Replacement Windows, Double Glazing, Double Glazed Conservatories and FENSA Information From The Window Man UK

The uk dictionary definition of the word fenestral or fenestrate is " belonging to or like a window" The word fenestration is "the arrangement of windows in a building". FENSA is used by double glazing uk trade companies to certify that their replacement windows and doors installed comply with Building Regulations Document L (and more), actually checking av. 1% of all replacement windows installations.

Did You Know?

That Health & Safety Executive legislation now requires that
ANYONE who can potentially fall more than 2metres whilst working
should be provided with and use a fall arrest protection system!

This should prove a most worthwhile and cost effective home improvement as it can enhance appearance, reduce maintenance time and cost considerably by alleviating the need for repainting, and improve insulation. Roofline work and cladding is a job for the skilled and experienced tradesman, and although in the minority  there are a few firms around employing less than able fitters producing less than satisfactory workmanship.

I suggest three written estimates are obtained first off, followed by a close visual inspection at least one previously completed job before making a commitment to buy. Don't just look to see if the property 'looks nice', you need to be looking at the detail, like joints and corners.

For more information about becoming just a bit more 'streetwise' about buying see Buyer Beware.

Handy Tip: I keep a small pair of binoculars in my car for easy close up inspection of roofline, etc.

You may have heard the expressions: 'cladding over' and full strip'. This is what they mean:

It is very often inferred that the ONLY way to do the job properly is a full strip. I do not completely agree, as I have found that there are times when it may be better to clad over.  Before I get a flood of email asking me 'when to-when not to', there are no generalisations, the best way can only be ascertained with a survey of each individual  property.

Cladding maintenance:

Cellular PVC has a consistent finish and is almost maintenance free. An occasional wash down with a non-scratch mild detergent and water will restore an 'as new' appearance, removing surface grime, particularly in polluted atmospheres. No solvents or abrasives cleansers should be used. I have used car shampoo with great effect, but I am not sure all the constituents of all the makes of car wash shampoo are ok. If PVC has really grubby marks I find 'Swarfega' rubbed on and rinsed off is just the job!

Fixing cladding:

Correct fixings and fixing procedures must be followed according to the manufacturers recommendations. Where have you heard that before, right - all the time, BUT it is imperative to learn and understand the correct way of doing cladding if you want it to stand the test of time.
Particular attention must be given to tolerances to allow the material to expand and contract with changes in temperature, and for this it is most important to allow a 5mm gap (call it a tight quarter of an inch)  for thermal expansion at joints and plank ends.

Cladding product summary:

• This material is environmentally friendly as it can be recycled and can also be disposed of by incineration, provided it is done properly.

• No special cleaning or maintenance is required other than for appearance, when water containing household detergent should be used. Solvents should not be used.

• Structurally suitable for their designed application. Strict adherence to the recommended fixing instructions is strongly advised to ensure that external products meet normal wind loading requirements and that due regard is given in respect of expansion and contraction.

• Insulation properties are better than wood, concrete, brick and asbestos.

• Very easy to work with using normal woodworking tools for cutting, drilling, and shaping. Conventional woodworking machinery may be used at modified cutting speeds.

• Screws and adhesives are used for fixing as well as Stainless steel nails, which are preferable to mild steel as these will quickly show unsightly rust runs.

For anyone interested in cladding in Essex, either cash and carry supply only of the full range of cladding, trims and guttering etc., or full installation job, then I recommend a visit to the website of the longest established (1984 continuous trading) cladding company in the County:
http://www.duraclad.co.uk

Note: Care should be taken when handling these products at or below freezing point as low temperatures tend to make these products brittle.