Upgrade your doors and windows

If your windows and doors are letting your property down, an upgrade or a DIY refresh will give your home a whole new look

Help your house make a first impression that truly counts by refreshing your panes, frames and portals

According to a survey by myglazing.com, 65 per cent of people said that an attractive exterior is important when they’re considering whether to view or buy a new house. The research also revealed that 63 per cent of people were deterred by damaged windowsills and 35 per cent admit that liking the colour and style of the front door is essential. Whether or not you’re planning to sell up, keeping your windows and doors in good condition will not only make your home more attractive, but also keep it better insulated too, and reduce energy bills as a result. Here’s what you need to know when choosing new doors and windows…

1 KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO UPGRADE

Replacing windows and doors is costly and time consuming, so it’s an easy job to put it off. But the time has come if you’re experiencing any of the following…

In older properties, single glazing that has rotten wooden window frames or offers minimal noise protection from traffic outside needs upgrading. Similarly, if drafts are getting through, then it’s time to change your glazing.

Another sign is if you have difficulty opening, closing and locking windows and doors, as this can compromise your home’s security. Rust, soft or chipped timber in frames and condensation between layers of glass (indicating the seals have failed and any insulating gas in the window has escaped) means new ones are needed.

2 REPLACE THE WINDOWS

If it’s time for new windows, then you could replace them in their existing frames or go for something different. Think about the style of the glazing, which should ideally be in keeping with the period and character of your property, as well as whether it’s energy efficient, has a good warranty and where to find reliable, professional installation.

Double and triple glazing will keep your home warm, quiet and safe through all weathers, as well as help you keep your heating bills down. But bear in mind that, with a few exceptions, replacement windows must have a C rating or higher for energy efficiency (doors need an E rating or higher) to comply with building regulations (the ratings are determined by the British Fenestration Rating Council).

3 NEW DOORS

Your front door must be safe and secure so if your current one is ill-fitting or draughty, it’s time to upgrade. A smart door also gives your home instant kerb appeal. Choose a style and material that is in keeping with the design of the rest of your home and add a personal touch with a painted finish on a timber door or a coloured uPVC design.

Composite and uPVC offer excellent security and are low maintenance with great sound and heat insulation. Composite combines the benefits of solid wood and uPVC with a similar look to a wooden finish, and has the added advantage that it’ll never need repainting. It’s also durable so it won’t warp or rot. Solid wood gives a more traditional look but may need more upkeep if it faces south and is exposed to harsh sunlight.

4 PLANNING PERMISSION

You don’t need planning permission for repairs, maintenance and minor improvements (such as painting frames), or for new windows and doors that are similar to those used in the construction of the house. A new bay window will need permission though, as it’s treated as an extension, and any new windows upstairs in a side elevation must be obscureglazed. There are also special rules for installing roof windows or skylights and you’ll need building regulations for any replacement glazing, as this covers thermal performance, safety, air supply, means of escape and ventilation.

If you live in a listed building, a national park, conservation area or an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, then seek guidance before starting any work.

5 FIND AN INSTALLER

When you use an installer registered with a relevant competent person scheme such as Fensa (Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme), they’ll be approved to carry out the work that complies with building regulations without involving local authority building control. When the work is finished, you’ll get a certificate to show that the work was undertaken by a registered installer. If you choose to work with an unregistered installer, or even do the job yourself, you’ll need approval from the relevant Building Control Body, either via the local authority or an Approved Inspector. They’ll check the new windows and doors for compliance and issue a certificate accordingly. Keep hold of any certification, as you’ll need this if you sell your home in the future.

6 DO A DIY REFRESH

If your windows are in pretty good condition, you can do some DIY updates to keep them going for a few more years. Strip back, sand and paint timber frames or give uPVC a good clean. To increase the energy efficiency, check for air leaks, use Weatherstrips (available from Screwfix among others) to fill any gaps in frames and think about adding solar control film from The Window Film Company.

For the front door, give a solid wood design a fresh lick of paint and replace the letterbox, door number and knocker with something snazzy. Chrome suits modern new-builds while antique and vintage options are perfect for period properties and traditional styles. You could also install one of the latest smart doorbells for added security.