Please talk to me about windows

[Clueless7609]

We've lived in our 1930s bungalow for 20 years and I've hated the windows for all that time. I hate them because only the very top section opens. The bottom panes on all of the windows don't open. If I open them wide then I have to stand on a stool to reach out to grab the handles and pull them shut. Half of the windows have handles where you need to push a button and turn the handle to open. The other half- if you push the button the handles lock. So that is insanely annoying.

But they still do the job of windows so replacing them seems mad.

But I really hate them and want to change them. What would you change them for?

I want something that opens more so we can get more airflow in the hot summer days. But also something fairly secure. I guess that's a good thing about only the very top section opening. Ideally I'd want to be able to part open the windows all day and still have the house feel secure.

Do I want a design where the top and bottom open out? Sash style windows that slide up and down?

I usually close the blinds when the sun is shining in the windows so I guess a window that tilts in the way might be annoying?

I'm also wondering if anyone has glass in their windows that's supposed to reduce the heat and light getting in? I'd consider those if they were worthwhile, particularly in the south facing bedrooms.

I'm going to arrange a visit from a couple of suppliers but I'd really appreciate some real life advice beforehand so I don't feel like a complete novice.

Particularly about the tinted or heat protecting glass. I feel like that's the sort of thing I could easily be talked into but in fact it's not very useful.

I've attached a photo of what our windows look like in case I haven't described it very well.

Thank you

You are better putting window film on if you want to keep the sun out as you can take it off or replace it if needed.
If you hate the windows, get different ones. I assume you aren't in a conservation area or on an estate? I ask because there can be planning restrictions on windows.
I like sash windows too. Word of warning though, the ones with springs instead of weights are really hard to open and close.

Yes the reflective glass/gas filled DB glazing works and having a lower level opening is good, its another way to get out of the bungalow if there was a fire.

Life is too short to be hating your windows for 20 years and as you age, standing on steps to open the top window may not be practical.

Sash DB glazed will be a lot more expensive than normal ones.

Just been through the new window process

Sliding sashes would meet your brief as they have a little stopper so you can open them a few inches top and bottom, but someone couldn't come from the outside and slide them any further (but the stopper can be used from the inside if you want them all the way open)

Consider if they would work for the style of your house? And budget too, they are almost double the price.

Re heat/sun etc it probably depends on the spec of window you get, I'm not sure if it's standard, but our glass has some sort of special property that filters UV or something (I zoned out when he was telling me!) but the point was it's meant to keep the house cooler in summer and warmer in winter....just looks like normal glass. Not something I specifically chose but came as standard with our windows. Definitely talk to a few suppliers and they will be able to help!

We bought some windows from this place and had them installed by a local builder, who was impressed by the quality.

https://www.awmwindowsanddoors.co.uk/

1930s houses often had casement windows, with a fanlight above (by fanlight, i mean your opening bit at the top).

Depending on the dimensions of the window you could have a single casement, or casement with fanlight above (both opening). Choose a good locking mechanism and security won't be an issue.

I am not suggesting Anglian, they just happen to have a good photo of a casement.

https://www.anglianhome.co.uk/double-glazing-windows/casement

Tilt & turn windows are what we have - I think they were this type:

https://schuecohome.co.uk/products/windows/schuco-window-system-aws-75si/

Ours are aluminium but PVC ones are available as well. You leave them tilted inwards from the bottom, so can't be opened from the outside meaning better security. It does mean you have to think about what you put on the windowsill of the windows you open regularly though.

Much better ventilation than the small opening top window in your picture, which is what ours were like before. Also means the cat can't make a bid for freedom through the windows!

I would change them. Our front windows were serviceable and not very old but I hated them. I've now got lots of french doors and new windows to mimic as much as possible what they would have originally looked like. I also had triple glazing and so far the house is much warmer during the winter.

I found that with new regulations you cannot have windows with just top openings.

I went with a local firm.