A buyers’ guide for PVC-U windows and doors

Get all the information you need to make the right choice and guarantee the appearance, comfort and security of your home.

Regulations and planning permission

First things first: you don’t need planning permission for replacement windows. But, if you’re in a conservation area or your property is listed, you may face restrictions about the type or style of window you can have. Check with your local authority for more advice.

When your windows have been installed, you’ll receive a certificate to prove the work complies with Building Regulations. This will arrive in the post.

However, we do not obtain permissions on your behalf. Please make sure everything is in place before placing your order.

Energy efficiency

Just like fridges, freezers and washing machines, windows and doors use an ‘A’ to ‘E’ energy rating system. A++ are the best-performing models; E the worst.

The Windows (and Doors) Energy Rating (WER & DER) schemes are independently operated by the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC), a subsidiary of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF).

A-rated windows are increasingly popular because they offer a substantial improvement in performance. 95% of BFRC-certified A++ rated windows are made from PVC-U, while C-rated windows are now the minimum standard required to comply with current Building Regulations.

Design: window types

Casement windows remain the most popular option in the UK. These have side opening ‘sashes’ and smaller top opening ‘lights’.

However, in recent years window design has become simpler. This helps to maximise the light entering a property. The smaller top ‘lights’ are becoming rarer, replaced instead with ‘night vent’ position on the sash that guarantees ventilation without compromising security.

Design: frame styles

Three basic PVC-U window frames are available today:

• Flush sash, where the sash sits on top of the frame
• Chamfered, which features a simple angled shape to the top and bottom of the frame
• Ovolo, which has a sculptured shape to the top and bottom of the frame

Design: colours

White remains the most popular choice, but a huge range of colours are now available. If you want to blend in with the environment, you can. And if you want to make a big, bold statement, you can do that too. The choice is yours.

Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) is one of our best-selling colours for windows and doors, especially on modern properties. Our range also includes several more greys and our ‘heritage’ colours, such as Chartwell Green, which are perfect for stone-built houses.

Privacy

Privacy glazing is recommended in entrance areas, bathrooms and upstairs landings. Frosted patterned ‘backing’ glass also features in our composite and PVC-U entrance doors, obscuring the internal view from outside.

There are other quick ways to create privacy, too. Consider roller or venetian blinds, which can keep a room light while still increasing comfort and improving energy efficiency.

Security

Today’s windows and doors should come with minimum security standards, including:

• 3-star-rated cylinder door locks
• Locks on all windows to prevent forced entry
• Internal glazing beads to prevent intruder access

Care and maintenance

PVC-U windows and doors require very little maintenance. They won’t rust or rot, but some effort should still be made to keep them in pristine condition. Download our Care and Maintenance booklet for full guidance.

Quality and durability

To ensure the longevity of your new windows and doors, look for three accreditations to give you ongoing peace of mind.
BBA Certified Systems: A BBA certificate is recognised throughout the construction industry. All Eurocell windows, bi-folds and French doors are BBA-certified.
CE Marking: This proves that a product complies with UK and EU safety, health and environmental requirements.
British Standards: Eurocell Home doors and windows are manufactured to BS6375 and BS476.