Maintaining a warm home requires more than just having a proper heating system. One of the main things you need to look at is to ensure that you aren’t losing any of the existing or generated heat. Windows and doors are some of the ways your home may lose warmth even if they remain closed most of the time. Thin windows allow heat to escape through which may add to your heating bills. This is why you may want to consider getting UPVC double glazed windows.
Cost Of Double Glazing Calculator
These windows are generally thicker and layered so that they conserve some much-needed warmth in your home. They work by using two thick panes of glass and argon gas between them. The gas is non-reactive and only works to allow heat into the house and ensures that it stays there. There is the concern of what option is the best for you and what would fit your budget best. In this article, you will learn more about double glazed windows, the pros, and cons as well as costs involved.
Types of Double Glazed Windows
UPVC windows are just one of the many choices of double glazed windows that you can pick. The best part is that it can be incorporated in most of the other types, so you get the best value for your money. Double glazing your windows will not only lead to warmer temperatures even in icy winters and help you in saving money.
White Casement uPVC
It is the most popular style of UPVC windows since it is affordable and convenient for many homes. If you like a permanently closed option for a room that you don’t often use or doesn’t need fresh air, then that option is available. However, windows that open either inward or outward are the most popular option since it allows you to let in some air on a warm day.
There are different types of hinges available for these windows such as centre, hopper, and sliding casement. If you don’t have any furniture near your window, opt for the inward opening one. It may seem unusual if you aren’t used to it, but it is easier to clean. The outward option looks more natural for many and great if the inward would force you to move furniture. Other than UPVC you can have casement windows with timber or aluminium frames.
Turn/Tilt Casement Windows
The thing about double glazed windows is that when it gets hot many of them don’t help in letting in as much air as possible when open. If you want to avoid this problem and would still like casement windows, then the tilt or turn options are excellent for you.
They are some of the best quality of windows you can have installed since they don’t break easily, and during those hot days, you can get the most out of them. You have the option of getting a single handle or double depending on what you would like. The double ones have two panes which can both open by tilting with different handles.
Usually, these are installed to tilt inwards or outwards from the bottom so you can open the whole thing to let in some fresh air. They are low maintenance since they are usually so well made but for that reason they are more expensive. Many people don’t go for them since they can cost almost 50% more than regular casement windows. However, the people that do choose to get them to enjoy long periods without needing anything to be fixed.
Sash Windows
These types of windows open either up or downwards. It can have two layers a top and bottom one where only the bottom moves. There are also double sash windows where both windows can be opened. This is a popular option for homes that want to achieve more security and for safety purposes since it is more difficult for children to open. On the downside is that the double sash tends to be more expensive than the standard window.
They are a favourite because there are so many ways they can be done, including having a tilt and turn option. Sash windows can be made of any material, and in any style that you wish so you have a variety of options from which to choose.
They are one of Britain’s favourites; hence, they are prevalent in traditional-style homes. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t get to enjoy the benefits of double glazing. The new installations use the latest technology to ensure that the windows are energy efficient just like other casement windows.
| Type of House | Number of Windows | Cost |
| Flat | 4 | £1,575 |
| Terrace | 5 | £2,025 |
| Semi-detached | 7 | £2,650 |
| Detached | 12 | £4,450 |
What are the Pros and Cons of uPVC Double Glazing?
Other than the expected reasons and benefits of double glazing, there is more to be gained, whether or not you were going for it from the beginning. The following are some of the benefits of choosing to double glaze your windows.
Energy Savings
The major reason why you may consider getting double glazed windows is that they reduce energy costs. The windows are constructed such that they are airtight with thick panes that help in making thermal insulation possible. This is done so that the heat produced in the home remains within the house, and the cold from outside doesn’t affect how warm your home is. In turn, you will need to produce less heat since most of it is conserved within the home hence you get to save hundreds of dollars.
Durable
Double glazed windows require less maintenance since if they’re installed properly, there is not much else you will need. They only require repairs every once in a while that is meant to ensure that there is still some argon gas between the panes. Many of the installations usually have a 10-year warranty, but double glazed windows can last up to triple that time.
Noise Reduction
If you want to soundproof your home, assuming it doesn’t have incredibly thin walls, double glazing helps a ton with that. It is a great way to keep the noise in the house from disturbing the neighbours and also keeping the sound outside from affecting you in the house. It is for this reason that it is a popular option for people who live near a road or street. The layering of the windows and gas acts as a natural noise reduction mechanism so you can enjoy your peace.
Better Security
One of the ways that burglars use to access homes is through the window. This can either be by cutting through the window or even breaking it. Due to the thick and touch nature of the panes used in double glazing, a thief will have a difficult time getting into your home. It is not easy to break the dual windows or even open them from the outside. Therefore, if you are on the fence about getting double glazing, it can be a great help if you live in an area where burglars are a common menace.
Higher Value of the House
Any improvements that you make to your home always have a positive effect on increasing the value of your home. Installing double glazed windows isn’t cheap, which is why having them improves the market value of your house instantly if you ever decide to sell it. It is also a great way to attract more buyers to your listing since it gives them a guarantee that they can save on energy bills.
It’s great for the Environment
Energy conservation has been mentioned as one of the ways of combating climate change in the world. The primary purpose of double glazed windows is to improve energy efficiency in your home, so you use up less of it. By doing this, you reduce your dependence on fossil fuels, which is used in many houses, and in turn, helps the effects on the environment.
Easy to Maintain
Quality double glazed windows require very little maintenance, and it will take a while until you need any. This is why it’s essential to talk to your contractor to find out which options don’t require too much maintenance like UPVC windows. If you opt for something like timber, remember that it needs more maintaining so get the best wood possible.
Better Curb Appeal
No matter the colour or style that you choose, double glazed windows increase the curb appeal of your home. You can install it in your traditional home, and instead of messing up the aesthetic, it may grow and allow it to stand out even more. You also get reduced UV rays effects in your home, which usually leads to faded furniture and floors.
Cons of Double Glazing
Nothing is without risk, including the very useful double glazing. However, the disadvantages are not as many, and they vary from one person to another.
Less Ventilation
The whole point of having double glazed windows is to keep the heat inside, which is a good thing but has its disadvantages. These windows cause less ventilation since there are no spaces for heat to escape. Therefore, there is a lot of heat and moisture retention within the home that could lead to the growth of mould and mildew. This is a health risk for many people especially children which is why you should consider improving ventilation using trickle vents. They allow extra moisture and heat out of the house without being a liability.
Repairs are Difficult
If the window were to get a leak or break such that the argon gas between the layers escapes, there is no easy way of fixing it. The presence of gas is essential to ensuring that no warmth is lost and it is not possible to restore it without replacing the whole window. Once you start noticing condensation between the two panes, the entire point of having double glazed windows is lost. The only way to fix the window is to replace it with a new one.
Very Hot Summers
If your home is hot during the summer, you will have such a difficult time cooling down since the windows are designed to keep warmth in the house. This means that your home may be sweltering, which is why you should consider this when installing the windows. An easy solution is to have windows with a UV film that reduces how much of the sun rays are absorbed. Tilt and turn windows are also a great solution since they allow maximum air into the house.
It Can Be Costly
Double glazing, regardless of the type you choose, is not cheap. It is an investment that you may have to save up for, so it is vital to have that in mind when selecting them. Remember that repairs are also not cheap which adds to the overall cost.
Editors Note: Although it can be expensive, the reality is you cannot and should not put in anything worse than double anymore. Triple glazing is more expensive but is better for the overall warmth of the house.
Which is the Best Type of Double Glazing?
If you want to invest in double glazing, then it must be vital for you to get the best value for your money. This means choosing the best option for your style, colour, and price. However, there is no way to tell which the best option is since it all depends on what you want.
In case you are looking for the cheapest alternative, then UPVC windows are your best option. They don’t look nearly as good as timber does, but it is affordable for most people, easy to clean and maintain. It is prevalent not only for affordability, but it can be customised to whatever you want.
If safety is your main concern, then tilt and turn windows is the safest option available. They are not easily opened, especially for children, so it is easy to keep it locked and your children won’t get hurt or be able to escape through the window. It is also excellent for getting in as much air circulation as possible during the warmer months.
The average cost is calculated by comparing the type of house and the number of windows available. The average price for a small home with about eight windows is approximately £3,300. For a large house with more than 15 windows, the cost can go up to almost £12,000. The price is, of course, dependent on several factors such as distance from the source of materials and contractor.
Many of these windows have a grading which helps to tell you how well it does in energy efficiency. The goal is to get as close as possible to a grade A+ because that is the highest grade possible. In the UK, they don’t allow installation of windows that rank below-grade C. this is because they are not efficient; hence, they don’t help much. Higher energy efficiency guarantees you value for your money; therefore, you get to save more on energy bills.
Tips To Help You in Getting the Best Double Glazing
When buying, it is essential to know what you are getting into precisely so that you get the best deal and products. The following tips will help you to do exactly that.
Get as Much Information as Possible
It is crucial to get a good contractor that understands your needs, but before you do that, having the information you need in hand is best. Understand the various options available and what would work best for your home and budget. You can check for styles around your area and compare with what you have so you can get the best out of your installation.
Get a Quote
With the information that you have gathered, you should be able to get a full quote from several contractors. Be very specific about what your needs are, which is essential in getting a quote that is as close as possible to the real figure. Strive for quality over costs but remember that because it is expensive it is of quality. Ensure that you see the actual materials, so you know what you will get with the quote given.
Visit Some Showrooms
So that you can know that you are not being played, it is best to visit a showroom or store that stocks all the materials and windows. This gives you an excellent opportunity to compare by seeing what you may get with each option. If your contractor has a store or showroom that you can visit, the better for you since they have better control of the type of windows that they can install for you.
Ask Questions
Research as much as you can about UPVC double glazing and ask any questions you have as early as possible. This allows you not only to be more informed but also to have a better idea of what you could potentially get. Ensure to inquire about a warranty. Get details about how many years is covered and what repairs are included in the agreement. The warranty policies are usually not the same, so you should also compare that and get references.
Should You Fit Your Own Windows?
Double glazing is best done by a professional who understands everything involved and how to do it such that it is safe and works for its purpose. While doing it yourself will save some money, the efficiency may be compromised, which may lead to more costs. Pay attention to three main things when getting uPVC windows which are costs, the structure of your building and preferences. With this three, find out the best contractor; get information on installation and maintenance so you can be sure you get what you expect.
