FAQs

When it comes to your windows and other home improvement products, absolutely nothing.

All three acronyms refer to the same material, Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride. This is a low-maintenance building product that’s widely used across the industry.

The reason for the different acronyms is due to different languages and an attempt and standardisation in the 1980s. Many non-English languages place the adjective after the verb, hence the switch from UPVC and PVCU – hence both terms are used interchangeably.

As for PVC, some people and products drop the ‘U’ for brevity.

The difference between a casement (or ‘lipped’) and a flush window is where the part of the window that opens and closes is located.

In a casement window, this is located outside of the frame. In a flush window, it’s housed level with the surrounding frame.

For a closer look at the two types of windows, why not visit our showroom in Newton? There you can see both casement and flush windows and see the difference yourself.

Typically, triple glazing is better at retaining internal heat and preventing cold spots than double glazing. However, it’s worth noting that there is a difference in cost between the two options, due to the extra pane of glass required.

Double glazing can still achieve high energy ratings for your windows, so we’d suggest that you speak with a member of our team who’ll be able to advise accordingly.

All our windows are available in a wide range of colours.

We’re far removed from the days when windows had to be white. We can offer classic colours such as creams and greys, through to popular contemporary options, such as your reds, greens and blue. We’ve even got a beautiful collection of woodgrain finishes if you want to replicate that timeless timber look.

Also, we can provide windows with different colours inside and out – so you can really mix things up!

The Window Energy Rating (WER) is a consumer-friendly traffic light system that shows how energy efficient a window is, on a scale of A++ to G. It’s very similar to the system used to display the energy ratings of home appliances and white goods.

WERs are also recognised in the BFRC Rating Scheme. This is important as it forms a crucial part of national Building Regulations and determines if your windows meet current guidelines.

When purchasing new or replacement windows, look for those than carry the highest possible rating. That way you be sure your windows will be the best available.

To learn more about the energy efficiency of our windows, please speak with a member of the Mid Wales team.

A window’s U-value shows how well it retains internal heat. This is measured in Watts per square metre, of W/m2K.

All new or replacement windows must have a U-value of 1.4 or lower.

Ask your Mid Wales advisor for further details and they’ll be only too happy to help.

Secured by Design (SBD) is an official police-backed imitative that looks to improve the security of people’s homes and neighbourhoods. They aim to achieve this by designing out potential flaws and vulnerabilities.

SBD’s accreditation scheme provides a recognised standard for which all products and components can be tested. For us, this relates to windows and doors, as well as individual parts such as locks and hinges.

Our manufacturing partner, Conservatory Outlet, is a long term and registered member of Secured by Design. Many of our products are tested to meet this high standard.

Our windows are made by Conservatory Outlet, the UK’s leading window fabricator.

Thanks to our exclusive agreement with them, we’re able to provide the very best selection of windows to our customers across the Mid Wales region.

Yes, we are members of FENSA. Our registration number is 17500.

FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. Following Government encouragement, FENSA has been set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and other industry bodies in response to Building Regulations for double glazing companies in England and Wales.

When replacing windows and doors, homeowners must comply with current thermal performance standards and ensure they get a certificate from FENSA or Local Authority Building Control. FENSA enables companies that install replacement windows and doors to self-certify compliance under these Building Regulations without the need for a separate assessment from Building Control.

No, not all composite doors are the same.

We offer two different types of composite doors. The first set are 44mm thick and are foam-filled to give them their strength. They are finished in a coloured GRP skin.

Then, we have the Extreme Solid Core door. These are slightly deeper at 48mm and are made from interlocking laminated layers of timber. This makes them stronger and a little bit heavier.

There is a price uplift between the two and we’d suggest speaking with a member of the team to find out which composite door is best for you.

Yes, you can. In most instances, you’ll be able to choose different colours inside and out.

For example, you could opt for a white inside panel and red for the outside!

As standard, we’d provide three sets of keys. Though if you’d like more, please let us know in advance.

Absolutely. Just let your Mid Wales advisor know when ordering and they can ensure both sets of keys match.

Secured by Design (SBD) is an official police-backed imitative that looks to improve the security of people’s homes and neighbourhoods. They aim to achieve this by designing out potential flaws and vulnerabilities.

SBD’s accreditation scheme provides a recognised standard for which all products and components can be tested. For us, this relates to windows and doors, as well as individual parts such as locks and hinges.

Our manufacturing partner, Conservatory Outlet, is a long term and registered member of Secured by Design. Many of our products are tested to meet this high standard.

A 3 Star-rated door barrel is a locking cylinder that has achieved the highest grade possible and provides maximum protection against break-ins. Our door cylinders feature unique snap-secure technology and a lockdown mode that prevents the barrel from being compromised.

Yes, they can. Mention this to your design consultant and we can ensure your French doors are fitted with an egress hinge so they fold all the way back.

If you have a large opening at the rear of your property or living space, bi-folding and patio doors will help improve access and turn an entrance way into a true feature.

Both styles of door have their advantages. Bi-folding doors fold all the way back whilst patio doors have slimmer frames, so you get a less-obstructed view of your garden.

Speak to a Mid Wales advisor who can help you choose the right option for you, your family and your home.