The planning permission you have been granted may determine the windows that you are allowed to choose. Some conditions will mean you have to choose sash windows which are inn-keeping with the neighbours (these are quite expensive) or a window with a high energy efficiency. Building Control will need to approve the windows (fire escapes / thermal performance) so it’s important to liaise with them as well as consulting the planning permission.

You should get a few different quotes from different companies as it will be quite expensive to order windows and doors for the whole property.

If you don’t have any conditions on windows, then there are quite a few different styles with different price points to match.

Frames:

Wood – traditional and used quite often for sash windows. These aren’t overly costly, however due to the material, they don’t last as long as other options (potential for rotting). They also require regular maintenance such as repainting.

PVC-U – these are seen as the go-to for developers as they are relatively cheap and last a long time. They aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing, however they do the job and have a high security rating.

Metal – this is another common material for windows and is a good choice when replacing period style windows.

Composite materials – these are a mix of wood and metal and allow character with low-maintenance.

Glass:

Low-E glass – lets light in but stops heat getting out.

Tinted – limits sunlight getting in but allows heat out.

Double / Triple glazing – double is seen as standard now but helps to reduce noise compared to the single alternative. Triple glazing would do an even better job, however would be more expensive. This would be ideal if building on a very busy road.

Self-cleaning – has a coating which reacts with sunlight to break down dirt. This is ideal for Velux style windows or roof lights but would be more expensive than standard glass.

Frosted – this is ideal for bathrooms or where you require privacy. There are many different patterns for this.

Doors:

Composite front door – ability to have colour / patterns in the PVC but more expensive than standard.

French – ideal for leading out to the back garden – these open outwards and are seen as standard.

Sliding – these aren’t used as much anymore as developers favour French or bi-fold.

Bi-fold – these have decreased in price and developers use them when they want to have a feature in the property. This style of door folds right back so it brings the feel of the garden inside.

As well as choosing the basics of windows, you can also customise the handles. You also have options such as chrome or brass handles. With the front door, you can customise such items as whether to have a letter box or what shape of glass you want.

Once you have confirmed with planning and Building Control of what style they require, the best thing to do is liaise with the window company and choose what will suit the market that you are appealing to.

Disclaimer: The information in this website is for general guidance and is not legal advice. Specialist legal advice should be taken in relation to specific circumstances.