Conservatory Update - Energy Efficient Frames & Security Concerns

The Brief...

This installation in South Leeds is typical of a conservatory that has reached its sell by date...

Probably over 15 years old, the existing frames and double glazed units were fitted prior to energy ratings becoming important in the double glazing industry. Evidence suggests that frames of this age are over 60% more energy inefficient than the replacement frames and double glazing installed to replace the existing ones.

The customer complained initially of draught coming through the frames and the doors & windows with a few of the sealed units already misting up and looking foggy.  Also the customer concern was security - the fact that there had been a spate of break-ins in the area leading to worries and concerns about the security on both the windows and doors.

We replaced the window frames and the double glazed sealed units all with an A rated system where all the sealed units were argon filled giving the most efficient system on the market.

As far as security is concerned, the frames are internally glazed, they have high security key locking handles with shoot bolts included, a facility to open the window in the night vent position and  the French doors have high security Ultion barrels fitted - these are the latest anti-snap, anti - Bump and and anti-extraction cylinders that the police and insurance companies approve. Ultion themselves are that confident in their products that they are offering £2000 payment to customers should there be a break in through these locks.

As well as the frames being tired, the customer complained of the existing polycarbonate roof having problems too.

The usual story – too cold in winter, too hot in summer, the polycarbonate sheets and and ancillary trims were becoming dirty, warped and dishevelled - and the roof was leaking in certain points.