It's well known that single glazed windows are a nightmare when it comes to heat loss and that means higher energy bills should you have them. Many homes already have double glazing but over the coming years, the Government aim to refurbish homes that don't in a bid to hit new energy efficiency targets.
Style & Efficiency -
The technologies involved in manufacturing double glazed windows have come a long way in recent years. Energy efficient double glazing is now available in so many styles designed specifically for state-of-the-art eco-homes and new builds or to fit in perfectly in period properties.
In order to be as energy efficient as possible, the frames must be airtight to avoid letting cold air in and warm air out and even if the glass is energy efficient, the unit will not be if it is not totally airtight. The most popular material for double glazed windows is uPVC as it is available in numerous colours, resistant to adverse weather conditions and doesn't need regular maintenance.
How much money could you save? -
There have been numerous studies conducted on how much a household can save by installing double glazing. The average figure for savings over single glazed windows is around 15 per year on energy bills but also improves the value and saleability of your home. Although the initial outlay may seem a lot, grants and schemes to help fund the costs are a major part of the new Government's environmental policy.
Which design is the most energy efficient? -
The most energy efficient windows feature krypton, argon or xenon between the glass panes and these inert gases improve heat retention even further. There is a rating system in place for the energy efficiency of windows ranging from band A to band D and it is advised that band B is the best compromise between price and energy efficiency.
Fitting -
The most important thing is to make sure you have your windows fitted professionally to ensure they not only look and fit perfect but are as energy efficient as they should be. Windows may also have to apply with building and Government regulations and a professional company will be able to advise you on these. There is also the FENSA scheme in the UK that regulates double glazing installers so you should try to find one that is approved.
Style & Efficiency -
The technologies involved in manufacturing double glazed windows have come a long way in recent years. Energy efficient double glazing is now available in so many styles designed specifically for state-of-the-art eco-homes and new builds or to fit in perfectly in period properties.
In order to be as energy efficient as possible, the frames must be airtight to avoid letting cold air in and warm air out and even if the glass is energy efficient, the unit will not be if it is not totally airtight. The most popular material for double glazed windows is uPVC as it is available in numerous colours, resistant to adverse weather conditions and doesn't need regular maintenance.
How much money could you save? -
There have been numerous studies conducted on how much a household can save by installing double glazing. The average figure for savings over single glazed windows is around 15 per year on energy bills but also improves the value and saleability of your home. Although the initial outlay may seem a lot, grants and schemes to help fund the costs are a major part of the new Government's environmental policy.
Which design is the most energy efficient? -
The most energy efficient windows feature krypton, argon or xenon between the glass panes and these inert gases improve heat retention even further. There is a rating system in place for the energy efficiency of windows ranging from band A to band D and it is advised that band B is the best compromise between price and energy efficiency.
Fitting -
The most important thing is to make sure you have your windows fitted professionally to ensure they not only look and fit perfect but are as energy efficient as they should be. Windows may also have to apply with building and Government regulations and a professional company will be able to advise you on these. There is also the FENSA scheme in the UK that regulates double glazing installers so you should try to find one that is approved.
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