Welcome to Planet South Lakes Blog

Imagine a world without doors. For a start there would be a huge uptake in burglaries and privacy within your own home would virtually be none existent. We at Planet South Lakes do not take doors lightly, so not only do we provide front and back doors, but we are also able to install patio and French doors in your home.

And there has never been a better time to buy new doors in Barrow in Furness as we are offering up to a whopping 30% off all our doors, including residential and stable doors. All of our doors are constructed using the finest and strongest of materials, so you can be rest assured of the greatest protection within the home. All our doors are built to last so it is very important that you choose the right type of door for your home as you will be living with it for many years to come.

Even the most security conscious of people will be delighted with the locking mechanism provided on our uPVC doors.  All doors are composed of several locking points and the very best high security bolts, so the chance of anyone managing to break into your home is virtually nil.

Each of our doors are also available in a variety of different colours to suit your own individual taste.  The common misconception among people is that uPVC is available in a limited amount of colours compared to traditional timber frames.  Well not at Planet South Lakes as we are able to offer colours such as white, oak, rosewood and black.

Planet South Lakes is not just about doors though.  We are also the finest provider of conservatories in Cumbria and windows in Lancaster.  So pick up the phone and call us on 0800 612 2255 and see how we can turn your home into a luxurious haven.

It would seem that every time you pick up a newspaper or turn on the national news, there is some report stating that energy bills are set to rise. The many electricity and gas companies claim that they are imposing this as householders need to rely less on their heaters at home and start helping save the planet.

As energy costs sky rocket through the roof, more people are checking out the value of installing new windows in Lancaster as a way of beating such price hikes. Although you may feel that the installation of double glazing is a pricey and unnecessary need or want, further down the line you will notice that double glazing is a perfect way of slashing money off heating bills.  They are a great long term investment.

This is because as uPVC windows are made of a harder and better composed material than say timber frames, it means they are more likely to prove to be a better insulator of heat.  As they are constructed of two panes of glass, it also means that it is virtually impossible for the glass to be removed or broken into, making your home a more secure place to live in.

Most window installers will supply windows in a variety of colours meaning that you can choose whichever most suit the look and feel of your home.  Therefore you need not worry that by losing your existing windows, you are going to lose the pleasing aesthetics of your property.

You must be aware though that you employ a reputable installation company to carry out the work.  Speak to friends and relatives and find out if any of them have previously had work done by one of the local installation company’s and see if they would recommend them to conduct work at your home.  If you want to further enhance the look of your home, have a think about also adding new doors in Barrow in Furness and conservatories in Cumbria.

Planet Conservatories, Windows & Doors is coming to Lancaster – with a new indoor showroom. Part of the Conservatory, Window & Door Outlet network – Planet South Lakes has established itself to be among the most recognised installers of PVC conservatories, orangeries, replacement windows and doors throughout Barrow-in-Furness, Kendal and Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth and throughout Cumbria. We have become this way by listening to our customers’ needs and providing answers in even the most testing of locations.

Choosing the right home improvement company for PVC conservatories, orangeries, windows and doors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when thinking about adding a new bespoke conservatory or having replacement double glazing windows fitted. It’s not just about the price, it’s about the quality and value for money of the products themselves.

Planet South Lakes, currently based in Kendal, Cumbria understand that it means so much when you finally find a company who you feel you can trust to do the job properly – first time. It also makes a huge difference if workers are punctual, courteous, considerate and careful with your possessions. Planet’s dedicated craftsmen will install your new bespoke conservatory, custom built orangery or double glazed windows and doors to the highest standards – working with maximum respect for your property and with minimum disruption to your home life.

A properly planned and fitted PVC conservatory, orangery or quality double glazed windows and doors from Planet South Lakes will add lasting value to your home. That’s the way it should be. So that’s what we do.

So, if you looking for a local home improvement company offering the very latest uPVC Conservatories in Lancaster? A tailor-made Orangery in Lancaster? Or a company who installs the very latest ‘A’ Rated Replacement Double Glazing Windows in Lancaster? Make Planet South Lakes your first choice.

CLICK HERE to contact Planet South Lakes online and arrange a free quotation or freephone 0800 615 2255.

Live in Lancaster or the surrounding areas. Thinking about having a new conservatory, a tailor-made orangery or improving your home with the very latest energy rated replacement windows and doors. We’d like to invite you to our fabulous indoor Kendal showroom near Lancaster. You’ll find fully built examples of beautifully furnished conservatories a bespoke contemporary orangery and a comprehensive display of replacement double glazed windows and doors, including the very latest ‘A’ rated PVC windows – giving you the chance to ”try before you buy”.

We promise you a warm welcome and relaxed, friendly shopping experience.

You’ll find some great ideas in our Kendal showroom, be able to ask any questions you may have with people who know your area well – because they live locally. You’ll get useful FREE advice from some of the most helpful and professional people around – and it’s all FREE and without any obligation to buy! If you prefer we’ll be happy to call or visit your home whenever it suits you, including all evenings and weekends – click here if you would like to book a Home Appointment.

A little bit of interesting facts on Lancaster
Built on a site first fortified in Roman times, the superbly preserved medieval castle is just part of the array of fascinating historic buildings in Lancaster, a city where you will find evidence of Georgian pomp and Victorian civic philanthropy as well as Roman and Medieval remains.

Of course, Lancaster has always had a key role in England’s history, giving its name to the great county of Lancashire as well as to the Royal House of Lancaster, and Lancaster Castle is still owned by her Majesty the Queen.

The castle is still a working building, housing two crown courts and a prison. Guided tours throughout the year offer you a glimpse behind its high walls.

The castle and the ancient Priory Church of St Mary the Virgin form a magnificent backdrop to special events throughout the year, including the Georgian Fair and the hugely popular November fireworks celebrations.

Form this hilltop you can also look across to another famous Lancaster landmark and one of England’s grandest follies, dominating the skyline – the Ashton Memorial, set in the sweeping gardens of Williamson Park.

Here at Conservatory Outlet we are very proud of the standard of our products.

This is no different when it comes to our range of uPVC Windows – Our windows are extremely secure, including options of extra locks and many different design options available.

In addition to this we have just added new colours to our fantastic range of windows. We now have Black uPVC Windows, as you can see in the picture below, these offer a great alternative to the traditional white or cream. They definitely have the ability to help define the aesthetics of a property.

Other new colours are available as well, these are woodgrain white, green, rustic cherry, gray and cream.

For more information please look on our website, call us, or if you’re interested about seeing our products in person, visit a showroom.

Today, more than ever, we are concerned about the amount of energy we are using in our homes. Job cuts, money worries and our impact on the environment are all major factors in the way we utilise and expend energy at home. Investing in energy saving uPVC windows and doors can provide a long lasting way of helping ensure that heat does not escape from our dwellings.

As an additional benefit, choosing a uPVC window that has an energy rating of C or above means that they actually help to utilise the solar energy coming into our homes, helping to heat up our homes. Choosing uPVC windows and doors that carry the C rating or above help to ensure that money is saved long term as it is a well documented fact that depending on our window set up there is a large scope for heat loss to occur.

But uPVC windows and doors cost loads of money I hear you cry! Now this is not necessarily the case. Anyone wanting double-glazing in the Morecambe Bay area can take advantage of some fantastic deals with amazing 30% savings. This combined with a £99.00 deposit and nothing to pay until 2010 (interest free), what more could you want.

Planet South Lakes have a superb range of uPVC windows and doors that are rated ‘C’ or above and also have some that carry the coveted ‘A’ rating. What this means for anyone living in or around Barrow and Lancaster is that they can have brand new windows and doors that will be guaranteed to be much more energy efficient than what is already there.

Getting your hands on these fabulous energy saving windows and doors has never been easier. With three easy ways to arrange a quotation you will not be stuck for a way to get in contact. For the computer savvy out there, why not visit the website www.planetsouthlakes.com. Alternatively, why not pick up the phone and call 0800 612 2255 to speak to an extremely friendly advisor or lastly, call in to the showroom and experience that personal touch.

The City of Lancaster has a long and rich history from its origins as a Roman garrison, the site of which is now home to Lancaster Castle which overlooks the city from its high vantage point close to the River Lune. The city takes its name from both the Roman garrison and the river.

The city’s original name of Loncastre was recorded in the Doomsday Book in 1086. Lon = lune, the French word meaning moon and caster = from the Latin word for camp or base.  So for lovers of Space 1999, Lancaster means Moon Base. How cool is that!

Many buildings in the city centre and St. Georges Quay date from the 18^th Century when Lancaster was one of the busiest ports in the UK. The city’s maritime heyday was short lived, however its Georgian buildings still remain, most of which are listed, especially those which fall within Lancaster’s Castle Conservation Area.

Owners of listed buildings have an obligation to repair and maintain them in such a manner that is sympathetic to their architectural period. This means those wanting to install new double glazed windows in Lancaster may not have the same choice of uPVC window frames as those who reside in more modern dwellings.

This can prove problematic as some double glazing suppliers and fitters in the Lancaster area have a very limited choice of frames which may not reflect the Georgian aesthetic. However the good news is here at Planet South Lakes we have a comprehensive range of double glazed windows and frames. Many of which are perfectly suited to Lancaster’s numerous Georgian buildings.

Council planning committees, Lancaster’s included, are keen to retain the cultural look of the city’s historic buildings, so if your property still has its original windows and you want to replace them with new energy saving double glazed windows, you may have to replace them like for like.

Again this is not a problem at Planet South Lakes as we have both leaded windows, Georgian Bar windows and uPVC frames in the traditional ‘sash’ style which gives you all the benefits of modern double glazed windows, yet retains the period aesthetic of historic cities such as Lancaster.

Thinking about having a new conservatory, in Lancaster a beautiful orangery in Lancaster or improving your home with replacement double glazing windows and doors in Lancaster, we’d like to invite you to visit our Kendal showroom near Lancaster. You’ll find fully built examples of beautifully furnished conservatories, orangeries, double glazing options and a comprehensive display of pvc double glazing windows and doors – giving you the chance to ‘try before you buy’.

We promise you a warm welcome and relaxed, friendly shopping experience. You’ll find some great ideas, be able to ask any questions you may have with people who know your area well – because they live locally. You’ll get useful advice from some of the most helpful and professional people around – and it’s all free and without obligation! And we’ll be happy to call or visit you whenever it suits you, including all evenings and weekends.

Products available in Lancaster include
• PVC Conservatories
• Orangeries
• Double Glazing Windows
• Replacement Doors
• Patio Doors
• French Doors
• Porches
• Roofline Fascias and Soffits

Conveniently located on the Dockray Hall Estate, just off Burneside Road, the Planet South Lakes showroom is just outside Kendal town centre and close to the local landmark of the Magistrates Court buildings. There’s ample free parking right outside the showroom door.

Planet South Lakes
Unit 31, Dockray Hall Estate
Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4RU

Showroom Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9am to 5.30pm
Saturday 10am to 3pm

Planet South Lakes, one of the foremost providers of double glazing windows, PVC doors, conservatories and orangeries in the Lancaster, Morecambe and Barrow-in-Furness areas, are proud to announce their full range of products and services that will lead them from strength to strength for the rest of the year. With a combination of outstanding customer service, solid guarantees and bespoke design they are confident they have something to offer every homeowner in the North West.

PVC Conservatories
Planet South Lakes offer a completely bespoke design service, based on a variety of styles, which takes you right from the initial consultation in the Kendal showroom and includes all the building works, joinery and plumbing.  They will even provide an installation co-ordinator to make sure every stage of the construction goes smoothly.

Orangeries
Being the forerunner to the modern conservatory, often with a glazed roof, Orangeries prove to be a spacious and airy, yet cosy addition to any modern house, constructed with stone that will suit the style of the property itself.  A must for anyone wanting to add some old world panache, yet remain completely modern at the same time.

PVC Windows
Security is the order of the day with all the PVC windows that Planet South Lakes install.  As a member of FENSA, they take great pride in making sure all the windows they fit have the latest security features combined with an emphasis on ease of use.  Not only do they achieve this but their consultants will also make sure that from all the different varieties of windows  you choose, they will fit perfectly with the character of the building as well.

PVC Doors
Choose from a traditional PVC door to something more in line with safety and security like a stable door or residential PVC Rockdoor.  One thing you can be sure of is to get a door that is longer lasting, elegant and in a range of styles that will suit every taste and budget.  With a modern PVC construction you will never have to worry about them rotting, fading or the need to paint them ever again.

French Doors and Patio Doors
Offering an easy way to access the garden, patio or courtyard, French doors and patio doors are an old favourite and a great addition to any modern home.  Not only can they help to increase the value of your house, as will any Planet South Lakes product, they provide an invaluable cooling effect and improve air flow during the hot summer months.

Rooflines
Not a feature that readily springs to the mind of a homeowner, as a tidy roof line is something rarely noticed, yet a rotting, leaking, paint peeling one will always be spotted and reflected on by a visitor after they leave.  As the saying goes ‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression’ by having a PVC roofline fitted not only are you modernising your home but you are saving yourself the trouble of a lot of difficult ongoing maintenance.

Porches
For anyone wishing to add some extra space to the front of their property as well as some added elegance and style, a Planet South Lakes designer will work hand in hand with the homeowner to pick the best option for a front porch, as of course they do with any of their products.

A Planet South Lakes Spokesperson had this to add last week;
‘We are trying to achieve a situation where the homeowner has so much choice that we can  design a system that is truly bespoke and ticks all the right boxes to fit in perfectly with their desires and budget’

For more details about Planet South Lakes full range of products and services, to get a free online quotation or to book a free consultation then please visit www.planetsouthlakes.com, call free phone 0800 612 2255 or visit their Kendal Showroom.

It would be an obvious point to make that having new uPVC doors and uPVC windows fitted would provide several benefits to your house as a whole. The addition of these new features would undoubtedly increase the value of your home and the good news is that they do not have to detract from the external styling of the property either. In fact, by adding something like a porch, conservatory or orangery you not only compliment the building but also add more room and in many cases a touch of elegance to your house.

Energy efficiency is also another good reason for having new uPVC windows or uPVC doors fitted. This measure helps to save the environment by reducing your carbon footprint but it can also save money in your pocket by reducing energy bills.

The one overriding feature that I believe is the most significant point to take into consideration, though, is the added security features that modern uPVC doors or uPVC windows have to offer.  Not only do you benefit from the most modern and sturdy of materials but the equipment is likely to be fitted with good locks and bolts and even something as seemingly insignificant as internal beading can prove to be a useful addition to security.

Here we will look at some of the more significant features that modern uPVC doors and uPVC windows have to offer.

Internal Beading
At the end of the day a double glazed window is not designed to survive a sustained attack. After all, the emergency services need to gain quick access into your home if need be, but the idea of having modern windows fitted would be to deter the opportunist thief.  Older double glazed windows had the beading fitted on the outside of the glass, meaning that a potential burglar could pop out the plastic seal around the frame with a screwdriver and literally remove the entire unit.

Nowadays internal beading is fitted pretty much as standard which takes away this option.  If somebody wanted to break into your house with modern uPVC windows fitted they would literally have to smash the glass thus creating a lot of noise and bringing the attention of the neighbours to the fact that something was wrong.

Fire Safety
Having new uPVC windows fitted opens up the opportunity to make the house safer in the incidence of fire as well as improving the security of the property.  If you use a company that offers a bespoke design service you can make sure that they run through all the features and benefits of fitting windows within certain areas of the property that would allow for a quick escape during the rare instance of a fire in the home.  By having new windows fitted you are not only benefiting from all the points above, but it could also be the difference between life and death for you and your family.

Modern Locks and Bolts
Older doors in particular only have one lock that clicks into the frame at the middle of the door, making it easier for an intruder to force his way into the property.  The newest doors however have things such as multiple locking points, barrel locks with an anti drill design and anti-lift pins and hinge protectors, literally designed to prevent a would be burglar from lifting doors (especially in the case of an older conservatory or sliding patio door) right off their hinges.  These many added security features of modern uPVC windows and uPVC doors have evolved over the last 20-30 years of trial and error.

A process of developing technologies that would beat the ever increasing ingenuity of the burglar has led to the development of ever more secure locks and bolts to be added.  A burglar tends to be opportunistic and will deliberately seek out a soft target.  The best way to send out a message to them is to have new windows and doors fitted so they do not even give your property a second glance after noticing how the fittings look rock solid from the outside.

To explore your options the best step forward would be to book a session with a company that offers a bespoke design service.  There are a few good companies out there that offer this and not only will you be able be able to come up with a plan that suites the style of your building, takes into such external factors like a risk assessment of your property to determine the weak points but will also take into consideration your budget.