Why WindowSkins®
Why should I choose WindowSkins® instead of Double Glazing?
Although Double Glazing is a more efficient insulator than WindowSkins®, the high cost makes it prohibitive, especially in conservation areas where rigid design specifications must be followed. The return on investment for double glazing can be anything up to 50 years (confusedaboutenergy.co.uk ), although whether the windows last that long is questionable!
At only 15% of the comparable cost, WindowSkins® are affordable, deliver value, and with an estimated return on investment of between three and five years remains a truly viable alternative.
Why should I choose WindowSkins® instead of Secondary Glazing?
Secondary Glazing, like Double Glazing, can be expensive and suffers similar drawbacks to double glazing, as explained above. Additionally, Secondary Glazing units can be large, bulky metal framed units and often end up looking rather unsightly inside a home.
WindowSkins® are frameless, and in pursuit of our minimalist design ethos, will make very little impact to the interior style of your home. They are designed not to be seen.
I could make this myself. Why should I choose WindowSkins®?
We have spent thousands of hours over the past five years researching, designing and developing the best possible product. We have the requisite infrastructure, including suppliers, tooling, transport, premises and storage, all developed with a keen consideration of costs.
Our cloud based software technology (developed in-house), is specifically designed to capture and compute the necessary geometries to enable a highly accurate retrofit, at speed, and at scale, with a first time fit rate greater than 99.5%
Employing the latest 3D printing technologies, we have designed and built our own custom tooling, to ensure a high quality build and finish
Our expertise in fitting, comes from the installation of over five thousand WindowSkins, on all types of windows. We have worked out all the problems, and more importantly, all of the solutions.
As a result, we are more than confident we can deliver a superior product at a great price, without compromising on quality.
Other companies could make this. Why should I choose WindowSkins®?
Firstly, Service. Purchase of WindowSkins® is comprehensive and all inclusive. Our stated aim is to ensure you do as little as possible, with no hassles. Not all companies can or will provide this type of service, especially when things go wrong.
Secondly, Experience. We have over thirty years combined in the fields of Software Engineering, Accountancy and Financial Services. As well as being able to supply a fantastic product, we are able to ensure a well administered company.
Thirdly, Product. We have designed WindowSkins® from the ground up, meaning our product is unique from any other. WindowSkins® is a Patent Pending design, so although other companies products may appear similar, it will not be a WindowSkin®.
Okay, I’m interested. What do I do next?
Please give us a call to arrange a free quote (See Contact Us for details).
I’m not convinced. Now what?
Why not take a look at our customer testimonials
I’m still not convinced. Now what?
Give us a call, and please tell us why! We’ll do our best to answer your questions.
Window Compatibility
Sash Windows (The ones which slide up and down)
For Sash windows there are two possible mounting points
Standard Placement
this is where magnetic tapes are fit to the sash casing near the outside edge of the window beading (blue outline). This is the usually simplest fitting, but requires adequate space around the reveal of the Window
Subframe Placement
here a lightweight frame is fit to the interior edge of the window beading (green outline). This is the most discrete option, as the WindowSkin is smaller and set back within the beading recess. Subframe’s are usually used in tight situations, where there are shutters, blinds or a narrow reveal
For Sash Windows, we typically use 20mm magnetics, to provide an optimum balance of magnetic force and aesthetic finish
For both placements, a secondary fixing is added near the top corners. This prevents slippage and allows for winter ventilation using our proprietary venting arm 
The WindowSkin is easily removed in summer, and no special tooling is required
Split-Panel
For larger sash windows, there is also a ‘split-panel’ option, which allows the WindowSkin to be collapsed down and stored easily during summer.
This is often more practical as the meeting rail is easily accessed for opening and closing the window whilst the WindowSkin is in place. (see Video)
Timber Casement (The ones which open outwards)
For Casement Windows, there are two possible mounting points
Inner Placement
Fit to the inside edge of the window opener, nearest to the glass (blue outline).
This is the most discrete fitting and offers maximum utility as WindowSkins do not require removal to open windows.
However, this is the least efficient solution as draught still penetrates where windows open.
Fitting is often complicated by window hardware and so, is usually the more expensive solution, despite the smaller size.
Outer Placement
Fit to the inside edge of the window frame, nearest to the window opener (green outline).
This is a discrete fitting and WindowSkins are easily removed for opening
They are the most efficient as draughts are blocked and noise is minimised.
This is often the better value option, as hardware interference is kept to a minimum
For casement windows, we typically use 13mm magnetics, although if the windows are very draughty or large, space permitting, we prefer 20mm for increased magnetism.
Materials and Sizing
Why PET?
As well as being competitively priced, PET is the ideal glazing panel material because of its unique range of properties, which include:
– Extremely high impact-resistance – try dropping a full PET cola or lemonade bottle to see if it breaks.
– Excellent fire-resistance – Class 1 according to BS476 Part 6 ( basically won’t burn) – Acrylic sheet is only Class 3( makes great firelighters)
– Light-weight – about half the weight of glass of the same thickness.
– Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation performance – more than 10% better than glass.
– Safe for the environment – PET contains only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen molecules – no Bisphenol A, no ozone-depleting materials, no acid-rain causing ingredients. PET is classified worldwide as a food-contact safe material. It is also the most recycled plastic material in the world today!
– UV Stable – Does not discolour with age!
How thick are the PET plastic panels being used?
We typically use 2mm sheet PET.
For particularly draughty windows, 3mm or even 4mm can be considered to minimise panel movement as the air pressure changes. (However, we would also recommend servicing the window and brushings).
Finally, for the budget conscious customer, we can prepare WindowSkins® using 1mm sheet PET.
How wide are the magnetic and steel edging strips?
13mm. We use the narrowest strips possible, so as to minimise the impact the WindowSkins® has on the windows original features.
What is the total depth of the WindowSkins® when fitted?
The total depth of a fitted WindowSkin® is 5.5mm (using 2mm PET panel).
What is the total depth of the steel strip left remaining when the WindowSkins® is removed?
The steel strip is 1.5mm deep, designed to be a minimal “footprint” when removed.
What is the weights of a WindowSkins®?
A 2mm WindowSkin® measuring 1.7 x 0.9 Metres weights approximately 3.6 Kilos.
Visual and Aesthetics
Will my view be impaired by WindowSkins® in terms of light transmission or distortion?
No. WindowSkins are optically as clear as glass.
Will you colour match WindowSkins® to my windows?
We currently match to white windows only, but if there is sufficient demand, we will consider manufacture in other colours, so please let your interest be known!
Safety
Are WindowSkins® Flammable?
No. PET has a Class 1 Fire Rating (Excellent Fire Resistance).
Are WindowSkins® Toxic?
No. PET is non-toxic, and is used for food packaging worldwide.
Are WindowSkins® Child Safe?
WindowSkins® are child resistant.
They will not break or shatter like glass.
WindowSkins® patent pending design will resist a downwards pull force equivalent to 20 Kilos.
Will WindowSkins® impede my exit in an emergency?
No. In an emergency, the WindowSkin can either be lifted away from the window or removed altogether, without the need for any tools.
Functionality
Is it possible to ventilate my home when the WindowSkins® are fitted?
Yes. Together with the supplied Venting Arm, WindowSkins® patent pending design will allow you to ventilate your home year round.
Installation and Fitting
How long does it take to fit?
We’ve invested time optimising our fitting process to ensure we take as little time of yours. On average, it takes around ten minutes to fit each WindowSkin®.
Are WindowSkins® fitted on the inside or outside?
WindowSkins® are designed to fit inside your home.
How do WindowSkins® attach to my windows?
Window Skins attach magnetically, using white steel tapes which are stuck to the window frame using a premium Adhesive. On the edges of the PET panel we attach a magnetic tape, again using a premium adhesive. We also add an additional fixing to ensure the product does not slip or fall off accidentally.
Is it easy to remove the panels?
Yes, no specialist tools are required. A Child cannot remove the panel simply by pulling down.
What types of windows are WindowSkins® compatible with?
WindowSkins® are primarily designed to fit Sash Windows. Give us a call to discuss other alternatives.
My windows have internal shutters. Can I use WindowSkins®?
This may be possible, but we will have to make an inspection to determine.
Under what circumstances is it not possible to fit WindowSkins®?
Where there are protrusions which will impede the fitting, for example, window handles. Contact us to discuss possibilities.
Benefits & Features
Please refer to our Benefit & Features page.
Thermal Performance
What are U-Values?
U-values measure how effective a material is an insulator. The lower the U-value is, the better the material is as a heat insulator. Pilkington has created a useful guide to U-Values.
What is the U-Value of Single Glazing?
As per Pilkington’s useful guide, a U-Value of 4.8 W/m2K is cited. (It should be noted that old draughty windows will perform below standard).
What is the U-Value of Double Glazing?
As per Pilkington’s useful guide, a U-Value range from 3.1 to 1.8 W/m2K for the most efficient units.
What is the U-Value of Secondary Glazing?
Referring to an article published by Jonathan Taylor (buildingconservation.com), a discussion of a 2008 study by Herriot Watt University cited U-Value efficiency as high as 1.7 W/m2K.
What is the U-Value of WindowSkins®?
We have yet to certify WindowSkins® via independent testing, but again referring to the article published by Jonathan Taylor (buildingconservation.com), a discussion of a 2008 study by Herriot Watt University cited typical U-Value efficiency at around 2.7 W/m2K.
Title for This Block WindowSkins® thermal performance to the best alternative?
Until we have completed certification, only a crude estimate of the comparative efficiency can be provided as an indicative guideline only (based upon citations above)
3.1 (Maximum U-Value Improvement) = 4.8 (Single Glazing U-Value) – 1.7(Best U-Value)
2.1 (WindowSkins® U-Value Improvement) = 4.8 (Single Glazing U-Value) – 2.7 (WindowSkins® Anticipated U-Value)
2.1 / 3.1 = 67.7% (Thermal Efficiency Performance Increase, as compared to the best cited U-Value alternatives)
We would like to reiterate that these are estimates and have not been independently certified. There will likely be more efficient solutions available from other sellers (assuming maximum efficiency is your primary consideration).
Does the thickness of the PET panel affect thermal performance?
Not hugely. Panel thickness does not have a linear relationship to thermal performance. Thermal performance of WindowSkins® is more dependent on the trapping of a layer of air between the Window and itself.
Care and Maintenance
How long will my WindowSkins® last?
With proper maintenance, it is reasonable to assume that your WindowSkins® will last over ten years, perhaps longer.
How long is your warranty?
Our comprehensive three-year warranty is designed to ensure you obtain 100% return on investment. (Three year ROI based upon a well-insulated home with cavity wall and loft insulation).
How can I prevent static build up on my WindowSkins®?
Clean the surface with an anti-static spray and a non-abrasive microfiber cloth.
How can I remove scratches from my WindowSkins®?
Deep scratches can be removed using a rotary polishing wheel. Contact us for further details.
I have another problem with my WindowSkins®
Give us a call, and we are going to do our best to fix it.
Payment, Pricing and Terms
How do you determine your prices?
Our quoted prices are formulaically determined by a number of factors, primarily:
– Number of WindowSkins®
– Size of WindowSkins®
– Material Costs
– Labour Costs
– Administration and Overheads
– Delivery Costs
As a result, there will be occasions where our quoted prices are outside of our stated guidance prices due to a significant increase in one or more of these costs.
We will always make this known before any contractual obligation takes place.
Where can I find your Terms and Conditions?
Here! – Terms and Conditions
Do you charge VAT?
As we are a new business, we are able to postpone registering for VAT. For a limited time, this allows us to pass on significant savings to the early buyer of WindowSkins®.
When will I need to pay?
An initial deposit of 30% is required to process any order, with the remaining balance payable upon completion of fitting. (Subject to T&Cs).
What method of payment do you accept?
We accept most major Debit & Credit Cards, as well as Paypal. Bank Transfers (BACS) can be made, although the full balancing payment must be received and cleared prior to installation. (Subject to T&Cs).
Do you accept Cash Payments?
We operate a cashless system, so, unfortunately, we only accept electronic payment. However, in exceptional circumstances, a full advance cash payment can be arranged. (Subject to T&Cs).
Do you accept Cheques?
We do not accept cheques.
Can I pay in instalments/Do you offer credit?
We currently do not offer a credit facility or the option to pay in instalments (but we plan to in the future).
What is your Return Policy?
Please see our “ Terms and Conditions” page for further details.
