A Guide to Double Glazing

Double-glazing is known for helping to insulate your home and for helping you save money on your bills. It is predicted that by having double-glazing throughout your home, you could save up to £170 a year on your heating bills and significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Getting double glazing in your home can be an expensive and daunting prospect and this guide aims to explain the benefits of double glazing along with ideas on the best double glazing for you. Read on for a warmer and more comfortable home.

Deciding to get double-glazing can be quite a commitment and it is important that you research and choose the best double-glazing for you. You also need to prepare financially but the commitment is worth it. Here are some of the benefits of double-glazing.

The benefits of double glazing:

• Energy Efficiency
• Reduced bills
• Better insulation
• Noise cutback
• Higher level of security
• Reduced condensation and dampness.

What type of double-glazing should I get?

There are several different types of material you can use for double-glazing and some are more expensive than others. Here are some of the key materials you can choose from.

Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC)

This is the cheapest option for your double-glazing. It is three times cheaper than traditional wood frames and is also more efficient. You can purchase uPVC in a variety of colours and as two extra benefits, uPVC is very durable and can be recycled. The only downside to uPVC is that the alternatives are more aesthetically pleasing.

Timber

If you are looking for a greener option over uPVC, then wooden is more appropriate for you. Wooden or timber is a naturally renewable material and many people find that wooden windows look better in their homes over uPVC. This style could be especially relevant in a period or traditional home. If you look after your wooden frames, they can last a long time with minimal maintenance, however they are the more expensive option.

Aluminum

Aluminium is a very strong material to use for your windows and comes in a variety of colour choices. It is also very straightforward to maintain. It is rumoured to not insulate as well as the other materials however it can be more attractive to the eye with more customizable options.

Window Energy Rating (WER)

When purchasing your double-glazing you want to check the WER. It is rated from A-G and the scheme is run by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) You want your windows to be a C and above.

Building Regulations

In England and Wales, you must meet a certain level of energy efficiency when installing new windows in your home. The law requires you get a certificate to show that your windows comply with the regulations. It may make it easier for you to use an installer registered with either Fensa, BM Trada or Certa so they can give you this certificate. If you choose not to use an installer, your local council will need to come and check your work.

What to do if your windows aren’t up to standard?

There can be circumstances where you windows may not be up to standard. The uPVC may go to an off yellow colour. The windows may be badly installed and draughty. The frames may fall apart. You windows should last a minimum of 20 years and save you a significant amount of money during this time period. If you aren’t satisfied with the quality then you need to contact both the subcontractor and the company you used for your windows.

What to avoid

Try to avoid discounted deals on double-glazed windows and using unqualified installers. As with any job like this, it is always better to pay more and get a better quality than go for the cheapest option and run into trouble later on.

Do you have double-glazed windows? Were they already installed in your home or did you have them installed yourself? Tell us your story below.