Smart Glass Keeps Your Home Cooler
Smart solar glass can help keep your room cooler in the UK by reducing the amount of solar heat that enters through windows. These advanced glass panels are designed to reflect or absorb a portion of sunlight, especially infrared rays, which are primarily responsible for heat buildup indoors. As a result, rooms fitted with smart solar glass often experience lower indoor temperatures compared to those with standard glass, especially during warm weather or sunny days.
Additionally, by minimizing heat gain, smart solar glass can reduce the reliance on air conditioning or cooling systems, potentially lowering energy bills. This makes it an energy-efficient option for modern homes and offices in the UK, where managing indoor comfort during occasional heat waves is important. While the cooling effect may vary depending on the type of smart glass and its installation, it generally contributes to a more comfortable indoor environment.
The amount of heat reduction created by the installation of smart glass depends on many factors, so no one figure is right for everyone, however it should always make some difference to the room, improving the comfort factor
Find out more on Smart Solar Glass that keeps your home cooler in summer
What is the difference between Astragal Bars and Georgian Bars on Windows?
Astragal bars and Georgian bars are both decorative features used on windows to create the appearance of smaller panes of glass within a larger window. However, there are key differences between them.
Astragal bars are physical bars that are fixed to both the inside and outside surfaces of the glass. They are designed to divide the window into separate sections, and usually a spacer bar is placed between the panes to create the look of individual glass units. This method gives a more authentic, traditional appearance.
Georgian bars, on the other hand, are typically fitted within the two panes of double glazed units. These bars sit inside the sealed glass unit and give the illusion of separate panes, but do not physically divide the glass. This approach offers a similar visual effect with less maintenance and is often more cost-effective.
In summary, while both options enhance the style of a window, astragal bars provide a more genuine traditional look by actually dividing the glass, whereas Georgian bars are decorative elements placed within the glazing unit for easier upkeep.
Why do so many people choose Anthracite Grey for their new Windows and Doors?
Anthracite Grey has become a popular choice for windows and doors in the UK due to its modern and stylish appearance. The colour offers a sleek, contemporary look that complements both traditional and modern properties. Its neutral tone blends well with various exterior finishes, including brick, stone, and render.
This shade of grey is also known for being practical. It is effective at hiding dirt and marks, helping to maintain a clean appearance over time. Homeowners appreciate its versatility, as it matches a wide range of architectural styles and colour schemes.
Another factor influencing its popularity is that Anthracite Grey is often seen as a premium, on-trend colour, which can add value and curb appeal to a property. Manufacturers and installers frequently offer a wide selection of products in this colour, making it easy for customers to find matching items for their homes.
FENSA Stance on Potential Pollution Ingress through Trickle Vents
Clause 2.3 of the FENSA regulations addresses requirements related to the installation of windows.
In general, regulations may require certain features or components to be included in window installations for safety and compliance.
One such component is a Trickle Vent
However, if there is a risk of pollutant ingress — meaning harmful substances could enter the property through these required feature
Clause 2.3 allows for the omission of these specific components is certain conditions
This exception is designed to protect building occupants from potential health risks associated with pollutants entering through window openings or vents.
Installers must assess each situation carefully and document the reasons for omitting any required features due to pollutant risks, ensuring compliance with the intent of the FENSA regulations while prioritizing occupant safety
In most cases, trickle vents will be required to be installed, however in select cases on certain elevations with - for example - very close proximity to a busy road - trickle ventilation may be bypassed
New Premium Doctors Knocker
The new knocker which colour matches the ERA Fab&Fix Door Hardware range like Balmoral, NuMail and more adds a distinctive design and brings a sense of Georgian history and style to any home
See the full range on our Fab&Fix Hardware Page
How to choose a front door colour for your home
Choosing a front door colour for your home involves considering several factors. Start by assessing the architectural style of your house and the existing exterior colours. Neutral shades like black, grey, or white offer timeless appeal, while bold colours such as red, blue, or yellow can create an eye-catching focal point.
Take into account the surrounding landscape and neighbourhood trends. If your area features traditional homes, classic colours may be more appropriate. For modern or contemporary properties, vibrant or unconventional hues might work well.
Consider the mood you wish to convey. Warm tones like red and orange evoke energy and welcome, whereas cooler shades such as blue or green can feel calm and inviting. Test paint samples on your door and observe them at different times of day to see how lighting affects the colour.
Ultimately, select a colour that reflects your personal style and complements your home's exterior for a cohesive and attractive appearance.
How easy is it to install PVC or Aluminium Windows in my house?
Are smarts locks reliable for my main entrance?
Smart locks have become increasingly popular for main entrances due to their convenience and advanced security features. They offer benefits such as keyless entry, remote access, and the ability to monitor access logs. Many smart locks also integrate with home automation systems, enhancing overall security and control.
The reliability of smart locks depends on the brand, model, and installation quality. Reputable brands typically offer strong encryption and robust physical construction. However, like any electronic device, smart locks can be susceptible to technical issues, such as battery depletion or connectivity problems. It's important to regularly check battery levels, keep the software updated, and choose a model with good customer reviews.
For added peace of mind, some homeowners use smart locks in combination with traditional locks. Ultimately, smart locks can be a reliable option for main entrances when properly maintained and chosen carefully.
Do I need privacy glass in my bathroom window?
Busting the myths of Trickle Vents
"RISA has reported instances of signed disclaimers being provided as a means of avoiding fitting trickle vents.
But it’s very clear that these disclaimers are not valid. When the regulations came into force, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities said:
“A disclaimer signed by the homeowner stating that they do not wish to have background ventilators or that they will be installed in future is not a suitable way of complying with the Building Regulations. Work must comply with the Building Regulations and competent person schemes must monitor their registrants and take action against any registrant who is found to have carried out non-compliant work.”
The Department also adds: “Purchasing an indemnity policy is also not a suitable alternative to meeting the requirements of the Building Regulations in full.”
To reiterate, disclaimers and indemnity policies are not a valid way to provide compliance. If they are used, installations will be non-compliant and installers put their businesses at real risk if they use them.
This isn’t alarmist by any means. In the past, non-compliance might have been seen as a risk worth taking. That’s no longer the case. Local Authority Building Control (LABC) requires confirmation that each building complies, so there’s nowhere to hide.
Concerns around trickle vents typically fall into two categories: the effect on U values (and therefore compliance with Part L relating to thermal efficiency) and the aesthetics.
In terms of U values, it’s important to know that trickle vents have very little impact on them"
So with few exceptions, always discuss and ensure your home renovation is compliantUpdated Instant Price Estimator
Windows and Doors - this covers PVC and Aluminium Windows and Doors, Composite Doors
Legacy Sliding Sash Windows - for our vertical sliding sash PVC windows
Composite Doors - for DoorStop, DoorCo Gallery44, Solidor, Solidcore and Ensure Composite door ranges
Glass Units - for replacement glazing within a suitable existing frame
Blinds in Glass - venetian or black out blinds between the glass
Roofline - for Fascia, Soffit and Rainwater replacement
The Instant Estimator helps customers get guideline pricing for their home improvements in just a few clicks
Importantly, no registration is required, guaranteeing no hassle!
Instant Window and Door Estimator Launched
In a UK first, Heronhurst Window and Door Studio Abergavenny is proud to launch the Window and Door Cost Estimator
Designed to price up PVC and Aluminium Windows, Doors, French Doors, Composites, Sliders and BiFolds in just a few clicks
Because everything we make is bespoke, the idea behind the Instant Estimator isn't to be 100% accurate - it never could be - but to give you budget figures in a few clicks for endless options for your home
Based on over 40 years of window and door installations, our learning algorithm prices typical pricing points for all sorts of permutations, to ensure you get a good, reliable ball-park for your next project
Access online or in-studio at https://www.heronhurst.co.uk/estimator
Installed with love, by Heronhurst
Highlighting our teams dedication to making sure every one of our homeowners gets the service they deserve, from initial enquiry, digital design with AI enhanced visuals of their home, through to project planning and installation
The Installed with Love message runs across all our major window and door brands including Solidor, Freestyle Engineered, Halo, Sheerline Aluminium, DoorStop Composite, DoorCo HD Composite, and of course are ever popular Timeless Flush range of Windows and Doors
With a guarantee of satisfaction. No false pricing. Warranties you can rely on - at Heronhurst your Windows and Doors truly are "Installed with love"!
Entrance Door Buyers Guide Launched
Our first Buyers Guide has been put together with the help of our friends at Solidor
Comparing the benefits of Composite, PVC, Aluminium and Timber Entrance Doors, helping homeowners make the right choice
Take a look at our Entrance Door Buyers Guide
New Omnia - Double Rebated As Standard
With double rebates as standard, securing a superior barrier against even the harshest elements, this feature enhances Omnia's durability and performance, ensuring your windows and doors are engineered to withstand and protect
Omnia sets a new benchmark in sealing technology
Find out more on Omnia Dual Flush for your home
Timeless Omnia Dual Flush Windows and Doors
The new Solid Timber Core Composite Door
A full range of styles, 20 colours - each using advanced CoolSkin technology to not only resist the heat but also perfectly match frame to door colour, unlike most other composite doors
Fastdoor launched
We are pleased to introduce Fastdoor.uk to our brand, offering a focused selection of Composite doors which have superfast order to install and includes technical survey
From just 14 days our Fastdoor range includes 3 collections, each focusing on 5 styles
FabFive is our GRP Composite Doors - 5 colours, 5 styles, 5 glazing choices
Ensure is our GRP Composite Doors - 14 colours, 5 styles, 20 frame colours
Solidcore is our Solid Timber Core Composite Doors - 14 colours, 5 styles, 20 frame colours
We've built a dedicated website at www.fastdoor.uk where you can see the range and build your order door and get a price
Perfect for when you need a door quickly, but still want the quality and technical service you expect from Heronhurst
FENSA Registration and a 10 Year Warranty is included
Visit the dedicated Fastdoor.uk website
Nuki Pro added to In-Studio Display
Find out more at
Nuki Smart Lock
Movers and shakers in Composite Doors June 2024
Top Door Styles are
Top Decorative Glass Choices are
Top Colours from the Core range are
Top Colours from the Extended range are
and finally, the top combos from the range include
Your choice in there? Design your own in a few clicks
Accessibility Improvements
Assisting anyone with sight limitations, the accessibility improvements include Light Mode, Dark Mode, and Tint Contract to reduce glare, and font sizes of 100%, 125% and 150% - with our website now fully reformatting to work within any of these chosen sizes
Just click the little human icon set within a circle, displayed to the top right of each page
We are always working hard to ensure whatever we do, is available to everyone, and aim to bring further improvements in-studio and online in the future