How to Choose Replacement Windows
- uPVC, timber or aluminium
- Casement, tilt and turn or sash
- A wide range of colours and styles
- Choose a window that's right for you

Have brighter days passed in your windows? Do you think your room isn’t staying as warm as it used to because of your double glazing? Do sounds from outside seem a little louder inside your home? It may be time to consider getting new windows.
Selecting the right replacement windows for your home is crucial. It’s not just about aesthetics; you need to consider factors such as energy efficiency, durability, and functionality. Here are a few key points to keep in mind when choosing replacement windows:
Look for windows with a high energy efficiency rating, which will help reduce your energy bills and minimize your carbon footprint.
Common window materials include uPVC, aluminum, and wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, maintenance, and cost.
Windows come in various styles, including casement, double-hung, sliding, and bay windows. Consider the architectural style of your home and your personal preferences when selecting a window style.
To help you decide what would work best for you, we have compiled all the information you need to replace your windows. Please get in touch with us or schedule a free consultation if you need any assistance.
How Long Do Windows Last?
The lifespan of windows can vary significantly depending on several factors. Generally, well-maintained replacement windows can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years or even longer. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, as replacement windows at the right time can save you money in the long run.
Window Material | Typical Lifespan | Considerations |
uPVC | 20 years | Minimal maintenance required |
Aluminum | 25 years | Minimal maintenance required |
Timber | 50 years or more | Regular maintenance is essential |
3 Things That Will Impact the Lifespan of Your Windows
Quality
There are significant differences in the quality of window frame goods between manufacturers and installers. Cheap uPVC will discolor and distort far earlier than a high-quality uPVC frame. Inadequate installation of frames can lead to moisture intrusion, condensation, and air leaks, all of which accelerate the deteriorating process.
Materials
Compared to items manufactured prior to 2000, uPVC is now significantly superior due to advancements in material science. These days, aluminum has stronger frames and improved thermal characteristics. To get close to a 50-year lifetime, timber requires constant maintenance every few years.
Environmental Factors
The weather is the single biggest influence in reducing the lifespan of a window frame. Compared to a protected home, a property facing the shore must struggle with the corrosive effects of seawater and strong winds. Additionally, south-facing windows will have to deal with the sun’s heat-induced continual contraction and expansion.
Safe and Sound Noise Reduction Windows
Noise reducing glass can help reduce external sound by up to 40dB.
Signs That Your Windows Need Replacing
It’s more crucial to routinely inspect your windows for wear and tear and search for indications that they could be nearing the end of their life, regardless of how long a window should last.
Certain problems, like loose handles, are easily repaired; other problems, like discoloration, don’t affect performance; they simply don’t look good.
It is best to think about replacement windows if they exhibit more significant problems in order to prevent expensive heating costs, wet, and black mold in your rooms.
Draughts and Cold Spots
It could be challenging to replace a failing window seal and reach the same efficiency levels as a brand-new window. Inefficient windows allow about thirty percent of a building’s heat to escape, so if you see drafts around your windows, your energy costs may be greater than they would be with energy-efficient windows.
Condensation Between the Double Glazing
Windows that have condensation inside of them are at danger of breaking. When condensation forms between the panes of double glazing, your sealed double glazed unit has “blown” and is no longer thermally efficient. Condensation is a major problem that can cause structural damage, serious health problems, and mold. As such, it should be treated carefully.
Outdoor Noise Levels Are Increasing
The double-glazed unit has been compromised and is no longer effective if you start to observe outside noise within the home getting louder, as mentioned above.
Signs to look for | Checks to make |
---|---|
Draughts around the frame | Feel around the frames for blasts of air |
Problems opening/closing | Do the openers close tightly, or does it stick or have gaps? |
Condensation between panes | Check for fogging between the double glazed panes |
Discolouration and cracking | Check timber frames for dried exposed wood and cracks |
Increased noise levels from outside | Can you hear more noise from outside inside your house? |
How to Choose the Right Window Material for Your Home
In the past, windows were constructed with wooden frames. Early in the 20th century, steel windows were used, and in the years that followed, aluminum windows were used. Since their introduction in the 1980s as a more energy-efficient kind of window, uPVC replacement windows have remained the most widely used window material.

uPVC Windows
Undoubtedly one of the most popular choices among homeowners, uPVC windows offer a compelling combination of durability, low maintenance, and affordability. These windows are designed to withstand the elements, never rotting, flaking, or rusting, ensuring a long-lasting investment. With the integration of A++ rated triple glazing, uPVC windows from reputable manufacturers like Safe and Sound windows can deliver exceptional energy efficiency and security, making them an ideal choice for modern and suburban properties.
Key advantages of uPVC windows:
- Highly energy-efficient, with options for A++ rated triple glazing
- Virtually maintenance-free
- Wide range of colors and woodgrain finishes available
- Excellent security features
Wooden Windows
Wooden replacement windows offer a classic and timeless look, but they require more maintenance than other materials. They can be painted or stained to match your home’s aesthetic.
Hardwood or softwood can be used to make wooden frames. Softwood grows more quickly and costs less. Hardwood is more resilient and grows more slowly. In addition to being stronger and able to withstand rot and fungus, modern timber frames may also be treated to prevent these problems.
The ability to apply a painted or stained finish to wood adds to its attractiveness. If you would like to alter the look of your house, you should take into consideration that this is the only material that can be painted a new color.
Aluminium Windows
If you’re seeking a contemporary and sleek design, aluminum windows are an ideal solution. Offering the slimmest profile and a range of modern colors, these windows allow for maximum natural light to flood your living spaces. Aluminum is exceptionally strong and durable, requiring minimal maintenance while providing superior structural integrity. These windows are particularly well-suited for modern and contemporary properties, where style and functionality converge seamlessly.
Key advantages of aluminum windows:
- Slimmest frames for a modern and minimalist look
- Strong and durable material with minimal maintenance required
- Extensive range of modern color options
- Maximized natural light with large glass areas
Safe and Sound Windows Styles
How to Choose the Right Window Style for Your Home

Casement Windows
The most adaptable window frame form, casement windows fit into the majority of houses.
A casement window typically has two window panes in one frame and is hinged at the top or side.The cheapest window available is a white uPVC casement window.
Safe and Sound casement replacement windows come in a variety of colors and finishes and are constructed with uPVC, wood, and aluminum frames.
Flush casement
There are two designs for casement frames: conventional and flush. When closed, a flush casement window sits flush in the frame; a normal opening window rests proud of the frame. The frame has a sleeker, more streamlined appearance.
Tilt and Turn Windows
A tilt and turn window features a multi-hinged frame that may be tilted only at the top, partially opened on a vent, or fully opened inwards.
These days, tilt-and-turn windows made of aluminum or uPVC are among the most often used window designs. Because of their multi-opening frame’s adaptability, which allows them to be opened inward for cleaning and securely kept open with a ventilation gap, they are perfect for windows above ground level.
Safe and sound tilt and turn replacement windows come in double or triple glazing options and are made of uPVC.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are a historical type of window frame with two panels that slide across one another vertically up and down.
Sash windows, when in excellent shape, have a stunning traditional appeal. They are typically seen on Georgian homes in city centers, notably in London, and Victorian terraces (that haven’t been torn down). But it requires a lot of upkeep.
Sash windows from today’s models include energy-efficient double glazing, perfectly sized brush seals, and smooth operating mechanisms.
Safe and Sound sash replacement windows come with double glazing and can be made of wood or uPVC.
Bay Window
Bay and Bow windows are a distinctive feature of many Victorian and Edwardian homes, adding a sense of grandeur and character to the living space. These windows protrude outward from the main wall, offering panoramic views and flooding the room with natural light.
If you already have an existing bay window, replacing the frames is a straightforward process. However, if you’re considering adding a new bay window to your property, you may need to obtain planning permission, which Safe and Sound can assist you with.
Most Victorian bay windows were initially constructed with single-pane sash windows, but these have often been replaced with more energy-efficient uPVC options. In modern new builds, bay Replacement windows typically feature a central large picture window flanked by side casement windows that open, providing an optimal configuration for both style and functionality.
Bay windows are well-suited for various home styles, allowing homeowners to take advantage of stunning views and increased natural light.
What's the Difference Between Double and Triple Glazing?
When it comes to energy efficiency, the glazing (or glass panes) of your windows plays a crucial role. Double-glazed windows feature two panes of glass with a sealed air or gas-filled space between them, while triple-glazed windows have three panes of glass with two air or gas-filled spaces.
Triple-glazed windows offer superior insulation compared to double-glazed windows, which can result in lower energy bills and a more comfortable indoor environment. However, triple-glazed windows are generally more expensive and may not be necessary in milder climates.
Learn More About Double Vs Triple glazing windows…
- Correctly spaced gaps between the panes.
- Type of gas or coating used as the insulator.
- Type and quality of the materials.
- Level of tailored manufacturing to your home.
Double Glazing | Flush Triple Glazing | |
---|---|---|
Energy Rating | A+ | A++ |
U Value | 1.4 | 1 |
G Value | 0.48 | 0.39 |
L Value | 0 | 0 |
Cost | ££ | £££ |
How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?
The price of the windows and installation might differ significantly. We can’t provide a pricing list since there are too many factors to take into account and we only do bespoke installs.
To get an idea of industry standard prices, read our full guide about how much new windows cost here.
Things to Consider When Replacing Windows
When embarking on a replacement windows project, there are several key factors to consider to ensure a successful outcome:
Energy Efficiency: Look for windows with a high energy efficiency rating, such as those certified by the Energy Saving Trust or the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC). This will help reduce your energy bills and improve the overall comfort of your home.
Security: Choose windows with robust locking mechanisms and tamper-proof hardware to enhance the security of your home.
Noise Reduction: If you live in a noisy area, consider windows with enhanced sound insulation properties to create a more peaceful indoor environment.
Ventilation: Ensure that your new windows provide adequate ventilation to maintain a healthy indoor air quality.
Maintenance: Consider the maintenance requirements of different window materials and choose a option that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
By taking these factors into account, you can select replacement windows that not only enhance the appearance of your home but also improve its overall functionality and energy efficiency.
FAQs
The installation time can vary depending on the number of replacement windows being replaced and the complexity of the project. On average, it takes a professional crew approximately one day to install 10-15 windows.
In most cases, you won’t need a permit for a straightforward replacement window project. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local building authorities to ensure compliance with any relevant regulations.
The lifespan of replacement windows can vary depending on the quality of materials and installation, as well as environmental factors. High-quality windows installed by professionals can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years or even longer.
A completely double-glazed unit may indeed be installed into an existing frame.
On the other hand, replacing the entire window frame is preferable and more economical in the long run if your frames are more than a few years old.
Getting a flawless installation with a newly installed glazed unit in an uPVC or aluminum frame is not always achievable. The frame may have some minor damage.
Refitting timber frames is simpler and they may be painted again. Since wood lasts longer, replacing glass units in wooden frames is more likely to happen if the frame is still sturdy and hasn’t warped.