Double glazed windows are available in a variety of materials, so how do you know which one is right for you? In the past, the frame was always made of wood, with steel and aluminium introduced in the first half of the 20th century. By far the most popular choice today, UPVC windows have come a long way in the last 40 years, offering the best in environmental, safety and energy performance.

Wood is the most expensive option and offers the lowest thermal conductivity. It is a natural insulator, absorbing and retaining heat very well and looks classic. However, wood does take some care even though it is being engineered to be more durable and does not warp.

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Aluminium is very strong, so it is found in most commercial construction. Its benefits include thin frames, letting in tons of natural light and being a good conductor of heat. Aluminium now scores almost as high in energy ratings as upvc. For Hereford Double Glazing, consider Double glazing from Firmfix

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A good rule when deciding which material to choose is as follows:

Older houses from the earlier 20th century are suitable for timber windows. Sometimes, upvc does a great job of replicating this style but for the originality and style of the period, the wooden frame is still the best choice.

Houses built from the mid 20th century onwards tend to look best when UPVC windows are installed. Aluminium frames look great when used in a stylish, modern architectural design. It is also widely used in a large glass structures to maximize light.