Replacing Windows

nicewine

Hi

I am hoping to replace the old d/g aliminium framed windows in my house, has anybody got views on, 1) where to buy, 2) what is critical, ie one i8nstaller mentioned filling the cavity between the frames with gas to improve their insulation properties, I'm getting quo9tes between €6.5 to €8k.:rolleyes:

martinn123

nicewine wrote: »

Hi

I am hoping to replace the old d/g aliminium framed windows in my house, has anybody got views on, 1) where to buy, 2) what is critical, ie one i8nstaller mentioned filling the cavity between the frames with gas to improve their insulation properties, I'm getting quo9tes between €6.5 to €8k.:rolleyes:

There are a number of factors to consider when replacing windows, one of course is cost which you have mentioned.

Glazing, the minimum standard in my view should be, Soft Coat Low ''E '' ( or K Glass, same thing ) Argon Filled, ( thats the Gas ) this will produce a U Value ( a measure of how efficient they are in heat retention ) of about 1.1.
Glass will have to be Toughened anywhere there is glazing below waist level, i.e doors windows to the ground etc.
Some fitters will not go this far and may try and supply a cheaper type of glass.

Frames, I presume you are going for uPVC, if so the frames should be reinforced.
Bedroom windows should have Fire escape hinges, and should open past 90deg.
Colour, avoid if you can darker colours on a south facing wall, i.e black, woodgrain etc, as these absorbe heat from the sun, and can swell, and contract.

Other things to look out for is the quality of the fitting, get references, talk to other customers. Air tightness, drafts etc can come from badly fitted windows.

Hope thats enough to get you started, post a few more details when you have a few quotes.