Windows and doors should not only look good but also deliver optimum insulation, long durability, trouble free operation and minimal maintenance for the lifetime of the installation. VELFAC composite glazing delivers all this and more, in a window system renowned for its innovative design and high performance construction:
- Available as triple glazing – U-values of 0.8W/m²K plus excellent acoustic insulation, at prices only marginally higher than for double glazing
- Aluminium / timber frame – distinctive Scandinavian chic inside and out
- Throw away the paintbrush – external aluminium only needs cleaning, while internal timber can be clear lacquered or painted
- Long warranties – 12 years product warranty on windows, and 5 years on doors, for complete peace of mind
Hungate Lodge, Hunstanton – a beautiful seaside home
The project
It’s hard to believe that Hungate Lodge was once a dowdy bungalow with windows which took little advantage of a beautiful coastal location. Now fully renovated, the Lodge is clad in white render, timber and seamed zinc, with triple glazed VELFAC composite windows adding contemporary style, impressive thermal performance and expansive views over the sea.
Owner Dave Gambell says,
“We extended the sides, added a new full height porch, and converted existing roof lights in the loft into dormer windows, some with full height glazed doors and Juliette balconies. We also raised the height of the single storey rear extension, installing a patio door with side panels at ground level, and a triangular window above which rises into a new gable roof.”
Why they chose VELFAC
External VELFAC aluminium frames, finished in anthracite grey, feature an enhanced anti-corrosion coating to prevent damage from salt-laden winds, an important benefit which influenced Dave’s choice of ground floor patio door. He says:
“We had planned on installing a bi-fold door but couldn’t find a supplier able to add an anti-corrosive finish, so we chose a VELFAC casement door, flanked by fixed glazed panels, which looks great and is probably more practical.”
Internal timber VELFAC frames are finished in a clear lacquer to match wood-look floors. Dave says:
“We felt natural wood was the right finish for a ‘rustic’ beach house, and clear lacquer is very durable and rarely needs recoating.”
As an experienced consulting engineer specialised in sustainable builds, Dave was already familiar with VELFAC when choosing windows and doors. He says,
“I’ve seen the VELFAC composite system installed in literally hundreds of projects, and though my professional focus is on energy targets and U-values, I also really like the look of the system, especially the slim sash design.”
Windows and doors performance
To help meet a project U-value target of below 1W/m²K Dave specified VELFAC triple glazing, with U-values of 0.8W/m²K. He adds:
“Given the added performance of triple glazing, the extra cost was not that great in the context of the whole project.”
The house faces north west, and is shaded by trees, so glass coatings weren’t required to modify solar gain, and in fact the long thin windows in the extended porch are designed to actively generate heat. Dave explains:
“They help turn the porch into a solar reservoir for the rest of the house, and work as part of our new MVHR system.”
Before specifying, Dave talked through his project, and saw product samples, at one of the VELFAC showrooms. He says:
“Retrofitting windows always raises issues as every opening is slightly different, so it was useful to have some expert help when confirming exactly what was needed.”
Dave and family are now enjoying their newly renovated home, their new windows, and some great views. He says:
“The large windows in the rear extension are particularly successful, and we enjoy watching the sun setting over the Wash.”
Discover the benefits of VELFAC windows and doors – and find your nearest distributor – at velfac.co.uk