While those terms may sound technical, the distinction is simple and has ramifications for how you install it and what to expect. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is New Build Double Glazing?
The frames are fixed within the openings as a building goes up, before plastering and finishing work is done. Because the building is under construction installers have more leniency with measurements and how it fits. For Double Glazing Cardiff, visit Choice Trade Frames.
As a rule, installation for new builds is quicker and easier as no existing windows have to be taken out first of all, and there is also no finished interior to preserve. From the very beginning, windows are built into all facades of the structure.
What Is Retrofit Double Glazing Cardiff?
Commonly, retrofit double glazing is referred to as replacing windows in an existing house. This is a common upgrade for many homeowners, often to replace old single glazing or existing double glazed units that have gone misty between the panes. Installation: Replacement is done by taking out existing windows, making the openings ready and installing new frames with glass already fixed to fit in old spaces.
More careful retrofit installers must get behind your completed walls, cover up to keep your interior clean while they work and fit new windows into openings that may have shifted or settled over dozens of years.
The Key Differences
The main difference is complexity. The job takes longer on retrofit installations due to the uninstallation process that hampers the operation as well as having had windows installed there already. There will be the status of outdated properties that offer a difficulty in straight openings or complexities inside structure and may require tuning. It introduces more potential for mess and chaos, albeit professional installers will contain this with a decent amount of protection and tidying up.
They can be more costly as the building work required to remove, prepare and make good any damage around the plasterwork or brickwork will add significantly (up to £1500 in additional labour charges).
Which Applies to You?
The chances of you constructing a new family home are fairly small, but for the rest, retrofitting double glazing is definitely what we’d all be interested in. Of course, the good news is that modern retrofit techniques have been well-developed. While it may take a few years to recoup your investment completely, the good news is that experienced installers can remove and replace old windows with such little disruption you’ll barely notice.