One of the simplest and most affordable ways to keep more heat in your home is by installing double glazed windows, and John Evans, Managing Director at home improvements company, Stormclad, explains more. Evans also provides other reasons why going for double glazing is a no-brainer when it comes to beating both the chill and the price hike.
He says: “Over 80% of homes in England have double glazed windows, and for good reason. There is nothing worse than constantly battling with your thermostat because the temperature in your home keeps fluctuating, and then forking out on pricey bills to cover the cost of energy you didn’t want to use in the first place. Homeowners want peace of mind that their home is economical, is going to keep them warm in the winter months and cool in the summer months, and at an affordable price – and double glazing can certainly help with this. That’s why we have put together four top reasons why homeowners should upgrade their property, if they haven’t already.”
Go green to keep costs down
Double-glazed windows comprise two layers of dense glass that surround a section filled with intelligent gas, which are encompassed by tightly fitted window frames that incorporate spacer bars and thermal breaks. These elements all contribute to prevent heat loss and cold air entering, regulating the property’s temperature in all four seasons, and homeowners can save £95 a year and 330kg of carbon dioxide by installing A rated double glazing to windows in an entirely single-glazed semi-detached gas heated property, according to The Energy Saving Trust.
The energy ratings for double glazed windows range from C – the legal minimum standard now permitted for installers – to A++. The rating is calculated by assessing the window’s performance in thermal efficiency, air leakage and how much of the sun’s heat passes through the window. The better the performance, the higher the rating.
It is also worth bearing in mind that some window designs are more efficient than others. For example, sash windows are far less likely to perform well due to the frame panel across the middle of the glass, as it allows more air to leak out.
In addition, the type of frame used will also have a significant bearing on performance. For example, if the frames are wooden and if the window itself is particularly small, the frame could have a negative impact on the energy efficiency of the glass. Generally, more window and less frame – provided the window is double glazed – is better.
Peace and quiet
Double-glazed windows are great at soundproofing – which is particularly useful if you live by busy roads or railway tracks, as they’ll really help to minimise any unwanted noise. After all, your home should be your private place to relax and enjoy some silence.
Safe and secure
They’ll also make your home more secure. Products that use a single system are easily forceable, leaving homes vulnerable to unwanted intruders. A shatterproof double-glazed window, with brand-new toughened glass will act as a deterrent for thieves, and make it much tougher for them to gain entry. That said, it’s also worth investing in quality locking systems, hinges and internal beading, as no amount of glass alone will be enough to keep a determined intruder out.
Looking good
And last but not least, double-glazed windows give your property a more attractive appearance, as when you upgrade you’ll often end up with new frames too, providing a new overall look. Usually, single-glazed windows are older and will be showing their age – they may also have mould around the frames caused by condensation.