Replacement Windows Performance:
Selecting the best Replacement Windows for a property takes a number of performance factors into account. The British Standard sets out the tests for windows that grades each aspect of their performance so you can know how well they will perform before you buy them.
Which Double Glazed Slimline PVCu Windows are the best?
All Replacement Windows whether they have double glazing or triple glazing or made from PVCu, Aluminium or Timber will have different abilities to keep the weather and uninvited intruders out and expensive heat in, but this ability reduces the larger the opening parts become.
Some PVCu windows opening sashes need to use bulky sash frames while other better designed frame sections have internal steel reinforcement and better operating mechanisms (hinges and concealed multi-point locking) that allows the frames to be nearly as slender as aluminium windows.
Some Replacement Windows opening sashes, particularly heavier Triple Glazed Windows, are very limited in the sizes they can be made and still be guaranteed to keep the weather out.
Amongst the many matters that have to be considered, to know that any window system will be fit for purpose Architects rely upon the Test Practices set out in British Standards.
Which windows would be best for my property?
To allow the performance of the windows to be matched to the exposure of the property the British Standards sets out how to assess the wind loading that will impact the windows.
Every window in every property has different levels of exposure depending upon the average top wind speeds for the location, how close it is to the coast, how high up it is, if it is in open country or sheltered or on a hill facing into the wind that causes the wind to accelerate plus a range of other matters.
British Standards Performance Tests
BS6375 – 1 Weather testing
Tests include air permeability, water tightness and resistance to wind load.
Each window system can be tested for each combination of the different sizes of frame profiles in the systems range and permutation of ironmongery and gearing to evaluate the amount of air infiltration to be expected as the size of for each opening area and perimeter length of opening increases to allow advance understanding of how that permutation will perform at different levels of wind pressure.
BS6375 – 2 Performance of windows and doors
Timber and PVCu Windows are susceptible to the forces caused by expansion and contraction in addition to any loading they have to endure during use. BS6375-2 tests the strength of the window to resist deforming due to static torsion and racking that would cause them to leak and become draughty. It also covers the load bearing capacity of safety devices, impact resistance and cyclic tests where the windows are opened and closed up to 20,000 times.
BS6375 – 3 Classification for additional performance characteristics and guidance on selection and specification
BS6375-3 Tests include acoustic performance, thermal transmittance and touches on burglar resistance in addition to a range of other matters. PAS24: 2022 is the British Standard test for the security of Windows and Doors.
How Can Window Advice Centre help?
If your existing Windows and Doors are letting you down and you are thinking about replacing them with new secure Windows and Doors with Thermally Efficient Double Glazing that will stand the test of time you can call on Window Advice Centre to help.
One of our expert Consultants will be allocated to help you select the most suitable replacement Windows and Doors that will deliver the benefits that you want.
Your Consultant will help you source the most competitive reliable Replacement Window Contractors itemised costs to undertake the work and once your new Windows and Doors are installed your Window Advice Centre Consultant will inspect your new Windows and Doors before you pay.
Request a Free No-Obligation Survey
Window Advice Centre‘s free no obligation service has helped tens of thousands of consumers since it was founded in 1982.
To arrange a free survey you can phone Glasgow and West on 0141 332 7878 or Edinburgh and East on 0131 225 7999 or Dundee and Central on 01382 200345, or request a survey online by clicking this Book a FREE Survey link or the button below.