Top 5 Reasons to Choose Aluminium Windows

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on June 28, 2022

For many homeowners, replacing or installing windows and doors can be stressful. There are numerous things to think about, from choosing the right type of glazing to deciding whether to use aluminium or PVCu. Although aluminium windows have long been a popular option for commercial buildings, they have recently become more popular for residential installations.

Over time, aluminium windows have changed and advanced significantly. They are more energy-efficient and have better designs nowadays. They now use PVCu windows as well because they have a wide variety of designs available. Here are the top 5 reasons to choose aluminium windows for your home.

Energy Efficient

Although windows do not require power to operate, you can dramatically save your electricity costs by investing in the right doors and windows. Since aluminium windows can be installed in the wall precisely, unlike other types of windows, your home won’t lose any heat and will stay warm for a longer period of time. The insulating properties of aluminium have significantly improved over the past few years compared to other materials. You can adequately seal your exits and prevent your heating system from working too hard by installing windows and doors made of aluminium. For increased effectiveness, be careful to match the appropriate type of glass with your aluminium frame.

Durability

Aluminium windows have a high durability rating because the material is corrosion-resistant and does not rust. Aluminium windows retain their performance and aesthetics over time thanks to certified surface treatments. Whether you live on the coast or in the countryside, the weather-resistant nature of aluminium will continue to provide a return on your investment. If you live in a high-wind area, aluminium is preferred because it is a structurally strong material. These characteristics make aluminium an excellent choice for your home windows.

Cost-Effective

Another reason to choose aluminium windows is that they are less expensive and last longer. They also perform better than timber windows and are extremely flexible, so you can get the design you’ve always wanted without spending a fortune. You can look into aluminium doors and windows, which come in a variety of designs and are made of high-quality materials.

Low Maintenance

Aside from being corrosion-resistant, aluminium frames do not crack, split, or swell, making them very low maintenance. If you live in a harsh climate, these could be the windows for your home. Furthermore, you don’t even need to paint it because the finished product is stunning.

Aesthetics

Aluminium windows are arguably the more attractive windows because aluminium is a material associated with modern architecture. The great thing about aluminium windows is that they can be formed into any shape and powder-coated. No matter how one-of-a-kind your windows are, you can easily obtain an aluminium frame for them.

Whether you are after an aluminium frame or PVCu, Supercraft Windows will work with you to find the perfect style and material to suit your home. If you would like to find out more about our range of windows, or any of our products, get in touch with the team today on 01782 266 488 or visit our Showroom in Stoke-on-Trent.

New Blinds to Modernise Your Home in 2022

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on June 22, 2022

Adding new blinds is one of the simplest ways to modernise a tired room. It can be difficult to choose the best type for rooms where windows are the focal point. It is always important to consider how light will enter the room, regardless of how large the windows are or where they are located. At Supercraft Windows, we supply Slimline Integral Blinds, perfect to modernise your home in 2022.

Designed specifically for domestic and commercial applications, Slimline Integral Blinds are perfect for conservatories, bi-fold doors, offices, and other applications. Here are a few benefits to installing these new blinds to modernise your home.

Create Space

The Slimline integral blind system can be used to make small rooms appear bigger. Not only can they easily control the amount of light in a room, but they can also establish a mood in it. From living rooms and bedrooms to office spaces and kitchens, the Venetian blind system helps create a sense of space in your home or office.

Zero Maintenance

Integral Blinds to modernise your home require zero maintenance. They are operated by an external mechanism attached to the internal face of the window or door, enabling you to regulate your own comfort or privacy. The Supercraft Integral Blinds are available for manual use, with a cord or slider, they can be powered by the mains or solar controlled.

Colour Options

Colour is a simple way to update the look of a room. It used to be difficult to find good blinds that weren’t white, cream, or beige, but our range is available in a variety of colours to help brighten the room or make it stand out.

Excellent control

These Supercraft Integral Blinds offer outstanding control against glare and heat build-up and are operated by an external drive system, enhancing the energy efficiency of the sealed unit and therefore making substantial savings on heating bills.

Other benefits to these new blinds for your home

Energy-efficient blind system
Provide privacy and comfort all year round
Require no cleaning
Permanent fixture
Provide damage protection
Reduce energy bills
Approved by the BBSA’s Code of Practice
100% Maintenance-free system

If you’re looking to add new blinds to modernise your home in 2022, then give us a call today and we can assist. Supercraft Windows is a member of Which? Trusted Traders, which means we follow Which?’s strict code of conduct. We also understand that it means so much when you finally find a home improvement company that you feel you can trust to do the job properly – the first time, every time.

Get in touch with us today.

How to Add Value to Your Home This Summer

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on June 14, 2022

If you want to know how to add value to your home, make sure you check all the boxes so you can increase value without breaking the bank. Building an extension, replacing old windows, upgrading your heating system, and investing in energy efficiency are just a few of the smart ways to enhance value and boost the appearance of your property.

Certain improvements are simple and quick to complete, adding instant appeal, while others are more involved and provide curb appeal to help add value to your home this summer. If you’re thinking of doing precisely that and increasing the value of your home, consider the following:

Add a new heating system

If you’re looking for a way to add value to your home this summer, look no further than your current central heating system. Many older homes lack central heating or have outdated systems that need to be replaced. Adding or modernizing a central heating system will always add more value to a home than it costs, and it should be done in tandem with enhancing the building’s overall energy efficiency. If your boiler has enough capacity, you could add new radiators and heated towel rails to the existing system, as well as underfloor heating.

Add bi-fold doors

With some new bi-fold doors, you can create an instant wow factor and a lot of light. Bi-fold doors are a great way to let in more natural light while also connecting your interior space to the outdoors. Bi-fold doors provide other advantages as well, such as increasing the perception of space and essentially creating a new ‘outdoor room’ during the warmer months.

Invest in solar panels

Everyone is looking for ways to reduce their energy costs. For many people, energy efficiency is a top priority because it is required for properties listed for sale to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). You’ll get a better EPC score and your property will be more appealing to home buyers if you install solar panels. Not only that, but they’ll get the benefits right away without having to pay for or install them.

Replace old windows

Many homebuyers now regard double-glazing to be a must-have and adding it will only add value to your home. Of course, if you’re restoring a historic home, you’ll need to be mindful of the house’s style, otherwise, you risk depreciating its worth. Unless the building is listed or located in a conservation area, old windows should be replaced like-for-like. However, they will need to be double-glazed to comply with modern Building Regulations.

Add more space

Adding a conservatory to your home will not only provide you with more space but will also enhance the value of your home. Choosing the perfect style, fit, and shape for your conservatory can turn it into a valuable asset when it comes time to sell your home.

First impressions matter

A stylish new front door can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Aside from increasing the look of your home, installing a new front door can have numerous benefits and be a good investment. Choosing the right front door is important though, so be sure to do as much research as possible. Supercraft Windows has an excellent selection of composite doors that are energy-efficient, provide security, and offer many designs to match your home and add value.

A Guide to Net-Zero Homes in the UK

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on June 7, 2022

Net-zero homes may be the way to go if you’re looking for an energy-efficient place to live. Many governments around the world are considering implementing net-zero construction criteria into residential building rules, and it appears to be the way of the future.

Change is everywhere in today’s fast-paced society, and people must embrace it or risk being left behind. Smartphones and voice-controlled computers are just a few examples of technologies that we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. However, our climate is also changing, raising concerns about pollution and the use of non-renewable energy sources.

The average UK household emits 2.7 tonnes of CO2 per year from heating their home, according to The Committee on Climate Change. As a result, upgrading to a high-efficiency home where all of your heating needs can be met with renewable electricity can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

What are net-zero homes?

A net-zero home is one that was built with energy conservation in mind, utilizing innovations in building methods and energy production and conservation. A net-zero home generates as much energy as it consumes, resulting in a zero net energy purchase. It’s a relatively new concept that’s gaining traction as people grow increasingly interested in having a home that’s more comfortable and robust while also saving money for them as homeowners and the environment.

What are the features of net-zero homes?

The key to maintaining a net-zero home is to keep energy consumption low. Below are a few key features that make up a net-zero home.

Passive solar design: The proper orientation of the structure, as well as the placement of the doors and windows, will help to create a building that isn’t overly hot or cold. Your heating and cooling expenditures can be drastically lowered when combined with a high-performance building structure.

Exceptional insulation: High-performance insulation in the walls, floors, and roof systems can help achieve this.

Energy-efficient appliances: HVAC systems, appliances, and other electrical devices with high-efficiency help reduce energy use. These appliances are much more energy-efficient than their traditional counterparts and are readily available.

Participation and education: Even the most advanced technologies rely on the involvement of residents in order to function properly. Through education and monitoring, the occupants of any net-zero home or building will be able to change their behaviour to improve energy efficiency.

Are net-zero homes off-the-grid?

A net-zero home is not necessarily off-the-grid and can still be connected to a power grid. This allows your home to satisfy varying household energy demands throughout the day. Connecting to the grid, for example, allows homes to use electricity from their local power company when solar production is low, during emergencies, or when energy devices require maintenance or repair.

What is it like living in a net-zero home?

Net-zero homes are often super comfortable for their owners. Even on the coldest days, a home with high-efficiency windows and insulation feels cosy without requiring much energy. Heat is also better distributed throughout the house with proper insulation. It is sometimes enough to be comfortable inside because of the warmth provided by appliances and the people who live there.

There is no formula for the perfect net-zero home, but there are concepts that can help a designer create a structure in which all of the components operate in harmony to conserve and generate energy. An effective building exterior, energy-efficient appliances, and structural orientation preserve energy, while a renewable energy source delivers all the power you need for a clean and sustainable energy canvas.

Benefits of Sash Windows

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on May 24, 2022

What are the benefits of sash windows? Second only to outward-opening casement windows, sash windows are the most common type of window in modern Britain. They were incredibly popular in the Victorian times, which makes them a natural fit for period homes.

If you’re replacing your windows, Supercraft understands that you want windows that are both visually beautiful and durable. Today, it is important to use environmentally friendly, long-lasting, and trendy building materials. We strive to provide the greatest service, products, and results at Supercraft Windows. So, what are the benefits of sash windows? Continue reading to learn more.

Sash windows are visually appealing

When it comes to aesthetics, nothing compares to a sash window. One of the benefits of sash windows is that they can provide a traditional touch to particular properties, as well as increase the property’s value. Considering its conventional form, the sash window is also relatively adaptable. Sash windows are almost always pleasing, whether in a traditional country home or a modern flat in the UK.

They are energy efficient

Our sliding sash range, like all of our window alternatives, can obtain an ‘A’ Window Energy Rating. No more draughts or chilly areas with their contemporary design. You’ll stay warm in the winter and save money on your utility expenses. Furthermore, sliding sash windows can be opened wide in the summer to let in a pleasant breath of fresh air.

They are safe and secure

One of the other benefits of sash windows is their security. Because they can only open one panel at a time, they’re much more difficult to get through than casement windows. It’s also simple to add extra security measures like locks and child safety devices.

Sash windows are low-maintenance

Whether you choose uPVC or classic wood sliding sash windows, both are easy to maintain. All they need is an occasional wipe down with uPVC to keep them looking clean and new for years. Traditional wood windows are very simple to maintain. The timber sliding sash windows are finished with a smooth, long-lasting varnish and have a long lifespan with adequate care.

Lastly, installing sash windows will allow you to make the most of modern technology. Sash windows increase window security, reduce noise and air pollution, improve energy efficiency, and reduce heating bills.

What is the difference between uPVC and PVCu?

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on May 19, 2022

If you’ve seen the phrases uPVC and PVCu used to describe windows and doors, you might be confused. Is there a distinction between the two? What is the difference between uPVC and PVCu? Consumers today are frequently perplexed about which sort of doors and windows to buy for their homes, but with enough information, they can make an informed decision. So keep reading to learn more about the meanings of these phrases and the benefits that these types of windows and doors can provide for your home.

What is uPVC?

Polyvinyl Chloride is a common, strong, and lightweight plastic used as a building material. The “u” stands for “un-plasticised,” which means the plastic isn’t softened during production and retains its strength. Because of its many advantages, such as resistance to chemicals, sunlight, and oxidation from water, it has grown in popularity in the home improvement industry and has become an alternative to painted timber. It is low-cost and low-maintenance, which makes it especially suitable for double-glazed windows and doors. Roofline products such as downpipes, guttering, and fascias can also be made of uPVC.

What’s the difference between UPVC & PVCu?

As we are sure you can tell by now, there is no difference between UPVC and PVCu because they both refer to the same material, Un-plasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride. UPVC is used by installers to promote windows, doors, and other home improvement products, but it is also known as PVCu. Because most languages pronounce the PVC before the U, the change was made in the 1980s to align with European standards in order to create a universal naming convention.

Why do we use uPVC for windows and doors?

PVCu (or uPVC, depending on your preference) is the most commonly used material in the UK today. It is used to manufacture the casement and frames of home improvement products such as doors and windows. Because of its strong composition and lightweight design, which can withstand even the most extreme weather conditions, it is a popular alternative to standard PVC and wood. It is also a very affordable option for consumers.

What are the benefits of using uPVC?

At Supercraft Windows, we have a fantastic selection of uPVC windows, as well as entrance doors, french doors, and patio doors. PVCu is the most common material used to make the frames and casements of windows, doors, and other home improvement products, and it’s probably one of the most popular alternatives to wood and PVC. PVCu is lightweight and has a strong composition, which allows it to withstand the harshest weather conditions while lowering consumer costs.

The benefits of PVCu are:

It is resilient and does not discolour in extreme sunlight
PVCu can withstand extreme weather conditions
It has a lightweight design
it retains its shape during normal temperatures
It is strong which means it can endure heavy impacts
It ages well

For more information on uPVC or window and door installation, get in touch with us today.

4 Benefits of a New Front Door

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on May 12, 2022

Replacing your front door offers numerous benefits, including getting the best value for your money.

The front door is a vital part of any home, and many people dream of enhancing curb appeal by creating an attractive entryway. If you’re considering replacing your front door, there are a few things to think about. To help you, we’ve created a list of the four benefits of a new front door.

1. It Boosts Home Value

Because your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior, it’s crucial for improving curb appeal. Your front entrance will undoubtedly influence how homebuyers and guests react to your home. The style and colour of your door should complement the architectural style and colour combination of your home to give the strongest first impression. When you replace your front door, you can choose from a number of materials, including wood, fibreglass, and steel, to create a welcoming entrance.

2. A New Front Door Enhances Home Security

Your front door is necessary to ensure the safety of your property because it is the most immediate entry point and the first stop for any visitor. The first stage in front door security is to ensure that your front door is physically secure and equipped with the necessary elements to serve as a trustworthy and secure entry point. When it comes to the security of your home’s front door, a solid core door is better because it is heavier and more difficult to get into, and today’s doors not only offer security but also style.

3. It Saves Energy

Old and worn doors can be a common source of drafts and leaks, and may not be keeping your home as comfortable as it could be. New or replacement entry doors provide a host of energy efficiency benefits that improve the comfort of your home and save you money at the end of the day. But not all doors are created equally. The energy efficiency of a door is determined by its material, core, and glass selections, and these materials combine to limit heat transfer and air leakage. Modern front doors are constructed using these quality materials and cutting-edge technology.

4. It Provides Privacy and Light

The simplest method to create an inviting, light-filled entryway is to choose a front door with glass. However, choosing a glass door does not imply that you must give up any privacy. At your front door, sidelights and transoms offer another way to blend light and privacy.

For all your replacement front door enquiries, get in touch with us today.

6 Reasons You Need Plenty of Natural Light in Your Home

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on May 6, 2022

The physical and psychological benefits of adequate natural light in your home are now well established. Natural light has so many advantages that it simply can’t be overlooked anymore. The question now is not about whether sunlight is healthy, but rather how to invite as much natural light into our homes as possible.

A Home Filled With Natural Light

UK winters can be harsh, but they do not have to be bleak. Winters can be as lovely as summer or even spring and autumn. If your home improvement projects are planned to enhance the quantity of natural light that enters your home, your family will be healthier and safer for it. Here are six reasons you need plenty of natural light in your home.

Natural light in your home saves energy and money

With all of the methods available to increase the quantity of natural light in your home, you may expect lower utility expenses, saving you money and energy in the long run. It wasn’t always like this, though. Historically, windows and doors lacked the air-tight insulation qualities that today’s products have. Energy is saved by modern doors and windows.

Natural light increases focus

Natural light in your home has been demonstrated to improve concentration and focus in both the morning and evening. For a jolt of alertness, peek out the window and soak up the sun for a few minutes. If you work from home, having enough natural light is crucial. A naturally lit workspace will help you be more productive than one that is artificially lit. Increased natural light during the day aids in improved sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed and ready to work the next day.

Natural light is sustainable

Natural light is a wonderful asset that nature provides. Anything that reduces the usage of fossil fuels to make energy is beneficial to the environment. Modern, thermal, and energy-efficient windows and doors that are available today, have increased our home’s exposure to the sun, making a healthier, happier, and more sustainable environment to live in.

Natural light wards off seasonal depression

Autumn is a euphoric season for many people—picture walking over crunchy foliage and everything pumpkin spice. So, getting as much natural light in your home as possible can aid in preventing mood swings. Fall ushers in a period of severe depression known as ‘seasonal affective disorder’ and this affects roughly 6% of the population. Another 14% suffer from the “winter blues,” which is less debilitating but nonetheless significant.

Natural light in your home improves sleep

Light and darkness set your internal clock, which tells you when to sleep and when to get up. If you have too little or too much of either, your circadian rhythm will be thrown off, jeopardizing your valuable sleep time. According to a study in 2014, people who were exposed to more natural light experienced better sleep.

Natural light in your home can benefit your vision

We all know that looking at our phones and computers can create eye strain and potentially harm our vision. Did you know, though, that fluorescent lights might be harmful to our eyesight as well? According to another study, an increase in eye diseases appears to be attributable to greater time spent in front of artificial lighting. Allowing more natural light in your home can be beneficial to the eyesight of both adults and children in the long run.

Home Extensions and Conservatories: Which is better?

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on April 29, 2022

House extensions are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want to expand their living space while also improving the value of their homes. If you’ve been considering expanding your living space, you’ll need to select between a conservatory and an extension.

Many people mistakenly believe that house extensions are the same as ordinary conservatories, but they differ significantly, making them the best option for homeowners seeking a glass expansion. If you want to add more room to the ground floor of your house, deciding between an extension and a conservatory is likely to be a major decision. This is especially true if you want to invite the outdoors inside.

Both have advantages and disadvantages, but both are excellent ways to enhance your space and home value. However, which one would best meet your needs will be determined by several things. These include the purpose of the room, your budget, the style of your home, and the amount of extra space you require.

CONSERVATORY OR HOME EXTENSION?

Despite their obvious similarities, the two extensions have distinct characteristics that distinguish them as two independent constructions. To begin, a conservatory is a home addition with glass walls and a roof that comes in a variety of styles and glazing options. Dwarf walls are generally used to support it. Building requirements are frequently required before work on a conservatory can begin, which can slow down the construction process.

Similarly, a house extension has glass walls and a roof. It is also sometimes supported by dwarf walls. However, it is erected between specifically engineered pillars that provide more structural integrity. Furthermore, with higher thermal efficiency that can help you save money on your utility bills, a house extension is a more energy-efficient choice. In addition, house extensions are far more visually appealing both inside and out, allowing you to simply add substantial market worth to your home.

Get in contact with us today if you need assistance choosing the right conservatory or extension from our collection.

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

A conservatory is usually cheaper than a home extension of approximately the same size. The difference in price depends on how big the floor area is, whether it is a complex build, and the quality of materials used for the construction.

Installing a conservatory rather than building a home extension will usually save you a lot of money. Unlike conservatories, which are usually priced according to the size and design you choose, extension prices are usually calculated per square metre. It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that a builder’s estimate for the cost of an expansion is merely a rough estimate. In reality, a variety of concerns might arise throughout the construction process. These include drainage or foundation issues, which may necessitate additional work by your builder. As a result, you may wish to set aside some extra money for a contingency fund and consider it into your overall budget.

Home Improvement Ideas that Add Value

Posted by Lauren Coetzee on April 22, 2022

Choosing your next home improvement project is influenced by a number of factors. From your financial situation and how long you intend to live in your home to whether you want to increase the value of your home or would like to improve its energy efficiency. We have put together a few key home improvement ideas that add value and increase the resale value of your home.

Draught-Proofing and Insulating

By insulating your walls, you can increase the value of your home while also saving energy. Another great way to insulate your home and increase its resale value is to draught-proof your windows and doors. To reinforce the building envelope, re-caulk old spots around these openings. Double-glazed windows are very effective, and adding shutters to them for the winter months will help keep the heat in. You could also replace the wood or aluminium window frames with uPVC, which has the highest level of thermal comfort.

Improve Heating, Cooling and Ventilation

One way to improve your HVAC system is to install underfloor heating. You can also renovate your home on a greater scale for heating and cooling. Consider upgrading your HVAC system if it is a little out of date. There are a variety of low-carbon heating systems available that are both affordable and effective. Ground and air source heat pumps, for example, are environmentally beneficial, and you may be eligible for a rebate through the Green Homes Grant to help defray some of the costs.

Homeowners who install a ground source heat pump might save on their annual utility expenditures. Investing in alternative energy sources could be a good idea as well. There are a few cost-effective choices for households, such as low-carbon heating alternatives for individuals in the UK wishing to replace their gas boilers. Consider an electric combi boiler if you have a single-family home or limited space. These boilers are more compact than traditional versions and do not emit CO2. They’re also less expensive to install than gas boilers, so they’re a good investment if you’re on a limited budget.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

There are some small and large-scale modifications you may make to minimize your electricity expenses while adding value to your property. The scope and cost of these projects can vary. Why not start by replacing incandescent light bulbs with LED ones? Additionally, replacing old electrical appliances with energy-efficient ones is worth the money spent on them in the long run.

Major changes may be more expensive upfront, but they will undoubtedly bring the most value. Solar panels are one example of modernization. Many people are unable to buy solar panels since they can cost a lot. Domestic renewable energy technology, on the other hand, can receive green energy support, such as the Green Homes Grant, which you might qualify for and covers a portion of costs.

Author: Lauren Coetzee