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» DIY SALES SOARED IN 2020 , as homeowners spent their time indoors making home improvements . In fact , the Office for National Statistics reported a 1.5 per cent rise in DIY sales between August and September 2020 , at a time when many industries stood still . As this trend could well persist throughout 2021 , it ’ s important to be prepared for the new trends that customers will be anticipating this year . Nick Cowley , managing director of manufacturer of PVCu windows and PVCu doors Euramax , analyses some of the key trends for 2021 .
A SPLASH OF COLOUR It ’ s a common assumption that poly vinyl chloride ( uPVC ) window frames come in standard white . While some may prefer to keep things simple , coloured window frames are becoming an increasingly popular choice . Dubbed “ the new white ,” grey frames work well across numerous house styles , from trendy modern spaces to more traditional , period properties . The neutral shade can create a sophisticated effect while offering a hint of colour , making it the perfect choice if your customers want a subtle break from conformity .
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Moving away from traditional woodgrain and white uPVC , doors could also receive a splash of colour in 2021 . Composite doors are one of the most popular entrance door options , and are available in a range of colours . Inspired by perhaps the most famous front doors in the country , 10 Downing Street , black has become increasingly popular for those who prefer a sleek and simple statement .
Taking inspiration from elsewhere in politics , Chartwell green is another shade that continues to gain traction . Named after Winston Churchill ’ s Kent home , the light and bright pastel shade provides a refreshing change from traditional colour options .
TIME TO OPEN UP
As well as revitalising homes , many homeowners paid extra attention to their gardens in 2020 — and what better way keep enjoying them than to bring a touch of the outdoors inside ? Open plan has been a popular trend for many years as homeowners seek to create a large and airy space that transports them from feeling confined indoors . However , budget restrictions and the need
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for extensive remodelling can put the open plan dream on hold . Instead , additions such as bi-folding doors can make an effective replacement .
In the warmer weather , bi-folds can completely fold away to create the illusion of more space and a fluid transition between the home and garden . In the winter months , their floor-to-ceiling glass panels bring in plenty of natural light . Opening just one panel at a time means they can still be used as an access point while keeping the heat in .
WINDOW SHOPPING
As we grow a year closer to the UK ’ s 2050 net zero emissions target , it ’ s vital that homes do more than just look good . Among all building envelopes , the design of a home ’ s exterior , windows and doors are a main culprit for heat loss — with losses accounting for
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20 to 30 per cent of a building ’ s entire energy consumption .
To improve thermal efficiency and costs , some may opt for triple glazing . The third pane of glass , located halfway between the inner and outer panes of double glazing , creates two air locks that beat the energy performance of regular double glazing by around 50 per cent . Between each pane is a pocket of air or inert gas , such as argon , which is heavier than air and works as an insulator for both noise and heat .
However , this window option can cost around 20 per cent more than double glazed windows , so it ’ s worth discussing this with customers . Thermally efficient frames can also have a large bearing on the overall performance of a window , so should also be suggested when looking to improve energy efficiency . Because argon gas is denser than air , adding it to the captive air in double glazed windows improves their thermal efficiency , without the needed for added glass . When used in conjunction with a special low emissivity glass coating , argon gas can bring the temperature of the window closer to room temperature . Providing customers with these details is a great way to also improve customer relations and trust .
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www . euramaxuk . com |
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30 » MAR 2021 |