Window Shopping for Windows: 5 Key Things to Look For

Need to replace old windows for your property and not sure what to look for in new ones? Here are a few helpful tips for things you should be on the lookout for:

Make Sure Your Windows Comply with Australian Standards

As with many elements of your home, your windows should be fully compliant with Australian Standards. Compliant windows are labelled, and they should be compliant to AS 2047 Window and external glazed doors in buildings, which includes AS 1288 Glass in buildings.

Standard-compliant windows are tested for strength, deflection, water penetration, air resistance, and more. These windows, especially if made of durable aluminium, should withstand the elements and stand the test of time for many years to come.

Make Sure They’re Energy Efficient

Energy efficiency is important for keeping your energy bills affordable, reducing needless waste, and generally for the environment. In practically all of Australia, aside from some heritage homes, double-glazed windows are now the standard and have been for many decades.

Double-glazed aluminium windows offer excellent insulating properties. They keep your home cooler in the warmer months by bleeding out less cold air; in cooler months, they keep heat retained inside the home better.

The thermal gap between the two panes of glass greatly improves insulation and, provided you ventilate your home well, lessens mould and damp from setting in.

Choose Sturdy Materials Like Aluminium

One of the most important things to consider when window shopping (quite literally!) is your choice of materials. Many homeowners choose uPVC for practical reasons, such as its lower up-front cost and the versatility of uPVC. While practical and popular, uPVC pales in comparison to aluminium for the long term.

That matters quite a bit, since shopping for windows is something you don’t want to have to do every few years. Your windows should last you for well over a decade, and that isn’t always possible with uPVC, as it can crack, mould and wear out before then. Worse still, cracks can let drafts in and reduce the insulation of your windows, so it’s quite sensible to think about the long term and choose a material like aluminium instead.

Variety of Window Styles

Windows certainly aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s best to look for an Aluminium window installer and/or supplier who offers a wide range of window styles, custom-fit options, and professional fitting.

In terms of styles, a good supplier will have all of the popular styles available, such as aluminium sliding windows, single- and double-hung windows, casement windows, awning windows, and custom styles for anything else you may require.

Moreover, reputable aluminium window suppliers in Melbourne, such as Melb Wide Aluminium, offer commercial window services in addition to typical domestic services. Of course, commercial windows are quite different from home windows, so if you’re looking for commercial solutions, then contact us.

Full Installation and Aftercare

Once you’ve found the best windows for your home, the next step is to arrange to have them installed. You may be able to install them yourself, but letting experienced professionals do the fitting saves you time and effort.

Melb Wide Aluminium has teams of skilled fitters who will come by and fit your new windows at a convenient time, and you’ll also be able to enjoy guarantees and warranty protection (varies from product to product).