Bespoke Timber Windows

Timber Windows FAQs

• FAQ - What U-values do I need for new build & replacement windows?

  As of January 2021, the New build private dwellings will need to achieve a window and door U values, no worse than 1.6 Wm2K to comply with the recent changes to Part L of the building regulations. Replacement windows and doors to existing dwellings will need to achieve a U-value no less than 1.1Wm2K.

• FAQ - Double glazing vs triple glazing timber windows?

  There are many differences between double glazing and triple glazing. To put it simply, double glazing features two panes of glass, whereas triple glazing features three panes of glass. If you’re looking to increase your home’s energy efficiency, then an additional pane of glass makes a difference. Many UK homes have double glazing as standard, but triple glazing offers more benefits in terms of energy efficiency, noise reduction and cold patch reduction. The compromise for the additional sheet of glass is the aesthetics of the window itself. The extra sheet of glass increases the weight of the sash and therefore maximum sizing can be limited. Hinge mechanisms also have to be upscaled to support the increased weights and can often appear over-engineered and industrial. A 24mm argon-filled double glazed unit can provide the right balance between aesthetic and performance, suitable for the UK temperature variations. The important consideration is the window U value as a whole and a softwood frame will insulate better than a UPVC or Aluminum alternative.

• FAQ - What are trickle vents?

  Trickle vents are a requirement under building regulations, and they refer to small vent openings in a window. They are designed to allow small amounts of air to pass from one side of the window to the other, so you don’t have to open your window fully to let the fresh air in. In addition, the small vents can help remove unwanted odours within the home and reduce condensation and mould growth that can cause damages to your interior, as well as impact your physical health. We highly recommend having trickle vents for new and replacement windows.

• FAQ - How do I fit timber windows?

  ​​For new build projects, timber windows and doors will generally be fitted using galvanized metal straps, attached to the outside of the frames and then secured to the inner blockwork layer of the building fabric. With timber-framed buildings, the straps will be attached to the timber reveal. We recommend using plastic packers (spaced at no more than 300mm at cill level and 600mm on the jambs) to help ensure the frames are level and plumb within the aperture. We would then recommend that a frame fix foam is used internally to both fill and insulate the remaining gap (fitting tolerance of 5mm all round). Externally the frames will need to be either siliconed or mortared to finish.

• FAQ - How do I maintain timber windows?

  Timber has much lower overall maintenance requirements than others due to the nature of the material. On average, you only need to clean your timber windows twice every year, whereas, with UPVC windows, you’re looking at cleaning them 4 times a year - it all adds up!

• FAQ - How long do timber windows last?

  There is a reason why timber windows are the ultimate choice when replacing your existing windows because of their average life span. On average, timber windows can last between 60 and 80 years, now think of how energy efficient your property will be, as well as saving on energy bills.