Nearly 4 years into the recession, the UK house prices are still slipping in many parts of the UK. The higher deposit percentage required by majority of banks means there are less first time buyers in the market. Selling and moving to a bigger house is becoming a distance dream for many. Thus homeowners are looking for home improvement opportunities instead of moving home.

A latest annual home improvement survey conducted by HSBC shed some light on the commercial front of all things home improvement. Some 1369 homeowners and 112 estate agents took part in the study. The survey found a loft conversion adds just over £16,000 to a property’s price, a massive 20% decline compared to £20,000 plus added value a year ago. The added value of a room extension is down only 3% on last year to £15,665. Kitchens are another hard hit area, in fact, 19% less than in 2011 are observed, meaning on average, a new kitchen only adds £4,577. However, the regional variations are significant, the study found. A new kitchen adds £9,125 to the value of a property in London, almost twice as much as it would in North East England – £4,300, and close to four times compared to Scotland’s £2,333 figure.

While the value that many home improvement options can add to a property is decreasing, one stood out for homeowners – conservatory. HSBC’s survey shows a 14% increase since 2011. It now adds a value of £9,420 on average to a property. The survey also found that more than 50% home owners plan to keep themselves busy with home improvements during the Easter, May and Jubilee bank holidays.

Valuation expert Paul Cutbill, of Countrywide Surveying Services, said: “Whilst sensibly improved and well-presented homes will generally be attractive to potential purchasers, rising labour and material costs mean that the gap between the cost of improving and monies realised at the point of any sale has been reduced.  Poor quality refitting and lack of proper design considerations, often as a result of inadequate project budgeting and planning, can also have a significant knock on effect to any added value which might be gained when selling a property. ”

Intrigued by the figures? Crystal Windows & Conservatories suggests that home owners should think carefully about the type of any home-improvement projects they are planning, and should favour those which enhance the quality of life first. A well planned and adequately budgeted home improvement project with proper design considerations and build quality will always ensure the best return on investment.

For many, the installation of a new conservatory is an opportunity to maximise the views of a beautiful garden, for others, a conservatory offers much needed additional living space, but there is one thing that all conservatory owners have in common – they want to have the pleasure of their new room all year round, rather than it only being available to them in certain seasons.

In the past, conservatories could get very cold in the winter and too hot during particularly warm summers, thereby rendering the extra living space largely redundant for big chunks of the year. No one wants to spend a miserable evening shivering away in their conservatory or, equally, overheating simply because they’re determined to benefit from the functionality of the space regardless of temperature. At Crystal Windows we appreciate our customers wish to enjoy the benefits of a new conservatory throughout the year, not simply when the sun is shining. Luckily there’s no need to admit defeat and close the door to your conservatory until the climate plays ball.

Timber Hardwood Conservatory in Wirral by Crystal Windows

Fortunately, technological advances combined with Crystal’s excellent industry experience enable us to install high performance glazed conservatories fit for purpose whatever the time of year, whatever the weather. The addition of a conservatory to your existing home enables you to enjoy outdoor life without being exposed to rough weather conditions, giving you the choice to relax inside whilst also appreciating the natural wonder of your garden. The advanced glass technology utilised in Crystal Windows’ conservatories means that our satisfied customers are no longer at the mercy of the unpredictable British weather. Whether you’re entertaining friends on a balmy summers evening, relaxing over afternoon tea on a rainy autumn afternoon or snuggling up with a good book by the fireplace on a winters day, the fierce sun, rainy or windy conditions outside needn’t put paid to your fun.

With a Crystal Windows Conservatory, the sophisticated glazing technology responds to the elements allowing you to enjoy your conservatory whatever’s happening outside your window. With specific glass that works to keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer our beautifully bespoke conservatories set a new standard in performance glazing. The high performance glass used in our conservatories provides a unique combination of heat reflection and thermal insulation offering the ultimate temperature control, so you can relax in your new room regardless of the outside climate. With clever visible light transmission technology and UV protection, Crystal Windows ensure your comfort whatever the temperature outside. The percentage of visible light directly transmitted through the glass in your conservatory gives you the perfect amount of daylight to make the most of your new living space, whatever you choose to use it for.

Twin Gable Conservatory in Poynton by Crystal Windows

And that’s not all. If you’re concerned that advanced technology equals expensive upkeep, then you’re sure to be pleased to hear that our hassle free easy-clean technology actually cuts down on maintenance requirements leaving you free to enjoy the benefits of your new conservatory all year through. So not only can you relax in your conservatory in the comfort of the perfect temperature, but you also have the peace of mind of knowing that your furniture and furnishings are protected with special UV protection that dramatically reduces the impact of the sun’s damaging UV rays, so there will be no more faded fabrics to contend with. It sounds more appealing by the second doesn’t it? A conservatory should be for all year, not just for spring!

At Crystal Windows our team will ensure that whatever your reason for installing a conservatory you’ll be glad you did, whether it’s April, August or December and that’s a promise!

When Amdega, one of the oldest conservatory and greenhouse makers in the world, collapsed into administration, it wasn’t only 200 employees who felt the loss. Many clients were left with unfulfilled contracts and half finished conservatories. Take this client on the Wirral, for example. As the ‘before and after’ shots show, Crystal Window’s involvement in the abandoned Amdega conservatory renovation project proved invaluable and resulted in a beautiful Timber Hardwood Conservatory being installed at a higher spec and under budget, which went some way to compensating the client for the loss of their original deposit with Amdega. Crystal Windows were happy to save the day and pleased to leave the client satisfied that their dreams of a beautiful conservatory had finally come to fruition. We attribute our continued success to our understanding of the current marketplace and the fact that we listen to what our clients want and provide them with plenty of choice.

(more…)

This beautiful Timber Hardwood Conservatory on the Wirral almost never got off the ground due to the client having placed their original order with Amdega – the conservatory company who recently went into administration. Fortunately, the client contacted Crystal Windows and our conservatory installation teamed worked their magic to bring the home improvement dream to life. Despite having placed an original order with Amdega, the client was delighted with their finished Timber Hardwood Conservatory once Crystal Windows stepped in. What’s more, we were able to complete this stunning Conservatory installation at a higher spec for a lower price than previously quoted in the original contract, so the client has a conservatory built to not only look good, but to last. The Conservatory is testament to Crystal Windows ‘product neutral approach’ to installations using wood here to embrace the character of the existing home. Whatever our clients have in mind, be it a contemporary aluminium style of something more traditional, Crystal Windows provide the choice and complete the job in style and on budget.

We’ve all heard horror stories of conservatories left half built or orangeries that look great but show the cracks just weeks after the job is finished. The problem is with so many ‘deals’ designed to entice it’s easy to succumb to the temptation of a new conservatory at a bargain price with little thought to the bigger picture – the aftercare.  Fear not.  Crystal Windows aren’t in the business of offering ‘deals’ and we know our commitment to the customer is only beginning as the installation of their new conservatory, orangery or windows ends.  In short, we care.

Here at Crystal Windows we pride ourselves on an excellent service which has resulted in our upstanding reputation as one of the North West’s leading suppliers of conservatories and orangeries. But we don’t stop providing great service once your new installation is built.  Far from it.  We place massive importance on after sales care in order to help you maintain your new conservatory or orangery.  After all, a home improvement is not an investment entered into without much consideration. The additional space requires the same attention as the rest of your property. For example, not everyone is aware that ideally a conservatory roof should be cleaned with warm water at least three times every year.  Welcome to our Maintenance and Care website service dedicated to providing useful advice regarding conservatory cleaning and maintenance and recommendations regarding conservatory and orangery furniture, paints and finishing touches.

Crystal Windows Maintenance and Aftercare

Peace of mind
Crystal Windows wouldn’t be in business without you, so the team felt it vital to set up this new website section dedicated to conservatory and orangery maintenance.  From lubrication to conservatory blinds, orangery drainage to paints, we will advise how best to care for the new addition to your home. By providing helpful tips on the upkeep of your new living space we hope to further improve our service you, adding value to the incredible packages we already offer and providing you with the peace of mind of knowing we are available to deal with any queries.

How can we help?
Let’s face it, not everyone is a DIY expert and with increasingly busy lives we don’t all have time to clean our conservatory windows or keep our paint work in tip top condition.  Then there’s attention to detail – not everyone is blessed with a flair for interior design. That’s where Crystal Windows’ invaluable new maintenance and care service comes to the fore. When it comes to conservatory cleaning and orangery maintenance we have the industry knowledge and the personal experience you need. Here on our website, we will let you know our top recommendations for cleaning firms, top paint brands and hinge lubrication.  We’ll also provide advice on how to choose the best conservatory furniture and how to personalise your installation to reflect your own unique taste and style. With professional tips from industry experts and inspirational design ideas, we’ll help you keep your new conservatory or orangery looking fresh and modern for years to come.

Spreading the good news
If you like what you see in this maintenance blog and find our advice useful, then please help us spread the word. As highlighted by the nature of our hints and tips we’re always looking to stay one step ahead and social networking helps us to spread the good news. Please follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and circle us on Google+. At Crystal Windows we are constantly striving to improve our service so if you think we could do something better, let us know.  We would be delighted to receive your questions and invite you to share your maintenance tips with us.

It’s that time of year again, when incredible news stories serve to remind us of the importance of home security around Christmas time. For instance a news story broke out earlier in Ohio, US – it concerned an 11 year-old boy returned home only to discover a stranger sitting on the couch, having put the Christmas decorations. Although the offender is charged with burglary, and no one was hurt, the story could’ve ended up very different. It reminds us that Christmas traditionally sees a spike in incidents of domestic burglary. It’s well known the weakest parts in your home are windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries. With years of experience in designing and building conservatories and orangeries, Crystal Windows would like to share their secret tips to avoid Christmas burglaries.

1. Remember to Lock up:
It may sound obvious (and it is), but it’s worth mentioning – lock your doors and windows every time you leave or return the house. In most burglary cases, the offenders broke into properties through the doors or windows by forcing the lock or knocking in. Conservatory and orangery are particularly at risk due to its glass structures. So make sure you have installed strong and secure doors and windows, in some cases, it’s worth having weak ones replaced. Glass panels are another vulnerable link. We recommend our customers to adopt laminated glass when it comes to having them replaced. If yours are not, the simplest solution will be to buy a specialised film which will reinforce the glass panels. If you are fitting new doors or windows, make sure your installers don’t cut corners, and use ones certified to British Standard BS7950(for windows) or PAS 21-1(for doors). Some modern locking mechanisms will need you to lift the lever whilst using a key to securely lock it. Reminders pinned next to all entrances will work well. Don’t forget to hide all keys out of sight. You’d be amazed how many burglars can fish keys left on show out of home.

2. Door security is key:
A front door can provide for a warm welcome to our homes, but some doors are more susceptible to attack from unscrupulous thieves. Many doors look safe and secure as they are often made from PVCu or composite, but with a little know-how, accessing them can be easy peasy to thieves. They use a process called lock bumping (but don’t expect us to give you an insight as to how this works, we don’t want to give anyone ideas), but it’s actually a legitimate process for a trained professional locksmith. The key to protecting your doors is to ensure they are fitted with anti-bump, anti drill and anti-snap door locks.

3. Visibility:
A visible burglar alarm with flashing light is always a huge deterrence. So is the Neighbourhood watch sign. Security floodlights with motion sensor will enhance the visibility outside, making you an unlikely target. It is important to include these options when designing your conservatories and orangeries.

4. Hide:
We know Christmas is the best time of the year to treat your family and yourself with some sought-after gifts. But remember how heart breaking it is to lose those gifts. So remember always keep all gifts out of the sight, and make sure packaging is disposed of right away. It’s no use hiding your new laptop if you leave the box outside!

5. Stay alert:
Bogus callers also known as distraction burglars will try their best to distract your attention in order to get into your home. If anyone unfamiliar or unexpected turns up at your door, you should always check identification before letting anyone in. Remember though, all charity collectors, utility readers should always have identification with them at all time, and don’t feel being offensive not letting them in if they weren’t able to produce legitimate identifications.  Equally don’t leave them standing at the door whilst you go searching in the house for something.

6. Enjoy:
well, this isn’t a tip for avoiding burglary, but we shouldn’t let burglars spoil our festive season. These simple tips will help ensure you have a risk free Christmas.  Crystal Windows & Conservatories would like to wish you all a safe and enjoyable 2011 Christmas!

At Crystal Windows we are proud when we achieve fantastic results and that is just what we’ve achieved with our exciting Ultimate Orangery project. As browsers who have been following this challenging orangery development online will know, this completed impressive installation is the result of Crystal Windows’ long-established design and building expertise where the team listen to what the client wants and transform the original design ideas from paper into a marvellous physical reality that works in harmony with your original building. Having been commissioned by Mr and Mrs Malone to design and build this striking 100m2 orangery featuring four separate living spaces, the Crystal Windows team drew on all their skills and experience, adding the necessary design flair and creative thinking and we’re sure you’ll agree, the results speak for themselves.

You can see how the existing property has been opened up with new multi-purpose living spaces that are perfect for relaxing, working and entertaining. The contemporary multi-room layout had the whole team excited and it was fantastic to watch the orangery project continually evolve and take shape. It has also been rewarding to be able to update our clients and potential customers on the progress of this orangery project and we are delighted at how many browsers have been able to follow the installation online. As these latest pictures show, the Malones are now benefitting from greater views of their remarkable garden and have the opportunity to enjoy al fresco dining with the benefit of being sheltered should the weather change – no need for a shower to dampen the party mood!

The level of construction involved for this inspiring four room orangery required the Crystal Team to utilise all our building expertise as the sheer scale of the build required us to go really deep into the ground to determine the ground level. Every single aspect of the Ultimate Orangery has required meticulous planning from the foundations to the final finish to ensure a completed orangery that not only looks incredible but it also built to last and withstand the elements. Such a structurally complex installation takes time to get just right and from the designers to the dedicated team of builders and Mr and Mrs Malone’s personal Project Manager – who was either on site or at the end of a phone – the whole team has worked together to ensure this Ultimate Orangery project has been a resounding success. From the initial grand design concept to completion the Ultimate Orangery has had the Crystal Windows team fully motivated and the Malones enthralled and we are pleased to present the finished product that looks simply stunning and ticks all the criteria outlined on the Malones’ original wish list. Obviously the Ultimate Orangery demonstrates what can be achieved by working on a large scale project, but it is also indicative of the range of skills and expertise that have seen us become one of the leading Northwest Orangeries suppliers providing installations built to the highest industry standards. So, if you’re feeling inspired, come and talk to the Crystal Windows team today. No matter what scale your ideas are on, the sky’s the limit and we’re ready to transform your home.

At Crystal Windows our experienced design and installation teams bring home improvement dreams to life.

When it comes to conservatories we don’t mass produce carbon copies that lack character and individuality – we listen to your ideas to create a conservatory or orangery that is completely bespoke. This project in Wilmslow highlights the fantastic results we achieve by turning ideas into wonderful home improvement realities.

The client wanted a tranquil garden retreat which would serve as a plant room whilst also providing a peaceful place to sit and admire her beautiful garden. Crystal Windows created this free standing conservatory set away from the main house but still in keeping with the style of the property and we ticked all criteria off our client’s wish-list. This free standing conservatory finished in a French Grey Farrow & Ball shade creates additional room to relax and entertain without being attached to the main house providing more family flexibility.

For a colourful view of the world we can provide windows you’ll want to look at as well as out of. Crystal Windows are in the business of positively transforming homes and it’s a business we take seriously. When it comes to installing new windows we can provide those windows in any colour under the sun to suit the existing style of your home and add impact to its overall look.

This house in Adlington, Cheshire demonstrates the dramatic transformations that can be achieved when you choose Crystal Windows. For a change from their original white windows our client – the Hills – wanted a new look that would make their windows stand out yet still be in keeping with the style of their property. To meet their requirements the Crystal team installed these striking grey windows with fascias and soffits in a matching colour to create a distinctive finish the Hills were extremely impressed with.

At Crystal Windows we’re in the business of improving homes with our stunning range of bespoke conservatories and orangeries. With the fantastic reports recently that interest rates will not be subject to increase for the next two years, there’s never been a better time to invest in your property. With our extensive experience in designing and installing conservatories, orangeries and PVC-u windows in homes across the North West for 25 years, one of the factors we have to overcome with new clients is concern over cost.

(more…)

When clients approach us for an orangery they usually have very specific ideas in mind about the look they want to achieve. Using our skills and vast experience in designing and installing orangeries across the North West, we work closely with them to ensure the finished orangery not only exceeds expectations, but also looks very much part of the existing building. This orangery in Middlewich demonstrates how this working relationship throughout a project achieves great results – here the orangery meets the client requirements of featuring a grey framework whilst the brickwork is an exact replica of that used to build the original house. With our reputation for delivering beautiful bespoke orangeries in any colour under the sun, we will work with you to turn your home improvement dreams into reality whilst also adding space and light to your home.

It’s incredible what can be achieved by adding an orangery to your home, both in terms of aesthetics and space and this beautifully bespoke orangery in Wilmslow Cheshire demonstrates how Crystal Windows use over 20 years experience in designing and installing orangeries to transform clients’ homes. As with all our orangery and home improvement projects, the finished project should blend seamlessly with the style of the building it is being built on to. Crystal Windows can match any colour under the sun and if a client requests white framework, we achieve the classic, clean look they are after. Here, you can see not only is the brick work an exact match for the existing house, but the decorative fascia and stone sills have also been created to match perfectly, so the overall effect is an orangery that looks as though it’s always been there!

These stunning window in Prestbury, Cheshire was a fine example of Crystal Windows and Conservatories’ dedication to both colour matching and design.

The client wanted to match the window frames exactly, so the windows and matching fascias installation are finished in a matching Farrow and Ball slipper satin shade. Crystal Windows can match any colour under the sun, even if we weren’t responsible for the original frames. Imagine what we could do for you.

This conservatory in Adlington Cheshire illustrates how every conservatory Crystal Windows install looks very much part of the original building rather than an ill-conceived after-thought. Built using brickwork that blends seamlessly with the house, the framework is also a perfect match for the cream windows.  In this instance, Crystal Windows installed the windows about four years before we were asked back to design the conservatory – testament to the fact many satisfied customers return to us for further home improvements. Such repeat business has helped us build our strong reputation for service and quality.

With our aptitude for designing orangeries in any colour under the sun it’s easy to complement the style of your home whilst bringing your creative vision to life. This bespoke orangery in Disley demonstrates the results Crystal Windows can achieve – working closely with the client from conception through the design process we provided the finished orangery they hoped for.

Crystal can match any colour you choose and we don’t have to stick to a single shade – we are guided by your requirements. Here we have created a classic looking two tone orangery which beautifully harmonises with the colour scheme and windows on the main house. The client requested that the corner posts and freeze detail be finished in a specific Farrow and Ball blue grey tone and the rest of the frames in a complementary cream finish. This creates a distinctive overall look for the orangery adding character to their home.

So, you want to improve your home? If you’re planning a conservatory or orangery to create extra living space it can be a daunting prospect taking a step into the unknown. You may have all these ideas in your head about what you would like your conservatory to look like but be fearful of signing up to anything when you can’t be sure what the finished product will actually look like. At Crystal Windows we have the perfect solution. Not only can you read the testaments of our previous satisfied customers and take a look at the many impressive case studies on our website, you now have the opportunity to see your very own ideas brought to life without committing to anything. Our incredible Design Studio gives you the chance to come along with all your questions, creative ideas and any design features that have inspired you and take a look at how the Crystal Windows team could work with clients to bring their orangeries or conservatories to life. By providing us with photos of your home and telling us what you hope to achieve with your new living space, we’ll use our design expertise to show you what your home could look like. By visiting the Crystal Windows Design Studio you will get to see first-hand what can be gained by adding a conservatory or orangery to your home. It will help to make your ideas tangible and you will be able to build up an accurate picture of how easily the Crystal Windows team will be able to achieve the home improvement results you’re after. We can also advise if something is not achievable and suggest appropriate alternatives.

(more…)

During these difficult economic times many companies are floundering and struggling to keep up with industry competition. Such difficult trading conditions call for savvy decision making and often, keeping things small helps you achieve big successes. Nothing could hold more truth for Crystal Windows. As a Cheshire based conservatory supplier we pride ourselves on designing and installing unique conservatories and orangeries for clients across the region. By keeping to a local client base we have achieved a strong reputation for our quality and service and positive feedback and word-of-mouth recommendations keep repeat business coming in. At Crystal Windows we know how fortunate we are to be riding the financial storm and bringing in business amongst so much uncertainty. You only have to look at what is happening to other conservatory suppliers to realise how easily it can all go wrong.

(more…)

Tony Wooderson from Crystal Windows talks about the unlimited range of colours available for your Conservatory and Orangery. Don’t just accept white is your only option.

Not all Orangery and Conservatory companies are the same. Crystal Windows and Conservatories explain why they are a leader in design and construction in the Cheshire area.

Tony Wooderson of crystal windows talks about the differences between an orangery and conservatory and what buyers should think about when choosing which to buy and which company to buy from

Crystal Windows product finder

Conservatories

The Crystal team take the utmost pride in each and every unique conservatory.

Whether we're building conservatories in Cheshire or conservatories in Manchester, we have a reputation to uphold as the reliable North West conservatories supplier and we work hard to do just that. This means listening to our clients to ensure that every project is tailored for you, to harmonise with your home and garden.

Conservatories

Orangeries

Orangeries really are as awe-inspiring as they look.

And for sheer practicality and quality of life, few things come close to our stunning orangeries. For those hoping to create a combination of substantial structure and that outdoor living feel, an orangery offers the ideal blend. Our orangeries don't just suit one house style; they perfectly complement every home.

Orangeries

Windows & doors

It's not just stunning conservatories and orangeries that help Crystal to shine.

We've made our name in windows and install A rated windows for your home as standard. You have the reassurance of knowing the best rated windows on the market have been used and that they will help you to conserve heat. If you are considering upgrading your windows and doors, Crystal Windows are here to provide an exemplary service that will leave you happy and your home stylishly refreshed.

Windows & doors

Garden roooms

Escape the pressures of everyday life.

If space precludes a conservatory or if you are looking for something a little more self contained, a Garden Room from Crystal Windows could be the perfect solution. Built to the highest quality a Garden Room, as the name suggests, offers you a self contained space built in a variety of styles and sizes.

Garden Rooms

Timber alternative windows

The beauty of a wood look finish with the technology of PVC-u.

We defy you to be able to tell the difference between traditional timber frames and Crystal Window's stunning Evolution range of timber alternative windows – except when it comes to the price!

Timber Alternative Windows