Why you need to steer clear of cheap garage doors…

There are many different types and styles of garage doors on the market and they are an important investment for any home. Not only do you need a garage door that looks good and suits your home, you also need it to be durable and most importantly secure to keep unwanted visitors out. 

When choosing your new garage door, be sure to steer clear of cheap ones, as not only will they not give you value for money, they may be easy to break into or deteriorate a lot faster than they should do.

Here are a few things to look out for:

1.  Be wary of metal up and over garage doors. This is because they can dent easily and they require a lot of maintenance, as they need to be painted on a regular basis. Up and over garage doors are also easier to force entry into, as the intruder will have the handle to hold to pull open. You will not get this with a roller door, as there is nothing for them to pull on.

2.

GRP garage doors are a very popular choice, however some are made to a lower standard than others. They way to tell if it is a cheap garage door is if you can still see daylight through them when the door is shut. If it is a good quality GRP garage door, when shut the garage should be in complete darkness. In fact with some low quality garage doors you can even see the outline of people and objects when the garage door is shut. This type of door may also be easier to force open.

3. For what some companies charge for metal up and over garage doors, you can actually get a powder coated, aluminium electric roller garage door for a fraction of the price more. A roller garage door has more benefits than an up and over door and you will also get far better value for money. You can also get them in virtually any colour you want, so you can choose the perfect garage door to suit your home.

4. If you do decide to go for a roller garage door, watch out for ones that have really thin slats, as this is a sign that it is a cheap garage door. This means that it will not be as insulated, will dent easier and may rattle.

 

If you are looking for a new garage door be sure to get a free quote from us at Jewel Windows. We offer a price beat guarantee on like for like products, so make sure you check with us before you buy! For your quick free quote go to www.jewelwindows.co.uk or email info@jewelwindows.co.uk. 

Benefits of roller shutter garage doors…

Is your garage door looking tired and not working as well as it used to? Are you confident that your belonging are safe and secure in your garage and protected from unwanted visitors? If you are thinking about installing a new garage door then roller door can be a great option. Below are some of the main advantages:

1. Saves space: Roller shutter garage doors are great for saving space. This is because the door rolls back instead of kicking outwards so it is great for properties with short drives and limited space. Roller garage doors maximise the space on both sides of it, as it has no internal mechanisms which means this leaves extra height for more storage space on the inside.

2. Greater security: Roller garage doors have great security features that are designed to keep unwanted visitors away. They are far harder to break into then some other types of garage doors and because they do not have a handle there is nothing for intruders to hold onto when trying to force the door open. Additionally, if someone does try to force the door up, the motor will recognise this and force it back down.

3. Convenience: These doors open at the press of a button. No more fiddling with keys, stopping or getting out of your car. You can drive straight in to your garage and go straight into your home without having to come back out to lock up. This is especially helpful if it is raining!

4. Virtually maintenance freeand easy to use: Roller shutter garage doors require no painting. A simple wipe down with a cleaning cloth will have it looking as good as new in no time. They are also extremely easy to operate thanks to their automatic operation.

5. Safety: Roller doors have a laser at the bottom of it that provides a safety cut off operation if anything gets in the way. These sensors stop anything or anyone getting trapped, which will give you complete peace of mind.

6. Appearance: Installing a new roller garage door can really transform the look of your home and make a great first impression. They come in many different colours and finishes, which means that you can choose the perfect style to suit and enhance your home. As well as looking great, another benefit is that it will also add value to your home.

Now is a great time to install your new garage door as we have a summer sale on which could save you a massive 25%! For your free quote go to www.jewelwindows.co.uk or email info@jewelwindows.co.uk.

Are roof lanterns making a comeback?

Roof lanterns seem to be getting more and more popular these days. But what exactly are roof lanterns and how can they benefit your home?

In the Georgian times roof lanterns were used in the homes of the wealthy, often in stairwells or other areas of the home. The natural light that they allowed into the property was essential as apart from this candlelight was the only other form of light that they had. The reason why only the wealthy had roof lanterns is because back in those days all glass was made by hand and therefore very expensive, so it was only the rich who could afford such luxuries as a roof lantern.

Although popular in the Georgian and Victorian era’s, there were obviously no double glazed windows then. This meant that the single glazing allowed a lot of heat out so the area where the roof lantern was placed was often expensive to heat. Unfortunately roof lanterns were also prone to leaks, as they did not have the sealing advancements that we have today. As a result many people reduced the size of their roof lantern or boarded them over altogether to avoid these problems.

Now days, with double glazing and advanced sealing these problems no longer exist and a roof lantern can be a great addition to any home. They are particularly popular with period properties, as many were built with a lack of natural light being allowed in and can often be dark and gloomy. A roof lantern is therefore a great way to let natural light stream through and provides ventilation and a sense of more space.

Roof lanterns are also becoming increasingly popular with modern homes. Wherever there is a flat roof a roof lantern can be installed and it is a great way to transform the room below. A roof lantern essentially looks like a mini conservatory roof and can provide a great architectural feature for your home. Today they are energy efficient, water tight and easy to operate; along with the other benefits mentioned there is no wond`er that they are making a comeback.

We are a double glazed windows company based in the South and provide many roof lanterns to our customers. At the moment we have a summer sale on, so if you are interested in getting a quote for a roof lantern (or any other products) contact us at www.jewelwindows.co.uk to receive up to 25% discount. `

Why are pvc windows so popular?

When choosing new windows for your home you need to make sure that you are choosing the right type for you. Although many people opt for timber or aluminum windows, pvc is the most popular choice.

So why is this? Pvc can be seen to have more benefits when compared with other types of windows. We have listed below some of the reasons why they remain to be so popular when people choose their pvc windows and doors.

- Security: with pvc windows, all casements come with ten point locking mechanisms. This is the most secure locking feature available on the market and gives customers peace of mind that they will be safe and secure in their home. Some windows companies also work in conjunction with the police under the ‘Secured by Design’ scheme, as we do at Jewel Windows. Secured by Design has been set up by the Association of Chief Police to focus on crime prevention and they have applied security standards to certain products, such as pvc windows and doors, to prove that they can withstand a break-in attempt.

- Virtually maintenance free: pvc windows are virtually maintenance free, meaning that there is never any need to paint them and you can have them looking as good as new with a simple wipe of a cloth. Also, their colour is guaranteed for 10 years so will not fade or discolour.

- Frames: pvc window frames have a five chamber system. This means that the frame has five different chambers that act as thermal brakes, which stops the cold from being transferred to the inside of your home.

- 28ml units: pvc windows come with 28ml double glazed units. They have a 20ml gap in between the panes of glass which is the optimum space for saving heat. Ultimately this means that your home will stay warmer in the winter and that you will save money on your energy bills.

- Cost effective: pvc windows are the most cost effective type of windows available. Timber and aluminum windows tend to be a lot more expensive, yet many say pvc has the most benefits.

- All pvc windows are A-rated. This means that they are the most energy efficient windows available, so keeping your home at the right temperature throughout the year as well as saving you money on your energy bills.

Do you know anyone who is looking for new pvc windows and doors? If you do, refer them to us and you can earn up to £350! Go to www.jewelwindows.co.uk for more information or email info@jewelwindows.co.uk.

Choosing your conservatory roof…

Last week we did a blog on the different conservatory styles available on the market. As you will have seen there are quite a few different styles to choose from and you need to be sure that you choose the right style that best suits and enhances your home. We hope that you found our blog useful and that it gave you some pointers in the right direction.

Once you have chosen the style of your new conservatory, your next big decision will be what type of roof to choose. We provide a lot of conservatories in Berkshire, Surrey and the whole of the South, and our customers are always asking for our advice on which conservatory roof will be best for them.

Below we have shared the advice we give to our customers in the hope it will help you also.

Basically there are two main types of conservatory roofs to choose from:

1. Poly-carbonate: a poly-carbonate plastic sheet is very strong, light weight and easy to install. It is also extremely weather proof and is a much more affordable option. Although it is a clear roof, it is not as transparent as standard glass would be. As a result this can limit the amount of light that it lets into your conservatory. Another disadvantage of choosing a poly-carbonate roof is that it can be noisy when raining.

2. Pilkington Active Blue Glass: this roof is great at slowing down the amount of solar gain that gets into your conservatory. Solar gain is the amount of heat that is let in, which means that by choosing this type of roof you will keep your conservatory at the perfect temperature all year round; so cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This roof has a blue tint to it – and it is this tint which slows down the heat getting in. Another great feature of the Pilkington Active Blue Glass is that it has self cleaning glass. The glass has a coating which means that when it rains it conveniently washes away any dirt, leaving it nice and clean once again.

The roof that you choose will depend on a multitude of factors such as your budget, how easy maintenance you want it to be, where your home is etc… Be sure to consider your options carefully as a new conservatory is an addition to your home which you will want to enjoy for many years to come.

At Jewel Windows, we provide windows, doors and conservatories in Surrey, Berkshire and the whole of the South. So if you need any advice or are looking for a quote please feel free to contact us. Go to www.jewelwindows.co.uk for more information.

A Buyers Guide to Conservatories

A conservatory is a great way to extend your living area. It is also great for adding value to your home, affordable and quick to build. With so many different styles and designs available it is often hard to know where to start and how to decide which particular style will be best for you and your home. We hope this guide will help you to weigh up your options and help point you in the right direction to create your dream conservatory.

Being a windows and doors company in Berkshire, we often get customers asking about the different styles of conservatories and which will be best for them to choose. Here are some of the main styles which will hopefully help you decide which will best suit your home.

Victorian:

The Victorian is actually the most popular style of conservatory in the UK. The reason for this is that it has great versatility which makes it suitable for most homes. Whether using it as a dining room, sun lounge or play room, the space gives plenty of flexibility.

Georgian: 

A Georgian conservatory has a flat front and is a great choice for making the most of your floor area. It offers an airy space which is great for relaxing, entertaining or everyday use.

The Lean To:

 The lean-to style is great for homes that has an awkward or limited space to fit a conservatory. It suits those who prefer the simple lines of a Mediterranean sunroom.

Gable:
A gable style conservatory can add grandeur to your home. It offers great use of internal space and a high roof slope.

P-shaped:
If you are planning to add a larger conservatory to your home, then this style is ideal. It can actually combine different styles of conservatories such as a lean to and a Victorian. This style is most suited for larger properties.

Lantern:
The lantern style conservatory is actually the original style. It gives drama and style, and is usually best suited to older style period homes. This style is also often chosen for larger conservatories or for when choosing to installa swimming pool.

We hope that this has given you a better idea for what to consider when choosing your new conservatory. If you have any questions or you are looking for a conservatory, windows and doors company in Berkshire, or indeed anywhere in the South, please do not hesitate to contact us at Jewel Windows.

How secure are your windows and doors?

At Jewel Windows, we understand how important it is for you and your family to feel safe and secure in your home. You want your windows and doors to be as secure as possible to keep unwelcome visitors out and to give you complete peace of mind. That is why we advise that when looking for new windows and doors make security your number one priority!

Obviously windows and doors are a popular point of entry for burglars, whether they break the glass or your window or door simply has not been shut or locked properly, it can sometimes leave your home vulnerable. Whether looking for quality windows and doors company in Woking, Guildford or London, at Jewel Windows we cover the whole of the South and guarantee our customers the highest standards of security available on the market. That is because we are part of a scheme called ‘Secured by Design.’

This scheme has been set up by The Association of Chief Police Officers to focus on crime prevention for homes and commercial premises and has security standards for a vast range of products, including windows and doors. The objective is to reduce burglary and crime in the UK and we are proud to part of such a great scheme. Be sure to ask your window company if they too are part of this scheme and if they have had a certificate issued by The Association of Chief Police Officers to state that their windows and doors have undergone sufficient testing to prove that they will withstand a burglary attempt. This will ensure that you are getting the most advanced locking systems available and the highest level of security possible!

Another point to remember if replacing windows is to install ones that are certified to British Standard BS7950 Windows of Enhanced Security. You could also consider using laminated glass for windows that are in vulnerable areas such as on the ground floor and accessible windows such as those above a flat roof. The benefits of laminated glass is that it holds together when someone attempts to break in or if it shatters.

Small windows and sky lights are often easily forgotten when it comes to security, so ensure you remember to put locks on these also as if a burglar can get their head through, with a little bit of effort their body can follow.

We hope you find this useful and that it helps you to make the best choice when choosing your quality windows and doors company in Guildford, Woking, London or wherever it may be. If you are in the South please feel free to contact us at Jewel Windows for a quote by emailing info@jewelwindows.co.uk.

Bi-folding doors – all you need to know!

Bi-folding doors are extremely popular at the moment. For those of you that don’t know bi-folding doors are folding doors that can open up an entire wall of your home, giving you an "inside outside" option, and turning your garden into another room. Bi-folding doors also allow light to flood in, opening up the space between your garden and your home.

Bi-folding doors are extremely popular at the moment and they have lots of great benefits which explain why they are in such demand.

Benefits of bi-folding doors:-

• Unique living environment: Bi-folding doors will allow you to create a unique living environment that compliments and enhances your home and are available in both uPVC and aluminium.

• Let light flood into your home: Bi-folding doors allow natural light to flood into your home whether completely open, partially open or fully closed, which will really help to brighten up your home.

• Low maintenance and durable: They are virtually maintenance free, need no painting and will not warp or shrink. They are also weather rated and thermally efficient.

• Added value to your home: The majority of homeowners are choosing to stay put in today’s economic environment, many are looking for ways to improve and add value to their home. By adding bi-folding doors you will make your home much more accessible to the garden, which could totally revamp the way you use it.

• Security: Bi-folding doors have an extremely advanced security locking system to give you total piece of mind. Being a quality windows and doors company in Surrey, we offer the highest standards in locking systems.

• Flexibility: Bi-folding doors have a fantastic flexible design that allows them to be fully opened, partially opened or fully closed and can provide a seamless connection between your internal and external living spaces. Their ability to fold both outwards or inwards also makes them perfect for opening up smaller living spaces and for connecting your home with the garden.

• Wide range of designs: Due to advances in technology there are now all many different design options you can choose from. This includes a large range of colours, with finishes in metallic or even a wood effect. With so many options you are sure to find the perfect bi-folding doors to enhance your home.

At Jewel Windows, we are a quality windows and doors company in Berkshire and we supply and fit bi-folding doors throughout the South. Contact us for a free quote today. Go to www.jewelwindows.co.uk for more information.

How to Choose a Window Company You Can Trust

Unfortunately some double glazing companies have given the industry a bad reputation, so when people go to buy their new windows and doors they can often be hesitant and not know who to go to first in fear that they may buy from ‘cowboy’ suppliers.

The good news is that the companies who give the industry a bad name are in the minority. However, you should still be cautious to make sure your choose the best supplier, as although you will obviously want great products that will last for years to come, you also want to make sure that you are getting value for money.

Whether getting your windows doors and conservatories in Aldershot where we are based, or indeed anywhere else in the UK, be sure to keep in mind the following points which should help you to choose a company that you can trust.

1. A key place to start is to look at what previous customers say about the window company. Have a look at their website and see if they have customer recommendations on there. This will give you the proof you need that they will do a good job and can be trusted.  However, the window company may only put their most glowing testimonials on the website and ignore the negatives, so you should also look them up on Check trade or Trust a Trader to see if they are a member. These websites shows all customer reviews good and bad – so you will be able to get a true reflection as to how good a company they are.

2. Make sure you base your decision on more than price as simply choosing based on prices is very unlikely to give you the highest quality products and you may find that your windows do not last as long as they should do.

3. Ask around for recommendations from family, friends and colleagues as there is nothing better than getting a recommendation from someone you know and trust. This will then give you peace of mind that the company you use are one that you can trust and will do a great job.

4. Ask to see photo’s of previous jobs the windows company has completed. Or ask if where they have carried out recent jobs so you can go along and take a look at it for yourself.  Also ask if they have a showroom that you can visit where you can see samples of their work and ask any questions you may have.

5. Something to look out for are sales reps who start off with a really high price and then reduce it dramatically when you raise an objection. This may be the sales rep trying to get the most commission possible he can out of the sale rather than making you the priority and giving you the best value for money. Ideally you want to look for a window company where they have the customer’s best interest at heart.

Hopefully the above will give you some pointers for when you are choosing between window companies.

At Jewel Windows we provide windows doors and conservatories in Surrey. So if you are based in the South please feel free to get in touch with us to get a free quote which will last for a year. Visit www.jewelwindows.co.uk for more information.

What you need to know when buying a new garage door

If your garage door is old or worn out then you may be looking to replace it with a new one. But where do you start and how do you know what garage door will best suit your home?

Your garage door can have a big impact on the overall look of your home. In fact in some cases it can account for up to 30% of your homes exterior, so you will want to be sure that you choose the right one to complement it.

However, although you want your garage door to look good, it is also extremely important that you get one that is very secure so that you can have peace of mind that your valuables will be safe when locked away in your garage.

Another point to consider when shopping for a garage door is what you actually use your garage for. For example if it also serves as a utility room, workshop or a play area, then you may need a door with good insulating properties.

When choosing your garage doors in Berkshire, we would recommend getting an electric one as electric garage doors are great and are extremely secure, convenient and easy to use.

There are three main styles of garage doors:

1. Roller Garage Door: Roller garage doors are available in a manual version or with the luxury of touch-of-a-button automatic operation, meaning you don't even have to get out of the security of your car to open the door. Roller garage doors are also really great if you are looking to save space inside and outside the garage.

2. Side hinged Garage Door: This style of garage door is extremely popular and offers a wide spectrum of choice with many different styles, finishes and colours to choose from. They are also great at saving space as they open outwards. With easy installation and little maintenance needed, a side hinged garage door is a convenient style to choose.

3. Up & Over Garage Door: This style of garage door is by far the most popular garage door type within the UK. Their uncomplicated one piece construction makes them extremely easy to use and provides a zero hassle operation.

If choosing your garage doors in Surrey, Berkshire or London then contact us at Jewel Windows on 01252 547 365 for a free quote. For more information visit www.jewelwindows.co.uk