How To Replace A Double Pane Window

27

Feb
2018
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
How To Replace A Double Pane Window
Categories :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.

What Is Energy Efficient Glass?

17

Nov
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
What Is Energy Efficient Glass?
Categories :Windows

So, what is energy efficient glass? Energy efficient glass is the term that describes the modern double or even triple glazing used in many contemporary home designs. In fact, many homeowners are eager to replace their windows with energy efficient glass due to the wide list of benefits that it brings.

The new energy efficient glass offered in double and triple glazed sealed units includes coated low-emissivity glass. This prevents the loss of heat from a room, even in cold weather. The coating is completely invisible and does not impact the aesthetic of the window. Inside an energy efficient glass unit is Argon gas – an odourless, non-toxic gas that improves the insulation of the glass. As an added bonus, it will also increase sound-proofing of the window!

While energy efficient glass can be used in any room, it is particularly beneficial in areas where there is a large quantity of glass in doors or windows, such as a conservatory.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Energy Efficient Glass?

Trapping Heat

One of the greatest benefits of using energy efficient glass for windows is that it stops heat from leaving a room. As such, through the colder winter months, rooms are going to stay warm for a lot longer, even with the curtains open. This is certainly going to be beneficial to anyone who wants to keep things toasty later in the year.

Keeping Energy Usage Low

Another big benefit of energy efficient glass is that it will allow you to keep energy usage like heating low. Since heat is trapped inside the room, you won’t need to keep the heating on for as long or as often. In fact, you won’t even need to have the heating on the highest setting to keep a room warm because you will be losing a lot less heat from the windows. This is one of the reasons why heating usage in older homes without double or triple glazed sealed units tend to be so high. The heat is continuously escaping, forcing homeowners to turn the thermostat up to the max.

Saving Money

As well as keeping your home environmentally friendly, you’ll also find that energy efficient glass is key to keeping those home bills low. You’ll be amazed how much lower your energy bills are, particularly through the winter months. With energy efficient glass, you might be able to reduce your bills by upwards of fifty percent.

If you don’t already have energy efficient windows installed, then you should know you could also save money by replacing only the glass, if you’re still happy with your existing frames of course. So if you had new windows put in 5-10 years ago, but feel there’s nothing wrong with the frame units, you can change glass alone.

Quality Design And Completely Durable

Don’t you hate it when the seal in your glass breaks down and mists or condensates? If this happens, cold air is able to rush into the room – you can even feel it when holding your hand close to the glass. This is a clear sign your glass needs to be replaced. This is less likely to occur with energy efficient glass – the extra coating makes it extremely durable. Our glass supplier has been supplying our units for over ten years, and is well established and experienced in this area. They also produce units that have a higher specification of unit make up than most, ensuring maximum levels of quality.

Beyond Single And Standard Glazing

Finally, energy efficient glass is leaps and bounds beyond standard double and triple glazing, and single glazing. You’ll be amazed by the difference it makes to your home if you have been used to these inferior products. Once you have your windows or glass changed in your home using energy efficient glass from a company like Cosyhomes Windows, you will wonder why you didn’t replace them sooner and reap the massive benefits of doing so.

Triple Glazing VS Double Glazing

14

Jul
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
Triple Glazing vs Double Glazing
Categories :Windows

Here at Cosyhomes Windows, we like to think of ourselves as experts in glazing, no matter the form it comes in. We know the difference between the varieties of glazing and what will be better for your home.
Therefore in this article, we are going to look at triple glazing vs double glazing and discuss which could be better for your home.

What Is Triple Glazing?

Most of us will know exactly what double glazing is, but what about triple glazing? Do you know exactly what that is? It makes sense, from the name alone; to think that triple glazing is better than double glazing. However, this may not always be the case.

The idea behind triple glazing is relatively simple. Rather than the double panes of glass that you have in double glazing, triple glazing boasts 3 panes. It is this triple layer of protection that many window manufacturers feel improves not only the energy efficiency but also reduces noise pollution too.

Is It Better Than Double-Glazing?

So, is triple glazing any better than double glazing? If you are trying to create an entirely eco-friendly house, then triple glazing may be a great suggestion. The U-Value of triple glazing showcases the ability it has to resist heat loss. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that triple glazing has a much lower U-Rating then double glazing, meaning it is better at being able to keep that warm air in.

The downsides of triple glazing are that it is usually a slightly higher investment, although it is said that this investment will pay back over time when you take into account the reduced costs of your energy bills in the long run.

However, with the initial costs, double glazing is a preferable option when it comes to standard builds or a refurbishment project. The U-Values are still relatively high and the cost makes them affordable, being a good all-round choice.

In Conclusion

From this, knowing what is best will come down to your budget and goals as far as being energy saving. To sum up:

Triple Glazing Advantages

  • Offers a love U-Value, making them ideal for low-energy or passive house builds
  • Offers a return in energy saving over the long term
  • Offers the best in noise reduction with further upgrades that are available

Triple Glazing Disadvantages

  • Slightly higher investment
  • Less light can penetrate through the additional layer of glass
  • More likely to suffer from occasional condensation on the outside due to a lower transfer of heat from the inside to the outside

To read more about triple glazing and their advantages, make sure you read our post on what is triple glazing.

Still not sure what is right for you? Then give us a call on 020 8397 4040 and we can advise you further. We can talk you through the options based on your budget and the type of property you have.

How To Put Up A Curtain Pole

16

Jun
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 2Comment
How To Put Up A Curtain Pole
Categories :Windows

Curtains are a great addition to your home. They offer a touch of style and add colour, texture and a sense of beauty to every room that they are in. Not only this, but when combined with double glazed windows they greatly energy efficient, keeping out the cold air and making sure that all that lovely warmth stays inside.

Do you think you could benefit from a touch of curtain in your home? Then the first place to start is by installing a curtain pole and curtain poles are not the easiest things to fit. If you do it wrong, you could damage your property too.

To help you with this process, Cosyhomes Windows have put together our guide on how to put up a curtain pole in your own home.

Fitting A Curtain Pole

Step 1 – Measure 10-15 cm above the recess of your window and mark how high the pole should be above the window. This will depend on the way that you want your curtains to hang and how much space you have.

Step 2 – Using a spirit level, you will then need to draw a guideline that extends from one side to the other. This should extend beyond the window itself on both sides, as this will accommodate the supporting brackets that will also need to be installed. You may find that the window recess isn’t level, therefore the line that you draw may not be the same distance above the recess, however, it needs to be straight.

Step 3 – Knowing that your curtains are a specific height, you should then use this to work out the fixing height for the brackets that you will install. The bracket should be placed at a height that means that the end of the curtain will sit just where you want it.

You will then need to mark where your brackets are going to go, they should be around 15cm from either side of the window recess, although this will depend on the width of the curtains that you are going to hang.

Step 4 – The brackets need to be put in place first, and during this, you need to double check that they are in the right place. You will need to use wall plugs that match your wall type and weight of poles and curtains to fix brackets in place.

Step 5 – Once the support brackets are drilled in, you need to adjust your pole length so that it extends a few centimetres beyond where the support brackets are, if you have a wooden pole this can be cut down to size, metal poles can be extended too.

Step 6 – The final step is then threading the curtain rings onto the pole, leaving one outside the support bracket, which secures the curtains in place. You also need to fix the ends onto the pole, which again, stops the curtains from falling off the end.

Contact The Experts

So if you are treating yourself to some brand new curtains, why not make sure that your windows are the best quality too? Cosyhomes Windows are proud to offer a wide range of glazing solutions, not only making sure that your home looks amazing inside and out, but also that it is warm and inviting for all of your family and friends too.

What Is Triple Glazing?

13

May
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 1 Comment
What Is Triple Glazing?
Categories :Windows

Chances are that you will have heard of double-glazing, and know a fair amount about what it is. So, have you heard of triple glazing?

Here at Cosyhomes Windows, we are experts in a range of economical and effective glazing solutions for your home. This means that we need to understand about the different options open for you to consider.

So, here is our summary of what is triple glazing and why you may want it in your home.

What Is Triple Glazing?

In the simplest terms, triple glazing is when you use 3 panes of glass in a window rather than 1 or 2. Double glazing is when 2 are used, and single glazing, unsurprisingly is when 1 single pane is used.

Double glazing is known to cut down on the heat that is released through your windows as well as reduce noise pollution, so it makes sense that triple glazing would improve on this function. It is the glazing of choice in Scandinavian countries and many properties in the UK are now being built with this type of glazing.

However is it enough to make a difference?

The Benefits Of Triple Glazing

We already know the benefits of opting for double glazing in your home. Triple glazing is going to further reduce the noise from the outside world that comes into your home, as well as the heat that escapes. But what else can it do?

Triple glazing reduces the chance of condensation on your windows. This is because it keeps the cold air away from the inside of the window, as well as keeping the warm air away from the outside. Seeing as condensation is caused by these two meeting, it makes sense that this is one of the best benefits of this type of glazing.

It is going to cost more to install triple glazing into your property, but it should definitely be seen as an investment. Rather than something that you pay out for. In time, it will reduce the heat that escapes from your home, and save you money on energy bills. Which means that it will soon pay for itself and leave you with a toasty warm and quiet home!

Contact The Experts Today

Want to know more about glazing options that are suitable for your property? Why not get in touch with us here at Cosyhomes Windows? We are experts in the field of glazing and can give you all the advice that you need to make sure that your home feels as warm and welcoming as you want it to!

How To Measure Your Bay Windows For Curtains

22

Mar
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 2Comment
How To Measure Your Bay Windows For Curtains
Categories :Windows

Here at Cosyhomes Windows we are experts in everything windows. We know that not only is it important to have quality windows installed in your home, but that you also have some good quality curtains hanging up too.

Measuring for curtains in normal style windows is easy enough to do, but if you have a bay style window then you may not find it as simple.

The style of bay windows mean that they stick out from the wall, not only creating a great look, but also letting in plenty of light into your room too. However, they do require different curtain poles, tracks and hanging methods when it comes to curtains. Which means that you will need to take a variety of different measurements in order to make sure that they fit in with your bay window.

Hopefully this guide will help you with how to measure bay windows for curtains.

Where Do You Want Them To Sit?

Before you start measuring for your curtains, you will need to decide exactly where you will want the rod or track to be. Take a good look at the window frame and decide whether you want them to hang from the inside of the frame, or rest outside it. This choice will require different measurements.

Look At The Length

Do you want your curtain to rest just below the frame of the window? Or do you like the idea of it resting gently on the floor? To measure you will need to place your tape measure at the top of the window frame and pull it down until you reach the length that you will want it to reach.

Find The Width

One of the best ways to approach the width of curtains that you will need is to measure each individual section. Place the tape measure on the left hand side of the window at the first section and then stop before you get to the next section. It is important that the tape measure remains level whilst you are taking the measurements.

How Many Panels Will You Need?

You may find that you need more than one panel to create a complete curtain for your bay window. To determine the number of panels, you should make sure that you double the width measurements of the window.

Therefore, if the window is 40 inches wide, then you will need to have 80 inches of curtain panels to make sure that there are no gaps and the bay window is properly dressed.

The average curtain panel is between 40 inches and 60 inches, which means that you may need to buy more panels then you would for a standard window.

Contact Cosyhomes Windows Today

Remember a great curtain cannot only keep the warmth in the building, but it can also add colour and style to the room too. Just make sure that you carefully measure and you will have a bay window that looks even more beautiful! Contact Cosyhomes today for more help towards keeping you cosy and stylish.

What is Secondary Glazing?

16

Jan
2017
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
What Is Secondary Glazing?
Categories :Windows

We all know that it is important to make sure that your windows are properly insulated in order to reduce energy wastage and ensure that the heat in your property stays in your property. One of the most common ways to make sure that your windows are letting out the minimal amount of heat is double-glazing.

However, this isn’t always suitable for every property. In these circumstances, it may be better to opt for secondary glazing.

What Is Secondary Glazing?

Secondary glazing involves adding supplementary glazing on the inside of a single-glazed window. Whilst it is usually a temporary measure, for listed buildings and conservation areas, it is a permanent fix for any windows that are not performing as they should.

The Benefits Of Secondary Glazing

The biggest plus point of installing secondary glazing in your home is of course to reduce the amount of heat that is lost through your windows. However, there are other benefits to having it put in place too.

Sound-proofing

Have you found that you hear too much noise from the outside world? If you do, then maybe secondary glazing is going to be a great option for you. Secondary glazing will reduce any outside noise from coming through your windows much more effectively than single glazed windows.

Save you money on energy bills

We do need to touch on this particular benefit to secondary glazing since it is such a large one. It is believed that secondary glazing can reduce the amount of heat lost through windows as much as 50%. This means that you will end up using less energy, and therefore save money on your energy bills.

Stop those draughts

Feeling the chill in your home? This could be due to a breeze that is flowing through the rooms. The main reason for this is that windows are ineffectively sealed, meaning that they do not close properly. Some people try to fit draught proofing kits to those windows, but the best idea is to install secondary glazing which can really have a big impact.

Contact The Experts

Here at Cosyhomes Windows we are experts in making sure that your home is warm and cosy. Not only will you create an inviting atmosphere for your home, but you can also reduce the amount of noise from outside and reduce the amount of money that you have to spend out on energy bills each and every year. So if you are still wondering ‘what is secondary glazing?’, then contact us today and we will be able to advise you further.

To read an example of one of our latest projects for secondary glazing, please see: Johnsons Shoes, Farnham.

Could Brexit Mean It Is Time For Upgrades?

13

Dec
2016
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
Could Brexit Mean It Is Time For Upgrades?
Categories :Doors, Windows

2016 has been the year that saw the UK undergo a huge decision, and unless you have been living in a cave for the best part of it, Brexit is something that you will know only too well about.

In June 2016, the people of the UK took the decision that they wanted to leave the European Union, causing a number of ripples across the entire country. That said most of us do not seem to have felt the effect of Brexit at all. Surprising?

Well, whilst there were some financial implications immediately after the decision, it seems that it is the long term that will really see the changes come into force.

You may even find that Brexit affects some of the more “normal” parts of your life. In fact, here at Cosyhomes Windows, we believe that Brexit could mean that your doors and windows see a cost rise. Meaning that you may end up paying more to keep your home looking great.

How?

There is a good chance that the amazing new windows and doors that you have installed in your property will be made up of components from across Europe. Unfortunately, one of the things most likely to be affected over the next 2-3 years will be trade with our European neighbours.

Both trade systems and laws will undergo major changes, and the impact of this will be that the cost of trading (and the cost of buying the items for the customer) rises.

Buy Your New Doors And Windows Now

Rather than wait and see if you will end up paying a higher price. Why not make the investment into your home now instead?

New windows and doors not only make the property feel clean, fresh and new, but in the long term it will add value onto it too. Perfect for if you want to sell in the future.

It will also leave your house warmer and cosier. If that wasn’t enough then think about the money saving aspect too. High performing doors and windows will reduce how much you need to pay out in heating bills, saving you money in what could be uncertain times.

Contact Cosyhomes Windows Now

If you think that it is about time you upgraded your doors and windows, then get in touch with us here at Cosyhomes Windows today. We are the experts in making sure that your home not only looks beautiful but that it feels inviting too; and nothin

Our Top Tip Guide on How to Repair A Window

31

Oct
2016
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 1 Comment
Our Top Tip Guide on How to Repair A Window
Categories :Windows

Your windows are often the first thing that people notice about your home. Therefore, it is no surprise that you will want to ensure that your windows are looking their best at all times. But, as with many features of your property, as time goes on they can deteriorate with age.

Here at Cosyhomes Windows, we have put together our top tips for making sure that your windows look their best. We look at the most common issues that come up with windows and show you how you can fix them.

Stuck Wooden Windows

If you have wooden windows, then you are likely to know that they can swell when the weather is wet and damp. If this means that you are struggling to open them, try rubbing some candle wax along the part of the window that is sticking. If that doesn’t work then you may want to consider planning away some of the wood; taking off enough wood that you can then paint the newly bare part of the frame.

Adjusting A Mortise-Plate

A poorly fitted mortise plate can mean that your window isn’t securely fastened. If this is the case, then you should consider removing the plate and refitting it properly. Doing this is simply a case of unscrewing the plate from the window frame before repositioning it and reattaching to ensure a snug fit.

Removing Glass

It can be incredibly dangerous to remove glass from your window. Therefore, it is important that you use the right tools and protect yourself fully. If in doubt, always call an expert. The older the glass, the more dangerous it can be when it breaks.

Protective gloves, work boots and goggles are vital when removing glass and you should always make sure that you clean the putty and fixings before you pop in a new pane of glass.

Removing Glazing Bead Trim

If your window is double glazed, then it is important that you remove the glazing bead carefully, especially if you will want to reuse it. The best way to do this is with a scraper blade, placed under the edge of the first bead. The bead can then be pried up, just so you can position a packer underneath. The packers then are moved outward, meaning that you can unclip the bead from the frame. This process can be repeated for all the beads on the window.

Contact The Experts

Need your windows repaired, maintained or replaced, or simply looking for advice on how to repair a window yourself? The best way to ensure that you have your window repaired properly is to use an expert like Cosyhomes Windows. We are an expert window repair company with the expertise, knowledge and techniques that enable us to take your broken, worn down windows and transform them into something that you are proud to have on your home.

So, why not get in touch with us now and see what we can do for you? Call our team on 020 8397 4040 and speak to one of our advisors today.

Save Money With Replacement Double Glazed Units

20

Jul
2016
Posted By : Rachel Bownds 0 Comment
Save Money With Replacement Double Glazed Units
Categories :Windows

Although we are in the midst of the warmer weather at the moment, there is never a better time to think about preparing for when the weather starts to turn. After all, the last thing you want to suffer from is another cold or costly winter.

Many homeowners have realised that when it comes to heat loss in their homes, often their windows are at fault. Old, damaged or simply just worn out windows can cause the heat pumped out by your radiators or fires to be quickly released rather than being trapped inside.

In turn this could mean that you feel the chill whilst inside or face the horror of a huge gas bill come the wintertime.

What Can You Do To Help?

Your windows are the main culprits of heat loss in the home. You may think that the only way that you can stop this is to replace the whole window, but this can be expensive, not to mention require time to complete and cause disruption to your home.

So, what can you do instead?

Cosyhomes Windows have a cost-effective yet still efficient answer to your heat loss problem. Rather than replace the entire window, how about getting replacement double glazed units instead?

How Is Replacing The Double Glazing Better?

As we have already discussed, replacing an entire window can be costly and takes time. Replacing the double glazing in a window can cost considerably less and takes less time too.

Once you have arranged for the replacement double glazed units, an expert fitter will come out and take the current glass out of the window frame and replace it with a new set of double glazed glass. The old glass will then be taken away and disposed of. The whole process doesn’t take long and for a standard home you should expect the work to be completed in 1-2 days.

Any Other Top Tips?

Whilst replacing your double glazing is one of the best ways to tackle heat loss through your windows, there are some other things that you can do to try and trap in that warm air.

  • Buy high quality lined curtains – The thicker and more luxurious a curtain is then the more it is going to block the warm air from leaving your home through the window.
  • Keep the sun coming in – Whilst curtains are great for trapping warm air, they should always be opened in the daytime to allow the natural light of the sun to stream in and warm up the room.
  • Look out for other heat loss spots – It isn’t just the windows that can give the heat a place to escape. Letterboxes and cat flaps are other prime suspects in the battle against the breeze too.

Here at Cosyhomes Windows we want to make sure that all our customers get to enjoy a warm and toasty home. So why not give us a call and see how we can help you to beat the chill once winter comes around with our double glazed units?