It's June! - 3 Window Styles for a Summer Makeover
We’ve suffered a long winter - (we haven't suffered too much because we're polar bears, and because we've got good windows).
How often have you been compelled to look outside your window, other than to check for streaks of blue in the unending bank of grey clouds?
But now the weather has turned and Bristol is shining!
We know the UK may only be blessed with a month or two of sunshine in a year but lets embrace the fact that right now the view outside is pleasant.
Unless you're looking through horrible windows that is:
Image via Eric Schmuttenmaer under Creative Commons 2.0
Do your windows need more than a good clean? Cracked glass? Flaking paint? Broken handles?
It is the time to do something, you want to see the sun from your kitchen table, don't you?
Here are three different styles of window you could install in your home just in time for sweltering summer nights and afternoons chilling in the garden or park.
1. Tilt Windows
(You can see our Tilt Windows range here)
Why Tilt?
Tilt windows are a European style of window that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, particularly in large apartment buildings. They can be opened partially or fully. When opened partially, they tilt inwards...hence the name. When opened fully, they swing open on vertical hinges.
There are a number of advantages to this style of window. The first relates to security. When the window is partially opened, it is very difficult to get in from the outside. The gap is far too small, and the inside handle cannot be reach or turned. This means that it can be left open in the day when you are out and want to keep the house cool, or at night when you are too hot to sleep. Due to the angle at which it opens, rain cannot enter, but the room will be well ventilated.
If the window is fully opened, it can be used as a quick and easy escape route in the event of a fire. It can also let in a large amount of air if you want to cool the room in a short amount of time. As demonstrated in the photograph, a full opening allows you to clean the outside of the window with ease.
The window is operated by one handle. It is incredibly easy to use and, when shut, very well sealed. It is the perfect choice for those who are particularly sensitive to heat, want maximum security, or live in a large apartment with less-than-perfect fire escape routes.
2. Sash Windows
You can see our Sash Windows range here.
Why Sash?
Want a more classical appearance? You might want to consider installing sash windows. They contain moveable panels separated by a strip of wood or metal. They can be moved vertically or horizontally depending on the preference of the home-owner.
You will often find them on historic buildings that are subject to regulations ensuring the preservation of style. However, these old-fashioned sash windows come with their fair share of problems. The wood can rot or shrink, causing the window panes to rattle when moved. The constant sliding of the windows also causes wear and tear, and the thin strips of wood separating the panels are difficult to paint, and easily flake.
Luckily, sash windows can now be manufactured using uPVC, a durable and low maintenance material which avoids many of the problems linked with traditional window manufacturing.
And, of course they remain as beautiful as their 100-year-old counterparts - (just see our beautiful upvc windows!)
As with tilt windows, sash windows provide small openings that are well suited to the cold and blustery British weather. The window does not protrude, which means that it is difficult to tell from a distance that the window is open. And of course it takes up less space and is less likely to be damaged from the outside.
3. French Doors
You can see our French Windows range here
The prospect of installing French doors can be daunting for many.
To know whether it is the right decision, it helps to be fully aware of the attributes and functionality of this window/door hybrid.
French doors have a reputation of being high-risk targets for burglary. In fact, modern installations are very secure and are as difficult to break into as an ordinary street door. For the more cautious, there are a wide range of locking systems that can be installed to further decrease the likelihood of a forced entry.
French doors are perfect for summer.
They invite summer inside the home.
They also allow you to make the most of rainy, muggy days - when it’s too wet to sit outside but you find yourself reaching for the electric fan.
They reduce your bills and your carbon footprint by harnessing the light and warmth of the sun, and they come in a variety of styles to suit your purposes.
For some, they are primarily a decorative feature, bestowing style and elegance. For others, they're is an easy way to get tables, trampolines and bikes in and out of the house.
Think about what you want to get out of your new windows: What suits the general outside-appearance of the house?
There is room in modern culture for a number of styles, even on one street, so no need to replicate the tastes of previous inhabitants or neighbours.