While DIY window installation may seem like an easy way for homeowners to save money, FENSA warns that getting it wrong can have costly consequences.
With no shortage of advice online about how to fit windows and doors, a DIY approach can be extremely tempting for handy homeowners looking to save money. But while buying a window is relatively straightforward, ensuring it is installed correctly is considerably more complicated.
“Anybody can go and purchase a window or a door from a DIY centre, or over a trade counter,” says Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA.
“There’s nothing wrong with doing that, but there are significant risks associated with self-installation that need to be spoken about.”
More than just fitting
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding window replacement is that the job simply involves removing the old frame and putting a new one in its place. In reality, however, there are important structural, safety and regulatory considerations that need to be addressed.
“Replacing a window in the habitable areas of a home is classed as controlled work. That means homeowners need to consider how the work is notified and certified, as well as whether the installation complies with Building Regulations.
“If you’re doing that without notification to the local authority, building control, or any level of certification, it would be technically defined as a criminal offence, which can result in prosecution or fines,” explains Sam.
What could go wrong?
But it’s not just the legal penalties of incorrect installation that give cause for concern.
With safety a key priority, the location of a window can determine whether specialist glazing is required, particularly where there is a greater risk of impact.
“You have to think about safety,” confirms Sam. “Is the window located in a critical safety area? Do you need to have safety glazing installed with that window?”
In addition, a reputable, professional installer will assess the property and the proposed installation before work begins, ensuring the window opening is fit for purpose, among other important considerations.
“You have to think about the structure of the property too,” says Sam. “Is the aperture correctly supported?”
Further still, a replacement window may need to provide background ventilation, while the position of other installations, such as boiler flues, for example, must also be taken into account.
While these issues may not be immediately obvious to a homeowner purchasing a window from a DIY outlet, overlooking them can have serious and dangerous consequences, as Sam reiterates.
“Some of these things can result in a risk to life if they’re not carried out correctly,” he warns.
The importance of a proper survey
Another key difference between buying a window and having one professionally specified and installed is the assessment that takes place beforehand.
“Buying a window off a trade counter, or through a DIY centre, means there won’t be a proper survey carried out to establish the size, fit, and suitability as well the compliance required for that window,” explains Sam.
That means the homeowner can be left responsible for determining whether the product is suitable for the specific opening and circumstances of their property.
Even an experienced DIY enthusiast may not have the specialist knowledge required to identify every potential issue, as Sam admits.
“I'm handy myself... I can fit a radiator next week if I need to. It will leak afterwards, but that's the risk you take with DIY jobs, and that's the whole point; you don't want to be taking those risks.
“If something goes wrong, it can cost a lot of money. Not just through prosecution and fines but actually putting your property right and rectifying any damage. That's the value in using a professional installer that can do the job right first time.”
Leave it to the professionals
While the attraction of DIY installation is understandable, saving on professional installation at the outset could just mean homeowners end up spending more money, further down the line.
“When purchasing any window or door, it's really important that you use a FENSA registered installer to ensure that installation is carried out in a controlled manner, is compliant with Building Regulations, and notified to the local authority correctly.
“You'll have that certification; you'll have your guarantees in place; and just as importantly, you'll have that invaluable element of trust and protection,” Sam concludes.
