Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we are asked most about aluminium windows, doors and glazing. Can't see your question? Call us on 020 4581 8351, email sales@aliluxe.co.uk or book a free design consultation.

About Aliluxe

Which areas do you cover?

We design and install aluminium windows and doors across London, Hertfordshire, Kent and Surrey, as well as Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and East Sussex. If you're not sure whether we cover your area, call us on 020 4581 8351.

How long have you been in the glazing industry?

Our team has over 20 years of experience in the glazing industry, delivering premium window and door systems for residential and commercial projects.

Which products do you supply and install?

We supply and install aluminium bi-fold doors, sliding doors, French, corner and front doors; casement, tilt and turn, bay, picture and gable windows; steel-look internal doors and room dividers; roof lanterns and flat rooflights; and glass balustrades and Juliet balconies. See the full range on our products page.

Which manufacturer do you work with?

We are an Origin accredited partner, supplying and installing Origin's aluminium windows and doors. Origin designs and manufactures its systems in the UK.

Are you FENSA registered?

Yes. After installation you receive a FENSA certificate confirming that your new windows or doors comply with Building Regulations. Keep it safe, as you will need it when you sell your home.

What guarantee do I get?

Every installation comes with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee, plus the manufacturer's own product guarantee. The insurance backing means your guarantee is still honoured if we were ever unable to.

Quotes and the buying process

How does the process work?

We start with a home visit to talk through the products available and help you choose the right option for your property. During that visit we take a full measure so we can give you an accurate quotation. Once you accept the quote, one of our surveyors returns to carry out a detailed survey before anything is made. On installation day our fitting team takes care to protect your home and keep disruption to a minimum, and you receive your FENSA certificate and guarantees at the end.

Is the design consultation free?

Yes. The first home visit and quotation are free and there is no obligation to go ahead. Book a free design consultation or call 020 4581 8351.

Can I see the products before I buy?

Yes. As well as talking you through the options at your home visit, we can arrange to collect you and take you to our supplier's factory, where you can see the products installed and how they are made.

How much do aluminium windows and doors cost?

Every window and door is made to measure, so the price depends on the size, the number of panels, the system, the glazing, the colour and the hardware you choose, as well as access and any building work around the opening. We give you a clear, itemised quotation after measuring up. Prices are exclusive of VAT unless stated, and quotations are valid for 30 days.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

A deposit may be required before your products go into manufacture or your installation is scheduled. The balance is payable in line with the payment schedule on your quotation.

How long does it take?

Because everything is made to order, we confirm the manufacturing lead time and your installation date when you place your order. We will keep you updated if anything outside our control, such as weather or supply issues, affects the date.

Planning and Building Regulations

Do I need planning permission for new windows or doors?

For most houses in England, replacing windows and doors with ones of a similar appearance is permitted development, so planning permission isn't needed. You are more likely to need permission, or listed building consent, if you live in a flat or maisonette, a listed building, or a conservation area with an Article 4 direction, or if you are creating a new or larger opening. Check with your local council before you order. Unless agreed otherwise, obtaining planning, landlord, freeholder or party wall approvals is the homeowner's responsibility.

Do replacement windows and doors have to meet Building Regulations?

Yes. Replacement windows and doors must meet Building Regulations for energy efficiency, safety glazing, ventilation and, on upper floors, means of escape. Because we are FENSA registered, we certify that the work complies and you receive a certificate, so you don't need to apply to building control separately.

How energy efficient do new windows need to be?

In England, replacement windows must achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or better, or a Window Energy Rating of band B or above. Modern thermally broken aluminium frames with double or triple glazing are designed to meet these standards.

Products and options

Aluminium or uPVC: which is better?

uPVC is usually the cheaper option. Aluminium is stronger, so frames can be much slimmer and hold larger panes of glass, letting in more light. It is powder-coated in a wide choice of colours, won't rot or warp, and is fully recyclable. For premium homes, large openings and a modern or steel-look finish, aluminium is usually the better fit.

Should I choose bi-fold or sliding doors?

Bi-fold doors fold back to open almost the whole width of the opening, which is ideal if you want to connect the house and garden in summer. Sliding doors have fewer, larger panes and slimmer sightlines, so they give a better view when closed. We can show you both during your design visit.

Can I get the steel-framed (Crittall-style) look in aluminium?

Yes. Steel-look aluminium systems give the slim black frames and glazing bars of traditional steel windows with better thermal performance and less maintenance. We fit steel-look internal doors and room dividers, and casement windows with Georgian bars for a heritage look.

What colours can I choose?

Aluminium frames are powder-coated, so you can choose from a wide range of colours and finishes, from classic black and anthracite grey to bronze, white and bespoke shades.

Are aluminium windows and doors secure?

Modern aluminium systems use multi-point locking and robust frames. If security is a priority, ask us about the security certification of the system you are considering and we will confirm it in your quotation.

Aftercare

How do I look after aluminium windows and doors?

Aluminium needs very little maintenance. Wipe the frames a few times a year with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid abrasive cleaners, keep the drainage channels and door tracks clear of debris, and lightly lubricate the hinges and locks once a year.

What happens if something goes wrong after installation?

Contact us as soon as you notice a problem. We will inspect it and, where appropriate, repair or replace the item under your guarantee. Call 020 4581 8351 or email sales@aliluxe.co.uk.

Still have a question?

We are happy to help. Call 020 4581 8351, email sales@aliluxe.co.uk or get in touch online, and read more about us on our about page or see our recent projects.