There are many benefits to installing double glazed windows in your home. Some of these include fewer drafts, reduced energy bills, less condensation, less noise from the outside world and of course, a smaller carbon footprint which benefits the environment in numerous ways.
That said, it can be a bit of a minefield knowing where to start if you are thinking of investing in double glazed windows. The costs will be different for each home and will depend on the material you opt for and the company who you pick to install your double-glazing. Here at Unicorn Windows we pride ourselves on our high quality products and service, which we offer at the best possible cost to our customers. Our PVC-U windows are incredibly popular and our PROFILE 22 PVC-U profile system carries the BSI Kitemark for quality, reliability and security, and has also been approved by the British Board of Agreement and Scotland’s MacData institute. When you consider that double glazing should last for at least 20 years, it’s wise to ensure that the installer you choose can present the best and most cost effective options for your home and needs.
It’s also useful for you to get an idea of exactly how double-glazing works in order to make the right decision when making a purchase! Double-glazed windows are comprised of two sheets of glass with a gap of around 16mm in between. This forms a barrier that retains heat. You can also get triple-glazed windows, but if the materials are of a high enough quality then double-glazing is an effective solution for most situations. A handy resource is the BFRC rating, which enables you to take a look at the various energy-rating levels. Double glazed windows are available in a number of styles and frame materials to compliment your home. The quality is usually based on how well they stop heat from passing through the window, how much sunlight is allowed in and how much air can leak in or out.
Window frame materials
Some core frame materials include:
- uPVC: This is highly durable, long-lasting and can be recycled. It’s one of the most popular choices among our clients due to these reasons.
- Wooden: These frames are attractive looking and environmentally friendly but don’t tend to last long. Therefore, they’re not always the most cost effective option.
- Aluminium and steel frames: These are robust yet slim and can be recycled. However, aesthetically, they are not to everyone’s taste.
- Composite frames: These have an inner timber frame covered with aluminium or plastic. This means that the need for maintenance is reduced.
You can learn more about the types of windows we offer at Unicorn Windows here.
A key sign that you may need to replace your windows or look into double-glazing is if condensation starts to build up since this indicates damp, which happens when you don’t have proper ventilation or insulation. And if you already have double-glazing yet you still experience condensation, the seal might be broken between the panes and it will need to be replaced.
If you have any questions about double-glazing or windows in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will always be happy to advise!
(Image from Unicorn Windows)