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Safety Glass Information

With the glazing of windows and glass becoming very popular, it is a good time to take a look at the safety of the glass and the minimum legal requirements that must be met.

Glass glazing types is a rather common topic when discussing window replacements or home improvement but what I am going to talk about now is the safety of the glass and updated legal minimums that must be met.

The British Standard "BS 6262: Part 4: 1994 Code of Practice for Glazing for Buildings", has put into effect new requirements that must be met regarding glass glazing in any building to insure safety.

The main purpose of this standard is to insure that glazed glass used in "critical conditions" is safe. This means that in these critical conditions, glass must "break safely" and this can be achieved by using small panes of ordinary glass combined with thicker glass layers and protective screening.

Along with these "critical conditions," we also have "critical locations." So, what exactly is a "critical location"? Critical locations are defined as areas that are "at risk from accidental human impact" as defined by the Approved Document N of the Building Regulations 1991.

Specific examples of critical locations include glazed glass used in doors between the floor and 1500mm up from the floor as well as any glass that is within 300mm of the sides of the doors, most often referred to as side panels, along with any glass windows that are between the floor and 800mm off the floor level, and others.

So, what can you do to insure that this glass is "safe" as per government regulations? Well, the glass needs to be able to pass a series of tests and there are only a few types of glass that have withstood these tests and thus can be used in the "critical locations." Toughened glass that may seem like ordinary glass but has actually gone through a special heating process to toughen it can be used in these critical locations. This glass is much stronger than traditional glass and as a result, it is much harder to break. Laminated glass is also another option that many may want to consider. Laminated glass is made up of multiple layers of glass with plastic in between and are again stronger than ordinary glass. However, laminated glass is not as strong or expensive as toughened glass. A last option is wired glass that is made up of glass with a network of wires that run through it to add strength and stability.

Double glazing the glass or window is another popular choice, as while the emphasis is on the insulation properties, the fact that a double glazed window is made up of two panes of glass and not one means that it is roughly twice as strong as an ordinary one. This naturally means that it is more difficult to break, helping with safety around small children.

Glass strength is very important in these situations, both for safety and so that you follow the law so be sure to take the above regulation into consideration when considering glass for a new building or replacing glass.

About the author:
David A. Howarth has been working in the home restoration and improvement business in the UK for over 20 years now, and enjoys writing about home improvement features such as replacement windows and conservatories.

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Posted under Safety Glass Explained

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Quality, professionally installed double glazing can look stunning in your home. Weathering, traffic fumes, damp and general wear and tear can sometimes discolour double glazed windows and spoil the overall style of your home. If you’ve invested in new windows then there are some quick and simple ways you can keep them in pristine condition so they look as good as when they were first installed.

Caring for your double glazing

Simply by cleaning your double glazed windows you can help to extend their life and save on having replacement windows fitted.

1) Get the vacuum out

By regularly vacuuming the frames, openings, screens and seals you can avoid dirt building up and discolouring or damaging your windows. Regular vacuuming can save time too as it will mean you’ll need to use soap and water less often to clean your windows.

2) Reduce damp

Condensation can form on any window whether they’re traditional windows or newly installed. Condensation can lead to damp patches gathering on windows and black spotted mould gathering which can look unsightly. If you have traditional wooden window frames then these damp patches can even lead to the wood rotting. Ensuring you have a well ventilated room can reduce the build up of condensation.

3) Be a traditional cleaner

To make your double glazed windows sparkle a good tip is to use an old sock to spruce a window up with a mixture of vinegar and water. This traditional cleaning solution is super cheap and will make your windows gleam.

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What not to do

1) Avoid high pressure sprays

Although high pressure water sprays work wonders on patios and driveways and are great fun to use, don’t be tempted to direct the spray at your double glazing. It may seem like an easy option to clean your windows but the intense pressure can weaken window’s sealant and even cause the glass to crack.

2) Don’t go for a quick fix

Double glazed windows are made of glass so obviously they’re fragile enough for accidents to happen. A ball through your window or an accident in the home can lead to a pane of double glazed glass needing replacing. It might be tempting to have a go yourself to save money - particularly if it’s a small, easily accessed pane. Badly fitting a new window pane can cost you more in the long run as if it’s not sealed properly drafts can get in or it could be dangerous if the sealant weakened and the glass fell out. Some energy efficient double glazing contain Argon gas to help with insulation and these specialist panes need fitting by the experts to ensure all your windows are as energy efficient as possible.

3) No tampering

Tampering with your double glazed windows in any way can potentially lead to compromising their functionality. Hanging decorations, using unsuitable paint, nailing curtain ties to them or adding unsuitable locks can all affect your windows’ efficiency and safety. If you want to change your windows or frame in any way, take the time to check with the professionals so you can get the right advice to avoid a costly mistake.

By looking after your windows and caring for them correctly they will look great all year round and last much longer.Top Tips For Buying Double Glazing Here

Author: Steven P Holmes

For Low Cost Double Glazing In The East Midlands,South Yorks Area Click Here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_P_Holmes

Posted under Tips For Caring For Double Glazing

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Double Glazing Companies In Belper,Derbyshire.

How To Double Glaze Your Home for less.Top Tips

First use local companies.

Such as Ace Windows and Doors based in Alfreton

Why ? simply their overheads and costs will be lower.National companies will have to pay a salesperson between 5% and 15% off the contract value.Then they will have to pay a surveyor about 5%.Then they will have administration staff to process your order and finally they will have to pay the installers between 10% and 15% of the contract value.On top of this will be substantial factory,office and a management structure.Smaller firms often do these operations with very few staff or even just the owner themselves.

Secondly

If you are handy fit the windows yourself,not handy then purchase supply only then contact local fitters.Firms make an extra charge to guarantee work and for arranging the fitting,by sorting the fitting out yourself you will make a substantial saving.For a reliable supplier with a online price calculculator  click here

Thirdly

Always ask for a discount for cash.Window suppliers often have a lot of money tied up in work in progress and in jobs,cheques take a week to clear so instant cash is always a bonus.

Fourthly

Haggle for a better deal,the worst outcome will be a polite no,the best scenorio a substantial discount.

Finally

For your piece of mind and to compare what is available obtain a few quotations.For a low cost quotation in Belper,Derbys and Notts Click here

Article submitted by Kevin Fox with over 28 years experience in Double Glazing in the East Midlands.

Posted under General

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How to double glaze your home for less.Top Tips

First use local companies.

Such As Ace windows and doors based In Sutton In Ashfield.

Why ? simply their overheads and costs will be lower.National companies will have to pay a salesperson between 5% and 15% off the contract value.Then they will have to pay a surveyor about 5%.Then they will have administration staff to process your order and finally they will have to pay the installers between 10% and 15% of the contract value.On top of this will be substantial factory,office and a management structure.Smaller firms often do these operations with very few staff or even just the owner themselves.

Secondly

If you are handy fit the windows yourself,not handy then purchase supply only then contact local fitters.Firms make an extra charge to guarantee work and for arranging the fitting,by sorting the fitting out yourself you will make a substantial saving.For a reliable supplier with a online price calculculator serving Sutton In Ashfield,Derbyshire,nottinghamshire and south yorks click here

Thirdly

Always ask for a discount for cash.Window suppliers often have a lot of money tied up in work in progress and in jobs,cheques take a week to clear so instant cash is always a bonus.

Fourthly

Haggle for a better deal,the worst outcome will be a polite no,the best scenorio a substantial discount.

Finally

For your piece of mind and to compare the benefits of double glazing and what is available, obtain a few quotations.

For a low cost quotation in Sutton In Ashfield,Notts and Derbys Click here

Article submitted by Kevin Fox with over 28 years experience in Double Glazing in the East Midlands.

Posted under General

Low Cost Quality Windows And Doors In Ripley,For Instant Online Prices Click Here

How to double glaze your home for less.Top Tips

First use local companies.

Such as Ace Windows And Doors based in Alfreton

Why ? simply their overheads and costs will be lower.National companies will have to pay a salesperson between 5% and 15% off the contract value.Then they will have to pay a surveyor about 5%.Then they will have administration staff to process your order and finally they will have to pay the installers between 10% and 15% of the contract value.On top of this will be substantial factory,office and a management structure.Smaller firms often do these operations with very few staff or even just the owner themselves.

Secondly

If you are handy fit the windows yourself,not handy then purchase supply only then contact local fitters.Firms make an extra charge to guarantee work and for arranging the fitting,by sorting the fitting out yourself you will make a substantial saving.For a reliable supplier with a online price calculculator serving Alfreton,Derbyshire,nottinghamshire and south yorks click here

Thirdly

Always ask for a discount for cash.Window suppliers often have a lot of money tied up in work in progress and in jobs,cheques take a week to clear so instant cash is always a bonus.

Fourthly

Haggle for a better deal,the worst outcome will be a polite no,the best scenorio a substantial discount.

Finally

For your piece of mind and to compare what is available obtain a few quotations.For a low cost quotation in Ripley,Derbys and Notts Click here

Article submitted by Kevin Fox with over 28 years experience in Double Glazing in the East Midlands.

Posted under General

For an instant online window or door quote click here    

UPVC doors can create a stunning entrance to your home. They are also great at reducing drafts and keeping the heat in your home. There are hundreds of designs to choose from so you can select one which will complement the overall look of your house. Although white is still a very popular choice, you can now choose doors with a wood effect finish if you prefer the traditional look for your external doors.

Online Door Quotation Sites provide Lots of Styles and prices

UPVC doors are naturally low maintenance and don’t need to be treated or protected from the elements as wooden doors do and you can also avoid the expense of regular painting. UPVC doors are not immune from needing cleaning and general maintenance though. The very nature of doors means that they are constantly being battered by the elements which can cause them to gather dirt look unclean. Wet weather can cause constant damp patches on your doors which can be a breeding ground for algae which will create an ugly green layer. Other problems can come from traffic emissions leaving residue which can give them an off-white look.

A little bit of maintenance from time to time will help to keep them in full working order and make sure they stay looking great.

Below are some quick tips to help keep your UPVC doors in superb condition…

The parts of UPVC doors which are exposed to the elements should be washed down with warm soapy water to avoid dirt building up and penetrating seals and any small cracks. Use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the doors and be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the door once it’s clean.

Stay away from using coarse cleaning products as their abrasive nature could do more harm than good and leave scratches on your doors.

Check the parts of your doors that are only on display when the door is open such as the hinges and the inside of the frame. Clear debris out with a damp cloth to remove grime which could stop the door from closing properly or hinder the effectiveness of the seal.

To keep the locks of your doors in working order try applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to the locks to keep them lubricated.

Avoid using oil to lubricate hinges and instead try a silicone based lubricant.

Using cream cleanser in warm water to clean your UPVC doors is a better choice than washing up liquid which can degrade the seals. You can also purchase professional cleaning products for your doors from leading DIY stores.

Before you try out any new cleaning product make sure you check with a specialist to see if it’s safe to use so you can be sure you’re not going to damage your doors.

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Author: SP Turner

UPVC Doors http://www.anglianhome.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=SP_Turner

Posted under Upvc Doors Top Maintenance Tips

How To Win Against A pushy Double Glazing Salesman.

  Ok you have made the decision to invest in new windows doors or a conservatory.How do you keep your sanity when sales driven salespeople invade your home?Have you ever been pushed in to a decision for any product you later regreted purchasing?I know i have,when i was younger i was literally bamboozelled in to buying a timeshare,with reflection it was a very bad financial decision for me.

  So how do you as a customer retain control in your own home and avoid "The Double Glazing Pressure Sales tactics".Who better qualified than a double glazing salesman to give you the tips and strategies of not becoming another victim of pressure selling.

  Fellow double glazing salespeople will not thank me for divulging these secrets to you but i have found my own secrets to getting sales in my 28 years experience in direct sales in the double glazing industry and it does not involve pressure sales.Infact pressure sales have cost me a lot of money over the last 28 years,i have forgot the number of times i have not been able to quote for a job because they or someone they knew had experienced a torrid time and virtually been a prisoner in their own home.They wanted to invest in new windows but fear was preventing them from taking the steps necessary to make their dream become a reality.Without pressure sales people i would have earned a lot more money,so i am willing to spill the beans!!

   Who you might ask gains the most from pressure sales?Contrary to what you have been lead to believe its certainly not the sales person.The main beneficiary of pressure selling is the company who the sales person represents.The reason pressure selling is prevalent in double glazing is quite simply because their are some companies particularly large national companies,or regional ones that are offering a over hyped identical or similar product to smaller companies at a inflated price.A salesperson who is representing one of these companies knows that if he does not close the deal on the night,then His chances of being called back afterwards are very remote once the customer becomes more informed and realises the product can be purchased for far less and with usually better customer care.

   So my first tip to avoid pressure sales tactics is to stear clear of "The Nationals" and use a smaller more local business,who as usually grown through being more competitive and through offering good after care and who as not had to resort to pressure sales.

   My second tip to keep control is to clearly state you are getting several quotes and you will decide when you are ready to make your decision,if not acceptable show the salesperson the door,remember its your home you make the house rules.

  My third tip if you feel pressured is to say you are either going to invest in new windows or you may be moving.Its very hard to get someone who isn’t sure where they will be living to make a decision,that objection is a salespersons worst nightmare but will leave you totally in control.

  My fourth tip is to not fall for the time sensitive close or the i will ring my manager,remember until you invited that salesperson in to your home he had no chance of a sale.Any price or offer will be available in the future if they see profit in the deal they will still accept later, when you are ready to proceed.

  My final tip is do not fall for the so much a day,week or other easy pay method invairably the interest rate or the price will usually be inflated it is far easier and cheaper to arrange your own finance.

My final point is do not be intimidated make your decision in your own time a competitive local business will be pleased you gave him the chance to quote and he knows he as not over priced or hyped and he realises that good customer service and competitive prices will get him business without the need for pressure.

Article Written by Kevin Fox.

if you would like a online supply only price or a competitive quotation from me for installation in the east midlands,south yorks area click here 

Posted under Pressure sales how to fight back