It MAY be easier said than done if you decide to tackle the installation of your own double glazing. The challenging economical climate in which we find ourselves would naturally encourage all closet amateur double glazing DIY-ers to “Have a go, Joe!” But be realistic. It may be way beyond your capabilities.
Lots of DIY projects are doomed before they begin, and the result is more “money that you don’t have” is poured away putting things “right”. So, when it comes to double glazing ask yourself if you really do have the skills, the time and – most importantly – the determination to take on something that ambitious.
On the “plus” side, research shows that double glazing your front door, or adding a new conservatory or bathroom window in UPVC, can definitely increase the value of your home. But be sure you don’t end up with some of the common DIY double glazing problems after the event. They include a window that won’t actually open, windows that open in the wrong positions, silicone sealant chipping off damaged sills and windows installed upside down. Badly fitted double glazed windows can warp the frames and cause the seal not to connect throughout. This will result in the windows not actually pulling tight shut. Windows may also begin to mist between sheets of glass. This means that the “desiccant” or “drying agent” is not proving effective.
As for turning your hand to a Conservatory, take advice on Planning permission (a grey area at the best of times) and of the overall guarantee for the DIY structure. If something’s wrong with it, there will be no reclining in a wicker chair on a Sunday, your wife will see to that!