FAQs

Deciding on whether to specify double- or triple-glazed windows for your home really comes down to two things: how inherently warm is your home and how much versatility do you require with your design choice.

As you would expect, triple-glazed windows offer higher levels of heat retention, but that may not be so important for warmer, south-facing rooms, for example.

And because of their extra pane of glass and insulating layer, there is less flexibility with triple-glazed windows when it comes to choosing a style and finish.

Of course, it is perfectly possible to combine triple-glazed windows with double-glazed windows in your installation.

Snug’s premium grade uPVC windows and panel doors are a stylish and hugely practical choice.

It is also easy to maintain in top condition using just soap and water. Just be sure to avoid using solvent-based or abrasive cleaners.

uPVC can withstand the elements for up to 25 years. It is not susceptible to rot, decay or warping, and it can withstand heavy rain, snow and wind.

uPVC windows and doors have a high level of energy-efficiency, which can help to lower your heating and cooling costs. They have a high insulation value, which helps to keep the heat in during the winter and air cool during the summer.

uPVC window frames and doors are very secure. They are made with strong materials and have tight seals, which makes it difficult for burglars to break in. They can also be customised to match the style of your home.

uPVC windows and doors have an average lifespan of between 30 and 40 years. Industry-leading recycling processes allows the same product to be recycled up to 10 times, which makes the maths simple: a new life expectancy of up to 400 years from a single window or door.

Recycling old uPVC windows and doors prevent materials from ending up in landfills unnecessarily.

Window and door energy ratings (WERs and DERs) are a clear and obvious way of determining their efficiency. They identify how good the products are at three things: keeping out draughts; adding warmth through solar-gain; and preventing heat loss.

Snug products carry the energy rating labels of the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC).

The BFRC label uses a scale of A++, which is the highest total energy-efficiency rating, to E, which is the lowest.

We are proud to say all our PVC-U windows carry a BFRC energy rating of at least ‘A’.

Another method for measuring the thermal performance of a window is to look at its U-value. A U-value describes in W/m2.K (Watts per metre square kelvin) the ability of an element to transfer energy per degree of temperature difference either side of the element.

Basically, a U-value measures how good or bad a component is at transmitting heat from inside to outside.

In short, the higher the U-value of a component, the more able it is to transfer energy and, therefore, the less good it is at separating the inside from the outside. So, the lower the number the better.

Suffice to say all Snug windows and doors have an extremely low U-value.

To ensure you make the right choice, think about the following factors when choosing a window and door manufacturer.

Begin by evaluating the manufacturer’s reputation and industry experience. Go for a brand such as Snug with a proven track record of supplying high-quality windows and doors to trade professionals.

A manufacturer with extensive experience is likely to have expert processes in place, ensuring reliability and consistency in product quality.

A wide product offering is essential, so choose a manufacturer that provides a comprehensive range of window and door styles, materials and configurations. This versatility allows you to meet the ever-changing needs of your customers, whether they want traditional designs, modern style or specialised features.

Examine the manufacturing capabilities and production efficiency of the company. 

Quality assurance is vital so ensure the window and door manufacturer you choose complies with industry standards and is up to date with relevant product certifications.

A reputable manufacturer such as Snug should willingly provide details on the materials used and the steps taken to ensure the longevity and performance of its windows and doors.

Communication and support are crucial aspects of the manufacturer-installer relationship. Snug’s products are manufactured with transparent and efficient communication channels.

Assess all customer support services, including enquiry response times, technical assistance availability, and the resolution process for any issues that may arise.