Double Glazing Frames

[CJ]

I have recently been looking at PVCu double glazed window frames as a replacement for my old wooden frames, and the choice of options (& companies) seems endless. However, one issue seems to get different answers from different suppliers - could someone please advise me whether it is necessary to have the new frames reinforced with steel inside the profile ? All companies seem to reinforce patio doors and french doors as well as bay windows but standard windows vary. Anyone with similar experience ? Thanks in advance for any suggestions

[Grunff]

All windows with opening sections wider than about 2' are reinforced - they need to be, otherwise they flex too much. Very few windows with openers less tha 1.6' are reinforced, there's just not much point.

When I window shopped, I found that the companies that go on most about reinforcement are the hard-sell, flashy salesmen type. In reality, when you really push the question, many of them will tell you that they only reinforce windows wider than a particular size.

Bottom line is don't worry about it too much. Just find a company you really feel you can trust. Most of the options are just sales hype.

[Ziggur]

Big window companies extrude their own "profile", smaller outfits buy in from an exruder. Reinforcement "rules" vary with the profile used and the window style and size.

Outer frames, fixed into an aperture need little or no reinforcement. Opening sashes are reinfoced "as necessary". A very large frame might be reinforced, not for the benefit of the customer, but so that it can be more easily and safely handled between the factory and the hole in the wall.

Look on the bright side - it is just as easy for a factory to make a good frame as it is to make a bad one.

[CJ]

Thanks very much for all the advice, I now feel a more confident about the windows I have been looking at. You are absolutely right about the hardsell window companies blabbing on about reinforcement etc... !

[Dave Plowman]

Have a look at the Screwfix offerings. If 'stock' sizes are ok for your application, I'm very pleased with mine. I didn't research the market thoroughly, but they seem better made than most of the 'pro' ones I've seen in friends' houses.