When replacing your windows, it can be tempting to choose the lowest quote. At first glance, a cheaper price looks like great value. But when it comes to windows, the cheapest option often leads to higher costs over time through poor performance, frequent repairs and reduced energy efficiency.

At Elwyns, we believe in doing things properly from the start. With over 60 years of experience, we have built our reputation on quality products, expert installation and long-term customer support. Here is why cheap window quotes can end up costing far more than you expect.

Lower Quality Materials Mean Shorter Lifespan

A low window quote often reflects lower grade materials. Budget windows may use thinner frames, weaker hardware or lower quality glazing. While this reduces upfront cost, it also affects durability and performance.

Common issues with cheaper windows include:

• Frames that warp or discolour over time
• Poor insulation and draughts
• Condensation between panes
• Failing seals
• Hardware that wears quickly

Higher quality windows, professionally manufactured and installed, last significantly longer and maintain their appearance and performance for years.

Poor Energy Efficiency Increases Heating Bills

One of the main reasons homeowners replace windows is to improve energy efficiency. However, cheaper windows often fail to deliver strong thermal performance.

Lower quality glazing and poorly sealed frames can allow heat to escape, leading to:

• Higher energy bills
• Cold spots in your home
• Reduced comfort in winter
• Increased carbon footprint

Investing in well-designed, energy-efficient windows helps regulate indoor temperature and reduce household energy costs long term.

Installation Quality Makes a Huge Difference

A competitive quote may also mean rushed or inexperienced installation standards. Even the best window will perform poorly if it is not fitted correctly.

Poor installation can cause:

• Draughts and air leaks
• Water ingress
• Structural issues
• Reduced security
• Expensive remedial work

Professional installation ensures your windows perform as intended, protecting your home and your investment.

Hidden Costs and Unexpected Extras

Low quotes sometimes exclude important elements that are added later, such as:

• Finishing work or trims
• Waste removal
• Upgraded glazing
• Structural adjustments
• Extended warranties

What appears to be the cheapest option can quickly become more expensive once these extras are included.

Reduced Security and Safety

Windows play an important role in home security. Cheaper products may use lower specification locks, weaker frames or less robust glazing, making them easier to compromise.

High quality windows such as Evolution and PVCu are designed with strong locking systems and durable construction to provide greater peace of mind.

Limited Guarantees and Aftercare

A very low price may come with minimal warranty cover or limited aftercare support. If issues arise later, repairs or replacements can become your responsibility.

Choosing an established company means you know support will still be there years down the line. Elwyns has been serving homeowners for over 60 years, providing reliable service and long-term customer care. If anything happens to your windows, our team will be there to help put it right.

We also provide comprehensive guarantees for added reassurance, including:

• 10-year guarantee on window and door frames
• 10-year guarantee on sealed glass units
• 5-year guarantee on installations carried out by our own team
• Manufacturer guarantees passed on where applicable

Labour costs for repairs or replacements are covered during the initial guarantee periods, giving you confidence that your investment is protected.

This level of protection is rarely offered with the cheapest quotes.

Why Investing in Quality Windows Pays Off

Choosing well-made windows installed by experienced professionals offers clear long-term value:

• Better energy efficiency
• Greater durability
• Improved security
• Enhanced property value
• Reduced maintenance costs
• Long-term reliability and support

Rather than focusing purely on price, it is worth considering overall value, performance and longevity.

Choosing the Right Window Specialist

When comparing quotes, look beyond the headline price. Consider:

• Quality of materials
• Energy ratings
• Installation expertise
• Guarantees and aftercare
• Reputation and experience

With more than six decades of experience, Elwyns provides carefully specified windows and expert installation to ensure lasting performance, comfort and peace of mind.

Speak to Elwyns About Your Window Project

If you are considering new windows and want advice you can trust, the Elwyns team is here to help. We provide transparent quotations focused on quality, reliability and long-term value.

Contact Elwyns today to discuss your project or request a consultation.

French doors have long been a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a light, welcoming connection between their home and the garden. With their classic proportions and practical design, French doors suit a wide range of properties, from period homes to more modern extensions.

At Elwyns, we supply and install high-quality French doors in timber, aluminium, PVC and timber-alternative materials, allowing homeowners to choose a solution that suits both their home and their lifestyle.

Why Choose French Doors?

French doors are hinged doors that open from the centre, creating a clear and practical opening. They are a versatile option that works well in many areas of the home.

Homeowners often choose French doors because they:

• Allow plenty of natural light into the room
• Create a wide opening without complex mechanisms
• Create a wide opening without complex mechanisms
• Create a wide opening without complex mechanisms

French doors are particularly well suited to kitchens, dining rooms, living spaces and smaller extensions.

French Door Materials to Suit Your Home

Choosing the right material is an important part of selecting French doors. At Elwyns, we offer a carefully considered range to suit different styles and requirements.

Timber French Doors

Timber French doors offer a classic appearance that works particularly well in period homes. They provide natural warmth, traditional detailing and long-term durability when properly maintained.

Aluminium French Doors

Aluminium French doors are a popular choice for modern homes and extensions. Slim sightlines, strength and durability make aluminium well suited to larger glazed areas and contemporary designs.

PVC French Doors

PVC French doors offer a practical, low-maintenance solution. They provide good thermal performance and are a cost-effective choice for replacement projects.

Timber-Alternative French Doors

Timber-alternative French doors are designed to replicate the look of traditional timber while offering improved durability and reduced maintenance. They are often chosen for homes where a classic appearance is required with modern performance benefits.

Our team will help you choose the most appropriate material based on your property, layout and how you plan to use the doors.

Are French Doors Energy Efficient?

Modern French doors offer strong thermal performance when specified correctly. High-performance glazing, insulated frames and effective weather seals help to reduce heat loss and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

This makes French doors a sensible option for homeowners looking to improve natural light without compromising energy efficiency.

Do French Doors Need Planning Permission?

In most cases, installing or replacing French doors does not require planning permission, particularly when they form part of an existing opening or extension. Additional considerations may apply for listed buildings or properties within conservation areas.

Our team can provide guidance if planning approval is required.

French Doors or Sliding Doors?

French doors are often compared with sliding patio doors. Each option has its advantages.

French doors offer:

• A traditional appearance
• A full opening width when both doors are open
• Simple, reliable operation

Sliding doors are often chosen for wider openings or where uninterrupted views are a priority. We can help you compare both options and decide which suits your home best.

Why Choose Elwyns for French Doors?

Homeowners choose Elwyns for our:

• Long-established experience in glazing and installation
• A wide choice of French door materials and styles
• Professional installation teams
• Clear, practical advice throughout your project
• Showrooms where products can be viewed and discussed

We take a considered approach, ensuring your French doors are designed and installed to a high standard.

See French Doors Near You

Visiting a showroom allows you to explore different French door materials, finishes and glazing options. Our team is happy to discuss your home and help you find a solution that suits your needs.

Speak to a French Door Specialist

If you are considering French doors for your home, Elwyns is here to help. From initial advice through to installation, we provide quality workmanship and a straightforward, professional service.

Contact Elwyns today to arrange a consultation or visit one of our showrooms in Carshalton, Dulwich and Woldingham to discuss French doors for your home.

Sash windows are a defining feature of many homes in and around Dulwich, adding balance, character and timeless appeal. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace, an Edwardian family home or a property within a conservation area, well-designed sash windows can enhance both the appearance and comfort of your home.

At Elwyns, we supply and install high-quality sash windows for homeowners in Dulwich and the surrounding area. Our range includes timber sash windows from Timber Windows and PVC sash windows from Quickslide, offering flexible options to suit a wide variety of properties.

Why Sash Windows Suit Homes in the Dulwich Area

This part of South London is known for its period architecture and well-proportioned homes. Sash windows are particularly well suited to these properties because they:

• Complement traditional elevations and original features
• Allow controlled ventilation through the vertical sliding design
• Maintain symmetry on period façades
• Align well with conservation and planning expectations

Sash windows remain a practical and appropriate choice for many homes throughout the Dulwich area.

Timber Sash Windows from Timber Windows

For homeowners looking to stay true to traditional materials and detailing, timber
sash windows from Timber Windows are an excellent choice.

These windows are designed to replicate original sash designs while offering modern improvements in insulation, security and performance. Timber sash windows are particularly well suited to period homes where character and authenticity are a priority.

Key benefits include:

• Traditional timber profiles and detailing
• Modern double glazing options
• Strong thermal and acoustic performance
• A natural material that complements period properties

Our team can advise on finishes and glazing specifications to support planning requirements where needed.

PVC Sash Windows from Quickslide

For homeowners seeking a lower-maintenance alternative, PVC sash windows from Quickslide provide the appearance of traditional sash windows with added practicality.

These windows are designed to improve energy efficiency while retaining classic proportions and smooth operation.

Benefits include:

• Smooth sliding operation
• Improved insulation compared to older windows
• Minimal ongoing maintenance
• A practical option for replacement projects

Are Sash Windows Energy Efficient?

Modern sash windows offer a significant improvement over older single-glazed designs. Both timber and PVC sash windows can be fitted with high-performance double glazing, helping to reduce heat loss and improve comfort throughout the year.

Draught-proofing and modern locking systems also contribute to quieter, more secure homes.

Planning and Conservation Considerations

Many homes in and around Dulwich fall within conservation areas, and some properties may be listed. In these cases, planning permission may be required when replacing or altering windows.

Elwyns has experience working with period properties and can provide guidance on suitable window styles and specifications to help meet local planning requirements.

Why Choose Elwyns for Sash Windows?

Homeowners choose Elwyns for our:

• Long-established experience in glazing and installation
• Carefully selected timber and PVC sash window ranges
• Understanding of period properties and conservation requirements
• Professional installation teams
• Showrooms where products can be viewed and discussed

We take a considered, consultative approach to every project.

See Sash Windows Near You

Visiting a showroom can help you compare timber and PVC sash windows side by side and explore finishes, glazing options and hardware details.

Our team is happy to discuss your home and help you choose the most appropriate sash window solution.

Speak to Local Sash Window Specialists

If you are considering sash windows for your home in or around Dulwich, Elwyns is here to help. From initial advice through to installation, we provide clear guidance and quality workmanship at every stage.

Contact Elwyns today to arrange a consultation or visit one of our showrooms to discuss sash windows for your home.

Spring is one of the most popular times of year to start planning a kitchen extension. As the days get longer and brighter, many homeowners across Surrey and South London begin thinking about how they can create more space, more light and a better connection to their garden.

If you’re considering a kitchen extension this year, one design feature can make all the difference: bifold doors.

At Elwyns, we’ve been helping homeowners transform their properties for over 60 years, designing and installing high-quality glazing solutions that bring homes to life. Here’s why bifold doors are the perfect finishing touch for your new kitchen extension.

Why Plan a Kitchen Extension in Spring?

Spring is the ideal season to start a home improvement project. Planning early in the year means you can:

• Finalise designs before the summer months
• Take advantage of better weather for building work
• Have your new space ready to enjoy during the warmer seasons
• Spend more time outdoors with friends and family

And when it comes to making the most of a new kitchen extension, nothing enhances the space quite like beautifully designed bifold doors.

What Are Bifold Doors?

Bifold doors are a series of glazed panels that fold neatly to one side, creating a wide,
uninterrupted opening between your home and garden.

Unlike traditional patio or French doors, bi-folds allow you to:

• Open up almost an entire wall
• Bring in maximum natural light
• Create a seamless indoor-outdoor living space

For kitchen extensions in particular, they offer a modern, stylish and highly practical solution

Why Are Bifold Doors Perfect for Kitchen Extensions?

1. They Create a Bright, Open Space

A kitchen extension is all about adding light and space to your home. Bifold doors use large glass panels to flood the room with natural daylight, making even smaller extensions feel bigger and more inviting.

2. They Connect Your Home and Garden

When fully opened, bifold doors remove the barrier between inside and outside. This makes them ideal for:

• Family gatherings
• Summer entertaining
• Al fresco dining
• Letting children play in the garden while staying in sight

3. They Add Style and Value

Bifold doors are one of the most sought-after features for modern homes. As well as transforming how your kitchen looks and feels, they can also help to increase the overall value of your property.

4. They’re Practical All Year Round

With modern energy-efficient glazing and high-performance frames, bifold doors keep your home warm in winter and comfortable in summer, making your kitchen extension a space you can enjoy in every season.

What Type of Bifold Doors Are Best for a Kitchen
Extension?

The right choice will depend on your home, style and budget. Popular options include:

• Aluminium bifold doors for a slim, contemporary look
• uPVC bifolds for an affordable, low-maintenance solution
• Custom colours and finishes to match your kitchen design
• Threshold options that create a smooth transition to the garden

At Elwyns, every installation is tailored to your home, ensuring your new doors complement your extension perfectly.

People Also Ask: Kitchen Extensions &
Bifold Doors

To help you plan with confidence, here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Kitchen Extension?

Many kitchen extensions fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission may not be required. However, this depends on factors such as:

• The size of the extension
• Height and proximity to boundaries
• Whether your property is listed or in a conservation area

Our team can help advise on planning requirements as part of your project.

Are Bifold Doors Energy Efficient?

Yes. Modern bifold doors are designed with:

• High-performance double or triple glazing
• Thermally efficient frames

How Much Do Bifold Doors Cost?

The cost of bifold doors varies depending on:

• Size and number of panels
• Frame material
• Glazing specification
• Finish and additional features

At Elwyns, we provide clear, personalised quotations based on your exact requirements.

Can Bifold Doors Be Installed in Any Extension?

In most cases, yes. Bifold doors are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into:

• Rear kitchen extensions
• Side-return extensions
• Open-plan kitchen-diners
• Conservatory or orangery conversions

Our experts will assess your space and recommend the best configuration for your home.

Why Choose Elwyns for Your Kitchen Extension Bifold
Doors?

Choosing the right supplier is just as important as choosing the right doors.

Homeowners across Surrey and South London trust Elwyns because we offer:

• Over six decades of experience
• High-quality, made-to-measure bifold doors
• Professional installation by skilled local teams
• Friendly, honest advice with no pressure
• Showrooms where you can see products in person
• Third party accreditation: Which? Trusted Trader, Trustmark or Checkatrade

From your first enquiry to final installation, we’ll make the process smooth and straightforward.

See Bifold Doors for Kitchen Extensions Near You

If you’re planning a kitchen extension this spring, visiting a showroom is one of the best ways to explore your options.

At our Carshalton, Dulwich or Woldingham showrooms, you can:

• See bifold doors in action
• Compare materials and finishes
• Speak to knowledgeable experts
• Get tailored advice for your home

Start Planning Your Kitchen Extension Today

A well-designed kitchen extension can transform the way you live in your home and the right bifold doors can make it truly special.

If you’re planning a project this spring, Elwyns is here to help every step of the way.

Contact Elwyns today to arrange a free consultation or visit your nearest showroom to discuss bifold doors for your kitchen extension.

Winter can be one of the toughest seasons for your home’s doors and windows. Cold temperatures, excess moisture and reduced daylight can all take their toll, particularly on timber windows and doors.

With a little regular care, however, your timber products will continue to perform and look their best for many years to come. Below, our team at Elwyns shares some simple, practical winter maintenance tips to help protect both timber frames and glass during the colder months.

Looking After Your Timber Windows and Doors

To ensure your timber windows and doors continue to meet your expectations year after year, we recommend minimal but regular checks, especially during winter.

All Elwyns timber products are supplied by Timber Windows and come with a comprehensive set of warranties, provided some basic maintenance checks are carried out.

Timber Paintwork: What You Need to Know

Our timber windows and doors are factory finished to the highest standards in a variety of colours. Each product is:

• Base-coat primed
• Finished with two coats of a microporous paint or stain system

This protective coating is designed to safeguard your timber for:

• Up to 12 years for painted finishes
• Up to 6 years for stained finishes
• 1 year for externally stained oak

Please note that durability can vary depending on elevation, exposure to weather and local climate conditions.

Cleaning Timber Windows and Doors

Maintaining the integrity of the paint or stain system is essential, and regular cleaning plays a key role.

We recommend cleaning timber surfaces at least every two years, ideally at the same time as cleaning the glass. This helps to:

• Remove surface contaminants
• Prevent fungal or algae build-up
• Identify early signs of wear or damage

Homes in north-facing positions areas or locations with heavy pollution may require more frequent cleaning.

How to Clean Timber Frames Safely

• Do not use hose pipes or pressure washers, as these can damage the coating
• Wash using warm, soapy water with a mild liquid detergent
• Change the water regularly
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Wipe dry with a clean cloth

Pay particular attention to the lower third of the window and the external cill, as these areas are more exposed to moisture and weathering.

Caring for North-Facing Windows

North-facing areas tend to remain colder and damper, creating ideal conditions for algae and mould growth. If left untreated, this can eventually affect the coating’s adhesion.

Regular cleaning is the best preventative measure.

If fungal growth does appear:

1. Mix one part household bleach to two parts water
2. Apply the solution and leave for around 20 minutes
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth

Redecorating Timber Windows and Doors

When redecorating, we recommend using Teknos paints and stains, which offer a close match to the original factory finish.

• Paints can be applied directly from the container
• Thinning with up to 5% water can improve flow, particularly in warmer conditions
• Always test colour on a discreet area before full application

Most high-quality microporous paint or stain systems are suitable, provided the manufacturer’s instructions are followed.

If any damage to the coating is identified during routine checks, affected areas should be redecorated promptly.

Preparing Areas for Re-Coating

• Clean using a mild detergent solution
• Rinse thoroughly to remove dust, insects and debris
• Lightly abrade with a fine-grade abrasive paper
• Brush away dust before painting

Full Redecoration or Colour Changes

If you wish to change the colour where the existing coating is intact:

1. Lightly sand the surface with fine-grade abrasive paper
2. Wipe with a clean, damp cloth and allow to dry fully
3. Apply a single coat using a good-quality synthetic brush
4. Pay particular attention to horizontal surfaces, cills and bottom rails
5. Allow to dry for at least four hours

Winter Glass Care: Cleaning Safely and Effectively

To clean glass panes during winter:

• Use a soft sponge or cloth
• Apply a good-quality glass cleaner or warm soapy water
• Avoid hard tools or scrapers, which can scratch or crack the glass
• Remove jewellery and wear gloves where possible

Gentle, regular cleaning helps maintain clarity and reduces the risk of damage.

Need Further Advice?

If you would like more guidance on caring for your timber windows, doors or glazing this
winter, our experienced team is always happy to help. Simply get in touch or visit one of
our local showrooms for friendly, expert advice.

Keeping your Surrey home warm and comfortable has never been more important. With energy prices still significantly above pre-2023 and colder winters becoming increasingly common, homeowners across Surrey are looking for ways to reduce heat loss and improve insulation. Upgrading old glazing is one of the most effective places to start.

The UK Government forecasts show that large cuts to household bills are unlikely in the near future. For many Surrey households, replacing old single glazing with modern A rated windows can make a real difference. For the average homeowner this upgrade can save up to £140 on energy bills, as well as enjoying a warmer, quieter home.

As stated by The Glass and Glazing Federation, UK homes were branded ‘the leakiest in Western Europe when it comes to heat loss’ with 98% of the UKs windows falling short of today’s performance standards.

At Elwyns Windows, we’ve been helping local homeowners improve the comfort and efficiency of their properties for over 60 years, serving Surrey and South London from our showrooms in Carshalton, Woldingham and Dulwich. We offer a carefully selected range of energy-efficient windows designed for Surrey’s kerb appeal, conservation requirements and varying property styles.

This guide explains everything you need to know about window energy ratings, what makes a window energy-efficient, and which products offer the best performance for Surrey homes.

What are windows energy ratings?

Window energy ratings (WERs) were established by the British Fenestration Ratings Council, to compare the efficiency of different windows. The system works much like appliance ratings, using a scale from A++ to G, with the highest-performing windows achieving the A and A+ categories.

Unlike older measures that looked at the glass alone, WERs assess the whole window unit, including:

• The frame
• The glazing
• Thermal breaks
• Seals and gaskets
• Overall design

This gives homeowners a more accurate picture of how effectively a window will retain warmth, reduce draughts, and help lower energy bills. Additionally, it is now a requirement for most new windows to meet a minimum of a B or 1.4 W/m²K under UK building regulations (Part L).

Most windows offered by Elwyns exceed these minimum requirements, making them
suitable both for modern builds and for traditional Surrey properties that need a
discreet and sympathetic upgrade.

Key Elements of Energy-Efficient Windows

To understand how windows perform, it’s helpful to know the three core components that make up an energy rating:

1. U-Value (W/m²K)

This measures how easily heat escapes through the window.
Lower = better insulation.
Anything below 1.4 complies with modern building rules, high-performance triple glazing can achieve 0.8 or even lower.

2. Air Leakage (L-Value)

This assesses how much air can infiltrate around the seals.
Lower L-values mean fewer draughts and a warmer home.

3. Solar Gain (G-Value)

This tells you how much warmth from the sun is captured through the glass.
Higher G-values can boost passive solar heat, useful for cold rooms or north-facing spaces.

Understanding these factors helps Surrey homeowners choose the best combination for their property’s orientation, exposure and architectural style.

Evolution Windows: Perfect for Period Homes Across Surrey

Many Surrey homeowners value the classic look of timber windows but want the low maintenance and efficiency of modern materials. Evolution windows offer a premium timber-alternative option that blends authentic styling with cutting-edge performance.

Why Evolution is ideal for Surrey properties:

• 28mm thick double glazing for excellent insulation
• Warm-edge spacer bars to reduce heat loss and condensation
• Optional Argon-filled triple glazing
• A+ WER ratings as standard
  o Storm range: A+13
  o Flush range: A+11
• U-values as low as 1.3 W/m²K

Evolution is particularly well suited to conservation areas such as Reigate, Dorking, Ewell Village, or parts of Cheam, where the traditional appearance of timber is essential but improved thermal performance is equally important.

Timber Windows: Modern Efficiency with Handcrafted Style

For homeowners who prefer genuine timber frames, Timber Windows offer handmade high-performance wooden that combine craftsmanship with outstanding insulation. Design to complement period homes throughout Surrey, their products achieve impressive levels of energy efficiency.

Why Surrey homeowners choose Timber Windows:

• Argon or Krypton-filled cavities for superior insulation
• Warm edge spacers to minimise heat loss at the edges
• Centre-pane U-value of 1.1 W/m²K , delivering:
  ▪ Up to 80% improved efficiency over single glazing
  ▪ Around 45% better performance than ordinary double glazing

Their bespoke timber frames make them perfect for listed buildings, cottages and character homes, particularly in heritage-rich Surrey villages like Limpsfield, Oxted, Chipstead, or Godstone.

Whiteline Windows

Whiteline is known for producing some of the most energy-efficient PVCu windows on the market. Their PlatinumNRG range is especially popular with Surrey households looking for premium insulation without the price tag of timber or timber alternatives.

Whiteline performance highlights:

• Advanced multi-chambered PVCu frame
• A++ energy ratings on selected configurations
• Double and triple glazing options
• Triple glazing with U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K
• Up to three times more thermal insulation than standard double glazing
• Around 20% better performance than low e-glass, currently required by building regulations

Whiteline windows are an excellent choice if you want to maximise efficiency in a modern home, extension or renovation, ideal for areas such as Sutton, Banstead, Purley, Coulsdon and Epsom.

Why Surrey Homeowners Choose Elwyns

For over six decades, Elwyns has built a reputation as one of Surrey’s most trusted window specialists. Whether you’re restoring a character property, upgrading a family home or building something new, our team is committed to offering:

• Honest, expert guidance
• High-quality installations by experienced fitters
• Trusted premium brands with proven performance
• Showrooms across Surrey, including Carshalton, Woldingham and Dulwich
• Award-winning customer service

We understand Surrey’s homes, from conservation cottages to contemporary houses, and we take pride in helping homeowners choose the perfect windows for comfort, efficiency and style.

If you’re looking for energy-efficient windows in Sutton, Epsom, Carshalton or the surrounding Surrey area, request a free quote from Elwyns today!