An apex is the highest point of something. Hence, apex windows go all the way to the top of the ceiling. Furthermore, they are triangular windows that follow and fit in with the roof structure. More often than not, they flood the room with natural light due to their expansive size. 

Usually, apex windows can be found on extensions or dormer bungalows. Moreover, they are stylish and suit any style of home. 

How Expensive Are Apex Windows?

Like all windows, the cost of an apex differs depending on the size, style and materials used. Hence, timber and aluminium frames are more expensive. However, PVC frames are considered more cost-effective. Moreover, double glazing is cheaper than triple glazing too.

Advantages Of Apex

• They are stylish and modern
• Increase natural light
• Provide stunning views

Apex windows are a contemporary addition to any home that transforms a gable end into an extraordinary statement piece. Moreover, the expansive glass can create a beautifully lit room and provide spectacular views of the outside. 

Disadvantages

• Privacy issues
• Overheating a room

Depending on where your window is situated, an apex window can come with privacy problems. Furthermore, the expansive glass can expose a lot of your home to the outside. However, adding curtains or blinds to the windows can help to solve this problem. Yet, the triangular shape can add difficulties. Moreover, the curtains can also solve the problem of the room overheating in the direct sunlight by providing a shade too.

Where Do They Look Best?

A triangular window like this can look perfect anywhere in the home. However, they look particularly stunning in loft spaces, bedrooms, kitchen extensions and bathrooms. Furthermore, utilising the floor to ceiling look by having large expansive panes doubling as a wall.

The post What Are Apex Windows? appeared first on Windows Manchester.

Glass is prominent at the front and the back of the home for windows and doors. It can be plain, frosted or decorative. Moreover, frosted and patterned glass appeals to the eye and can also prevent anyone from peering in.

Furthermore, decorative windows and doors can add personality to a home. The various styles on offer are detailed below. 

Frosted And Etched Patterned Glass

If you’re looking to obscure the view into your house, frosted glass works well. For example, in bathrooms, the frosted glass will blur the appearance of things if anybody looks through it. 

Furthermore, if minute cuts are made into the glass, a decorative design will be etched onto the window. Moreover, this can be more expensive but will make the glass look premium and contemporary.

Stained Glass Windows

When you think of a church, you probably think of stained glass. However, stained patterned glass is also a decorative option for your home. 

If you’re looking for a windowpane with a hint of colour, stained glass is the best choice for you. Throughout the manufacturing process, the addition of metallic salts adds a splash of colour. 

The glass can incorporate a single colour through to detailed art and images. 

Bevelled Patterned Glass

Furthermore, if you’re looking for something a bit different, bevelled glass might be ideal. Instead of being a plain pane, the glass has shapes and edges to create diamonds, squares, circles and teardrops. 

Moreover, this style of patterned glass lets more natural light flood the home. The angles and edges can reflect and refract light too. 

Reflective Glass

Instead of a pattern, you could opt for reflective glass. These act as a mirror on the outside, meaning nobody can see inside. However, you can still see out. 

The post Patterned Glass Options For Windows appeared first on Windows Manchester.

They are easy to spot as they stick out of the front of a property and provide more space within the home. A bay window lets more light enter and provides panoramic views of the outside. 

Traditional bay windows consist of three windows that give a squared appearance to the window. These are most popular as they come in a wide range of styles and suit different types of decoration. 

On the other hand, bow windows are similar but longer and more arched. They usually consist of four or more glass panels.

Now you’ve identified whether your window is bay or bow, it’s time to decorate. 

Decor Options For Your Bay Window

Almost all homes have blinds, curtains or even both over their windows. When it comes to a bay, privacy is vital – as they have more panes and often a wider surface area for people to peep through. 

Roman or Venetian blinds are a popular choice for bay windows as they can pull down vertically to allow privacy. Moreover, they remove the need for curtains and allow ample light into the home. 

So now you’ve decorated your window, it’s time to put it to good use. 

Making The Most Of Your Bay Window

Bay windows are versatile and offer extra space within your home. 

Your bay window is the perfect size for a small home office. You can use the sill as your desk and set up your laptop and notepads there for a busy day working from home. Moreover, the natural light will keep you energised and focused all day. 

Furthermore, why not board underneath your sill and fit a window seat in your bay? Doing so will make your home look and feel super cosy. You can add cushions, books and blankets too, and relax in the window watching passers-by. 

Alternatively, you can add a table and chairs to the bay and start your day off by dining with a view! 

Summary

There are loads of ways to decorate and make use of your bay windows – you’ve just got to use your imagination and make the most of the added space. 

The post The Bay Window: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on Windows Manchester.

However, uPVC and Aluminium frames are now available in an assortment of colours. With over 150 options to choose from, how do you choose which colour window frame will look best? This article will help you to decide. 

Does It Matter What Colour Window Frames I Have?

Quite a lot of people stick to what they know. And when that comes to window frames, it means sticking with the old faithful: white or brown. 

Windows are a significant part of every home. They are one of the first things people see on the approach to your house. So why not make your home stand out? 

Think about how you want your home to look to other people. Think about the colour of your brick or rendering, the colour of your front door or garden gate. You may also want to consider what colour your neighbour’s windows are too. 

Darker Colour Window Frame

More and more people are choosing darker colours when it comes to window frames. Black and anthracite grey are the most popular choice of late and provide a modern and contemporary look to any home. 

A darker colour window frame looks smooth, classic and uniformed. 

Neutral Colour Window Frame

Perhaps you’re changing from a mahogany brown, and now you want a cleaner look. White uPVC frames can do just the job of making your home look brighter and lighter. 

Moreover, maybe you already have a white colour window frame, and you’re simply replacing it with new. White is timeless and will tie in with the rest of your neighbourhood no matter what. 

Bright Colours

If you’re daring and looking for a complete change, why not opt for something that will make your windows stand out above the rest? Chartwell green is on the rise and will add a fresh, vibrant look to your home. 

Gloss Versus Matte Frames

Furthermore, the look you’re going for will depend on the finish you want your frames to have. 

Glossy frames look brighter, deeper and more distinct. Moreover, matte frames are more refined and blend in.

Summary

When picking a colour for your window frame, don’t forget to consider all your options. Consider what will look best and what will match the rest of your home and neighbourhood. 

The post What Colour Window Frame Should You Choose? appeared first on Windows Manchester.

Homeowners have been upgrading their single-glazed units for years. But do you know what double-glazing is and how it works? 

This article will help you understand the importance of double-glazed windows. Moreover, this article will discuss why you should upgrade to double-glazed windows or replace them if they are not performing. 

What Is Double-Glazing? 

A double-glazed unit contains two sheets of glass that sit within a frame. The frame can be uPVC, Aluminium or Timber. 

Furthermore, between the two layers of glass is a gap filled with argon or krypton gas. The gas works as a vacuum and slows down the heat transfer between the glass. 

Moreover, when cool air from outside hits the outer pane, it transfers to the gas-filled gap.

When the double-glazing is in working order, this cold air will not reach the internal pane. If condensation forms on the inner pane, the double-glazed unit could be failing. 

What Are The Benefits Of Double-Glazing? 

Double-glazed windows are cost-effective. Moreover, double-glazing is an energy-efficient choice for your home too. It lets light in and maintains warmth. Furthermore, it can help reduce the cost of energy bills. 

Single And Triple-Glazing

Single-glazed windows are being replaced rapidly throughout the UK. With single-glazing, the cold air transfers through the glass and into the home. Whereas, with double, it gets trapped and dissipates within the gas-filled gap. 

On the other hand, triple-glazing is similar to double, but it has three panes instead of two. Moreover, triple-glazed windows are much more costly. Furthermore, they are not much more energy-efficient in comparison to double-glazed. 

Summary

Double-glazing is one of the most energy-efficient and affordable choices when it comes to windows. It is a versatile product that has continuously proven to benefit homes across the UK. 

The post What Is Double-Glazing? appeared first on Windows Manchester.

People tend to focus on their blinds and curtains when it comes to decorating their windows. But the window sill often gets left out. Our handy guide will help you choose window sill decorations to modernise your home. 

Living Room Window Sill Decorations

The beauty of living rooms is that they sometimes benefit from having bay windows. Furthermore, this means that the windows and sills can be styled with both furniture and trinkets. 

Placing furniture within the bay can make the sills look decorated. Moreover, whether you have a bay window or not, you can place potted plants on the window sills to style the room. Cactus plants are ideal for brightening up a room. 

Alternatively, plants can be hung from curtain rails at different heights to really add to a room. 

If you’re not a fan of plants, why not style the sill with some books or magazines instead and use the sill like a table? 

Kitchen Window Sills

Much like the living room, kitchen window sills are ideal for plants. Especially herbs. 

Moreover, you could grow a small herb garden in your kitchen, or store crockery or spices instead.

Bedroom Window Sills

Similar to the living room, if your bedroom has a bay window – why not make it into a seat with some cushions? Moreover, this would be the perfect place for relaxing with a book. 

On the other hand, you could use the window sill to house candles or photo frames with your favourite memories. 

Bedroom window sills can also be used as a dressing table, storing your jewellery or mirror and make-up bits. 

Bathroom Window Sill Decorations

Bathrooms tend to be small. Thus, bathrooms tend to lack storage space. Where better to store your toothbrush and toothpaste or shampoo and conditioner than on your bathroom window sill? 

Add a few candles to make the ultimate relaxation zone.

The post Window Sill Decorations appeared first on Windows Manchester.

Once installed, bi-folding doors need very little maintaining. Other than cleaning them, bi-folds need to be kept free of debris in their tracks. If they are timber-clad, they will also need treating as per other wooden furniture.

Bi-Folds Are Long-Lasting

Furthermore, aluminium bi-folds are hardwearing and can last for around 45 years. Their longevity is a benefit and makes bi-folds a worthy investment. 

The investment is also worthy as if you decide to sell your home, bi-folds can boost the value of your home. 

Bi-Folding Doors Are Aesthetically Pleasing

Bi-folds are modern and contemporary and add elegance to any home. Furthermore, they can sit at the back of an extension or on the corner. Moreover, they can be installed in your kitchen, overlooking your garden. These doors look seamless and open up the room to the outdoors.

Bi-Folds Are Energy-Efficient

Not only are they pleasing to the eye, but bi-folding doors allow large amounts of natural light into a room. Their large panes of glass let the sunlight shine through all day long.

As bi-folding doors are mainly glass, they will capture the maximum amount of sunlight. Moreover, this will make your home feel warm and bright – even in the winter months with the winter sunshine. 

Bi-Folding Doors Are Space Saving

One of the main selling points of a bi-folding door is that they don’t swing inwards or outwards. They fold onto themselves instead and are compact. Furthermore, this is ideal for smaller rooms as no space is needed to accommodate the door.

Bi-Folds Offer High Levels Of Security

Another benefit of a bi-folding door is that they offer high levels of security. There are multiple points on the door that can lock. Bi-folds are unlike French and sliding doors, which usually only have one locking mechanism. 

Moreover, some bi-folds have panel-catch technology. Therefore, the door cannot blow shut or accidentally close.

Summary

Bi-folding doors have countless benefits and are one of the most versatile options currently on the market. 

The post What Are The Benefits Of Bi-Folding Doors? appeared first on Windows Manchester.

However, with more choice comes more responsibility in making the right decision. So, this handy guide will help you to choose which blind is best for your home. 

Vertical Window Blinds

Widely considered the most popular of blinds, verticals offer homeowners control. Vertical blinds tilt left and right and can alter the amount of natural light entering a room. Furthermore, these blinds can make a room more or less private dependent on the direction of the tilt. 

As well as tilting, vertical blinds can drawback to expose the window. Because of this, these blinds are most popular in conservatories and patios. 

Moreover, these types of blinds are available in various patterns and colours. Therefore, they can match any room. 

Venetian Blinds

As opposed to Vertical, Venetian blinds are horizontal slats. Akin to Vertical, these slats can tilt to control light and privacy. Venetian blinds can raise upwards to expose the window. 

Venetian blinds are usually more expensive than vertical blinds. However, Venetians are more durable and practical. 

Homeowners tend to use Venetians in kitchens and bathrooms. Moreover, the window can be accessed and opened, meaning the blinds can be drawn out of the way to allow ventilation. 

Roller Window Blinds

In recent years, roller blinds have become more popular. They consist of a single panel of fabric that rolls up or down as appropriate. 

This type of blind is available in most colours and most patterns to match your existing decor. Roller blinds can also come in blackout material, so they are ideal for bedrooms. 

Roman Blinds

Roman window blinds are similar to roller blinds. However, when raised, they pleat to create a more luxurious feel to a room. They are easy to use and are versatile. Roman blinds are available in various colours and patterns and look stylish when fitted. 

Other Types Of Window Blinds

The abovementioned blinds are the most popular types. However, other alternatives are on the rise, including blinds that have a motor. These can control your lighting and privacy easier, at the touch of a button. Motorised Roller and Roman blinds are available, but these are expensive. 

Summary

Window blinds are much more popular than curtains in the modern-day. Furthermore, blinds are more versatile, durable and budget-friendly too. Moreover, they are suitable for every room in the house!

The post How To Choose The Best Window Blinds For Your Home appeared first on Windows Manchester.

Over time windows become dusty on the inside, and the glass can show streaks. On the outside, the uPVC can become marked, and the glass can become dirty. 

Cleaning your windows often can help them to stay looking like new. Check out our guide on how to clean uPVC windows. 

How To Clean uPVC Windows

• Vacuum the sills and frames – open the window as far as possible and then use the soft brush on the hoover to vacuum up any dust or grime that has collected on the window sill and in the grooves of the frame. Be careful not to scratch the window frame or the glass. 
• Wipe down the glass and frames – mix warm water with diluted washing up liquid and then use a soft cloth to wipe down the window frame and the glass. The sills may also need wiping. Make sure you don’t use an abrasive cloth or scourer that could scratch or damage your window. 
• Dry the window – use a dry, soft cloth or tissue roll to dry the window and remove any water or streaks. 

Other Hints And Tips

You may find that specialised window cleaner works better on glass than warm water and washing up liquid! Simply squirt the cleaner over the panes and wipe them down. Try not to leave any streaks or marks, and make sure to get into each corner too. 

Furthermore, you may also find that hiring a window cleaner to keep on top of your external panes saves you time. Moreover, this way, you’ll know that your windows will be looking sparkly clean all the time – and you’ll only have to worry about cleaning internally. 

If you stay on top of cleaning your windows, they’ll stay looking new and modern for years to come!

The post How To Clean uPVC Windows appeared first on Windows Manchester.

Driveways And Paths

The first of our front garden ideas is to maintain and focus on the upkeep of your driveway and paths. A budget-friendly way of doing so is to jet wash. Driveways and pavements can get dirty quickly and easily. However, a pressure washer can lift the grime and restore the pavement to looking new. 

uPVC, Wooden And Composite Front Doors

Another of our front garden ideas is to focus on your front door. Many people have uPVC front doors, but composite doors are becoming more popular. 

If your door is uPVC, ensure you keep it looking clean. Wiping any marks can help your home look tidy. 

If your door is wooden, it may need a lick of paint to freshen it up. Pick a colour that will complement your home.

As discussed in one of our articles, composite doors have many advantages. Moreover, another of our articles discusses how the style and colour of your composite door can enhance your kerb appeal. Furthermore, composite doors can modernise homes too. 

Plants

If you’re lucky enough to have space for plants, shrubbery, or a front lawn – add some foilage. Moreover, this front garden idea is ideal for improving your kerb appeal if you’re on a budget. Invest in some hanging baskets or a seasonal wreath for your front door.

Other Front Garden Ideas

Taking care of your windows and cleaning them can make your home look more welcoming. Moreover, even updating your blinds and curtains can transform your home. 

Another front garden idea for sprucing up your kerb appeal is to repaint any fences and gates. Furthermore, if they are stained brown, why not try a different colour? Grey and duck egg blue are becoming more popular. 

Achieving kerb appeal doesn’t have to be expensive or a difficult task. Cleaning, painting and planting can make a massive difference to your front garden. 

The post Front Garden Ideas: How To Spruce Up Your Kerb Appeal appeared first on Windows Manchester.