Energy savings are the chief reason why people choose to replace single pane windows with double glazing. Double glazed windows have other advantages, however. They are harder for a burglar to break and they work very effectively to keep out noise pollution. The saving on energy bills is generally what wins most people over though.
Double glazed windows have double panes instead of single ones. There is a gap between them of about 16 mm. Inside the gap may be plain air, or a gas such as argon, xenon, or krypton. The gas or air-filled gap is the reason for the great insulating properties.
Some double glazed windows work better than others at keeping noise out and sound in, however. Some manufacturers use an energy rating scheme for their windows' energy efficiency. The best ones are the ones rated "A." Windows with ratings of "C" or above receive the Energy Saving Trust endorsement.
Double glazing is available with a number of different frame materials. Most people choose UPVC, or unplasticised polyvinyl chloride. It lasts a long time and can be recycled when it is no longer needed.
Wooden frames are available and may be required in some conservation areas in the UK. The disadvantage of wood frames is their maintenance requirements, though their beauty makes it worthwhile for many.
Frames made of steel or aluminium are available, and are recyclable. Composite frames are available as well. They have an inner timber frame that has an outer covering made of either plastic or aluminium. This way maintenance is reduced, and the frames are more weather resistant.
There may be cases where replacement windows are more airtight than the windows they replace by a significant enough amount that condensation can build up inside due to reduced ventilation. In cases like these, where background ventilation isn't sufficient, the windows can have trickle vents built into their frames. This will help prevent condensation build-up inside.
The southeast of England, home of Hertfordshire, has a climate that makes double glazing a very wise investment. Here the summers are warmer and the winters colder than in many other parts of the world. Double pane windows prove their worth in climates with greater extremes. The better insulation keeps heat in during the colder winters, and blocks excess heat out during summers.
Anyone interested in having their windows replaced should look for an installer who is registered with FENSA, which is the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. FENSA, created in cooperation with the Glass and Glazing Federation and other industry representatives, allows registered double glazing installers to self-certify their compliance with the building regulations of England and Wales.
In fact, if you want your windows replaced, they must comply with thermal performance standards, and you must acquire a certificate of compliance from your Local Authority Building control or from FENSA.
Another advantage of using a FENSA-registered installer is that it is easier to find solutions for homes that are listed or that are situated near conservation areas. While replacement windows may not be allowed, alternatives do exist. A process called secondary double glazing increases energy efficiency and stays within the special requirements that apply to these homes.
The installation of double glazed replacement windows can be a large expense, but particularly in areas like Hertfordshire, with colder winters, the expense will be recouped fairly quickly by savings on energy bills. This, plus the advantages of lower noise pollution and a smaller carbon footprint for a home, makes double glazing an investment that pays off well, both short and long term.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlemarketinghome.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites