Comparing Window Quotes - Advice/Info needed

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Panacea

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Have a broad range of quotes for timber and AluClad that I need to try to narrow down from 10 to say 3 preferred quotes.

Can anyone advise if a u value of say 1.2 versus 1.1 makes a noticeable difference ?

I have also seen numerous commentarys on different threads based on experiences posters have had with suppliers like Rationel, Marvin, Carlson, Bonner, Wrights, H-V, McNally Joinery.

After speaking with Carlson (who quoted for Timber) I was directed to with Dansk (who quoted for AluClad) however I have not seen any referent to Dansk in any recent/previous threads that I have come across. Can anyone point me in the right direction to a link so I can see how they compare or if anyone has any experience to relay I would appreciate a discrete PM.

I have no connection with any of the above; in fact I am way out of my depth even trying to compare quotes as some give lots of information whereas others give less.

Thanks in advance.
 
Your best option is to ask for references or go by personal recommendation: go and look at the windows and speak to the owners to see how they feel. If they can't supply references local to you, I'd go elsewhere.

We got three quotes, and went with Marvin. There's about thee neighbours who'd also used them: we liked the windows and the reports were all good so we went with them (mainly because of the recommendations). Very happy with them.

On your other question: I'm no expert, but I'd be amazed if there was an observable difference between U of 1.2 and 1.1.
 
I have already posted this under a different thread, but I have a Marvin window/glass door and VERY disappointed. The handle constantly falls off and the door itself doesn't even stay open long enough to walk through it - we've had a few funny incidents with unsuspecting visitors!
 
I am also in the process of replacing windows. I've been given a quote for windows which can either have a u value of 1.6 or 1.1 for the same price. Apparently 1.6 is the standard because a lower u value can lead to external condensation on the windows in cold weather. I'm not sure if this should be a concern. Any ideas?
 
Peigsayers said:
Apparently 1.6 is the standard because a lower u value can lead to external condensation on the windows in cold weather.
Click to expand...

he he.. did you hear that from a salesman???

condensation is formed when warm humid air meets a cold surface, condensing the water vapour back into a liquid.... the only way condensation will occur on the external face of glazing is if the glazing is coolder than the external air.... highly, highly unlikely....

1.1 is a noteably greater standard than a 1.6 window...

the current regs are (alas) ridiculous at 2.2 for windows so both u values youd listed are well below....
 
Yes it was the sales rep who explained about the external condensation which he said could happen in very cold weather but surely it makes no difference to him which I select because the cost is the same regardless.

I was just wondering if there was any reason to avoid the lower u value.
 
definately not, alway go for the lower u value...

its strange that there should be no price difference...

whats is the spec for the different u values..... is it the gap between the panes which is the only difference..... whats the material, timber composite, or pvc??

make sure the frames are thermally broken, that you have argon filled gaps and a 'low e' coating on the external pane...
 
Thanks for the advice, the quote is for PVC windows. Don't know the spec for the differnet U values, must investigate further.

Thank you.
 
I've been given a quote for windows which can either have a u value of 1.6 or 1.1 for the same price. Apparently 1.6 is the standard because a lower u value can lead to external condensation on the windows in cold weather.
Click to expand...

We must have the same salesman because I was told a similar thing - he said that the argon gas filling could lead to external condensation. They'd had a few incidences of this happening but then for others, it was fine. The engineer was out today to measure up and he had the same story. As Peigsayers said, there's no difference in price so I'm still undecided as to whether to get the argon or not - is anyone aware of problems with argon filled windows?
 
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