Window installation can transform your home overnight, but how does the entire process work? It takes more than just selecting the windows you like and finding the right contractor. You also have to be aware of planning permission. 

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about getting planning permission for windows.

What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission is the process of getting approval to build a structure or extension onto an existing building. This typically pertains to projects like adding additional rooms or conservatories. 

Planning permission is required when a home improvement project goes beyond what is considered ‘permitted development.’ This means any construction that doesn’t meet the national government building guidelines. Although planning permission is a legal requirement. 

Whether you need one depends on the type of project you are doing and the region you live in. Regulations differ between England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, so before you start planning your window installation, verify if you will need planning permission.

Does Window Installation Require it?

Overall, window installation does not require planning permission, but that comes down to the type of windows you are installing. That’s because most windows are considered to be permitted development, meaning they are nationally allowed to be installed without permission. 

To get new windows installed, you need to purchase the windows and hire a licensed contractor to install them. Like brand new window installation, replacing windows don’t require planning permission. This is only the case for houses, though. If you want to install or replace new windows in a flat, you will need approval.

The only exception to this rule is replacing an existing window with the same type of window. The most important thing is to know your local region’s guidelines. If you’re unsure of where to start, call a local window company for advice.

Installing Bay Windows

It’s essential to keep in mind that not every window is available for installation without the proper approval. Bay windows are not always considered a permitted development since they are an extension of the house. Traditional windows get encased inside the structure, but bay windows stick out, which is why they need permission.

You don’t need permission for bay windows in many cases if you stay within a certain height or surface area. That’s because these new windows are replacing an existing window. Planning permission is commonly required when installing a bay window on the side of a house where there are no extrusions.

The age of the home can also affect whether you need planning permission. To be safe, always double-check before planning a bay window installation. Know where you want to install your new windows and how old your house is.

Speak To An Expert

If you’re looking to install a bay window or want to know the area’s requirements, consult an expert. CosyHomes Windows are your local experts on window installation and planning permission. Not only can we advise you on how to install your windows, but we’re a window company so we can install them too. 

Call us today so we can talk you through the entire process!

In the UK, tens of millions of double glazed windows have been in place before 2002. These units, after all, are more efficient than single-pane windows. They are better in reducing heat gains and losses that occur through windows.

They cost more, but programs like the new Green Energy Grant can make them more affordable. With this scheme, you can finally upgrade to double glazing windows. Combined with other energy-saving improvements, you may save up to £300 a year on your bills.

The big question now is, how long do double glazed units last? Knowing the lifespan of these windows can help you make the most out of your investment.

Ready to learn more about the service life of double glazed windows? Keep reading then, as that’s what this post is all about!

How Long Do Double Glazed Units Last?

Researchers found that double glazed windows have a median payback period of 8.75 years. Throughout this period alone, these units have shown to reduce energy consumption by 72.9%.

Properly installed and placed, however, double glazed units can last for 25 years up to 35 years. Plus, these new windows alone can already save you up to £175 a year!

Window Placement Can Affect Double Glazed Lifetime

In the UK, south-facing windows receive the highest amount of sunlight and heat. In a place where unsettled weather conditions are typical, these windows are must-haves. It’s also why south-facing houses cost more than east- or west-facing homes.

However, south-facing windows also experience the most temperature gradients. These fluctuations can affect the seals and adhesives, making them fail earlier. As such, double glazed units that face south have a shorter life span, the average of which is 12 years.

Higher-Quality Materials Translate to Longer Lasting Windows

Between the two panes of double glazed units is a gas that should be less conductive than the gases in the air. Argon gas boasts this characteristic. Hence, it’s the most common gas used in filling up double pane windows.

To make sure that the gas stays inside the panes, though, there must be a perimeter seal. This is the part that protects and encloses the air gap between the windows.

Moreover, the perimeter seal contains tiny silicone desiccant beads. These small particles help absorb moisture to keep the entire enclosure dry.

This is why it’s crucial to choose window installers who use only top-notch materials. This way, you can be sure that your windows won’t be prone to the effects of excessive moisture. By keeping excess water at bay, your double glazed units will last longer.

The Cosyhomes Windows Guarantee

Cosyhomes Windows consist of a team of window experts with over 35 years of experience. Throughout this period, they have already completed over 85,000 installations. That makes them among your most experienced and trustworthy window installers.

More than that, Cosyhomes Windows offer 10 years of installation guarantee. You will also receive a 10-year guarantee on the glass components of your windows.

Upgrade Your Windows Now for Increased Comfort and Savings

There you have it, the guide that answers your question, “how long do double glazed units last?” Now that you know they can last for decades, it’s time to consider getting them for your home. The sooner you do, the sooner you can make your home cosier and energy-efficient.

Ready to begin your home improvement project, starting with double glazed windows? Then please feel free to get in touch with Cosyhomes Windows! We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have on double and even triple-pane windows.

If you need to make sure that your home, office or retail building are taken care of, look no further than the kinds of windows that you install.

The windows that you choose play a huge role in energy efficiency, which is why you should only go with the most reputable brands around.

In this regard, you absolutely can’t go wrong with REHAU.

Read on to learn more about REHAU windows, why they’re among the best around, and how you can benefit.

What Makes REHAU Windows So Amazing?

REHAU is a company that brings 6 decades of experience to any installation project that you need. Their windows are used in all different seconds and are known for their impeccable quality and value.

You’ll improve your property values by investing in these windows, and there are so many perks you can enjoy out of the gate.

Here are some of the main advantages you will enjoy by purchasing and using REHAU windows:

1. You’re Getting the Highest Standards in Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficiency is the most important standard to key in on when you’re in the market for some brand new windows. REHAU windows are great from an energy-efficiency standpoint since they feature uPVC technology.

With this, you’re getting A-Rating energy efficiency, along with noise reduction upwards of 50 per cent.

2. These Windows Provide Excellent Security

You need to make security a top priority for your building, whether it’s residential or commercial.

With REHAU windows, you will also appreciate the fact that they’ll make your building more secure. For instance, not only is the glass built tough, but the windows are reinforced with quality connective hardware such as latches, hinges, locks, and handles.

You will appreciate the fact that your home, apartment or office building is protected to the fullest.

3. They’re Stylish and Chic

REHAU windows are amazing when it comes to style and sophistication. They are aesthetically pleasing and feature close to 30 different laminate colours.

There are a variety of wood finishes and excellent treatments you can get for any sort of window that you’re looking into.

You will also note that these windows are versatile in function, so you can shop around and get whatever kind of style you need.

4. They’re Incredibly Easy to Install

Finally, this is one of the most recognizable brands of windows around, so you shouldn’t have any problem whatsoever finding a great installer to help you out. They are incredibly easy to install and you will be able to get them up and going in any building that needs them.

Look to Install the Best Windows You Can Find

When you’re looking to improve your home, you absolutely can’t go wrong with REHAU windows.

If you are in need of windows or any other form of home improvement and remodelling, you will be happy to leave this work to us.

Take the time to contact us when you need the best home improvement specialists around. Reach out to us on the web or pick up the phone and give us a call at 020 8397 4040.

These days, we’re blessed with things like double and triple glazing to give windows some more reinforcement. However, there’s always the chance that your window panes can suffer damage in some way or another. Whether it’s from a rogue object hitting your window, some terrible weather, or someone trying to break into your home; cracks and breaks can happen.

As such, the team here at Cosyhomes Windows offers an extensive repairs service that can replace glass in your sash windows. So, if you ever see cracks in your glass, then here’s our guide on how to replace glass in a sash window.

Act Instantly

Don’t waste time when you discover your window has been broken or cracked. If there’s broken glass on the floor, then you have to act quickly to prevent any accidents or injuries. The sooner you deal with the situation, the sooner you can remove all the harmful glass from your home.

When you identify the breakage, give us a call straight away on 020 8397 4040. We’ll organise for someone to come to your home and deal with the situation promptly!

Sweep Any Glass From The Floor

Never handle broken glass with your hands! The best way to deal with it is to sweep it up using a dustpan and brush.

Make sure everyone wears shoes at all times to prevent instances where they step on a small piece of glass, and it cuts their feet.

Don’t Try Any Repairs Yourself

If your glass is just cracked, then you may think about repairing it yourself. However, we don’t recommend this.

Even small cracks can turn into massive problems when they’re not carefully fixed. Leave this to a professional like Cosyhomes Windows and you will avoid further problems.

Protect Your Window While You Wait

As mentioned above, you shouldn’t attempt to fix a broken window by yourself. The chances are you’ll end up causing further damage, so leave things as they are. Instead, you can put some protective measures in place that keep your window safe while you wait for us to arrive.

You can use masking tape to hold any broken glass panes in place – this stops it from dropping to the ground and creating even more mess. It’s also a good idea to cover the window with a sheet of something – a newspaper will do. Again, this stops the glass from falling, but it also offers a bit of protection from the elements as well.

Do these things as you await our arrival, and make sure you don’t open or close the window too. Doing this will only cause more issues, and you will risk more glass breaking.

Call Us Today To Replace Your Broken Windows

As we mentioned earlier, you should call us as soon as your windows have suffered any damages. Our team is incredibly experienced in sealed glass units and the art of window repairs and replacements. We will replace broken window panes and repair any cracks that you have.

Call us immediately on 020 8397 4040 and one of our team members will guide you through the entire process. They’ll tell you what to do, then be on the scene as quickly as possible. We offer affordable rates, so get in touch with us today!

Living in the UK means that condensation is a given – there’s no way to escape it. Thanks to the high humidity and wet winters, when autumn arrives and temperatures begin to drop, it’s common to notice moisture and water in the corners of your windows or across the entire window.

While having to wipe down a double glazed window constantly is frustrating, there is another potential issue, too – black mould growth. Not only is this ugly, but it may also cause serious breathing and health problems.

Dealing With Condensation & Misting In Your Windows

If condensation appears on the inside or outside of the glass, it’s not that big of a deal. You can easily wipe it up and remedy the problem.

The issues arise when condensation appears in the air gap between the gazing panels. There are several reasons this may happen:

• Abnormally cold weather or high levels of humidity
• High levels of moisture because of wet paint, plaster, or concrete
• The seal has failed letting moisture into the air gap
• The use of a low-grade sealant that has failed
• Older units that have become significantly deteriorated

It’s clear from the information here that there are several potential causes of condensation forming in a sealed unit. While it may be temporary, it could mean the unit has failed and replacement is necessary.

Fixing Misting Issues In A Double Glazed Window

Handling condensation on the internal or external faces of your windows isn’t that difficult. The challenge comes when you notice this problem in your double glazed windows.

If you notice large amounts of moisture and water in the glazing, there’s a good chance the seal has failed. If you still have a valid guarantee for your glazing, be sure to contact the company that installed your windows for service. If the issue is a defective seal, the repair should be provided at no charge to you.

It’s not a good idea to try to handle the repair on your own. Not only will this likely make the situation worse, but it is going to invalidate any guarantees you have.

If you don’t have coverage for your windows, you have a few options:

• Replace the faulty units
• Have a repair company recondition the affected windows
• Attempt a DIY repair (not recommended)

When you have double glazed windows installed, be sure that the company offers a guarantee or warranty for the services they provide. This ensures if issues arise, you can have them fixed without issues.

Protecting Your Double Glazed Windows

While there is no way to prevent misting in your double glazed windows, you can take steps to protect your investment. One of the first things you should do is to call for service from the professionals at the first sign of a problem.

To learn more, contact us. Our team can provide tips, advice, and repairs on your windows, ensuring they stay in good condition.

While we might not always appreciate it, no home is complete without winning windows. Aside from letting in light, they are crucial for air circulation and the room’s overall vibe and appearance. As such, decisions made regarding this element should be a priority for all homeowners. If the question is “which type of windows are right for me?”, there’s a good chance that flush sash windows are the answer.

Cosyhomes Windows offers a wide range of flush sash windows suited for all property types and sizes. This route has become increasingly popular with our customers in recent years. Here’s all you need to know about those features.

Classic Heritage Meets Modern Appeal

Many homeowners want to maintain their property’s sense of history and heritage. Unfortunately, sticking with outdated and faulty windows simply isn’t a suitable solution. Flush sash windows embrace the grandeur of old wooden windows by replicating the look of timber. However, they do it with a modern twist thanks to the PVC materials.

This makes it the most popular range of windows for anyone wanting to enhance period features with a 21st-century appeal. Meanwhile, the use of equal sightlines will enhance the overall look too. Elegance and luxury have never looked better.

Why Are Flush Sash Windows Becoming So Popular?

Every homeowner can appreciate the importance of their property’s windows. While those aesthetic appeals are a key selling point of modern flush sash windows, most people demand much more from their solutions.

Frankly, flush sash windows tick all the boxes.

Security: Windows are the easiest place for burglars to target. So, all homeowners need peace of mind regarding the safety and protection properties of their window choices. Flush sash windows come with multi-point locking facilities, making them the perfect solution.

Sound: While it’s difficult to block out all external sound, flush sash windows do a far better job than most. This makes them perfect for homes in busy residential areas as well as those near motorways or train lines.

Efficiency: Flush sash windows offer great insulation, which is crucial given many homes suffer up to 25% of their heat loss due to poor frames. This saves energy and money, sentiments which are further supported by the reduced maintenance needs.

No wonder so many homeowners are turning to this solution.

Gaining The Personal Touch

One of the great things about the range of flush sash windows is that they come in over two dozen different colour schemes. Moreover, the fact they can be crafted to various sizes makes them the perfect option throughout the home. Aside from the traditional timber style and PVC-U benefits, you’ll also gain the sense of individual character that you deserve.

The woodgrain finishes truly do bring something special to the home and can be used in one room or throughout the entire property. Likewise, they are suited to newly constructed conversions and extensions.

For a solution that will enhance the home’s look and efficiency both today and for many years to come, flush sash windows are the answer. So if you’re looking for window compaines surrey, then look no further than Cosyhomes Windows.

Double pane windows provide your home with plenty of benefits. They offer extra insulation and soundproofing, making them an essential feature of your property. Consequently, when you experience issues with your double pane windows, you need to fix and replace them right away. So, in this article, we give our tips on how to replace a double pane window.

A common misconception is that you need to replace the entire window – this means the frames or door as well as the actual sealed glass units. However, most of the time, you only need to replace the glass unit, and your double pane window will be as good as new.

So, want to know how to replace a double pane window? Here at Cosyhomes, we have a range of services and tips you can use to replace your double pane window.

Step 1: Identify The Problem

Identifying the issue in your window is the first step in replacing it. Some problems are very obvious, such as cracks or completely smashed glass. In these scenarios, there could be damage caused to the frames, meaning the whole window should be replaced.

A common problem in double pane windows is that the seal around the window pane breaks, allowing moisture into the airspace that separates the two panes of glass. This causes your window to fog up and shows you need to replace the glass.

Step 2: Order New Glass Units

Here at Cosyhomes, we supply glass units that can restore your double pane window. It’s vital that you choose the right size and design to suit your property. We’ll happily help you find the right solution, and order it in as quickly as possible.

Step 3: Remove The Existing Window Panes

The next step is actually removing the window panes from your windows. To do this, you need to remove the glazing bead that’s keeping the glass in place. This is a fairly easy job, but we’ll gladly do it for you if you don’t want to risk any problems.

Once the seal is broken, it’s simply a case of lifting the glass unit out of the window. We say ‘unit’ because double pane windows have two pieces of glass to make up the unit, and they’ll both need to be replaced. When this is done, you can clean and prep your window before installing the new unit. Clear out any muck around the edges, ensuring there’s a nice clean base for the glass to be sealed into.

Step 4: Install The New Glass Units

Now, you need to install the new glass units that you purchased from us. As part of our service, we’ll come to your property and fit them for you. This guarantees you get a professional job done, and there aren’t any underlying issues with the frames that could potentially lead to the same problem of invasive moisture.

Fitting new glass units is essentially the same as removing them – but in reverse. The units go in, then the glazing bead snapped back in to secure them nice and tightly in the window frames.

Done And Dusted

After all these steps, you’ll have a brand new double pane window in place! If you’re eager to find out more, make sure you take a look at our glass units page for more information.