7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing Window and Door Products for Your Home
Let’s be honest – windows and doors might not be the most thrilling part of designing your dream home.
But hear me out, because the window and door game has changed. No more settling for standard options that every house on the street has. Upgrading your windows and doors isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s an investment, and one worth getting right.
It’s about choosing the eyes and gateways of your home. So, before you get swept away by brochures and sales pitches, here are a few brutally honest questions you need to ask:
1. Am I falling for a false economy?
Like those “sale” stickers that never go away, the cheapest option might sting you in the long run. I’m not just talking about the initial price tag. Ask about the lifespan, how those frames will handle our unpredictable British weather, and crucially, the impact on your energy bills. Cheap windows leak heat like a sieve, and you’ll regret those ‘savings’ come winter.
2. Is my style being stifled?
We’ve all seen them – the bland, plastic-y windows that scream “developer special.” Unless that’s your jam, demand more! Windows and doors should express your personality and work with the architecture of your home. Think materials – sleek metal, timeless timber, even something a little offbeat. Explore color, configurations, the whole nine yards. Don’t get stuck in a box, literally.
3. But am I going overboard?
There’s ambition, and then there’s those sprawling glass palaces that stick out like a sore thumb. Your windows and doors need to work with your home’s scale and its surroundings. Chat with the supplier or consider an independent designer for an honest opinion. Sometimes, less is more.
4. What’s the deal with security?
Those gorgeous French doors opening onto the garden? Fabulous, but are they an invitation to burglars? Don’t just take the salesperson’s word for it. Look for independent certifications and ask about hardware options (locks, hinges, you name it). You can have style and peace of mind.
5. Is anyone thinking about the planet?
Okay, time for a reality check. Windows and doors have an environmental footprint. Where are materials sourced? Are they sustainably manufactured? Can they be recycled at the end of their lifespan? Don’t be afraid to put suppliers on the spot. Your wallet and the planet will thank you.
6. What about the nitty-gritty of installation?
I’ve seen enough renovation disasters to know this makes or breaks the whole thing. Badly fitted windows and doors lead to draughts, leaks, and nightmares down the line. Grill the supplier – who does the installation? Are they experienced, insured, and meticulous? Get references, and check those reviews.
7. Am I missing the bigger picture?
We get caught up in the details, but take a step back. How will those new windows change the feel of your space? Could bigger doors transform how you use that garden? This isn’t just about functionality. Imagine the light, the views, the way your home breathes.
A final word…