Windows offer so much more than a way to welcome warming natural light inside. Responsible for up to 40% of household energy loss, the right window style could save your hundreds of pounds every year by reducing your energy bills, whilst increasing the value of your home by as much as 10%. But how do I choose a window style for my home?…

Read on for 3 tips to make choosing replacement window frames so much easier, alongside a few frequently asked questions about replacing your windows.

  1. Choose a window material that reflects your home’s unique architectural style

The most popular window materials used today are timber, UPVC, and aluminium. Slender aluminium windows have become the ‘go to’ window material for minimalist contemporary households that desire modern floor to ceiling glazing, as well as new-build properties and apartments.

UPVC windows are well known for their low maintenance, insulating, and budget friendly qualities. UPVC works across a wide range of property styles and recent advancements in UPVC window manufacturing means they can be made in almost any colour or style you can think of.

Natural timber windows add character to period and country properties, although increasing numbers of homeowners are discovering the convenience of timber effect windows. Approved in strict conservation areas throughout the North West, high performance timber alternative windows (like the Residence Collection) fuse traditional aesthetics with modern function without the need to sacrifice style.

Supporting a wide range of property owners and trade professionals, our quality collection of window styles, materials and colours can be tailored to suit all properties in Lancashire and the North West.

heritage bespoke aluminium window

  1. Make sure new windows meet industry standards for efficiency & security

Building regulations help ensure that new buildings, conversions, renovations, and extensions (residential or commercial) are going to be safe, healthy, and thermally sound. Avoid unnecessary worry by making sure your installer and new windows comply with the following criteria:

  • The installer is CERTASS or FENSA registered, to show they have met the minimum standards of quality and compliance expected of today’s glazing industry
  • A++ to C energy ratings / U-values of 1.6W/m²K or lower
  • Windows are replaced like for like, e.g. if the old window has a trickle vent, the new one will need one
  • Windows feature modern multi-point locking with at least 3 locking points
  • PAS 24 test evidence (new builds)
  1. Choose a window colour that complements existing features

First, this depends on the type of property you have, as restricted buildings (like listed buildings) may be limited to how the external appearance can be changed. Classic window colours, such as subtle cream bay windows, tend to suit Victorian and Edwardian style homes. Heritage shades of green and authentic wood grain effects, such as calming Chartwell Green windows or elegant English Oak windows, establish a really cosy atmosphere within quaint North West cottages. Whereas modern buildings can choose from a much bolder colour scheme, from sophisticated Anthracite Grey flush sash windows to understated Agate Grey casement windows. You could even consider dual colour window frames, with one colour on the inside to compliment interior styling and another on the outside.

Whether it’s matching an existing front door or devising a striking contrast of colour, Great Harwood Windows deliver all RAL colour options to create a specific aesthetic tailored to your unique plans and requirements.

6 house window colours and finishes to inspire you further.

Oak effect residence collection window on brick wall

What is the most popular window style?

Without a doubt, the UK’s most popular window style is the simple yet effective casement window design. Typically opening outwards from a hinge positioned at the side of the window, casement windows are the most energy efficient openable window style thanks to airtight seals on all four sides of the frame.

The most popular window styles explained further.

How do I find a good window installer in Lancashire?

If this is the first time you have replaced your windows, it can be difficult to know what to look for when choosing the best company for the job. As fully accredited double glazing experts with over 30 years trading experience, what makes us stand out is unparalleled customer service, expert advice with high-quality brands and products such as Residence Collection, VEKA, Liniar, Door Stop International & Solidor.

6 critical things to remember when looking for a window supplier.

High performance UPVC and aluminium windows in Lancashire

Our extensive range of window styles boast a 10 year guarantee as standard. Supplied to suit a wide variety of property applications, our superb selection of windows excel in delivering excellent efficiency, security, and style. Get a quote or contact us to learn more.

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Based in the heart of Lancashire

Situated in the very heart of Blackburn, we are readily capable of providing the people of East Lancashire and surrounding areas with a range of UPVC, composite and aluminium products. Whether for personal or trade purposes, realising your aspirations are only one step away with Great Harwood Windows team.