The frame is what you see — the glass is what you feel. Here's how to spec glazing for warmth, quiet, safety and privacy on a room-by-room basis.
Every modern window should have a low-emissivity (low-E) coating on one of the inner glass surfaces. It reflects long-wave heat back into the room in winter without reducing daylight. The coating adds a barely-visible tint. If a quote doesn't specify low-E, it's using outdated glazing units.
South- and west-facing rooms benefit from solar-control glazing (Planitherm, SunGuard, Suncool). It reflects a portion of solar heat before it enters the room, cutting summer overheating in extensions and conservatories. The trade-off is a slight reduction in winter solar gain, so it's not worth specifying on north-facing windows.
Standard double glazing achieves 30–32 dB sound reduction. Acoustic glazing uses laminated inner panes with an acoustic PVB interlayer and asymmetric pane thicknesses (e.g. 6mm outer, 4mm inner) to reach 38–42 dB. On a main road or under a flight path, the difference is dramatic — worth specifying on bedrooms and living rooms.
Building Regulations require toughened or laminated glass in any pane within 800mm of floor level (Approved Document K). Laminated glass is the better choice because it holds together when broken — a security benefit as well as a safety one. Specify it on ground-floor rear windows and any fully glazed doors.
Obscure glazing patterns are rated 1 (least obscure) to 5 (fully obscure). Level 4 (Cotswold, Stippolyte) is the standard bathroom choice. Level 5 (Everglade, Warwick) is best for direct overlooking windows. Levels 1–3 give some texture without real privacy — decorative rather than functional.
Everything you need to know before buying a composite front door — from materials and security to colours and energy ratings.
A practical comparison to help you decide between uPVC and aluminium window frames for your home.
Both open up your home to the outside — but they work differently. Here's how to decide which is right for your space.
Practical advice on materials, locks, glazing and installation so your front door lasts 25+ years and looks right on your property.
Everything to think through before ordering French doors — from opening direction and threshold height to hardware and glazing configuration.
Bi-fold doors done well transform a room — done badly they draught, drop and jam. Here's how to specify them properly.
Our team can help you choose the right products for your home. Get in touch for a free consultation.
