Home Improvement FAQs

As every home is different we operate on a design and quote basis, which means we don’t have set prices. If you would like to get a quote, please call our sales team on 0115 970 8077 or complete our quote consultation booking form to arrange a free design appointment.

There is no set time, as a number of factors influence the time it takes. But, on average, it takes between 4 and 5 weeks. If you would like to book a quote appointment and receive a free no obligation quote and timeline guidance, give the design team a call on 0115 970 8077.

Yes, of course. As part of the great Stormclad service, we can offer you a complete package that includes decoration and a selection of flooring, including laminate, ceramic tiles and carpeting. We can also supply heaters, underfloor heating and air conditioning.

Your Designer will be able to advise you on a whole host of options, that will enable you to enjoy your new conservatory straight away.

Stormclad conservatories can be used all year round because they have insulated bases and cavity walls, as well as thermally efficient double-glazed units and glazed roofs. Like your home on the coldest of days, the sensible use of heating will also help. The technology built into our glass helps to reflect the sun’s heat in the summer too, keeping your conservatory comfortable all year round.

At Stormclad, our full design and technical survey procedures mean that the whole build process is managed for you, including Planning Permissions and Building Regulations; so there's no need to worry.

However, under regulations that came into effect from 1 October 2008, adding a conservatory to your home is considered to be permitted development. Permitted development is deemed as exempt from planning permission, subject to the following limits and conditions:

• No more than half the area of land around the “original house”* would be covered by additions or other buildings.
• No extension forward of the principal elevation or side elevation fronting a highway.
• No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof.
• Maximum projection of a single-storey rear extension of 3 metres for an attached house and 4 metres for a detached house.
• Maximum height of a single-storey rear extension of 4 metres.
• Maximum depth of a rear extension of more than one storey of 3 metres, including ground floor.
• Maximum eaves height of an extension within 2 metres of the boundary of three metres.
• Maximum eaves and ridge height of extension no higher than existing house.
• Side extensions to be single storey with maximum height of 4 metres and width no more than half that of the original house.
• Roof pitch of extensions higher than one storey to match existing house.
• No verandas, balconies or raised platforms.
• On designated land* no permitted development for rear extensions of more than one storey; no cladding of the exterior; no side extensions.
• Where work is proposed to a listed building, listed building consent may be required.

* The term “original house” refers to the house as it was first built or as it stood on 1 July 1948 (if it was built before that date). Although you may not have built an extension to the house, a previous owner may have done so.

*Designated land includes national parks and the Broads, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas and World Heritage Sites.

Building regulations will generally apply if you want to build an extension to your home. However, conservatories are normally exempt when they meet a number of conditions:

• They are built at ground level and are less than 30 square metres in floor area.
• At least half of the new wall and three-quarters of the roof is either glazed or translucent material.
• The conservatory is separated from the house by the external quality door(s).
• Glazing and any fixed electrical installations comply with the applicable building regulations requirements.
• You are advised not to construct conservatories where they will restrict ladder access to windows serving rooms in roof or loft conversions, particularly if any of the windows are intended to help escape or rescue if there is a fire.

Any new structural opening between the conservatory and the existing house will require building regulations approval, even if the conservatory itself is an exempt structure.

Please note that requirements in Scotland, and to a lesser extent in Northern Ireland, are different to those in England and Wales.

On 1st April 2002, the Government introduced Part L, amending the Building Regulations for the first time to require replacement windows and doors to meet tough new thermal performance standards. The new standard applies when new doors replace an existing window or you change the doors between the house and the conservatory, but not when you keep the existing lockable French doors or patio doors between house and conservatory.

Yes, you can just replace your conservatory roof. Replacing your conservatory roof is a cost-effective way of renovating your old conservatory. Dependent on your home’s location to the sun, you may wish to invest in our cutting-edge SMARTGLASS® Ultra 86 roofing system. Utilising high-performance solar control glass that astoundingly reflects 86% of the sun’s rays, this distinctive glazed roofing system allows you to retain classic conservatory characteristics yet allows you to use it all year round.

At Stormclad all of our conservatories are manufactured to your individual requirements. They can be personalised with a range of design features and we also have a selection of accessories for you to choose from.

Because all of our conservatories are made to your specific requirements, we can design anything that’s physically possible for you.

Stormclad always aim to provide the highest quality of service, so it is reassuring to hear that this has been delivered. We will be sure to praise the Stormclad team for their efforts.
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As every home is different, we operate on a design and quote basis which means we don’t have set prices. If you would like to get a quote, please call our sales team on 0115 970 8077 or complete our quote consultation booking form to arrange a free design appointment for you.

The three frame materials that we offer at Stormclad all have their own range of fantastic benefits and plus points. Aluminium windows are a low maintenance option and represent a sleek and stylish choice ideal for modern homes. Due to their natural strength-based properties, aluminium frames are very strong and durable, as well as being weather-resistant. Those factors are combined with the fact that aluminium will not crack, warp, fade or corrode. Their strength also allows them to have wonderfully slim sightlines, which in turn lets more natural light in.

Similarly, uPVC is also considerably low maintenance and is not prone to rotting or rusting. Thanks to this, uPVC windows tend to have a long lifetime. When it comes to value for money, uPVC is one of the best materials available because it is so cost-effective compared to what it offers. While the standard white colours had been seen as lacking character, there are now plenty of colours and finishes available to improve the look of your home.

Blog: aluminium windows vs uPVC windows

Timber windows are perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing window material available. They have a stunning natural look that is perfect for traditional properties. In terms of thermal efficiency, timber has a significantly low thermal conductivity and is a natural insulator. One of the downsides to timber windows previously had been the fact they were often prone to warping or rotting. However, modern frames tend to be stronger and are not as at risk of damage. Additionally, their sustainable sourcing makes them a great choice when it comes to being eco-friendly, as well as the fact that they are able to be painted at any time.

Our windows are at least twice as effective at retaining heat than standard clear double glazing. This keeps you more comfortable, whilst reducing heating bills and is, of course, better for the environment too. In terms of being environmentally friendly, our window materials all have components that make them green and sustainable.

Blog: How environmentally friendly are your window products?

The timber materials that our doors are made from are sustainably sourced, with any excess wood used elsewhere to ensure zero wastage and typically purchased in bulk to reduce paint waste. Our uPVC windows are able to be recycled thanks to modern advancements in their production and design, while aluminium is one of the most eco-friendly materials available.

As well as being able to improve your carbon footprint through installing our range of thermally efficient windows, here are some other ways that you can make your home more eco-friendly.

Stormclad’s A+ Rated windows have been independently tested for many years, using the same European rating system that's used for items such as fridges and washing machines. An A+ Rated window system will not lose any heat whatsoever from your home. None. Zero. It’s a little more complicated than that, but the principle really is true.

Windows are rated by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) and are tested thoroughly to meet the standards that are set out for thermal efficiency. A+ windows are rated very highly, due to their efficiency and heat retention; perfect for reducing those energy bills. It has been reported from sources such as the Energy Saving Trust that around 20% of the heat loss from your home is caused by windows and doors. Choosing A+ rated windows will see that figure drop significantly.

While higher-rated windows may well cost more, the benefits both in the short and long term make them a sound investment.

Read more about A-rated windows in our blogs, here and here.

It’s not necessarily the glass itself, but more the components of a sealed unit and the window as a whole that create an efficient product. At Stormclad, we use a combination of energy-efficient glass, warm edge spacer bars and argon-filled units to achieve fantastic energy savings. Additionally, our frames come with double gasket seals and are installed professionally to ensure there are no draughts.

Having problems with your double glazing? Take a look at our blog here

Low emissivity (low-e) glass is fantastic when it comes to thermal efficiency. There is an extremely thin coating on the internal side of the glass surface, which contributes to the effectiveness of the glass. Heat is able to be reflected back into the home, without losing any, as well as allowing a larger amount of natural light in. The warm edge spacers are set around the inside edges of the frame, helping to keep the panes apart.

Double glazed windows are a must-have for your home with a whole host of benefits. This extensive guide will give you more of an insight into the advantages that you can gain for your home if you are looking to install or upgrade your double glazing.

With our double-glazed windows, we use argon gas in between each pane. The argon gas provides a significant improvement when it comes to thermal efficiency. Air is often used in between the panes in double glazing, but as the argon gas is much denser than air, it helps to regulate the temperature of the room and bring it to a more optimal state. It essentially helps to reduce the transfer of heat through the glass. Along with the coating used on the low-e glass, the draughts are limited as a result of the temperatures not being so different. Again, while those windows that utilise argon gas instead of air may be more expensive, the benefits are significant enough to make them well worth it.

Generally, the optimal size of the gap between glass panes is around 16mm. The size of the gap can influence the performance of the window, but it is not necessarily a case of the bigger the space, the better. The addition of argon gas instead of the air will be a big benefit, due to it being more insulating.

Further double glazing FAQs

UPVC stands for ‘unplasticized polyvinyl chloride’ and PVCu and uPVC are exactly the same. The material helps to provide rigid and strong double glazing frames, as well as being the most cost-efficient choice of the available double glazing materials. In addition to being strong and durable, it is also a good weather-resistant material, making it a great option for window frames. Its resistance to the elements is one key reason as to why it is a popular material for windows. Not only that, but uPVC does not lack when it comes to having great insulation properties.

Blog: What to ask when buying uPVC windows

The fact that uPVC windows are so budget-friendly, low maintenance and energy-efficient mean they are a significantly attractive option to homeowners. They are also able to fit in with any style of property, modern or traditional, thanks to their advancements in design meaning there is a range of colours and finishes to choose from.

Stormclad uPVC double glazed windows come in a variety of colours and finishes, although white is by far the most popular. UPVC is both durable and recyclable, requiring very little maintenance.

At Stormclad, our Designers and Technical Surveyors will ensure that your windows have adequate ventilation to meet your personal usage requirements and building regulations. Building regulations state that the ventilation in a property cannot be worsened and has to be of adequate quality. The air quality in a home has to be of a level where there is no genuine threat to the health of those living within. Effective ventilation is important because when fresh air is able to enter, it will improve the overall air atmosphere and therefore will be healthier.

Trickle vents are one of the main options to use to help increase ventilation. If you are replacing your windows and do not have trickle vents available, you made need to look at your home's requirements for ventilation to ensure they meet the standard. Along with helping to increase the fresh air flow within your property, trickle vents can be particularly useful if you reside in a busy, noisy area. They work without the need to open the windows, thus reducing noise pollution.

Increasing and improving ventilation can also help to reduce the amount of condensation and mould that may build up inside your home.

Blog: Why is my double glazing misting up?

At Stormclad, we offer an extremely wide range of windows to complement your home and suit your specific requirements.
Our styles and materials include:

Window Styles

• Casement
• Flush Casement
• Sliding Sash
• Bay

Window Materials

• uPVC
• Aluminium
• Timber

All our windows are available in either double or triple glazed.

Secured by Design is the official UK Police flagship initiative, combining the principles of ‘designing out crime’ with physical security. Windows that are accredited by Secured by Design have been rigourously tested to make sure that they can guard against any attempts at forced entry. According to studies, homes that utilise products accredited by Secured by Design are up to 75% less likely to be broken into than those that do not.

Naturally, a window is only as strong as its weakest point. This means every part that makes up the window – including the frame, profile, sealed unit, hinges and locking system – needs to be manufactured using high-quality materials and to the highest possible standards.

Read more about Secured by Design in our blog, here.

Visit Secured by Design

We offer you a competitive price to replace your windows as a whole. Often when parts of a window fail, such as glass units and locking mechanisms, it is a reminder that the whole window is due for a change. Therefore, we choose to offer a replacement service rather than to repair faulty or substandard parts.

As every home is different we operate on a design and quote basis, which means we don’t have set prices. If you would like to get a quote, please call our sales team on 0115 970 8077 or complete our quote consultation booking form to arrange a free design appointment.

We offer composite, aluminium, timber and uPVC doors. All four materials have their own extensive range of features and benefits. Some also may be more suited to your home than others. Timber doors are one of the most traditional materials available. Widely known for their stunning aesthetic appearance, timber doors are a longtime favourite of homeowners up and down the country. However, with the beauty comes a need for regular upkeep, but it is certainly worth the time it takes to preserve their look. There had often been issues with warping and rotting, but modern manufacturing has seen these issues reduced, with a stronger more durable door frame now available.

Blog: Which front door type is best for security?

Naturally, aluminium is one of the strongest materials available. The inherent strength allows aluminium door frames to be sleek and stylish. The slim sightlines on offer make them a fantastic option for your doors, with an abundance of natural light able to be let in as a result. This is largely due to the availability of larger glass panels able to be fitted. Aluminium is also considerably low maintenance and is more than capable of fighting off the elements, while not being prone to warping or cracking. While aluminium had been known to have a poor thermal performance, modern designs help to provide a much warmer door.

One of the most popular material options, uPVC doors are ideal for homeowners on a budget. They do not compromise on the benefits they provide despite their cost-effective appeal. They are fantastic in terms of their appearance being maintained, with an occasional wipe down typically enough to keep them looking as good as new. Along with their low maintenance, uPVC doors tend to have a long lifetime thanks to their weatherproof properties and no threat of degrading. While uPVC doors often lacked the charm of others with mainly a white exterior, modern designs mean that there is a range of colours and finishes available to match the look of any house.

Blog: Composite doors vs uPVC doors

Composite doors are increasingly becoming one of the most popular doors throughout the UK. They are made up of a combination of different materials, with timber, uPVC and aluminium all often used in the makeup of a composite door. They are covered in a glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) skin to increase the robust nature of each door. The ever-improving designs have provided one of the best frames available when it comes to both energy efficiency and security.

Blog: The practicalities of owning a composite door

Each door is fully reinforced and fitted with robust hinges and locking mechanisms. Our excellent multi-point locking system ensures our doors lock firmly into their frame. All of our doors are certified as either PAS 23, PAS 24 or Secured by Design, depending on your agreed specification. Our doors utilise handles that have been accredited by Secured by Design and are considerably more secure, having been specifically designed to prevent any potential intruders from breaching your door.

Blog: How secure is your front door?

There are a number of ways to improve the security of your doors. Some of the ways that you can do this include replacing your glazing panels with a high-quality double glazing option and replacing your locks, particularly prevalent if you have recently moved. You can also add a new deadbolt which helps by having an outer key cylinder or you could go all out and decide to upgrade your door altogether to really give you that peace of mind. To read more about how you can enhance the security of your doors, read our blog.

Yes, we use only the highest-quality materials and advanced double glazing to ensure that all of our doors offer low U-values and high energy ratings. This will keep your home insulated and reduce energy wastage. Composite doors are perhaps the most energy-efficient doors available, though all of the uPVC, timber and aluminium options do not lack when it comes to thermal efficiency, especially thanks to the modern advancements in design.

Related: How to keep heat inside your home

Choosing doors that will boost the thermal efficiency of your home really are a no-brainer. After all, reducing the amount of heat you lose, keeping your home warmer in the colder months and lowering energy bills are all benefits that go without saying. Your doors will often not be energy efficient if they are worn and old or if they have not been sufficiently fitted and sealed, which is always an issue when it comes to air seeping through.

Yes, we offer a range of bi-fold doors, ranging from two to seven folding door sections. Bifold doors afford a whole host of benefits, such as the option to open up a room in its entirety or just having one part opened. They are also a stunning option to add to your home when it comes to aesthetics, with a range of colours able to match the look of your property. Space and natural light are two things that are significantly improved with bifold doors, with the amount of glass used in the designs helping create bright and spacious surroundings.

Blog: Why are bifold doors the latest design trend?

Our aluminium bifold doors from Origin are among the best on the market. There are some stunning sightlines available from the bifold range, the innovative opening styles have proven to be immensely popular. With toughened glass, no exterior handles and a broad selection of security accessories such as shoot bolts multi-lock systems, our bifold doors are significantly safe for your home.

Read more about bifold doors with our guide

Our range of front and back doors includes entrance, patio, French, sliding and bifold doors. Our entrance doors are available in a brilliant range of materials, such as timber, composite, uPVC and aluminium. The range of styles and customisation options that our entrance doors offer is wide-ranging, along with top-quality security and thermal efficiency.

Patio doors, French doors, bifold doors and sliding doors are among the extensive range of back doors that we offer at Stormclad. French doors are one of the most attractive door options available, owing to their classic aesthetics. They have two door panels that can open either inwards or outwards from the centre. Opening externally allows for a wider entrance, while still being secure and energy-efficient.

Read more about choosing French doors for your home

When it comes to making your home more accessible, bifold doors are one of the best options that you could choose. Bifold doors are arguably most effective when made from aluminium. The inherent strength of aluminium makes the design of bifold doors even better, allowing for slimmer sightlines and a big boost in natural light as a result. Sliding doors work brilliantly when lacking space. The views created by the large glass panels will help to accentuate your view of the outside.

Comparison: bifold doors vs sliding doors

Solidor doors are an industry-leading range of composite entrance doors. They are renowned for their premium performances, large range of designs and excellent lifespans. Solidor doors are one of the safest and secure available, thanks to a huge selection of features and accessories. The Ultion lock is one such accessory that offers anti-snap resistance and the ability to sense when a door could be under attack from burglars.

Solidor offers a stunning range of designs, including a vast array of colours, finishes and elegant accessories. If you fancy a luxurious woodgrain finish but also a fresh colourway such as Midnight Grey, you are able to choose to have both - be it one of each on the inside or outside. In terms of accessories, there is a broad choice when it comes to the stylish ironmongery on offer. You can choose from traditional handles and knockers, as well as letterplates and hinges, to really complement the exterior of your home.

Blog: How to choose between Origin and Solidor front doors

All of our doors use high-quality materials and manufacturing techniques to minimise the maintenance required to keep them looking and performing like new. uPVC, composite and aluminium only require the occasional wipe down with a cloth. Our wooden doors will need a coating of wood protection to be applied every 5-7 years.

We have one of the widest ranges of doors available, from uPVC doors to composite doors and aluminium doors. From this range, we will endeavour to complement your existing fittings as required.

All Stormclad doors are made to measure to suit your individual requirements. We ensure that they are manufactured and installed to open the best way for your property and our Designers will discuss this with you. This can be inwards or outwards.

All of our replacement door designs are bespoke to each homeowner. You can choose from a range of hardware, decorative glazing, colours and door furniture to add the finishing touches to your new door.

Dependent on the material you choose, the colour choice could be as large as 150+ RAL colours.

Yes, we offer a great range of glazing options for all doors.

Some popular front door styles with East Midlands homeowners include grey, black, white and Chartwell green doors with decorative glazing panels.

Stormclad fire doors will hold a fire back for 30 minutes as standard.

We can install timber or wood effect replacement doors which adhere to building regulations. They can be designed to replicate your existing door to ensure that they retain the heritage appearance of your home.

Yes, we test all of our door materials and styles to tough weather conditions, including heavy rain and tough winds to ensure that they will keep your property protected.

Of course, we can design your new windows and doors to fully complement each other and your existing property's style.

You can specify whether you want a low (wheelchair access), medium or high threshold for your Stormclad door. We can also supply suitable handles and locking mechanisms designed for ease of use.

As every home is different we operate on a design and quote basis, which means we don’t have set prices. If you would like to get a quote, please call our sales team on 0115 970 8077 or complete our quote consultation booking form to arrange a free design appointment.

We have an excellent range of lean-to carports to suit any size or style of vehicle.

Stormclad carports are built using powder coat aluminium framing and a choice of polycarbonate or glass roofing, designed to your unique specification. Our over-door canopies are manufactured from GRP fibreglass, available in a full range of colours and styles.

This depends on where the carport or canopy will be fitted. Our technical Surveyor reviews every individual case and, should you need planning permission for your carport or canopy, we will fully manage the application from start to finish.

A carport is a covered glazed system which will allow you to park your car, ensuring it is covered from the harsh weathers. We install a vast range of designs, sizes and styles to suit any property.

A veranda is a glazed system which extends from your property. Unlike a conservatory which performs like a room, a veranda is a covered area which provides shelter from the weathers yet allows you to enjoy the outdoor fresh air. It's perfect for the summer months for a covered area in your garden.

If you're looking to add a large covered area in your home, our glass verandas can be installed as large as 3.5 metres wide. The perfect size for outdoor furniture, a BBQ and plenty of space to entertain friends and family.

Like all of our home improvements, our carports and glass verandas come with a 10 year guarantee as standard, giving you peace of mind.

We install aluminium carports and verandas because it's the strongest construction material available on the market. This means they offer exceptional lifespans and will stay intact, no matter the tough weathers outside. They won't rust, corrode or split over time either.

You can choose between either self-cleaning glass, standard glass or polycarbonate glass.

We offer decorative pillar options as well as optional LED lights to add a bespoke touch to your glazed system.

Aluminium is a highly versatile material, so you'll be able to choose from over 150+ RAL colours, ensuring a solution that suits any type of home.

Our carport systems can be installed as large as a 4m projection with a 16mm polycarbonate roof.

Made from the highest-quality materials and leading manufacturing techniques, our glazed systems boast a lifespan of at least 25 years, without requiring any maintenance or upkeep to ensure that they continue to look and perform like new.