Just moved into a do’er-upper and need to change the windows? Noticed wear and tear on your old window frames? Or simply looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home? Whatever your situation, we’ve got lots to share so read on and touch base if you’d like to explore options.
Lockhart Construction are experts in window installation and replacement
As Wellington’s expert residential renovators Lockhart Construction are the trusted installers of high-quality windows, doors and glazed extensions for our clients. Whether you are restoring a property with sliding sash windows or renovating your home with modern joinery throughout, our team have over 80 years of combined experience to bring to your project and a quality standard that means that we only install the best products on the market.
Our Advice for Your New Window Project
A window should serve as an investment that pays off for many years and staves off whatever the weather throws at it. Easier said than done right? Knowing exactly what you need to look for to ensure that you’re getting the best windows for your money can be a complex task so we’ve taken some time to share our thoughts below for your benefit.
The Glass
You may require different types of glass or glazing for your windows depending on your needs. With New Zealand’s climate and environment single glazing is your cheapest option, but otherwise we would at least recommend opting for double glazed windows. Double glazing works by sealing a pocket of air between the two sheets of glass that helps deal with heat loss.
For the ultimate in glass performance, triple glazed windows is your answer. These windows, as the name suggests, have three layers of glass, but instead of air, the pockets of gas between the sheets is krypton and argon, helping to better insulate your home.
Furthermore, triple and double glazing helps to quell outside noise pollution and adds extra security to your home that single glazing struggles to provide.
In a nutshell, the more panes of glass a window has, the harder it is for heat to transfer through those layers and get in or out of your house. Therefore, more layers of insulation mean a better R-value or U-value (we explain these terms further down)!
Aluminium vs uPVC
If you’re looking for a set of contemporary windows, with all the features, benefits and functionality that modern technology can provide, chances are you will be drawn to two types: aluminium or uPVC windows.
They’ve both proven popular over the last few decades, with people attracted by their easy to maintain and durable finishes and promises of long lifespans.
At Lockhart Construction we don’t believe one product is better than the other. It really comes down to personal preference.
Aluminium Windows
- Greater durability and strength
- Higher resistance to weathering
- Lower insulation, poorer thermal efficiency
- Higher cost
- Long lifespan of 40+ years
uPVC Windows
- Lower strength than aluminium
- Susceptible to heat expansion
- Better thermal insulation
- Lower cost than aluminium
- Shorter lifespan of 20-30 years
Lockhart Construction Managing Director, Stan Leenders, is particularly passionate about windows, in fact he recently said he could talk windows all day! So, if you’re after some advice or simply wanting to know more then you’re welcome to touch base with Stan – [email protected]
Energy Efficiency
For your new windows, you’ll want a high R-value and a low U-value. This would indicate that insulation is working and there are no major air leaks. You want windows that block the sun’s heat and UV rays during the summer while heat stays inside during the winter.
- An R-value is a measure of heat resistance and is an assessment of material effectiveness.
- A U-value measures heat transfer (loss or gain) through the actual glass.
As you search for great energy-efficient windows we encourage you to target a window R-value of 3 to 5, the higher the R-value the better performance.
U-values can vary depending on the manufacturer and the materials used to construct the window. A great U-value for a window is 0.30 or lower, so keep an eye out for a low U-value when comparing windows for your home.
Style
Though this may go without saying, it’s important that you choose windows that fit the general aesthetic of your home, both in the sense that they match the decor of your rooms and the building style of your home.
We welcome the opportunity to introduce you to our preferred window supplier if you would like to explore a comprehensive list of windows designs, glazing options, colours and materials.
The Supplier
The market is flooded with window manufacturers, importers and re-sellers so where do you start? The key here is to do your homework and to be aware that unfortunately not all suppliers are to be trusted.
Lockhart Construction encourages anyone looking to engage directly with a window supplier to conduct their own rigorous due diligence. The internet is teaming with articles about failed window suppliers and shoddy products and websites like Reddit have an abundance of customer feedback to consider. Another tip is to ask your potential supplier if you could speak directly with an independent party like an architect, builder or construction company that has used them repeatedly in the past.
The Installer
As with any renovation or building project it’s important to ensure your trades people are qualified, licenced and provide a guarantee such as New Zealand Certified Builders or Master Builders.
Lockhart Construction is your one-stop window shop with full project management experience in new window and door fitting and replacement window and door installation. We have great relationships with local Wellington window and door suppliers and are able to take care of all aspects of your renovation. Our clients share positive feedback about our communication, workmanship and ability to take care of even the smallest things.
Let’s go Window Shopping
So, what do you think? Are you ready to spruce up the place with modern joinery?
In a nutshell, consider cost, durability, lifespan, style, insulation, and maintenance needs. And be sure to buy quality window products from reputable brands, installed properly by professionals. This will ensure you get great performance from your new windows for decades to come.
The team at Lockhart Construction are here to help with all your renovation needs. We’re simply a click away.