top of page

Search Results

Search this site

147 results found with an empty search

Blog Posts (120)

  • How to Reduce Window Draughts at Home Properly

    A cold line of air around the edge of a window is more than a minor winter annoyance. It can leave a favourite seat unusable, make the heating work harder and create the sense that your whole home is colder than the thermostat suggests. To reduce window draughts at home effectively, start by finding exactly where the air is getting in. The right answer may be a simple adjustment, but older or damaged windows can need a more lasting solution. Start by finding the source of the draught A window can feel cold without actually being draughty. Cold glass naturally draws warmth from the room, especially with older single glazing, and this may feel similar to moving air. A true draught is air entering through gaps around the opening sash, frame, seals or surrounding wall. On a still, cool day, run your hand slowly around the inside edge of the window, paying particular attention to the corners, handles and the point where the opening section meets the frame. You may feel a noticeable change in temperature. A thin piece of tissue can also help identify airflow, although take care around open flames and do not use a candle for this purpose. Look outside too. Cracked sealant where the frame meets brickwork or render, gaps around trim, damaged vents and visibly loose sections all deserve attention. In period properties across SW London and Surrey, draughts are sometimes caused by gaps in the surrounding reveal rather than the window unit itself. Treating the wrong area can mean spending money without solving the problem. Simple ways to reduce window draughts at home If the frames and glazing are fundamentally sound, a few practical measures can make a worthwhile difference. These are best viewed as sensible maintenance or short-term improvements, rather than a substitute for windows that have reached the end of their serviceable life. Check the hinges, locks and handles Modern uPVC casement windows rely on the sash closing evenly against compression seals. If hinges are worn, the handle does not pull the sash in tightly, or the locking mechanism is out of adjustment, small gaps can appear even when the window looks shut. Clean away dirt from the frame and seals first, then check whether the window closes squarely. A professional can usually assess and adjust compatible hardware where appropriate. Avoid forcing a stiff handle or attempting major hinge adjustments without knowing the system, as this can cause damage or affect how securely the window locks. Replace tired seals where possible Rubber gaskets gradually flatten, harden or split with age and weather exposure. Once they no longer form a consistent seal, air can pass around the sash. If replacement seals are available for your window system and the frame remains in good condition, fitting new gaskets can improve comfort at a relatively modest cost. The profile, size and placement of window seals matter. A generic strip from a DIY shop may not sit correctly, may prevent the window from closing properly or may fail quickly. It is worth having an experienced installer identify the correct seal before committing to a repair. Repair gaps around the frame Sealant around the outside of a window is an important weather barrier. When it cracks, shrinks or detaches from the wall, rain and cold air can find a route behind the frame. External sealant should be renewed carefully, with the surrounding surface clean and dry and with the correct product for the materials involved. Internal gaps can sometimes be sealed or finished neatly with suitable decorator's caulk. However, do not block designed drainage channels or ventilation openings in the frame. These details help the window manage rainwater and moisture, and covering them can create a bigger problem later. Use temporary draught-proofing thoughtfully Self-adhesive foam or rubber strips can help around non-opening secondary gaps, and heavy lined curtains can reduce the feeling of cold close to the glass. A temporary interior window film may also improve comfort during a cold spell. These options have limitations. Foam tape is often too bulky for windows that need to open and lock securely, while curtains should not cover radiators for long periods because they keep heat trapped against the window. Temporary measures are useful when you need immediate relief, but they should not conceal decayed timber, failing glass units or persistent water ingress. Do not confuse ventilation with a draught It can be tempting to seal every opening in a room, particularly when energy bills are high. Homes still need controlled ventilation to manage humidity, cooking vapour and everyday moisture from showers and drying clothes. Blocking trickle vents or permanently sealing intended ventilation routes can increase condensation and mould risk. The aim is not to make a home airless. It is to stop uncontrolled cold air entering through defects while keeping purposeful ventilation available when it is needed. If condensation is regularly forming on the room-side glass, walls or window reveals, consider the wider balance of heating, ventilation and moisture rather than simply adding more sealant. When repairs are no longer the sensible option Repair is often worthwhile when the issue is isolated: a worn gasket, a misaligned sash or failed perimeter sealant can be addressed without replacing the whole window. But recurring draughts may point to a broader problem, particularly with older units. Signs that replacement deserves consideration include frames that are warped or damaged, windows that will not lock securely, repeated failed seals, misting between panes, widespread cold spots, or visible movement between the frame and the wall. Single-glazed windows and older double glazing may also offer limited insulation even after gaps have been repaired. A made-to-measure replacement window addresses more than the glass itself. Its performance depends on the profile, glazing specification, seals, hardware and the quality of fitting around the opening. A carefully surveyed installation should take account of the property, exposure to weather, room use and the appearance of neighbouring windows. For homes near busy roads, for example, the same upgrade can improve both warmth and outside noise reduction. There is a cost trade-off. Repairing a sound window is usually less disruptive and less expensive in the short term. Replacing underperforming windows is a larger investment, but may offer a more dependable improvement in comfort, security, appearance and energy efficiency over the years ahead. The condition of the existing units, rather than their age alone, should guide the decision. What to expect from a professional window assessment A useful assessment should not begin with a one-size-fits-all recommendation. The installer should inspect how each window opens and locks, examine the frames and seals, look for signs of failed glazing or water ingress, and consider whether the issue is localised or repeated throughout the home. If replacement is recommended, ask what is included in the specification. Clear answers should cover the frame system, glass type, opening style, ventilation provision, finishing details and how the frame will be sealed and secured. It is also sensible to ask about product and workmanship guarantees, as a window is only as good as the installation around it. For homeowners who want to reduce window draughts at home without unnecessary work, this diagnosis is valuable. It distinguishes a straightforward maintenance issue from a window that is no longer performing as it should. A warmer home should not rely on turning the heating higher and hoping for the best. Start with the gap you can feel, address the cause rather than the symptom, and seek tailored advice when the evidence points to a longer-term upgrade. That approach gives you the best chance of a comfortable room, a well-functioning window and confidence through the colder months.

  • French Door Security: What Protects Your Home?

    A set of French doors should make a room feel brighter and more connected to the garden, not leave you wondering whether the rear of your home is properly protected. Good French door security comes down to more than one lock. It relies on the door design, the quality of the frame and glazing, the hardware chosen and, crucially, how accurately everything is fitted. For many homes in SW London and Surrey, French doors open onto a garden, patio or side return where there is less natural supervision than at the front entrance. That does not mean French doors are inherently insecure. A well-specified, professionally installed set can be a very secure exterior door. The key is to assess the complete system rather than adding a visible security product to an old, poorly aligned door. Why French doors need a joined-up approach Most external French doors have two opening leaves that meet in the middle. One is usually the main, or primary, leaf, while the other is secured with top and bottom bolts before the main leaf is locked. This arrangement gives French doors their classic look, but it also means that the meeting point, locking hardware and frame all need to work together precisely. Older doors can develop gaps as hinges wear, frames move slightly or weather seals compress. A lock may still turn, yet the bolts may not engage as deeply or cleanly as they should. Timber doors can also be affected by seasonal expansion and contraction, while outdated uPVC doors may have hardware that no longer meets modern expectations. A security upgrade is therefore often as much about condition and adjustment as it is about buying new hardware. The first question is simple: are the doors functioning as a secure unit? Check whether both leaves sit evenly in the frame, close without force and have no obvious movement when locked. If the handle is stiff, the key needs jiggling or a leaf catches on the threshold, arrange for the doors to be inspected rather than forcing the mechanism. French door security starts with the lock Modern uPVC and composite French doors commonly use a multipoint locking system. When the handle is lifted and the key is turned, a series of locking points engages along the edge of the main door leaf. Depending on the specification, these may include hooks, rollers, deadbolts or mushroom cams that connect with keeps in the frame. This spreads protection over the height of the door instead of relying on a single central lock. It also helps the door pull tightly against its seals, which is beneficial for draught resistance as well as security. The number of locking points matters less than their design, their engagement with the frame and the quality of the installation. The cylinder deserves particular attention on doors fitted with a euro cylinder. A suitable high-security cylinder can be designed to resist common forced-entry methods, including snapping, drilling and picking. The cylinder should not project excessively beyond the handle or escutcheon, as a poorly sized cylinder can be easier to grip and attack. Handle security matters too. A well-made security handle with a strong backplate helps protect the cylinder and supports the lock case. On a replacement door, these details should be specified as part of the overall design, not treated as optional extras to consider once the doors have been fitted. For the secondary leaf, look for secure shootbolts at the head and sill that engage firmly into the frame. They should be operated only from inside when the doors are closed. If these bolts are loose, difficult to throw or fail to reach their sockets, the secondary leaf may not be giving the main door the support it needs. Do not overlook everyday locking habits A multipoint lock only provides its full protection when it is properly engaged. With many systems, simply pulling the door shut does not throw every locking point. Lift the handle fully, turn the key and remove it, particularly when leaving the house or going to bed. It is a small routine that can make a meaningful difference. Avoid leaving keys in an internal cylinder near glazed doors if they are accessible through a broken pane. The right arrangement depends on your household and emergency-exit needs, so discuss it with your installer when choosing the door and locking specification. Hinges, frames and fitting are part of the defence Security hardware cannot compensate for a weak frame, loose hinge fixings or poor alignment. The hinges on outward-opening French doors should be suited to the direction of opening and fitted with features that resist the door being lifted or forced at the hinge side. On inward-opening doors, a secure frame and correct lock engagement remain just as important. The frame itself needs to be firmly fixed to the surrounding opening. Professional installation involves more than filling the gap around a new frame. The installer must assess the condition of the brickwork or existing aperture, position the frame accurately, secure it at appropriate points and test the doors after adjustment. If the frame twists or sits out of square, locking points and shootbolts can be put under strain from the outset. This is one reason made-to-measure doors are worth considering over an off-the-shelf option. A detailed survey accounts for the actual opening, threshold level, floor finish and direction of use. It gives the installer the opportunity to identify issues such as uneven brickwork or drainage before they affect security, weather performance or the finished appearance. Choose glazing with security in mind Glass is sometimes seen as the vulnerable part of a French door, but modern sealed units can be specified with toughened or laminated safety glass where appropriate. Toughened glass is designed to break into small, blunt fragments, while laminated glass holds together more effectively after impact because of its internal interlayer. The best choice depends on the door location, design and the level of reassurance you want. Laminated glazing can offer an added delay against forced entry, but it is not a substitute for secure locks, frames and handles. It may also affect cost and the weight of the sash, which needs to be accounted for in the hinge and door specification. Ask how the glass is retained in the door. Internally beaded systems, where the glazing beads can only be removed from inside, add another sensible layer of protection. The decorative bars, panels and glazing layout should also be designed to complement the property without creating unnecessary weak points. When repair is sensible and when replacement is safer Not every concern calls for a new set of doors. If the frame is sound and the issue is a worn cylinder, tired handles, faulty keeps or hinge adjustment, a competent door specialist may be able to restore safe operation. Repairs can be particularly worthwhile where quality timber French doors are otherwise in good condition. Replacement becomes more compelling when the doors are warped, the locking mechanism is obsolete, the frame is damaged, the glazing is failing or repeated adjustments no longer hold. A new uPVC, composite or aluminium system can bring modern multipoint locking, improved glazing and better thermal performance at the same time. For homeowners dealing with draughts, condensation between panes or difficult operation, security and comfort often improve together. When comparing quotations, ask what is included in the locking system, cylinder, handles, hinges and glass specification. Also ask whether the doors are independently tested or supplied to a recognised security standard, such as PAS 24 where applicable. Clear answers are a useful sign that the supplier is considering the whole door rather than just its style. A secure door should still be easy to live with The strongest specification is not necessarily the right one if it makes the doors awkward for the people who use them every day. Families may prioritise easy key operation and clear escape routes; garden-facing doors may need a low threshold for accessibility; period homes may require a style that respects original features. These are practical design decisions, not compromises to be left until after installation. A careful survey and an honest conversation about how you use the space will help shape the right solution. Filus approaches French door projects as a complete installation, helping homeowners balance security, warmth, appearance and reliable day-to-day operation. The most reassuring French doors are the ones that close cleanly, lock confidently and continue to do both for years to come.

  • New Windows for Draughty Houses That Last

    A cold line across the floor, curtains that move when the wind picks up, and a room that never feels quite warm enough are familiar signs of a draughty home. New windows for draughty houses can make a meaningful difference, but only when the cause of the problem is properly identified and the replacement windows are specified and fitted with care. For many homeowners, the issue is not simply old glass. It can be worn seals, warped frames, poor installation around an earlier replacement, or gaps where the frame meets the wall. A well-planned window replacement addresses the whole opening, helping your home feel warmer, quieter and easier to heat. Why older windows become draughty Windows work hard in the British climate. Years of rain, changing temperatures and everyday use can affect moving parts, seals and frames. Timber windows may shrink, swell or develop gaps over time. Older aluminium frames can transfer cold quickly, while early double glazing may no longer perform as it once did. Draughts are often most noticeable around opening sashes, hinges and handles. If the window no longer closes tightly, cold air can pass through even when it appears shut. You may also feel a chill around the edge of a fixed pane, which can point to failed perimeter seals or poor sealing between the frame and brickwork. There is a difference between a cold surface and an actual draught. Single glazing, for example, makes a room feel colder because the inner glass pane loses heat quickly. That does not always mean air is entering the house. A professional survey helps separate these issues, so you do not pay for work that will not solve the problem. When new windows for draughty houses are the right answer Repair can be sensible where a relatively new window has a worn hinge, tired gasket or incorrectly adjusted lock. Replacing a sealed unit may also help if there is condensation trapped between panes. These are targeted repairs and can extend the life of an otherwise sound window. Replacement becomes the better long-term choice when frames are distorted, glazing is outdated, several seals have failed, or the windows no longer provide adequate security and insulation. If you are repeatedly turning up the heating in rooms with old windows, a made-to-measure replacement can be a practical investment in comfort as well as appearance. The best choice depends on the condition of the windows, the character of your property and how long you intend to stay there. A well-maintained period home may call for a carefully styled replacement that preserves its proportions. A 1970s or 1990s property may benefit from updated frames that improve efficiency without changing the look of the house dramatically. What makes a replacement window feel warmer Energy performance is not one feature. It comes from the frame, glass, seals and installation working together. Modern uPVC frames contain internal chambers that help slow heat transfer. Quality systems also use continuous weather seals, designed to create a close barrier when the window is locked. This is why a properly fitted modern casement window can feel very different from an ageing unit, even if both are double glazed. The glazing specification matters too. Low-emissivity glass has a discreet coating that helps retain warmth inside the home, while the gap between panes is filled with an insulating gas. Warm-edge spacer bars around the perimeter of the glass can further reduce heat loss and help keep the inside edge of the pane warmer. Double glazing is an excellent choice for most homes in SW London and Surrey. Triple glazing can offer further thermal benefits, particularly on exposed elevations or where maximum energy performance is a priority. However, it is heavier, can cost more and is not automatically the best upgrade for every property. The frame system and glass specification must be suitable for it, and a good double-glazed window fitted correctly will often deliver a substantial improvement. Frames, styles and details that suit your home A new window should work with the building rather than look added on. uPVC offers dependable insulation, low maintenance and a wide choice of finishes, from clean white to realistic woodgrain effects. It is particularly popular with homeowners who want a smart, long-lasting finish without the regular painting associated with traditional timber. Casement windows are versatile and suit many property styles. Their compression seals can provide an effective weather-tight closure when they are manufactured and adjusted correctly. Flush casement designs sit neatly within the frame for a more traditional appearance, while sliding sash windows can retain the character of Victorian and Edwardian homes without giving up modern thermal performance. Do not overlook the smaller choices. The right glazing bars, handle finish, sill depth and opening arrangement can make replacement windows look considered rather than generic. For bedrooms, it is also worth discussing safe ventilation and fire escape requirements. These practical details should be resolved before installation, not discovered on the day. Good fitting is as important as good glass Even the most efficient window will disappoint if it is installed poorly. The old frame must be removed carefully, the opening checked, and the new unit set level and secure before it is sealed. The internal and external perimeter finishes matter because gaps around a new frame can allow cold air and moisture to enter. A thorough survey should confirm the condition of the surrounding brickwork, whether existing lintels are adequate, the position of trickle vents where required, and any access considerations. It should also identify potential complications, such as tiles, render or internal plaster that may need careful making good. This is where a local, experienced installer offers reassurance. At Filus, the process begins with an in-home consultation and a property survey, allowing the window design and specification to be tailored to the property rather than selected from a one-size-fits-all package. Clear communication about what will be fitted, how the work will be completed and what is covered afterwards gives homeowners confidence from the outset. Do not confuse draught-proofing with blocking ventilation It is understandable to want every trace of cold air gone, but homes still need controlled ventilation. Bathrooms, kitchens and occupied bedrooms create moisture through cooking, showering and breathing. Without enough ventilation, that moisture can settle on colder surfaces and contribute to condensation and mould. Modern replacement windows can include trickle vents where appropriate. These provide a controlled route for background ventilation without leaving windows visibly open. They are not a sign that a new window is draughty - they are designed to support healthier indoor air when used correctly. If condensation remains after new windows are installed, the cause may be humidity within the home rather than a fault with the glass. Drying clothes indoors, limited extractor use and closed internal doors can all raise moisture levels. A good installer will explain this honestly instead of promising that replacement windows alone will cure every condensation issue. Questions to ask before choosing replacement windows Start by asking what is actually causing the draught and whether repair has been considered. Then ask how the proposed frame and glazing specification will improve thermal performance, what ventilation will be included, and how the perimeter of each window will be finished. It is also reasonable to ask who will carry out the survey and installation, what workmanship guarantee is provided, and how any aftercare issues will be handled. Windows are a long-term part of your home, so the quality of the company standing behind the installation matters as much as the brochure specification. A lower quote can be tempting, but compare like for like. Check the glass, frame system, hardware, trims, ventilation, removal of old windows and making good are all included. The cheapest price can become poor value if it leaves you with weak sealing, unfinished reveals or no dependable support once the fitters have left. If your home feels cold despite the heating being on, start with a proper assessment rather than guessing at the solution. The right replacement windows, carefully measured and professionally installed, can make everyday rooms feel more settled through winter and more enjoyable all year round.

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