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Our news section includes some of our latest work and tips for choosing the right windows and doors for your home.

Do I Need to Prep Before You Come to Fit My Windows? 

So, you’ve decided to spruce up your home by replacing those old, drafty windows. You’ve done your research, selected the perfect window style, and scheduled the installation. But now you might be wondering what preparations, if any, are required before our team arrives.  

Rest assured, we’ve got you covered right here with all the essential information you need to know! 

Ensure there is adequate space around the window 

Creating an accessible space around the window area is essential for our installation team to work efficiently and safely. Ideally, having about a meter of clear space around the window will help the installation process, so if possible, make sure you move any furniture out of the way beforehand. This clearance allows our professionals to manoeuvre comfortably, ensuring seamless and precise fitting without any hindrances. 

You don’t need to empty the room 

One common query we receive is whether the room needs to be emptied before the installation. You can breathe a sigh of relief because the good news is, you won’t need to remove all of your furniture or belongings. Our skilled technicians are adept at working around your furniture without causing any damage or disruption – although as mentioned in the previous point, if you can make sure we can access the area easily it is very helpful. 

Dust sheets for extra protection 

Whilst you won’t need to completely remove your furniture from the room, we do recommend using dust sheets or covers to protect any items near the window area. We do our upmost to make sure the installation process is as tidy as possible, but these sheets do act as an added layer of precaution against dust or debris that may be generated during the installation process. 

What about the waste? 

Post-installation, we understand the importance of a tidy finish. That’s why our team takes care of the debris and waste generated during the fitting process. We’ll efficiently collect and dispose of any rubbish, giving you the peace of mind that your space will be left clean and tidy. 

Recycling UPVC Windows 

In line with our commitment to sustainability, we prioritise recycling UPVC windows. UPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) windows are recyclable, and we have established partnerships with recycling companies dedicated to handling these materials responsibly. By entrusting us with your old windows, you contribute to our efforts in environmental conservation, and save yourself the headache of having to dispose of your old windows yourself.  

What about pets? 

Whilst we love to say hello to a friendly pooch or cat, please make sure that any pets are removed from the room and kept away whilst we’re installing your windows. This is to ensure that our team aren’t put at risk of tripping with smaller animals underfoot, as well as to keep your four-legged friends safe from any hazards.  

Final checklist 

While you don’t need to make extensive preparations, here is a little checklist to tick off before we arrive! 

  • Clear the immediate area around the window for easy access. 
  • Cover or protect any fragile or sensitive items near the window. 
  • Make sure your pets are safely put away and can’t access the area. 
  • Communicate any specific concerns or requirements with our team beforehand. 

Have specific concerns that aren’t covered here? 

If you have specific concerns or requests regarding the installation process, don’t hesitate to discuss them with the installation team beforehand. Whether it’s about protecting fragile plants outside the window or keeping your pets away from the work area, communication is key to ensuring a successful installation while addressing your unique needs. 

We pride ourselves on a friendly yet professional approach. Our goal is to make the window fitting process as hassle-free as possible for our customers. From the initial consultation to the final installation, our experienced team ensures a seamless experience, addressing any concerns you may have along the way. 

Ready to have new windows installed? Fill in the form on our contact page and a member of our experienced team will get in touch for a friendly no-obligation chat. Alternatively, you can contact us on 0121 477 9799. 

3 Star Cylinder Locks: The Most Secure On The Market 

When it comes to your home, safety is going to be one of your biggest concerns when installing any new features. After all, everyone wants to keep their loved ones and their important possessions safe.  

You may think that having a lock on your door means your home is protected, but did you know that traditional locks are vulnerable to various lock opening techniques used by burglars? Lock picking, lock bumping, and lock snapping are some common methods used by intruders to gain access. That’s why we recommend upgrading to a door with 3-star cylinder locks. 

What is lock picking, lock bumping, and lock snapping? 

These are commonly used techniques that are designed to force entry into a building. 

Lock picking 

When lock picking, burglars, equipped with tension wrenches and finely crafted picks, manipulate the pins within the lock. By applying the right amount of pressure and carefully adjusting the pins, they can emulate the action of a genuine key, turning the cylinder and gaining entry. Worryingly, many intruders invest time mastering lock picking, making it a common and concerning threat to traditional locks. 

Lock bumping 

With a specially designed bump key, burglars can exploit the inherent design flaws of standard locks. The key, when struck with a blunt force, jolts or bumps (hence the name!) the pins within the lock, causing them to jump erratically. This rapid movement allows the intruder to turn the cylinder effortlessly, granting access without leaving any visible damage. Lock bumping is not only quick but also incredibly difficult to detect, making it a popular method among burglars looking for discreet entry points. 

Lock snapping 

Perhaps the most alarming of these techniques is lock snapping, a method that showcases the vulnerability of many conventional locks. In lock snapping, burglars use minimal force and specialised tools to literally snap the lock cylinder in half. This technique exploits a weak point in the lock’s design, rendering it useless within seconds. Once the cylinder is broken, the door can be easily opened, providing intruders with swift access to the property. Lock snapping is shockingly efficient, allowing burglars to bypass the most critical component of a lock—the cylinder—without any sophisticated skills or even much effort. 

So, what’s the solution to these problems? 3-star cylinder locks! 

3-star cylinder locks are the most secure on the market thanks to the fact that they come equipped with advanced features that thwart the most common break-in methods. These features include: 

Anti-pick technology

3 star cylinder locks are designed with anti-pick mechanisms, making it incredibly difficult for even the most skilled lock picker to manipulate the pins successfully. The internal components are engineered to withstand manipulation attempts, ensuring your lock remains impenetrable.

Anti-bump features 

To combat lock bumping, 3-star cylinder locks incorporate anti-bump features. These include specially designed pin configurations and materials that absorb the impact of bumping attempts, preventing the pins from jumping and the lock from turning. This clever feature ensures that your lock stays secure even when subjected to bumping attempts. 

Anti-snap protection 

Lock snapping is a particularly concerning threat due to its speed and simplicity. However, 3-star cylinder locks are built with anti-snap protection. The lock’s design includes sacrificial sections that, even if snapped, leave the core of the lock intact and functional. This means that even if a burglar attempts to break the lock, they won’t gain entry, providing you with an added layer of security and peace of mind. 

Ready to upgrade to doors with 3-star cylinder locks? Fill in the form on our contact page and a member of our experienced team will get in touch for a friendly no-obligation chat. Alternatively, you can contact us on 0121 477 9799. 

UPVC Windows: What Colour Options Can You Choose? 

When it comes to transforming your home, choosing the right window colour can make all the difference. Gone are the days when white was your only option! These days you can enjoy a variety of choices, from subtle natural wood finishes, to deep, bold reds that make a statement. 

At Birmingham Glass, we understand how important it is to find the colour that resonates with you. That’s why we offer 50 colours to choose from; perfect for every taste and style. 

Why choose UPVC windows? 

Before we dive into colour palettes, let’s take a moment to discuss why UPVC windows are such a great choice! UPVC windows, short for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride windows, offer a whole host of benefits that make them an excellent choice for homeowners.  

Energy-efficient  

UPVC windows are highly energy-efficient, providing excellent insulation and helping to reduce energy bills by retaining heat during winter (great for drizzly British winters!) and keeping interiors cool in summer.  

Durable 

They are very tough and resistant to rot, rust, and corrosion, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.   

Secure

UPVC windows are excellent at sound insulation, creating a quieter living environment by reducing external noise. Plus, they are very secure; our windows feature multi-point locking systems and toughened glass for enhanced safety against potential intruders. 

Why colour matters 

You might be wondering, why is window colour important at all? Well, windows are not just functional elements of your home, they are also key aesthetic features. The right colour can enhance your home’s curb appeal increasing its value as well as influence the ambiance inside your home. 

Additionally, the colour you choose can impact how your rooms feel in terms of size. Lighter shades can create an illusion of space, making smaller rooms appear larger, while darker hues can add cosiness and warmth to larger areas. 

You can view the colours we stock here. 

Nature-inspired palettes 

Deceuninck’s colour collection has been carefully crafted, drawing inspiration directly from the beauty of nature. Imagine the earthy tones of a forest, the peaceful blues of a clear summer sky, or the warm hues of a sandy beach. These inspirations are reflected in our wide range of colours, ensuring that your windows seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings of your home.  

30 stunning colourways 

We take pride in offering an extensive selection of colours, with currently 30 exquisite colourways for the 2800 Heritage, Flush Sash Windows and Doors, and the Slider24 Patio Door available. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of classic white, the bold statement of jet black, or the subtle charm of pastel shades, we have the perfect colour waiting for you. All of our colours also come with matching cills, trims, end caps, and ancillaries, providing a cohesive and polished look for your home. 

Window lead times 

In addition to our extensive colour options, we also take pride in offering a quick and efficient service. For those in a hurry, we provide a 15 working day lead time for UPVC windows with foil on white PVC, ensuring you get your windows quickly without compromising on quality. If you prefer foil on both sides, a 5-week lead time applies.  

Please note that set-up charges apply and that these lead times are not applicable to commercial contracts. 

Contact us today if you need some extra help deciding on the perfect-coloured windows for your home. Our helpful team in our family business would be delighted to discuss your options, and all work comes with a 10-year guarantee.  

What’s the Difference Between a Composite Door and UPVC Door? 

What’s the Difference Between a Composite Door and UPVC Door

Choosing the right door for your home is an important decision but it can be overwhelming with the amount of choice available on the market.  

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this guide that looks at the key differences between two of the most popular doors available: composite doors and UPVC doors. Let’s get started! 

Composite door vs. UPVC door 

Before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s clarify what composite and UPVC doors are. 

Composite door 

Composite doors are constructed from multiple materials, which are combined to create a robust and secure door. These materials typically include a solid timber core, high-density foam insulation, and a durable outer layer made of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP). The result is a door that offers the best of both worlds; the aesthetic appeal of timber combined with the strength of modern materials!  

UPVC door 

UPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) doors consist of a UPVC frame with interchangeable panels. UPVC is a type of plastic known for its durability, low maintenance requirements, and insulation properties. They’re versatile and can be customised with various panel designs, including glass inserts or solid panels. 

What are the differences between composite doors and UPVC doors? 

Now that we’ve defined the basics let’s explore the key differences between these two door types. 

Construction and security 

One of the most significant differences between composite and UPVC doors is their construction and the level of security they offer. 

Composite doors are well known for being robust and therefore a good choice if security is a concern. The solid timber core provides substantial strength, making it difficult for intruders to break through. Additionally, the glass-reinforced plastic outer layer is incredibly tough and resistant to impact. 

On the other hand, UPVC doors, while versatile and visually appealing, are generally considered less secure than composite doors. The UPVC frame is durable but not as tough as the solid core of a composite door. The interchangeable panels, especially if they contain a lot of glass, may also be more susceptible to forced entry, so that may be something to think about when selecting a design. 

Thermal efficiency  

Having an energy efficient property has become more important than ever, so it’s vital that you carefully consider the insulation properties of your door.  

Composite doors are well-known for their excellent insulation properties. The combination of materials in a composite door ensures that it retains heat during the colder months and keeps your home cool in the summer.  

UPVC doors also offer good insulation, thanks to the nature of the UPVC material itself. At Birmingham Glass, we offer high-quality and energy-efficient doors from a top quality manufacturer, Deceuninck, that provide a perfect balance between energy efficiency and comfortable living. 

Maintenance 

Maintenance is another important factor to consider when choosing between these two door types. 

Composite doors are relatively low maintenance as the GRP outer layer is resistant to fading, cracking, and warping, which means you won’t need to repaint or refinish the door regularly. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it looking good. 

Similarly, UPVC doors are known for their minimal maintenance requirements. They are easy to clean and don’t require repainting. Occasional cleaning with good old-fashioned soap and water can keep them looking fresh for years!  

No matter whether you decide on a composite or UPVC door, when you buy a door from us you can enjoy a 10-year guarantee, letting you buy with peace of mind. 

Aesthetic appeal 

Finally, let’s consider the aesthetic aspect, as the appearance of your door can not only impact your home’s curb appeal, but it’s also important that it matches your style preferences. 

Composite doors often mimic the classic, timeless appearance of wooden doors. They are available in a wide range of colours and styles, and the wood-grain effect on the GRP surface gives them a lovely, elegant look. 

UPVC doors come in various designs and colours, offering versatility to match your home’s style. You can choose from solid panels, glass inserts, and decorative patterns to achieve the desired look. Their customisable nature means everyone is sure to find a design that they love! 

Making your choice 

Don’t worry if you’re not sure which option to go for. Our helpful advisors can talk through your preferences and your needs as well as your budget, to help you make an informed choice. As a family business with a no-pressure philosophy, you can rely on us to give you trusted advice.  

Based in Birmingham but operating nationally, Birmingham Glass has been making and installing our own UPVC doors, windows, porches, and conservatories for both domestic and trade customers since the 1980s. What’s more, all the work we do comes with a 10-year guarantee. 

Looking for a new door and want tailored advice or a quote? Fill in the form on our contact page and a member of our experienced team will get in touch. Alternatively, you can contact us on 0121 477 9799.