I find it is easier to wait until your major room components are in place before selecting new lampshades. Let theme of your new room eveolve, then select lamp shades that either compliment or contrast with your theme. For example, a wild safari room with a zebra rug on floor, might be well-served by a simple solid-color lamp shade to help offset boldness of rug. However, in a less wild décor, such as a simple, clean, contemporary design, a bold lampshade would add visual interest to room. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

While most buyers of double glazing are looking for replacement windows to help reduce their energy costs, or because their old windows are rattling in their frames, there's a whole class of buyers who are 'trading up' - replacing perfectly good window frames for sake of having windows they want. They may be looking to replace all of their windows with a different style, or trying to restore their home to its architectural period.

And then there are homes that were fitted with first wave of double glazed windows in 1960s and 1970s. The original windows that featured double glazing as an energy saving measure were aluminum framed and conformed to best energy standards of their day. There have been enormous advances since then - in materials, techniques and styles. For many people, it's time to upgrade to new standards, even if old windows are still holding firm.

There are other reasons that people turn to replacement windows as well. Last spring, for instance, my mother decided it was time to replace mullioned casement windows in her kitchen. She's always hated them, but they came with house - and were brand new when she bought it. She shopped around for months until she finally found exactly what she wanted - a full three three-sided greenhouse window with shelving built into window frames. Each pane is double glazed, and entire effect is stunning. Her choice of replacement window transformed entire kitchen.

Whatever your reason for seeking replacement windows, following advice can help you choose right ones.

Prioritize your needs

Think through your reasons for replacing your windows and place a priority on each. There are many choices of materials and styles of replacement windows available, and each has distinct advantages over others. If you're concerned with restoration, for example, and want authenticity, then wood framed double glazed windows will probably be at top of your list. If your primary need in replacing windows is affordability, then PVCu framed windows are a far better choice.