How our Advisor works
The Advisor evaluates every answer you give and adds weight to either a retrofit score or a replacement score. Condition questions (like frame soundness and moisture issues) carry more weight than style or preference, while factors such as joinery material, safety-glass zones, glass area, access, and installation complexity also contribute. As you progress, the scores update in the background so the final recommendation reflects the balance of your inputs, not a single checkbox.
Retrofit vs Replacement explainer
Retrofit vs replacement: when each makes sense
- Retrofit double glazing keeps sound frames and upgrades to modern insulated glass, seals, and hardware. Best when the frames are structurally good and you want to preserve the look while cutting condensation and heat loss. Faster and usually less disruptive.
- Replacement windows and doors remove the whole unit and install thermally enhanced joinery with high-performance glass. Best when frames are failing, too thin for modern units, or you want a new style and top whole-window performance.
Retrofit vs Replacement FAQs
When heritage timber repairs, shaped/arched panes, true muntins, tricky access/scaffolding, or consent add lots of labour and materials.
Both improve comfort a lot. New thermally-broken aluminium usually wins on whole-window warmth. Timber retrofits feel warmer at the frame than older aluminium.
Possibly. The glass is warmer, but older non-thermal aluminium frames can still show edge condensation on cold mornings, depending on your home’s humidity levels.
Often you don’t for simple retrofits but check locally. Full replacement is more likely to need consent, especially with reclads/layout changes.
Retrofit installations are typically faster and carried out room by room, minimising disruption and keeping the site tidy
Replacement requires more site work and finishing, but it delivers a full new window system.