Double Glazing Replacement Windows - Finding an approved supplier in Somerset
Energy efficient replacement windows
I have been looking to replace my windows with some new double glazing but want to make sure that I am buying energy efficient windows and not just throwing my money away – so how do I get the best frames and windows?
Clearly there are some obvious advantages to having double glazing anyway such as:
- Lowering heating bills
- Reduced energy use and reduced personal carbon foot-print
- More comfortable home
- Possible lower maintenance
- Greater sound insulation
- Reduced condensation
- Enhanced look of the property
- Increase in resale value
So where does the energy go now?
As expected some heat will be lost through walls, roof, doors and windows.
It is always best to make sure that you have sorted out the basics such as having cavity wall insulation (where you can) and loft insulation and draught exclusion especially as grants are still available.
Typically around 20% of heat may be lost through a standard window.
Double glazed windows are pretty much as they sound – they are glazed in two places having a double layer of glass with a sealed gap between them creating an insulating barrier. Within these barriers there is a spacer usually filled with a silicon gel to take up any moisture and some companies now offer a “super spacer” as well as filling the gap with Argon gas which helps the insulation to be even more effective. Some double glazing companies now offer specific energy saving double glazing.
How do you measure the energy efficiency?
The energy efficiency levels are measured in terms of how heat is stopped from passing through the window, the levels of sunlight which may travel through the glass and the level of air leaks (draughts) possible around the window.
Energy efficiency rating scheme.
A good quality double glazing supplier will have some windows to offer which can demonstrate the level of energy efficiency (via a window energy rating scheme) and show where their windows fit in on the accepted scale. An A rated is considered to be the most energy efficient and G rated the poorest. This is a system which is controlled by the BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council) a wholly owned subsidiary of the Glass and Glazing Federation. Just like other electrical products we may buy these days simply check the energy label to see how efficient your chosen replacement windows will be.
Any window which is rated between A to C will also be allowed to carry the Energy Saving Recommended logo issued by the Energy Saving Trust which I would have thought was a pretty good recommendation.
There is quite a lot of information on the label helping you make an informed choice and the information covers such things as how well the product will:
- Help you contain and conserve heat within your building in the winter
- Resist condensation
- Keep out the wind and reduce draughts
- Help with sound insulation
Triple glazing?
It is not normally regarded today to be necessary to opt for triple glazing and the newer technology based double glazing windows are equally effective and weigh considerably less.
How much will my double glazed windows cost me?
It is a bit like asking how long is a piece of string as the overall cost of the replacement double glazing will depend upon the number of windows and doors to be replaced, the type of frame you have selected, the style of window, and the installer / supplier.
Having decided to opt for a decent energy rating, one of the major choices you will need to make is the choice of frame – but in every frame type you should find you can still fit your selected energy saving level glass type.
UPVC/ PVC-u window frames
By far the most popular frames are uPVC / UPVC / PVC-u which have the following advantages
- Virtually maintenance free
- Durable
- Can be recycled
- Good security protection (difficult to break)
- Multiple styles
- Colours inclusive of wood grain
- Long life-span
- Tend to be the least expensive
- May be limited on colours available
- May not be acceptable in conservation areas (best to check)
Timber window frames
- Timber frames can be more expensive than UPVC replacement windows
- They can have a lower environmental impact.
- Wooden frames are often seen in conservation areas or on listed properties where it is deemed that original materials, such as timber, must be used.
- Easier to use where bespoke sizes are required
- Will require maintenance however
- Cheaper versions in soft wood may have limited life-span
- Can be recycled
Aluminium Frames
- Slim and long lasting
- Strong and have good security advantages
- Can be recycled
- Not as commonly seen today which has pushed prices up
- Can be difficult to source
- Can have some problems with condensation
- Can be declined in conservation areas
- Low maintenance
Outside condensation
Once low energy replacement windows have been installed you may notice that you get a small level of condensation on the window exterior. This is because of the heat reflection qualities of the glass and is expected – simply wipe away.
Use an approved double glazing supplier and double glazing installer.
I wouldn’t really want the responsibility of having to check out planning requirements, and building regulations, or that the selected replacement windows comply with the energy rating bands required. By opting for a FENSA approved supplier and FENSA approved installer or with Certass membership. It is guaranteed that the installer and replacement window frames fully comply with building regulations. It is really important especially when you want to sell up and move on that you have the necessary certificates to show that it is installed correctly etc – the FENSA approved installers are qualified to self certificate.
You could be living with your decisions for at least 20 years so it is as well to get it right first time.
Search for an approved supplier in Somerset – We cover all the following areas:
Allerford, Banwell, Beckington, Bridgwater, Bruton, Burnham-on-Sea, Chard, Cheddar, Crewkerne, Curry Rivel, Dulverton, Evercreech, Flaxpool, Frome, Glastonbury, Hatch Beauchamp, Highbridge, Ilminster, Langport, Martock, Midsomer Norton, Minehead, Nether Stowey, Priddy, Shepton Mallet, Somerton, South Petherton, Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Street, Taunton, Templecombe, Wedmore, Wellington, Wells, Wheddon Cross, Williton, Wincanton, Winsford, Wookey Hole and Yeovil.
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