Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home: Styles, Materials & When to Upgrade

Upgrading your windows can make a significant difference to how your home looks, feels and performs. At Collingtons in Helston, we’ve been helping homeowners across Cornwall choose the right windows since 1969. As a family-run, independent business, we specialise in supplying and installing high-quality, UK-made windows that enhance both traditional and modern homes.

In this guide, we’ll explain the most popular window styles, the materials to choose from, and how to know when it’s time to upgrade.

Window Styles We Offer

uPVC Casement Windows

Our uPVC casement windows are a long-standing favourite. Hinged at the side and opening outward, they provide excellent ventilation and suit a wide variety of properties.

They’re available in Smooth White or a range of woodgrain-effect colours including Oak, Rosewood, Anthracite Grey and Chartwell Green. These frames are low maintenance, energy efficient, and available with welded joints for strength and a clean finish.

Flush Casement Windows (Non-Residence)

Alongside the premium Residence range, we also offer standard flush casement windows with welded joints, combining the sleek look of flush design with the straightforward functionality and affordability of standard casements. These give the popular flush aesthetic without the need for mechanical joints, while still offering excellent performance and durability.

Available in Smooth White or woodgrain-effect colour options, they’re ideal for homeowners wanting a contemporary look with traditional charm.

Flush Casement Windows (Residence Collection)

The Residence 7 and Residence 9 collections are a premium option, engineered to replicate classic timber detailing. These windows are A-rated for energy performance, secure, and available in dual colourways to suit both the interior and exterior style of your home.

Residence windows are especially suited to conservation areas or homes looking to retain or replicate 19th-century charm. As with all our windows and doors, they're made in the UK and fully tailored to your project.

Sliding Sash Windows – Bygone Collection

The Bygone range includes the Symphony, Harmony and Melody sash windows. These timber-effect sash windows are highly authentic in appearance, with deep bottom rails, run-through horns, and traditional sightlines.

They are tilt-in for easy cleaning, Secured by Design approved, and energy efficient. They're available in a wide range of woodgrain-effect colours but not in Smooth White.

Sliding Sash Windows – Masterframe ‘Authentic’

The Masterframe ‘Authentic’ sash windows provide another excellent choice, especially for heritage-style properties. These are available in Smooth White as well as woodgrain-effect finishes, giving homeowners more flexibility in matching existing aesthetics.

They also offer the classic look of sash windows with modern, low-maintenance materials and energy-saving features.

Aluminium Casement Windows

Our aluminium windows offer a slim frame and contemporary style. Their strength allows for larger expanses of glass, making them a great option for increasing light in both modern builds and older properties.

They have a smooth, matte finish—unlike shiny uPVC—and are available in a wide range of colours. Aluminium frames are low maintenance and built to last, suitable for small or large openings depending on the design.

Choosing the Right Material

Here’s a breakdown of our main window materials and their available finishes:

• uPVC Casement and Flush Casement: Available in Smooth White or woodgrain-effect colours. Welded joints provide clean, strong corners.

• Residence Collection (R7 & R9): Timber-effect flush sash in a range of traditional colourways, made in the UK.

• Bygone Sash Windows: Timber-look sliding sashes in a wide variety of colours – not available in Smooth White.

• Masterframe ‘Authentic’ Sash Windows: Available in both Smooth White and woodgrain-effect finishes.

• Aluminium Windows and Doors: A smooth, non-shiny finish with slim profiles, offering a crisp contemporary appearance.

All our windows and doors are made in the UK and tailored to each project, ensuring excellent craftsmanship and reliable performance.

When Should You Upgrade Your Windows?

It’s not always obvious when windows need replacing, but here are a few signs to look out for:

Draughts or Cold Areas

If you feel cold air near windows or experience uneven heating, it may be time to replace older frames or glazing. Our A-rated windows significantly improve insulation and comfort.

Condensation Between Panes

This usually means the seal on your double glazing has failed. Upgrading prevents heat loss and restores visibility.

Difficult to Open or Close

Older frames may swell, warp or drop, making them hard to operate. Modern options offer smooth, secure, easy movement.

Increased Energy Bills

Poorly insulated windows can contribute to higher heating costs. Replacing them can reduce your energy usage and monthly bills.

Outdated Appearance

New windows can modernise or restore the look of your property, depending on your design goals.

Noise and Security Issues

If you’re hearing more from the outside world than you’d like, or your windows feel less secure, it’s time to consider a more robust, glazed solution.

Why Choose Collingtons?

We know that replacing your windows is a big investment, which is why we make the process simple, transparent and stress-free.

• Over 50 Years’ Experience We've proudly served West Cornwall since 1969 as a fully independent, family-run business.

• No Salespeople – Just Expert Advice Our installers and team are trained to give you honest, knowledgeable guidance without the pressure.

• 10-Year Guarantee All our windows come with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee for your peace of mind.

• Energy Efficiency We only install A-rated double glazing to ensure excellent performance all year round.

• FENSA Approved We are FENSA registered, meaning all work complies with building regulations and is properly certified.

• Made to Measure in the UK Every window we supply is built to order using leading British systems including VEKA, Halo and Residence.

• Servicing & Aftercare

 We're here for the long term. We regularly service windows we installed 10, 15, even 20 years ago.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you’re after classic sash windows for a period property or modern flush casements for a new build, we’re here to help you choose the right solution. Our expert installers manage everything from measurement to fitting, ensuring a perfect finish every time.

Visit our showroom at 16 Water Ma Trout, Helston, TR13 0LW

Call us on 01326 572599

Or explore our website: www.collingtons.com

See our full range, view our installation gallery, or get in touch to request a free, no-obligation quote. At Collingtons, quality comes as standard and so does great service.