Nick Dardalis has been working in the fenestration industry for over 3 decades.
Having worked in various roles covering sales and business administration, Nick has worked across the residential and commercial sectors in manufacturing and installation.
Nick now writes about all aspects of fenestration, including the impact of changing building regulations and an ever-evolving consumer market. Through the DWE website, Nick writes reviews about new products working closely with all aspects of the supply chain in the UK and Europe.
When starting a property renovation or building project, one of the questions you may have is where to get planning advice. This is also called pre-planning advice and should be one of the first steps in determining whether your project needs planning permission. The advice is always to speak to …
A well-designed porch is an excellent addition to the front of your home, or the side if that’s where your main door is. Porches add practical space, improve insulation and help with security. But before you start planning or building, it’s important to understand whether you need planning permission for …
While many conservatories don’t require planning permission, building regulations may still apply depending on the size, design, and how the new space connects to the main property. Here’s what you need to know about planning permission for a conservatory, before starting your project. When don’t you need planning permission for …
Are you upgrading your windows to replace old, dated or rotting ones, or do you want to improve the appearance, security and energy efficiency of your home? Whether you’re replacing old windows or planning to create new openings, it’s important to understand when planning permission for windows may be required …
Tilt and turn windows have been popular for decades in European and Scandinavian countries, but were little known in the UK due to limited suppliers and the trend for casement windows in our homes. Today, tilt and turn windows are growing in popularity because they are significantly better than regular …
When purchasing doors and windows for a new build or as replacements, it’s crucial to understand the significance of door and window double glazing guarantees and warranties. Double glazing guarantees can protect customers from defects in materials and poor installations. During your research, you’ll encounter numerous door and window professional bodies and trade …
The Invisoglide Sliding Door by Smart Systems finally brings a 20mm and 26mm slim mullion bonded door into Smart’s sliding door collection. Because this door is a Smart product, it will sell well and bring a mid-range bonded door into the popular sliding door space. Whilst late to the Slimline …
Building regulations apply to windows and doors for the consumer’s safety and comfort. There are specific building regulations regarding security in new homes or dwellings for England and Wales called ‘Approved Document Q’ and Scotland ‘4.13 Security’, both recognise the PAS 24 security standard; however, Northern Ireland currently has no …
Your home should be where you feel the safest from intruders, so security should be a top priority when choosing new external doors and windows which provide easy access to your home. PAS 24 and RC3 | RC4 burglary-resistant security standards help you achieve that security. Locks are always taken for …
In October 2018, the UK Government published a Code of Practice for Consumer IoT (Internet of Things) Security. This paper provides guidance for the consumer regarding Internet-connected or smart devices, such as smart door locks and windows, in the home. On 29 April 2024, the Government’s Product Security and Telecommunications …
The Glideline GS15 sliding door is a premium aluminium sliding door system designed for modern homes and commercial spaces. Featuring a thermally broken minimalist frame with a sleek 15mm interlock, it maximises natural light while maintaining high thermal efficiency. The system allows for multiple configurations, including two, three, and four-panel …
There are many choices for homes today when selecting a new front door. As well as your preferred design, modern or traditional, the front door material will also be a deciding factor. Used daily, your front door is arguably the most important door in your home. The choice of …
Alitherm 400 is a high-performance aluminium window and door system designed for modern residential and commercial applications. Fully compliant with Document L of the Building Regulations, it delivers excellent thermal efficiency, enhanced security, and a stylish design. With PAS 24 approval, a wide range of colour options, and a new …
Cortizo COR 70 windows are ideal in residential and commercial projects thanks to their contemporary styling, reasonably slim profiles, quality aluminium frames, and reliable performance. Cortizo COR 70 is predominantly and inward opening system with one outward opening that is highly recommended. Here’s everything you need to know about Cortizo …
At the Door and Window Experts Website, we’ve long understood the enduring attraction of timber windows and doors. But should you have them in your home and are timber windows worth the money? Yes, timber windows are absolutely worth the money. There is simply no substitute for real wood windows. …
Cortizo Casement windows do what they say on the tin. Slim, contemporary with overlapping or flush casement design. Well-made and fitted Cortizo casement windows have today’s required styling and sightlines. This review focuses specifically on the outward opening wide and top hung windows. Their adaptability and elegant design make them …
Cortizo doors are a popular choice for residential and commercial applications. There are two models, the Cortizo Bifold and the newer Cortizo Bifold Plus. For this review we will focus more on the Plus model but will cover the differences between the two as well. Whether for residential or commercial …
The ASE 51 PD Panoramic Sliding Door brings the outstanding Schüco brand name at a more affordable price point. This new sliding door looks fantastic, is very well designed, slides effortlessly and has the slim sightlines today’s customers expect. With its pleasing minimalist design, you also get the legendary Schüco performance and …
Introduction The Schüco AWS 80 SC window system represents the latest advancement in window design, offering a perfect blend of innovation, performance, and aesthetic appeal. Launched in 2024, these windows are designed specifically for the UK market, ensuring compliance with current and future Building Regulations, including the stringent 2025 standards. …
This article explores all you need to know about uPVC sliding sash windows, including how to buy them and the decisions you need to make. These windows, also called vertical sliding windows, provide the appearance of traditional Victorian-style timber windows with all the benefits of modern double glazing. Old timber …
So good is Elite™ by Aluco, that we’ve awarded it the Door and Window Experts Website, Product of the Year, 2024. What is Elite™ by Aluco? Developed as a direct successor to the successful Exterior Collection, Elite addresses the limitations of existing steel-look products while introducing innovative features. The system …
Elite by Aluco, a brand new steel-look exterior window and door system, we have named Product of the Year 2024. Elite stands out as a groundbreaking new collection of windows and doors, which we see has great design, technical innovation, and premium craftsmanship. Above all, Aluco has worked to create …
As 2024 draws to a close, we take a look back at some of the best products available for windows and doors. These aren’t necessarily all-new products. However, in our view, they are worthy of consideration for your home or commercial building. Of course, these products and the many great …
Two brands often stand out when it comes to timber-look and flush windows: Residence 9 and Evolution Windows. Both offer timber-effect uPVC windows that replicate the charm of traditional wooden windows without the higher cost, longer lead times and perceived additional maintenance. Residence 9 vs Evolution Windows is frequently a …
The Residence Collection is a premium collection of uPVC windows designed in classic timber, flush and contemporary styles. With excellent design, manufacturing quality, and brand reputation, the Residence Collection has expanded into one of the go-to luxury PVCu brands. In this article, we delve into the Residence Collection, a suite …
uPVC flush windows have become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern performance. Characterised by window sashes that sit flush within the frame, these windows offer clean lines and an elegant appearance suitable for both period properties and contemporary homes. However, choosing the right one …
Black Friday originated in the United States as a major shopping event following Thanksgiving Day, marking the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Over the years, it has evolved into a global phenomenon, with retailers worldwide offering significant discounts to entice consumers. In the UK, Black Friday has become a …
Oriel windows, also called frameless box windows, are a current architectural trend among homeowners and architects. Their modern features, which seamlessly blend functionality with striking aesthetics, fill a room with more light than a traditional window, adding a contemporary touch to any space. Oriel windows have the added benefits of …
Introduced in 2022, Part O Building Regulations are designed to help homeowners of newly built homes manage and prevent overheating. As modern homes increasingly feature large sliding doors, expansive windows, and floor-to-ceiling glazing, addressing the impacts of excessive heat becomes crucial. While Part O primarily aims to safeguard the health …
When replacing windows and doors in your home, you must comply with building regulations, which can be achieved by choosing a certified installer through the Competent Persons Scheme. However, what is the difference between FENSA and Certass and Assure? Homeowners are not always aware of the building regulations for replacement …
The last few years have seen significant changes in door and window trends, and there has never been a better time for new windows and doors as far as choice is concerned, 2024 has seen some fantastic new products come to market. Looking ahead to 2025 door and window trends, …
French doors remain one of the most popular door types. Suitable for modern or traditional homes, available in a choice of materials, styles and aesthetics, today’s choice in French doors is better than ever. As a leading independent source of expert guidance on French doors, here is everything you need …
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