through the window material, so the lower the U-value, the more efficient the window is. Rated on a scale of A++ to E, to comply with UK Building Regulations, current minimum efficiency standards require new windows to have a U-value of 1.6W/m²K or lower or a window Energy Rating of at least C.*

    Due to their insulating, multi-chambered structure, uPVC windows are often considered the most energy efficient window material. Modern aluminium windows also contain innovative polyamide thermal breaks, actively preventing cold bridging and generating low U-values. That said, all our windows meet and exceed all current requirements under Building Regulations, reaching impressively low U-values and Window Energy Ratings (WERs).

    Thanks to the strong seals positioned on all four sides of a casement window, they are often considered the most energy efficient window style - other than picture windows, which do not open.

    *correct at time of publishing; August 2021.

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    Green Residence 9 flush sash window close up
    Chartwell green uPVC casement windows installation

    Will getting double glazing reduce my energy bills?

    Yes, there are great energy savings to be had by upgrading old single glazing or double glazing to modern double glazing. According to the Energy Saving Trust, the following savings can be achieved*:

    • Single glazed to A-rated double glazed in a semi-detached, gas heated property = save £75 per year & 330 kg of CO2
    • Single glazed to A++-rated double glazed = save £95 per year & 405 kg of CO2

    *correct at time of publishing; August 2021.

    How do I improve the energy efficiency of my home?

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    How can I make my window more secure?

    If you’re wondering will double glazing make my home more secure, the short answer is yes! Get one step closer to your new replacement windows with the help of these informative blogs we’ve written:

    What should I do if I can feel cold air coming through my window?

    What are the advantages of uPVC windows?

    5 reasons to choose wood effect windows over real timber windows

    Why is my uPVC double glazed window not closing properly?

    The top advantages of double glazed windows

    Window FAQs

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    White uPVC tilt and turn window handle

    Begin your ideal home improvement journey today

    It’s the ideal time to begin your dream property renovation. However big or small your renovation plans are, we’re here to help you achieve the home you’ve been dreaming of for so many years. Whether you’re looking to transform a curious cottage, an impressive Victorian Villa or a modern apartment in the city, you’ll have no regrets with an Ideal Windows installation.

    Simply complete this form and we will be in touch to discuss your requirements and change your dreams into a reality.

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    Serving Basingstoke, Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the surrounding areas

    With a showroom in Fareham and a showroom in Chichester, we're ideally placed to provide homeowners with valuable inspiration. Open 6 days a week, 10am-5pm, an array of beautiful products, a welcoming atmosphere and a professional, friendly and knowledgeable team await your arrival! Areas we serve include Basingstoke, Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth & Hampshire.

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