Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
Thursday 14th March 2013
All properties lose heat through their windows. But energy-efficient glazing keeps your home warmer and quieter as well as reducing your energy bills. That might mean double or triple glazing, secondary glazing, or just heavier curtains
The benefits of energy-efficient windows
-Smaller energy bills: replacing all single-glazed windows with B-rated double glazing could save you around £170 per year on your energy bills.
-A smaller carbon footprint: by using less fuel, you’ll generate less of the carbon dioxide that leads to global warming - typically, 680kg a year.
-A more comfortable home: energy-efficient glazing reduces heat loss through windows and means fewer draughts and cold spots.
-Peace and quiet: as well as keeping the heat in, energy efficient-windows insulate your home against outside noise.
-Reduced condensation: energy-efficient glazing reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows.
-The costs and savings for energy-efficient glazing will be different for each home and each window, depending on the size, material and installer. Double glazing should last for 20 years or more.
How energy-efficient glazing works
Double-glazed windows have two sheets of glass with a gap between them, usually about 16mm, to create an insulating barrier that keeps heat in. This is sometimes filled with gas. Triple-glazed windows have three sheets of glass, but aren’t always better than double-glazed windows: to choose the most energy-efficient window look for the BFRC rating and Energy Saving Trust Recommended logo.
Energy-efficient doors
Like any other part of the home, doors can be insulated and draught-proofed to prevent heat from escaping. Buildings regulations state that installing a new door requires approval from the relevant buildings control body, and new external doors now generally contain integrated insulation to reduce heat loss and comply with the regulations.
A properly fitted new external door should include an effective draught-proofing system. Existing doors can be improved by fitting draught-proofing strips around the seals and the letterbox. Fitting draught-proofing to the doors and windows will save the typical household around £30 a year.
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