Windows for social housing tend to require replacement approximately every 20 years and, with a large number of units to replace simultaneously, it’s important to balance quality and cost. After all, windows serve many purposes: as well as allowing light into the home, they provide essential insulation against the cold in winter, and much-needed ventilation in warmer months, as well as keeping criminals and noise out.
Unfortunately, not all windows deliver comparable energy efficiency, security, or noise reduction. With many different styles of windows for houses available, choosing the right design can be challenging, so what are the main considerations you should take into account?
Energy Efficiency
Fuel price rises are affecting everyone but, for the residents of social housing, the soaring costs are an even greater concern. High-quality windows can be decisive in keeping homes warm in the winter months, thereby reducing demand on energy and suppressing fuel costs. The energy efficiency of windows determines how well they will protect against the cold: installing A-graded double glazing could save the average household up to £110 a year in energy, which will offer families in social housing much-needed financial relief.
Robust Security
For families in social housing, keeping the home secure is another priority. Better quality windows present a more formidable challenge for burglars, while offering reassurance to residents that their property and wellbeing are safeguarded. If you are looking for new window for your houses, choose a supplier whose products adhere to the ‘Secured by Design’ scheme, a nationwide police initiative that aims to improve home security and reduce residential crime.
Function and Maintenance
Windows need to be fit for purpose. They must be well made, installed correctly and able to provide enough light, retain enough heat, and afford the occupants a degree of security. On tower blocks, windows need to provide sufficient weather performance, in other words they must be robust enough to provide a certain level of resistance to wind, water and air pressures.
When it comes to refurbishing a window, this can be done by replacing the hardware – hinges, locks and handles – or the glazing unit, or both. The hardware elements, warranties and guarantees for which are generally one to two years, are usually the first to deteriorate.
Regular maintenance, which can be as simple as oiling hinges and cleaning out dirt from recesses within the mechanisms, is recommended. Failure to maintain hinges, locks and handles can put additional strain on a unit, so they become more prone to damage. These items can be replaced fairly easily, but regular maintenance will extend their lives.
When it comes to the double-glazing unit itself, over time there can be a tendency for condensation to accumulate in the gap between the two panes of glass. The glass is generally fairly straightforward to replace, and if both the hardware and the window profile – the uPVC frame holding the glazing in place – are in good condition, it is the only element that requires attention.
Contact Mila Maintenance
At Mila Maintenance, our expert window and door installers have been repairing and upgrading windows for over 30 years, in social housing, student residences, and the private rented sector.
To find out more about our services and how replacement windows could benefit your social housing, please get in touch on 0808 100 8881.
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