As the importance of sustainability and energy efficiency continues to gain momentum, homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to make their homes more eco-friendly.
One effective solution that stands out in the realm of energy-efficient home improvements is the installation of double glazing. In the UK, where the weather can be unpredictable and energy costs are on the rise, double glazing offers a comprehensive solution to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
In this complete guide, we will explore the benefits of double glazing when it comes to your replacement windows.
What is double glazing?
Compared to single glazing, double glazing involves the use of two sheets of glass separated by a layer of air or gas. This design creates an extra layer of insulation and provides a range of benefits, primarily focused on improving insulation and creating less heat loss.
The insulating layer acts as a barrier, creating thermal insulation that prevents heat from escaping during the colder months and blocking unwanted heat from entering during the warmer months. This thermal efficiency not only keeps your home comfortable with windows that have a good energy rating, but also helps to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
What are the key benefits of double glazing?
Improved insulation
Double glazing is highly effective at reducing the amount of heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This results in a more consistent and comfortable indoor environment.
Energy cost savings
By minimising the need for excessive heating and cooling, double glazing can lead to significant energy cost savings in the long term, making it a wise investment for homeowners.
Reduced condensation
The insulation provided by double glazing extends to reducing the risk of condensation on windows. This is especially beneficial for maintaining a healthier indoor environment by preventing the growth of mould and mildew.
Enhanced security
Double glazing not only provides energy efficient windows, but also enhances the security performance of your home. The dual layers of glass make it more difficult for intruders to break in, adding an extra layer of protection.
Noise reduction
The additional layer of glass in double glazing helps to reduce external noise, providing a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
Why are double glazed windows energy efficient?
Double-glazed windows are energy-efficient because of heat conduction. When heat is lost through a window, that heat needs a surface to get transferred or conducted through. Double-glazed windows have two glass surfaces, and between these is a layer of gas. Normally this gas will be argon, which is a poor conductor of heat. Because of this, not as much heat will make it through to the outside pane of glass.
Controlling the temperature
Because having two panes of glass with argon gas between acts as a poor conductor of heat, double-glazed windows are excellent at controlling the temperature in a room. The temperature in the interior remains mostly unaffected by the temperature outside, meaning cold areas are kept cold and warm areas are kept warm. This is done without the need for the use of heating or cooling systems.
Reflective e-coatings
Glass panes on double-glazed windows have a reflective e-coating. This is a reflective material which coats the inner side of each pane and is designed to reflect the heat back to where it came from to reduce heat loss from within a property. Having this e-coating adds another barrier that poorly conducts heat, meaning more heat is kept within the room.
The spacer
The gap between the two glass panes of a double-glazed window is called the spacer. These range in size from 6mm to 20mm and are usually made out of a material such as fibre or aluminium. When installing double glazing, it is suggested that anything over 12mm will be best for preventing heat loss and reducing sound pollution.
Transform your home with new double-glazed windows from Global Windows
At Global Windows, we understand the importance of improving the energy efficiency of your home, and that selecting new windows and doors is a significant decision for homeowners. That’s why our team of experts is here to guide you through the process by providing professional advice tailored to your individual requirements.
As leading installers of premium quality new and replacement aluminium and uPVC windows, we have an excellent range of energy-efficient and secure double glazed and triple glazed windows that are perfect for both modern and traditional homes.
Our range includes:
- Casement windows – Our casement windows are a cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, security, and aesthetic appeal. The most popular window choice for UK homeowners, casement windows are the window of choice for a wide variety of home improvement projects.
- Sash windows – Sash windows are synonymous with period architecture and traditional properties. At Global Windows, our uPVC sash windows will complement your home’s style and help to maintain its character without compromise.
- Tilt & turn windows – Tilt & turn windows are a practical and innovative window design for the modern homeowner. Their dual opening system allows easy access to the outside of the window pane for cleaning and the wide opening arc provides excellent levels of ventilation.
- Bay and bow windows – Bay & bow windows are perfectly suited to all types of property. They increase natural light intake and offer panoramic exterior views from the inside of your home.
- Flush sash windows – Flush sash windows are designed to replicate the look of timber. The sashes close into the frame and finish flush with the face of the window.
All our windows are high performance and low maintenance, and are available in a wide selection of colours, materials, and hardware options to suit your specific requirements.
For further information on our range of double glazed and triple glazed windows, get in touch with a member of our expert team today and we’ll be happy to book a consultation or offer you a free quote. You can contact us by either giving us a call on 0114 288 95 95, or by completing our online contact form.
Read more:
Double Glazing vs Triple Glazing: A Comprehensive Comparison to Help You Make the Best Choice
