Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, discusses the opportunity that windows present to builders when discussing projects with homeowners.
Over the years, bi-folding and sliding doors have become staple investments for homeowners. Not only do they add financial value to their home, but they also increase functionality. Windows, on the other hand, are still seen by many homeowners as a necessity and somewhat of a commodity. They install and replace as they need to, but they don’t spend as long considering the different options available to them as they do with bigger glazing products.
However, our consumer research suggests that the cause of this sentiment is a lack of knowledge about the breadth of window designs available. There is a common misconception that all windows are the same. Whilst they can be made bespoke in terms of materials and colours, fundamentally, people feel they all perform the same role. This isn’t true.
Windows are an essential part of all properties. They let in natural light and aid ventilation whilst ensuring that the home remains weather tight and secure. However, this isn’t their only role. Alongside functionality, modern designs can improve the overall aesthetic of a house and improve how a home is interacted with too.
Choosing the right windows
Despite the housing market faltering at the beginning of 2023, Q2 has been more positive, and we expect this to continue throughout the rest of the year. Throughout this tough time, we are still seeing homeowners invest in their properties; they are just parking their large-scale plans in favour of smaller renovation projects. This includes replacing old uPVC windows with modern, aluminium variants.
This presents an opportunity for those interacting with homeowners and influencing their renovation decisions. By educating homeowners on how the right windows can help them meet their wider property goals, such as thermal efficiency, there are important projects to be secured.
With rising energy costs, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to make their homes more thermally efficient as a long-term way to reduce household bills. Windows are an effective way to do this and can have more of an impact than a door set could. The Origin Premium Window (OW-80) offers an optional upgrade of Aerogel technology, the world’s best insulator, within its thermal break. This means the OW-80 can achieve an ultra-low U-Value of 0.8 W/m2K and the highest possible A++ rating.
Security is another factor that homeowners don’t consider about windows in the same way as they do doors. Those who are particularly concerned, should look for products that have achieved the police-approved Secured by Design accreditation such as our Premium Window (OW-80) or Slimline Window (OW-70). This is not an industry standard, so is an example of a window system offering more than homeowners expect.
Alongside differences in thermal efficiency and security, all windows offer different aesthetics. Whilst uPVC has been the most popular choice for decades, due to its low cost, frames are bulky, sightlines are thick, and its longevity can be the shortest of all material options. Even its low cost is being challenged in today’s market. Aluminium, on the other hand, is capable of a sleeker profile, slimmer sightlines, and flush casements. This means more light can enter a property, views are maximised, and they perfectly frame the outside instead of inhibiting it.
In conclusion
Although homeowners have tightened their belts, they continue to prioritise their well-being and how their homes promote this. Instead of large renovation projects, they are prioritising smaller upgrades that can offer big results. Windows have an important part to play in this. With homeowners carefully considering every option, they value advice from a knowledgeable professional on how to best spend their money. Given that converting sales is more important than ever, this educational message presents a window of opportunity for all professionals in the construction industry.
To learn more about Origin, please visit Partner with Origin | Join Our Trade Team | Buisness Account (origin-global.com).
