FAQ
Here are some of our frequently asked questions.
The softwood we use is a clear face, slow grown, laminated construction to ensure there are no defects and improve the stability. It is the least durable and so relies on the integrity of the surface finish to give protection. It is however, the least expensive of the options. The tropical hardwood is called Meranti and is the industry standard material for windows and doors. It is naturally more durable and takes a stain finish well whilst being only slightly more expensive than laminated softwood. The oak we use can be either European or American White Oak, again usually of laminated construction. It is the most durable of the materials but still requires a surface finish to protect it and prevent unsightly staining. It is also the most expensive.
No matter which raw material is used, they all rely on a surface finish for protection against the elements, whether it is heat, cold or wet. If it is done here at the factory we can control all the variables. The wood is dry, the temperature is correct, we can coat all parts of the surface including all the areas that are not accessible after assembly, and we can apply the correct amount of coats at the correct thickness. This is all done in conjunction with our paint supplier, Sikkens and they regularly call to monitor our performance and appraise us of the latest developments.
The delivery costs are normally included in the overall cost. The exception is if it's a very remote location, an off-shore island or it's a small order. Even this is sometimes possible to link with another order to the same area. It is always best to ask.
Treecraft only manufacture, we do not carry out any installation work. However, we are happy to recommend various installers with whom we have worked in the past (see the seperate list.) We can supply directly to private client or through joinery / installation companies and can liaise and offer advice with both design and sizing requirements.
For private clients we ask for a 10% deposit with the order confirmation and the balance on delivery. Trade customers are eligible to open an account when our terms are strictly 30 days from end of delivery month.
Scottish Building Regulations state that it must be possible to clean all windows above ground floor safely from the inside. Generally, the upstairs windows should open in such a way as to permit this to happen. It does mean at times, that a constraint is placed on the type of window design that can be used and it can also involve a cost implication.
Every room has to have the facility of a certain amount of ventilation, and the easiest and probably cheapest way is to fit trickle vents. Again, this is a building regulation, and there are some good practical reasons behind it. However, it always strikes me as very contradictory to fit weather seals and high performance double glazing and then make a hole through the top of the window and cover it with a thin piece of aluminium!!!
Our standard production window is in the region of 1.3. This can vary slightly depending on the actual design and can be further improved to around 1.2 if we use a different type of glass. This however will have financial implications and it is always necessary to strike a balance between cost and performance. See the glazing section for more information.