> Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question, or something you're not quite sure about? Check out Frequently Asked Questions below. We're here to help you, if your question isn't listed below, get in touch, and we'll try our best to answer it as soon as possible for you.

Windows & Glazing
1. What is PVCu
2. Is there a diference between UPVC and PVCu?
3. What is the length of your product guarantee's?
4. My window has smashed, will I need a whole new window and frame?
5. Do you do window frames in different colours?
6. What security do your windows have?
7. Can you still get lead work for a window?
8. What are the different types of glass available for double glazed units?
9. How energy efficient are your widows?
10. Will the windows in my house need safety glass or not ?

Conservatories
11. Don't conservatories get too hot in summer?
12. Does the colour of my conservatory have to be white?
13. Which location is best for my Conservatory?
14. What are tie-Bars?

Doors
15. The lock on my door has broken, will I need a new door fitted?
16. What types of security are on your range of doors?

What is PVCu

The 'PVC' part of PVCu stands for Polyvinyl Chloride. The 'U' stands for Un-plasticised, often wrongly called Un-modified.

Poly Vinyl Chloride, which we know as every day 'PVC' is modified, i.e. softened and can then be used in the manufacture of products. Pure PVC-U is not quite suitable for window and door profiles. A small amount of stabilisers and additives are required, to help construct profiles for window and door systems. This provides longevity, high weather and UV resistance, do not rot or biologically decompose, Is tough on impact and retains its shape within normal climatic temperatures.
Is there a difference between UPVC and PVCu?

The answer is, there is none. In our country uPVC changed it's name to PVCu in the late 1980's to fall in line with other European countries.
What is the length of your product guarantee's?

Below are the current product guarantees that come with our range of products:

PVCu Windows & Double Glazing: 10 Year Guarantee
Replacement Double Glazing: 5 Year Guarantee
Handles & Lock Mechanisms: 5 Years
My window has smashed, will I need a whole new window and frame?

The answer is no. In this case only the glass or the double glazed unit would need to be changed. If your window has smashed contact us and we can arrange for one of our team to contact you to advise you best on how to resolve the problem.
Do you do window frames in different colours?

Yes. There are four main types of frame colours, these are: White, Mahogany, Light Oak and Rosewood. Most colours can however be obtained by applying a special paint spraying to the frame.
What security do your windows have?

All of our windows are built with security in mind. All of our windows as standard have a 4-Locking Point system, with stainless steel shoot bolts and high security hinges also available.
Can you still get lead work for a window?

Yes, lead work for windows is still very popular, not only for period properties but also on modern properties too. Many lead designs can be achieved by using stick on lead and coloured film. You can also have authentic leaded lights, encapsulated in-between the double glazed unit.
What are the different types of glass available for double glazed units?

There are numerous types of glass available for double glazed units. Below are some of the common types found and used in double glazing.

i. Standard Clear 4mm Float Glass (Outer Pane of Double Glazing)
ii. Low Iron Glass (Outer Pane of Double Glazing)
iii. Pilkington Active Glass (Outer Pane of Double Glazing)
iv. Antisun Glass (Outer Pane of Double Glazing)
v. Pilkington K Glass (Hard Coat) (Inner Pane of Double Glazing)
vi. Planitherm (Soft Coat)

These are just some of the different types, for more information please contact us.
How energy efficient are your windows?

Our windows are built for energy efficiency in mind. All of our windows are either A, B or C rated, depending on the type of glass used. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient.
Will the windows in my house need safety glass or not?

You will need safety glass with any windows 300mm or less from a door, but also any glass in windows that are 800mm or less from floor level (inside or out).
Don't conservatories get too hot in summer?

This all depends on the location of the conservatory. Most conservatories that are South Facing attract the most heat. Conservatories however are now fitted with glass roofs that are specially coated to keep the room at a more ambient temperature.
Does the colour of my conservatory have to be white?

No. This is a common question asked and people presume that all conservatories have to be white. The conservatories colour can be matched to your window colour or alternatively a colour of your choice.
Which location is best for my Conservatory?

This is all down to the planning and design of the conservatory. Many people prefer conservatories on the South side of a property, which attracts the most sunlight, however people prefer them to the North and sometimes it is not possible for it to be fitted in certain places. For more information on our conservatories and the best placed for one at your property, please contact us.
What are tie-Bars?

These are special bars that run on the inside of the conservatory and are used for extra strength in the roof of the conservatory. These are only used when the conservatory is above a certain size.
The lock on my door has broken, will I need a new door fitted?

No, it is not the case that a new door is needed. South Ribble Glass do many kinds of door repairs including lock mechanisms as long as there is a suitable replacement lock for your door available. Please get in touch for more information on having a new look fitted.
What types of security are on your range of doors?

Our standard door locks consist of three hook locks, two rollers and a dead bolt. There are many different combinations available, with upgrades to 5 hook locks and or two rollers.