top of page

Search Results

Search this site

186 results found with an empty search

Blog Posts (159)

  • Planning a Surrey Window Installation Project

    A Surrey window installation project is rarely just about replacing old frames. It is an opportunity to make a home warmer, quieter and more comfortable, while improving the look of the property from inside and out. The best results come from careful decisions before fitting day, not simply choosing the first window style that looks right in a brochure. For homeowners, the process can feel unfamiliar. There are choices around materials, glazing, opening styles, colours, security and installation standards, alongside sensible questions about disruption and value. A clear plan makes those decisions manageable and helps ensure the finished windows suit the way your household actually lives. Start with the problems you want to solve Older windows often show their age gradually. A chilly room, condensation on the glass, outside traffic noise or a draught near the sofa can become normal until replacement is considered. Before comparing designs, take stock of what is not working well in each room. Heat loss may be the priority in a north-facing lounge, while ventilation could matter more in a kitchen or bathroom. In a bedroom near a busy road, acoustic performance and secure night ventilation may take precedence. Windows do not need to be specified identically throughout the house if different rooms have different needs. Appearance matters too. A modern uPVC casement window can complement a wide range of homes, but the proportions, sightlines and finish need to look considered. For period or character properties, a flush sash style may provide a more traditional appearance while offering the lower maintenance and thermal benefits homeowners expect from contemporary glazing. Why a proper survey comes before a final quote A first home visit should be a conversation, not a sales pitch. It gives you the chance to discuss what you want to improve, see samples and understand how different options would work on your property. Measurements taken at this stage are useful, but a detailed survey is what turns an initial proposal into a made-to-measure installation plan. During the survey, an experienced installer checks the opening sizes, existing frame condition, wall construction, access and any details that could affect fitting. They will also consider lintels, internal reveals, external finishes and whether replacement work could expose issues that are not visible from indoors. This care matters because a window is only as good as its fit. A high-performing glazed unit cannot compensate for poor sealing, unsuitable fixings or rushed finishing around the frame. A thorough survey helps avoid surprises and allows the installation team to arrive with the correct products, trims and plan for the job. If your home is in a conservation area, listed, or subject to particular planning restrictions, seek guidance early. Requirements vary, and the right approach may influence the window style, glazing specification or finish you can choose. Choose the right window specification, not simply the lowest price The cost of replacing windows is influenced by more than the number of openings. Size, configuration, glass specification, decorative features, colour finishes and access all make a difference. Comparing like for like is essential. A lower quote may omit details that affect comfort and longevity, such as upgraded locks, safety glass where required, trickle ventilation, quality hardware or careful internal finishing. Ask what is included, what product range is being proposed and how the installer will deal with making good around the openings. Frame style and material For many Surrey homes, uPVC windows offer an excellent balance of thermal efficiency, durability and straightforward upkeep. They do not require regular painting, and modern profiles are available in a broad choice of colours and wood-effect finishes. The key is selecting a system with proportions that suit the property rather than settling for a bulky, one-size-fits-all design. Opening style has a practical effect. Casement windows are versatile and familiar, while tilt-and-turn windows can make cleaning and controlled ventilation easier, particularly on upper floors. Bay and bow windows need particularly careful attention to structural support and finishing because of their size and shape. Glass, warmth and noise control Double glazing is a substantial improvement for many homes with ageing single glazing or failed units, but not all double-glazed windows perform alike. The spacer bar, gas fill, low-emissivity coating and overall glass unit specification influence thermal performance. If road noise is a concern, discuss it at the consultation rather than assuming any new glazing will solve the problem. Acoustic glazing can help, but results depend on the type of noise, the glass configuration and the airtightness of the whole installation. It may be worthwhile in front-facing rooms, whereas a standard thermal specification could be perfectly appropriate elsewhere. Good ventilation should remain part of the conversation. A more airtight home needs a sensible way to manage moisture from cooking, showering and everyday life. Trickle vents, opening configurations and existing extractor fans should be considered together, especially in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. What fitting day should look like Window replacement is skilled building work, and some dust and noise are unavoidable. However, a well-managed project should feel organised rather than chaotic. The team should protect working areas, remove old frames safely, keep you informed about progress and leave each space tidy at the end of the day where possible. Most straightforward replacements can be completed quickly, but timing depends on the number of windows, access, the condition of the existing openings and the amount of finishing required. Larger bays, structural alterations or unexpected defects can extend the work. An honest installer will explain these possibilities in advance instead of promising an unrealistic timetable. Once an old frame is removed, the opening should be inspected before the replacement is fixed in place. The new frame must be level, secure and properly sealed, with the glass installed and adjusted so that sashes open, close and lock correctly. External sealing protects against weather, while neat internal trims and making good complete the appearance. It is reasonable to ask how old windows and packaging will be removed, whether you need to move furniture, and which rooms the team will need access to. Clearing valuables from window boards and creating a clear route through the house will help work proceed safely and efficiently. Check the details before the team leaves A final walk-through is not a formality. Open and close every window, test locks and ask about any feature you are unsure how to use. Look at the finish indoors and out in daylight where possible. Small adjustments are easiest to address while the installation team is still on site. You should also receive clear information about product warranties, workmanship cover and any relevant certification or registration. Keep this paperwork somewhere safe. It supports future maintenance, can be useful when selling the property and gives confidence that the project has been completed to the appropriate standard. Modern uPVC windows need little routine maintenance, but a little attention keeps them performing well. Clean frames and glass with non-abrasive products, keep drainage channels clear and check that hinges and handles operate smoothly. Avoid painting over seals or forcing stiff hardware. If something does not feel right, deal with it early rather than waiting for a minor adjustment to become a larger repair. A project designed around your home The strongest Surrey window installation projects balance performance with proportion, budget with long-term value, and a smooth fitting process with close attention to the finishing details. There is no single best specification for every home. A family house near a main road, a quiet detached property and a character cottage will each call for a slightly different conversation. Working with a local, family-run specialist such as Filus can make that conversation more straightforward, from the initial in-home consultation through to survey, installation and aftercare. Take time to choose windows that solve the problems you notice every day, and the improvement will be felt long after fitting day has passed.

  • A Guide to Planning Permission for Conservatories

    A conservatory can be one of the most rewarding ways to add light and usable space to a home, but the design is only part of the decision. This guide to planning permission for conservatories explains when you can usually build without a full application, when extra approval is needed, and why checking early can prevent expensive changes later. For most homes in England, a conservatory is treated as an extension for planning purposes. That means the relevant rules are not based on whether the room has a glass roof or uPVC frames, but on its size, position, height and the status of the property. A carefully designed conservatory may fall within permitted development rights. A larger scheme, a home in a protected area, or work on a listed building may need a different route. Guide to Planning Permission for Conservatories Planning permission is formal approval from your local planning authority. Permitted development rights are a separate set of national rules allowing certain household projects to go ahead without submitting a full planning application. If your proposed conservatory meets every applicable permitted development condition, you will not normally need planning permission. That said, ‘normally’ matters. Local restrictions, previous planning conditions and the particular character of your home can remove or limit those rights. This is why a site-specific survey is more useful than relying on a neighbour’s conservatory as a guide. When a conservatory may be permitted development A single-storey rear conservatory is often the simplest type of project to keep within permitted development. As a general guide, it must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than four metres for a detached house, or three metres for a semi-detached or terraced house. The larger home extension scheme can allow a rear extension of up to eight metres for detached homes and six metres for other houses. However, this route requires prior approval from the council, including a neighbour consultation process. It is not the same as building without any contact with the planning authority. Other limits still apply. A conservatory generally must be single storey, with a maximum height of four metres. If it is within two metres of a boundary, the maximum eaves height is normally three metres. It must not cover more than half the land around the original house, and it cannot project forward of the principal elevation facing a highway. The term ‘original house’ has a specific meaning. It refers to the house as it stood on 1 July 1948, or when it was first built if it is newer. Extensions added by previous owners count towards the allowance, even if you did not build them yourself. This catches out homeowners who assume a modest-looking conservatory is automatically within the rules. Side conservatories need closer attention A conservatory at the side of a property can work very well, particularly where a rear garden is limited. The planning rules are more restrictive, however. A side extension must usually be single storey and no wider than half the width of the original house. Side extensions also need particular care on properties in designated areas, such as conservation areas. In parts of SW London and Surrey, the appearance of street-facing and side-facing additions can be closely controlled. A property’s planning history may also include a condition removing permitted development rights, especially on newer estates. When planning permission is likely to be needed You should expect to explore a full planning application if the conservatory is larger than the permitted development limits, taller than allowed, or positioned in front of the principal elevation. Planning permission may also be required where the design includes features that do not qualify, such as a raised platform, balcony or veranda. Listed buildings are a separate and more sensitive case. Even a relatively small rear conservatory may require listed building consent as well as planning permission. The aim is to protect the building’s character and historic fabric, so the choice of frames, roof design, sightlines and how the new structure meets the existing wall will all matter. Flats, maisonettes and commercial properties do not benefit from the same householder permitted development rights. If you own a leasehold home, you may also need consent from the freeholder under the terms of your lease, regardless of whether planning permission is required. It is sensible to check for restrictive covenants too. These are private legal restrictions attached to some properties and can limit what may be built. Planning consent does not override a covenant, and a covenant does not replace planning approval. Planning permission is not building regulations approval Planning permission and building regulations are often confused, but they address different questions. Planning considers the effect of the project on the property, neighbours and local area. Building regulations focus on safety, structural performance, insulation, ventilation and energy efficiency. Many conservatories are exempt from building regulations if they are at ground level, under 30 square metres, and separated from the main home by external-quality doors, windows or walls. There are still important exceptions. Electrical work, structural alterations and replacement glazing requirements can all bring separate obligations. An open-plan conservatory that removes the original external doors is much less likely to be exempt. Once the conservatory becomes part of the heated living space, the standards for thermal performance, ventilation and structural work become more demanding. This can be a worthwhile choice for year-round use, but it should be designed properly from the outset rather than treated as a simple add-on. A practical way to check your project Before committing to a style, take a measured approach. Start by confirming your property type, boundaries and the size of any existing extensions. Then check whether the home is listed, in a conservation area, subject to an Article 4 Direction, or affected by a planning condition that restricts permitted development. It helps to prepare a simple outline showing the proposed depth, width, height and distance from boundaries. A professional survey will give you accurate dimensions and identify practical considerations, such as drainage runs, access and ground conditions. If you are close to a planning limit, a few centimetres can make a material difference. For projects that clearly meet the rules, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate is optional, but often worthwhile. It gives formal confirmation that the proposal is lawful and can be useful when you come to sell. For a larger rear extension, check whether prior approval is required before any work starts. Where a full application is needed, allow time for drawings, submission, consultation and the council’s decision. You may also need to consider the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 if excavation or structural work affects a shared boundary or neighbouring building. This is not planning permission, but it is another process that should be dealt with before site work begins. Design choices that support a successful application A conservatory does not need to imitate every detail of the house, but it should look considered. Proportions, roof shape, frame colour and the way the new room meets the existing building all affect the result. In more sensitive locations, a lower profile and sympathetic materials may make approval more straightforward than an overly dominant design. Think about comfort as well as appearance. High-performance glazing, roof ventilation, solar control and suitable shading can reduce overheating in summer and heat loss in winter. A conservatory that is pleasant for a few weeks of the year is rarely good value. The most successful projects balance daylight with temperature control, privacy and views into the garden. A local specialist can help turn these checks into a buildable design. Filus can assess the property, discuss made-to-measure options and explain where planning, building regulations or structural advice may be needed before installation is booked. The right time to ask planning questions is before you fall in love with a particular layout. With accurate measurements, a clear understanding of the rules and a design that suits both the home and its setting, you can move forward with far greater confidence.

  • Conservatory Refurbishment Guide for Homeowners

    A conservatory that is too cold in January and too hot by June is not necessarily a lost cause. The right improvements can turn an underused room into a comfortable part of the home. This conservatory refurbishment guide explains where to begin, which upgrades make the greatest difference and how to plan work with confidence. Start with how you want to use the room Before choosing frames, glass or a new roof, decide what the conservatory needs to do for your household. A quiet reading room has different requirements from a family dining area, home office or everyday extension of the kitchen. This decision affects ventilation, privacy, heating, lighting and the level of insulation worth investing in. It is also worth being honest about the room's current problems. Draughts around opening windows, condensation, faded furniture, a noisy roof in heavy rain or doors that no longer close smoothly all point towards different solutions. A professional survey helps distinguish between a repairable component and a part of the structure that has reached the end of its useful life. For many homes in SW London and Surrey, refurbishment is a sensible alternative to starting again. The existing base and layout may be sound, while the roof, glazing or doors are simply outdated. Assess the structure before choosing finishes A refreshed colour scheme and new flooring can improve appearance, but they will not solve heat loss or water ingress. Start with the fundamentals: the base, dwarf walls, frames, roof, guttering and seals. Look for cracked panels, failed double-glazed units, discoloured seals, blocked gutters and signs of damp where the conservatory meets the house. Misting between panes means the sealed unit has failed, reducing both clarity and insulation. Timber elements may need closer inspection for rot, while older uPVC frames can become less rigid or develop worn hinges and locks over time. Small issues can often be resolved with replacement seals, hinges, handles or glazed units. However, widespread condensation, persistent leaks or movement in the structure usually calls for a more considered refurbishment plan. Addressing these issues first protects the investment you make in the room's appearance. Focus on the roof for year-round comfort The roof is often the single biggest factor in whether a conservatory feels usable throughout the year. Older polycarbonate roofs can let in excessive solar heat, allow heat to escape in winter and amplify rain noise. Replacing the roof can therefore make a noticeable difference without changing the conservatory's footprint. Glass roofs Modern performance glass can provide a brighter, more open feel while improving thermal comfort compared with older glazing. Solar-control coatings can help reduce glare and limit overheating, while low-emissivity glass helps retain warmth. The exact specification matters: a very bright south-facing conservatory may benefit from stronger solar control than one facing north. Glass is a good choice where natural light and views of the garden are central to the room's appeal. Bear in mind that even high-performing glass admits more light and solar gain than an insulated solid roof, so ventilation and shading still need consideration. Insulated tiled or solid roofs A lightweight insulated roof is often chosen by homeowners who want their conservatory to feel more like a conventional room. It can improve temperature control, reduce rain noise and create a finished internal ceiling for integrated lights. Roof windows or shaped glass panels can be included where daylight is a priority. There is a trade-off. A more solid roof can make the space feel less open, particularly in a small conservatory, and the existing structure must be assessed to ensure it can support the chosen system. A proper survey should cover this, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Upgrade glazing, frames and doors together where needed If the frames are sound, replacing failed glazed units may be enough. If they are draughty, dated or showing signs of wear, a full replacement of windows and doors often provides better long-term value and a more consistent finish. Modern uPVC frames paired with energy-efficient double glazing can reduce draughts, improve security and make day-to-day maintenance simpler. For larger openings into the garden, French doors, sliding patio doors or bi-folding doors can change how the room connects with the outside. The best option depends on available space, sightlines and how you use the garden rather than appearance alone. Security should be part of the specification too. Quality multi-point locking, toughened safety glass where required and professionally fitted doors give greater reassurance, especially when the conservatory provides a secondary route into the home. Plan ventilation and shading at the same time A warm conservatory needs a way to release heat. Opening roof vents, trickle vents and correctly positioned opening windows can encourage airflow without making the room feel exposed. For very sunny aspects, blinds can reduce glare and create privacy, although they work best as part of a wider approach rather than the only defence against overheating. External shading can be effective, but it changes the appearance of the property and may not suit every design. Solar-control glazing, ventilation and a suitably specified roof usually provide a more permanent starting point. If the conservatory is used as a home office, consider where screens will sit and whether reflected light will be distracting at different times of day. Think carefully about heating and flooring A conservatory should not rely on turning the central heating up to maximum whenever the temperature drops. Once the roof and glazing are improved, choose heating that suits the space and its intended use. Underfloor heating can feel particularly comfortable with tiled or engineered flooring, while an electric radiator may be appropriate for occasional use. The floor itself must cope with changing temperatures, foot traffic and garden access. Tiles are durable and work well with underfloor heating. Luxury vinyl can provide a softer, lower-maintenance alternative. Carpet can make the room feel cosy, but is less practical where wet shoes, pets or muddy children regularly come in from the garden. If you are altering heating, electrics or drainage, discuss this early. It is much easier to plan sockets, lighting and floor levels before the room is finished than to revisit them afterwards. Check permissions and building requirements Whether permission is needed depends on the work and the property. Replacing like-for-like glazing may be straightforward, while changing the roof type, altering the structure or creating a more permanent extension-style room can bring building regulations or planning considerations into play. This is particularly relevant for listed buildings, conservation areas and homes with restrictive covenants. Do not assume that because the conservatory already exists, every alteration is automatically permitted. An experienced installer can explain what applies to the proposed work and help make sure the specification is appropriate. Choose an installer who surveys, specifies and supports A conservatory refurbishment is a combination of design, building detail, glazing performance and careful installation. The cheapest quotation is not always the most comparable one. Check what is included: removal and disposal of existing materials, repairs to the base or walls, roof system, glazing specification, ventilation, electrics, internal finishes and guarantees. Ask whether the installer will carry out a full site survey before finalising the design. You should receive a clear explanation of the materials proposed and why they suit your home. Custom-made components matter because older conservatories rarely conform neatly to standard sizes. As a local, family-run specialist, Filus can help homeowners plan tailored improvements rather than pushing a standard replacement. From the initial conversation to installation and aftercare, clear communication makes a substantial project much easier to manage. Set a realistic refurbishment budget Costs vary widely because a few replacement glazed units are very different from a new insulated roof, replacement frames and redesigned doors. Your budget should account for the work behind the visible finish, including structural checks, guttering, plastering, electrics and any remedial repairs discovered during the survey. Prioritise the elements that improve comfort and weather resistance first. A watertight, insulated conservatory with reliable doors will serve you better than a cosmetic update built around failing components. Once the room performs properly, lighting, furniture and decoration become improvements you can genuinely enjoy. A well-planned refurbishment gives an existing conservatory a second life and makes more of the space you already own. Start with an honest assessment, choose upgrades that match how you live, and allow the specification to be guided by the property rather than a quick fix.

View All

Other Pages (27)

  • UPVC Windows & Doors Sutton | Filus. Windows

    Supply and installation of UPVC windows and doors in Sutton, SM1–SM6. Family business, Assure certified, 10-year guarantee. Free quotes in Sutton and Carshalton. uPVC Windows and Doors in Sutton Upgrade your home with energy‑efficient uPVC windows and doors supplied and installed by Filus. We’re a family‑owned team with 10+ years’ experience, serving Sutton, SW London and Surrey with quality workmanship and warranty‑backed results. uPVC windows in Sutton We supply and install uPVC windows designed to improve thermal efficiency, security, and kerb appeal. Whether you’re replacing old frames or upgrading for better insulation, we’ll recommend the right solution for your home and budget. Popular window options : Casement windows Tilt & turn windows Bay & bow windows Sash‑style uPVC windows uPVC doors in Sutton From front doors to patio and French doors, our uPVC door installations focus on security, weather resistance, and smooth everyday use—all tailored to your property. Popular door options : uPVC front & back doors French doors Patio / sliding doors Composite‑look uPVC styles Our process Free consultation – we assess your needs and take measurements Clear quote – transparent pricing and options Manufacture – custom‑made to fit Installation – professional fitting and finishing Aftercare – warranty‑backed support Assure certified installer Free consultation and honest advice Made‑to‑measure uPVC windows & doors Professional installation and tidy finish Outstanding warranties backed by service Areas we cover We’re based near Sutton and regularly work across Sutton, SW London and Surrey. FAQ Do you offer free quotes in Sutton? Yes — we offer a free consultation and quote. How long does installation take? It depends on the number of windows/doors and access, but we’ll confirm timings before we start. Are your installers certified? Yes — Filus is an Assure certified installer. Can you match the style of my home? Yes. We’ll recommend styles and finishes that suit your property and budget. Ready to upgrade your windows or doors in Sutton?

  • Doors and Windows Installation | Filus - London & Surrey

    Expert doors and windows installation services in London and Surrey by Filus. Contact us for tailored solutions. FILUS. WINDOWS and DOORS Welcome to Filus - Your Local Windows & Doors Specialists Get a quote today CONTACT US PVC windows and doors Thanks for stopping by! We're Filus, your trusted source for uPVC windows and doors in SW London and Surrey. With over 10 years of experience, we're dedicated to providing high-quality products and exceptional service. About Our Family-Owned Company Filus was started by founders passionate about craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We specialize in the supply and installation of PVC windows and doors that are custom-made to suit your home and budget. Our skilled team handles your project from start to finish - from providing free consultations to performing professional installations. We take pride in the quality of our work and stand behind everything we do. Your satisfaction is our top priority! Why Homeowners Choose Us There are plenty of good reasons to choose us for your next window and door project: Over 10 years of experience - You can trust our expertise Energy efficient uPVC products - Save on heating/cooling costs Tailored to your home - We fully survey and customize options Outstanding warranties - We stand behind our workmanship Friendly, prompt service - Your happiness comes first Ready to learn more? Get in touch today to schedule your free in-home consultation! Discover Our Product Range Windows We offers REHAU Favorite's such as The Total 70/ Calibre/Rio Flush Fit Upvc profiles Along with a large range of Aluminum profiles to meet All Your needs Doors We offer brands such as Solidor & Residor and many others, we are proud to be Exclusive suppliers of the "One of a Kind" Engineered Upvc Door range Conservatories We have a massive range of Solid (fully & partially glazed) roofs on offer, Ultraframe Roofs are the only real choice when it comes to High-performance living spaces Our Window & Door Products We offer high-performance uPVC windows and doors in styles to suit any home, including: Casement, bay, and bow windows French doors, patio doors, and more Composite doors, bi-fold doors Conservatories and cladding Browse our photo gallery to see stunning installations! Contact Us for a Free Quote To request a free quote or book a consultation, give us a call at 07500069380 or fill out our online form . We look forward to helping with your window and door project! LET'S WORK TOGETHER! Consultation & Design Welcome to Filus, your source for expert consultation and design services for your home technology needs. As an Avssure certified installer. Survey & Installation Filus, your certified Avssure installer, provides top-quality survey and installation services tailored to meet your specific needs. 10 YEARS Guarantee PVCu windows and door frames are guaranteed against any failure in welded joints and distortment in accordance. FILUS. Difference Welcome to Filus, where we pride ourselves on providing top-quality installation services backed by the added assurance of Avssure certification. We understand that every job is unique, and that's why we take the extra time and care to make sure that all of our clients are completely happy with the end result. With our commitment to excellence and attention to detail, we know you'll never have to worry about a thing. Contact us today to learn more about the FILUS. difference and see how we can meet all of your installation needs. See What Our Customers Say About Us

View All
bottom of page