clean upvc windows

How to Clean uPVC Windows: Glass, Frames & More

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Keep your windows looking brand new with these simple cleaning tips

uPVC windows are known for being low-maintenance — but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a little TLC now and again! Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps extend their lifespan.

At Select Windows, we install high-quality uPVC windows built to last. But to help you get the most out of them, here’s our complete guide to cleaning every part of your uPVC windows — the glass, frames, seals, hinges and sills.

🧼 What You’ll Need:

  • Soft cloths or microfibre cloths
  • Warm soapy water (mild washing-up liquid works well)
  • Non-abrasive sponge or soft brush
  • White vinegar or glass cleaner
  • Old toothbrush or soft paintbrush (for tricky corners)
  • Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment (optional)
spraying liquid detergent on window

Step 1: Clean the Glass

Let’s start with the obvious bit — the glass.

How to do it:

  1. Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove loose dust and dirt.
  2. Use a glass cleaner or a solution of water and white vinegar.
  3. Apply using a soft cloth or spray bottle and wipe in circular motions.
  4. Buff dry with a clean microfibre cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.

Pro Tip: Don’t clean windows in direct sunlight — it causes streaks.

using a soft cloth cleaning uPVC window frames

Step 2: Wash the uPVC Frames

Your white uPVC frames can attract grime over time — but don’t worry, it’s easy to clean.

How to do it:

  1. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild washing-up liquid.
  2. Use a non-abrasive sponge to gently wipe the frames.
  3. For stubborn marks, use a uPVC-specific cleaner or a paste of bicarbonate of soda.
  4. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid: Harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scouring pads — they can damage the surface.

cleaning sash window rails

Step 3: Get Into the Hinges, Seals & Tracks

These hidden spots can collect dirt, leaves and even mould if left unchecked.

Hinges & Locks:

  • Use a small brush or toothbrush to loosen dirt.
  • Wipe clean and apply a tiny drop of light oil (like WD-40) to keep them moving smoothly.

Rubber Seals:

  • Gently clean with soapy water and avoid pulling or stretching.
  • Apply a little silicone spray to keep them supple and prevent cracking.

Window Tracks & Drainage Holes:

  • Remove debris with a vacuum or brush.
  • Check drainage holes at the bottom of the frames — if they’re blocked, gently clear them with a cotton bud or small stick.

Step 4: Finish with the Window Sills

Don’t forget the inside and outside window sills!

  • Clean with soapy water and a soft cloth.
  • Rinse and dry to prevent watermarks or mould buildup.

Bonus Tips:

  • Clean your uPVC windows twice a year as a minimum — more if you’re in a coastal or high-pollution area.
  • For extra shine, use a dry cloth to polish the frames once finished.
  • Installing blinds or curtains can help protect your frames from constant sun exposure, which can discolour white uPVC over time.

Clean your uPVC windows twice a year as a minimum — more if you’re in a coastal or high-pollution area.

For extra shine, use a dry cloth to polish the frames once finished.

Need Replacement Windows?

If your uPVC windows are looking tired or you’re dealing with draughts, misted glass or damage — it might be time to upgrade.

Select Windows offers a wide range of energy-efficient, secure and stylish uPVC windows tailored to your home. 📞 Get in touch today for a free quote or expert advice.

front door best colour

How to Pick the Perfect Front Door Colour

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A Guide by Select Windows

Your front door is more than just an entrance — it’s the face of your home. It’s the first thing guests (and potential buyers!) see, and it sets the tone for your entire property. So, choosing the right colour for your front door isn’t just a design choice, it’s a statement.

At Select Windows, we know a thing or two about making an entrance. Here’s our guide to help you choose the perfect colour for your front door:

1. Think About Your Home’s Style and Era

The architectural style of your home can be a great starting point.

  • Cottage-style homes look charming with soft pastels like sage green, duck egg blue or cream.
  • Traditional homes (like Victorian or Edwardian properties) often suit classic shades such as navy, burgundy, forest green or even black.
  • Modern or contemporary homes can handle bold and striking colours — think deep teal, anthracite grey, or even sunshine yellow.
Home’s Style and Era

2. Consider the Surrounding Features

Take a look at the brickwork, rendering, windows, and roof tiles. Your front door colour should complement, not clash. For example:

  • If you have coloured window frames (such as white, grey or brown), factor those in too for a cohesive look.
  • Red brick homes work well with blues, greens or classic blacks.
  • Stone or cream render pairs nicely with deeper hues like charcoal or rich aubergine.

3. Don’t Forget About Lighting

A north-facing entrance tends to get less sunlight, so you might want to go for a brighter or warmer shade to lift the space. If your door gets lots of natural light, you can play with darker, moodier tones.

4. Let Your Personality Shine

Your front door is the perfect spot to add a personal touch. Are you bold and vibrant? Go for a statement red or mustard yellow. Prefer something calming? Soft grey, sage or pale blue can feel peaceful and welcoming.

It’s also a chance to make your home stand out on the street (without upsetting the neighbours!).

5. Try Before You Buy

If you’re unsure, test a few swatches first. Paint samples on a bit of card or directly on the door and view them at different times of the day. The light can really change how a colour looks.

Or, better yet, ask us at Select Windows — we’re always happy to provide guidance based on our extensive experience and your chosen door material and style.

6. Practical Matters Count

Remember that your door will be exposed to all weathers. That’s why all our doors at Select Windows are designed to be low-maintenance, durable and colour-fast. Whether you choose a uPVC, composite or aluminium door, the finish is built to last — no chipping, warping or fading.

Purple Entrance Composite Door
Entrance Composite Door Apollo in Florida Orange
Grey Entrance Composite Door with glass panel
Sage green Distinction Composite door
black modern entrance door
dark grey entrance door
pink entrance door
blue entrance door
light blue entrance door
red entrance door
light grey entrance door
green composite door with glass panel

Ready to Make a Statement?

Choosing the right front door colour is a small decision that can have a big impact. If you’re upgrading your entrance, Select Windows can help you pick the perfect style and shade for your home. We offer a wide range of colours and finishes across all door types — all designed to boost kerb appeal and make you smile every time you come home.

📞 Get in touch today to explore our full range of front doors and book a no-obligation quote.

conservatory roof replacement before & after

Conservatory Roof Replacements in the West Midlands

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Transform Your Conservatory with a Roof Replacement

A conservatory is a fantastic addition to any home, providing extra space to relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while staying sheltered from the elements. However, if your conservatory roof is outdated, inefficient, or damaged, it could be making the space too cold in winter and too hot in summer. At Select Windows, we specialise in high-quality conservatory roof replacements across the West Midlands, helping homeowners transform their conservatories into comfortable, usable spaces all year round.

Why Replace Your Conservatory Roof?

Many older conservatories come with traditional polycarbonate or glass roofs that can cause temperature extremes and excessive glare. By upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient roof, you can enjoy several benefits:

  • Increased Property Value – A high-quality conservatory roof replacement can add value to your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Improved Insulation – A new roof can help regulate the temperature, making your conservatory warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics – Give your conservatory a fresh, updated look that blends seamlessly with your home.
  • Reduced Noise – Modern roofing materials help to minimise noise from rain, wind, and external disturbances.
  • Lower Energy Bills – With better insulation, you’ll rely less on heating and cooling, reducing your energy costs.
  • Improved Insulation – A new roof can help regulate the temperature, making your conservatory warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Improved Insulation – A new roof can help regulate the temperature, making your conservatory warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Our Conservatory Roof Replacement Options

At Select Windows, we offer a range of replacement roof solutions to suit your needs and preferences:

Tiled Conservatory Roofs

Tiled roofs provide superior insulation and a more solid, home-like feel. They are available in various styles and colours to complement your property’s aesthetic.

Solid Roof Systems

For homeowners looking to create a more permanent, extension-like space, solid roof systems combine insulation with sleek, modern design.

Glass Conservatory Roofs

If you love natural light, a high-performance glass roof with self-cleaning and solar-control technology can be an excellent option.

Expert Installation Across the West Midlands

We proudly serve homeowners throughout the West Midlands, including Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Cannock, Lichfield, and surrounding areas. Our expert team ensures a seamless installation process with minimal disruption to your home.

Icotherm Roof replacement and new frames in Golden Oak

Why Choose Select Windows?

  • Experienced Professionals – With years of expertise in conservatory roof replacements, we deliver outstanding results.
  • High-Quality Materials – We use only the best materials to ensure longevity and performance.
  • Customer Satisfaction – Our priority is to exceed your expectations with top-tier service and craftsmanship.

Get Your Free Quote Today

Ready to upgrade your conservatory roof? Contact Select Windows today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice. Let us help you create a space that’s comfortable, stylish, and energy-efficient all year round.

📞 Call us now to learn more!

composite doors

What Is a Composite Door?

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When upgrading your home’s exterior, choosing the right doors is essential for both style and functionality. Composite doors have become one of the most popular options for front and back doors, thanks to their combination of durability, security, and visual appeal. But what exactly is a composite door, and why are they such a fantastic choice for your home? Let’s take a closer look.

modern composite door

What Is a Composite Door?

A composite door is a modern type of door constructed from a combination of materials, each selected for its specific benefits. Unlike single-material doors, such as timber or uPVC, composite doors blend multiple layers to create a superior product. Key materials used include:

  • GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic): Forms the durable and weather-resistant outer skin.
  • High-Density Foam Core: Provides excellent thermal insulation to keep your home comfortable year-round.
  • Timber Core (optional): Adds strength and rigidity in some composite door designs.
  • uPVC Reinforcement: Ensures structural stability and prevents warping.

This multi-layered construction results in a door that is exceptionally strong, long-lasting, and visually appealing, making it a great option for both front and back doors.

Key Features of Composite Doors

Whether you’re considering a composite door for your front entrance or back garden access, these features make them an outstanding choice:

  1. Enhanced Security: Composite doors are incredibly strong and highly resistant to forced entry, making them ideal for both front and back doors. Multi-point locking systems and robust materials provide extra peace of mind.
  2. Weather Resistance: Unlike timber doors, composite doors won’t swell, warp, or rot due to moisture. The GRP outer layer ensures they can withstand harsh weather conditions, whether they face the front street or your back garden.
  3. Energy Efficiency: The insulated core helps maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, reducing energy bills. This makes composite doors perfect for keeping your front hallway cozy or your kitchen warm.
  4. Low Maintenance: Composite doors require minimal upkeep. Unlike timber doors, they don’t need regular painting or staining—just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps them looking like new.
  5. Stylish Designs: Composite doors come in a variety of designs, colors, and finishes, making it easy to match the aesthetic of both your front and back entrances. Choose from traditional woodgrain effects or sleek, modern finishes to suit your home.
  6. Durability: Built to last, composite doors are designed to handle daily use at the front or back of your home while maintaining their appearance and functionality for years.
composite front door
composite front door
composite front door
composite back door
composite front door

Why Choose Composite Doors for Both Front and Back Entrances?

The versatility of composite doors makes them a fantastic option for both the front and back of your home. For front doors, they provide an impressive and secure entrance that enhances your home’s curb appeal. For back doors, they offer durability, style, and protection, whether leading to a garden, patio, or utility area.

The wide range of design options means you can create a cohesive look for your home, with complementary styles for your front and back doors. Plus, their energy efficiency ensures that every entrance to your home contributes to reducing your heating bills.

dark grey composite door

Are Composite Doors Worth the Investment?

While composite doors are a bit more expensive than traditional timber or uPVC doors, their long-term benefits make them a smart investment. Their durability, security, and low maintenance requirements mean you’ll save money on repairs and energy costs over time. Additionally, they can boost your home’s value and appeal.

Why Choose Select Windows for Your Composite Doors?

At Select Windows, we offer an extensive range of high-quality composite doors, ideal for both front and back entrances. Whether you’re looking for a secure and stylish front door or a durable back door to withstand everyday use, we have the perfect solution for your home.

Our team will guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right design to professional installation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

Upgrade your home with a composite door from Select Windows today. Contact us to learn more about our range and how we can help you achieve the perfect look for your home’s entrances!

Conservatory Roof Conversion: From Polycarbonate to Glass

Conservatory Roof Conversion: From Polycarbonate to Glass

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At Select Windows, we understand how important it is to make the most of your living space. That’s why we specialise in high-quality conservatory upgrades that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. A recent project we completed involved converting a polycarbonate conservatory roof to a sleek, energy-efficient glass roof. The transformation not only brightened the space but also improved its overall usability. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of upgrading from polycarbonate to glass.

Why Choose a Glass Roof?

Polycarbonate roofs have long been a popular choice for conservatories due to their cost-effectiveness and insulation properties. However, they often leave the space feeling darker and can result in temperature fluctuations, making it uncomfortable to use year-round. A glass roof offers a range of benefits that can completely transform your conservatory:

Conservatory Roof Conversion: From Polycarbonate to Glass
  • Natural Light: Glass roofs allow maximum light into the room, brightening up the space and making it feel open and airy. Unlike polycarbonate, which can often appear cloudy or opaque over time, glass maintains its clarity, creating a light-filled environment.
  • Improved Temperature Control: One of the main complaints about polycarbonate roofs is the temperature fluctuation—too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Glass roofs, with advanced thermal insulation technology, regulate the temperature much better, ensuring your conservatory remains comfortable year-round.
  • Noise Reduction: The noise from rain hitting a polycarbonate roof can be overwhelming, especially during heavy showers. A glass roof significantly reduces this noise, creating a quieter, more peaceful space to relax or entertain.
  • Energy Efficiency: A modern glass roof can be fitted with energy-efficient glass, which helps to maintain the internal temperature of your conservatory. This reduces the need for artificial heating and cooling, ultimately lowering your energy bills.

The Conversion Process: From Polycarbonate to Glass

When we first arrived on site for this project, the homeowner’s polycarbonate roof was starting to show signs of wear, with the plastic panels becoming brittle and discoloured. Not only did this affect the aesthetic of the conservatory, but it also made the space less comfortable to use.

Our team carefully removed the old polycarbonate roof, ensuring that the structure remained intact. We then installed a new glass roof, custom-fitted to the existing frame. The new roof was designed with high-performance glazing, which helps to regulate the temperature inside the conservatory and reduce energy consumption.

Results of the Conversion

The transformation was remarkable. The new glass roof not only brightened the space but also made it feel larger and more connected to the outdoors. The natural light pouring into the room created a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or hosting friends and family.

The homeowner also noticed an immediate improvement in comfort. The new glass roof significantly reduced the temperature fluctuations, and the space was much more enjoyable throughout the day and year-round.

glass conservatory roof
glass conservatory roof conversion

Additional Benefits

Beyond the immediate benefits, the glass roof also added value to the home. A conservatory with a glass roof looks more modern and elegant, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers. Plus, the energy efficiency of the glass roof will save money on heating and cooling in the long term.

Why Choose Select Windows?

At Select Windows, we specialise in conservatory roof conversions and offer a range of options, from polycarbonate to glass, to suit your home’s needs. Our team works closely with you to ensure the perfect fit, combining style, comfort, and functionality for a lasting transformation.

If your conservatory feels too dark, too cold, or too noisy, a roof conversion could be the solution you need. Contact us today to find out how we can help you make the most of your space with a high-quality glass roof. Let us bring new life to your conservatory!