How to Choose Modern Windows and Doors
- 3 August 2024
- News
When browsing for products in the modern world, consumers are greeted with more choices than ever before – whether you’re looking for your first car, a sweet treat in the supermarket, or indeed some new home improvement products in the shape of windows and doors.
And even once your heart has become set on a certain choice, you’re then dealt the tough task of selecting between various accessories, colours and sizes.
At Crown, we recognise that this process can at times be overwhelming, especially when finding products that not only improve the look of our living spaces but also provide practical benefits such as energy efficiency.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, which explores the key factors to consider when choosing modern windows and doors, helping you to navigate through the myriad of options available on the market today – so, whether you’re renovating your existing home or building a new one, this blog will equip you with the knowledge needed to make the best choice for your property.
Thermal Efficiency: The Key to Comfort and Energy Savings
Understanding U-Values and Energy Ratings
When it comes to modern windows and doors, thermal efficiency should be at the top of the list of priorities.
Thermally efficient products do the hard work for you, reducing heat transfer through window and door frames. That way, you’ll retain heat when needed in the colder months, and prevent it from entering when additional warmth is unwelcome in summer.
As well as living in a more pleasant environment, you’ll also be spending less on costly appliances such as electric heaters, radiators, fans, and cooling systems – win-win!
Here’s what you need to know:
- U-Values: This measure indicates how well a window or door prevents heat from escaping. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation properties.
- Energy Ratings: In the UK, windows and doors are rated from A++ (most efficient) to E (least efficient). Look for products with high energy ratings to maximise energy savings.
Double and Triple Glazing Options
Modern windows and doors often come with double or triple-glazing options, another great way to increase the thermal efficiency of your home.
- Double Glazing: Two panes of glass with a gap in between, filled with air or an inert gas like argon.
- Triple Glazing: Three panes of glass with two gaps, offering superior insulation.
Style Considerations: Improving Your Home’s Aesthetic
When choosing modern windows and doors for your home, it’s important to consider how they will look alongside the rest of your property.
Whilst advances in technology and the vast amount of customisation options have made it very possible to blend these lines, the traditional rule of thumb when combining product styles and properties would be similar to the guidelines below:
- Traditional Homes: The majority of traditional property inhabitants prefer to maintain a vintage feel. Great ways to achieve this include sliding sash windows, Georgian windows, and composite doors.
- Modern Homes: In new builds, minimalist themes are very popular. Casement windows are the most common in the sector, while bi-fold doors are a stunning way to allow more natural light into your home (something that’s always in fashion)!
Colour and Finish Options
Modern windows and doors come in a wide range of colours and finishes:
- Neutral Tones: White, cream, and grey are versatile choices that suit most properties.
- Bold Colours: Make a statement with black, dark green, or even red frames. We’re seeing a real rise in windows and doors finished in stand-out colours, which we love!
- Wood-Effect Finishes: These are growing in popularity in all home improvement products, as they successfully allow homeowners to enjoy the aesthetic of timber without the inconvenience and high maintenance.
Material Choices: Balancing Performance and Aesthetics
uPVC: Low Maintenance, High Performance 
uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) is a popular choice for modern windows and doors. A few reasons for this include:
- Affordability: Modern uPVC has become the UK’s most popular window and door material largely because of its affordability. This doesn’t mean you compromise on quality either, as its price is reflected by its ability to be mass-produced.
- Low maintenance: uPVC is virtually maintenance-free, giving you total peace of mind.
- Excellent insulation: Modern uPVC windows and doors have exceptional insulation properties, keeping your home comfortable and heating bills low.
Aluminium: Sleek and Strong
Aluminium frames are renowned for their incredible strength, meaning they can hold expansive panes of glass with ease – creating a desirable contemporary appearance. Here are a few benefits:
- Strength: As aforementioned, aluminium is an incredibly strong material. If you’re a fan of maximising external views and allowing lots of natural light into your property, its slim sightlines could make it the perfect choice for you.
- Durability: As well as boasting modern aesthetics, aluminium is a high quality metal. It won’t rot or warp in tough weather conditions and will last for decades.
- Colour options: Just like uPVC, aluminium is able to be finished in a wide range of colours and effects, giving you full creative control.
Composite: Bringing the Best of Both Worlds 
Composite doors are constructed using a wide range of materials. The core usually consists of foam or timber, with a glass-reinforced plastic outer skin. The combination of materials work together to fulfil a number of crucial requirements, including:
- Security: Composite doors from Crown are fitted with high security multi-point locking systems, providing the utmost protection for your home.
- Thermal Efficiency: The combination of materials work to reduce heat transfer, lowering your energy bills and keeping your living space comfortable.
- Customisable: Just like uPVC and aluminium, our excellent quality composite doors are available in a range of colours, finishes, hardware, configurations, and glass units.
Functionality: Choosing the Right Operating Style
Casement Windows
The UK’s most popular window style, casement windows are hinged at the side and open fully to enable excellent ventilation.
Tilt & Turn Windows
Especially popular in high rises and rooms with limited space such as bathrooms, tilt & turn windows are a versatile option that can tilt inwards or open fully.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are ideal for traditional homes, with panels that slide vertically to create expansive openings.
Flush Sash Windows
Flush sash window panes sit completely level with the window frame, creating a clean aesthetic.
Bi-Fold Doors
Featuring an iconic concertina-style opening mechanism, bi-fold doors are the ideal way to connect with your outdoor space.
Sliding Doors
Just like bi-fold doors, sliding doors feature large glass panels so you can enjoy unobstructed views of your garden, and are effective space savers.
French Doors
A romanticised style, French doors are a pair of hinged doors that often open up to a patio or garden area.
Composite Doors
As mentioned above, composite doors combine the strengths of multiple materials for exceptional security and insulation.
Budgeting for Your Project
Understanding the Costs
The retail prices of modern windows and doors can vary significantly based on:
- Materials: uPVC tends to be the most affordable, with timber the most expensive and aluminium a nice middle ground.
- Size and Complexity: Larger or bespoke designs will naturally cost more.
- Glazing Options: Triple glazing and special coatings will increase the price.
- Installation: Professional installation is crucial for optimal performance.
Long-Term Value Considerations
When budgeting, consider the long-term benefits:
- Energy Savings: Higher upfront costs for options with high thermal performance can lead to significant savings over time.
- Durability: Quality materials may cost more initially but can offer better longevity.
About Crown
At Crown, we’re proud to have over 20 years of experience in the glazing industry and install a whole range of windows and doors.
Our window styles include casements, flush sash, sliding sash, tilt & turn, and Georgian windows, all of which are available in a range of colours and window hardware.
When it comes to doors, we provide industry-leading composite, bi-fold, French, patio, and internal solutions.
We’re also incredibly proud of our conservatory range.
Whilst we offer a free no obligation quote on all of our products, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling 01908 507 778, or sending an email to info@crownwindows.co.uk
Alternatively, you can experience our Milton Keynes showroom.
