A-Rated Energy Efficient Windows & Doors.

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So exactly what are Energy Efficient Windows?
They are windows that help to contain and conserve heat within the home keeping out wind and rain, resisting condensation and yet allowing natural free energy - the warmth of the sun - to heat the home.

Energy Efficient Windows are easy to recognise - simply look for the BFRC Label.

Our Standard window is C rated which is currently accepted as the standard most suitable for general energy efficient use. The only difference between an A rated window and C rated window is that the double glazed unit used in an  A rated window has a warm edge seal which gives a better thermal value.

Warm edge technology
Rather than a cold metal spacer frame, our sealed units use a modern composite polymer material, which is up to 950 times less conductive than aluminium. The simple laws of physics state that by taking away this conductive material, the heat loss at the edge of the glass is hugely reduced.

Argon Filled
The inner cavity of a standard sealed unit, contrary to popular belief is not a vacuum. Its just filled with dry air. Now as it happens, air itself is a very good insulator, but its not as good as Argon gas. By removing the air from the cavity and replacing it with argon, an extra barrier to heat loss is created.

What to look for

Glass
The most energy-efficient type for double glazing is low emissive (Low-E) glass. This often has an invisible coating of metal oxide, normally on one of the internal panes. This lets in light and heat but cuts the amount of heat that can get out.

Gaps between the glass
Very efficient windows might use gases such as argon, xenon or krypton in the gap between the sheets of glass.
Pane spacers
These are set around the inside edges to keep the two panes of glass apart. For maximum efficiency, look for pane spacers containing little or no metal often known as warm edge spacers.
 

Frame materials
For all frame materials there are windows available in all energy ratings.
uPVC frames last a long time and may be recycled.
Wooden frames can have a lower environmental impact, but require maintenance. They are often used in conservation areas where the original windows had timber frames.
Aluminium or steel frames are slim and long-lasting, and may be recycled.
Composite frames have an inner timber frame covered with aluminium or plastic. This reduces the need for maintenance and keeps the frame weatherproof.

Energy rating
Some window manufacturers show the energy efficiency of their products using an energy-rating scale from A to G. The whole window (the frame and the glass) is assessed on its efficiency at retaining heat. The scheme is run by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC). Visit BFRC for more information.

U-values
Windows that have an energy rating will have the u-value of the window displayed on the energy label. A u-value is a measure of how easily heat can pass through a material. Materials that let out more heat have higher u-values whereas materials that let less heat pass through them have lower u-values.

In some cases, windows with a higher energy performance rating might have a higher u-value than windows with a better energy efficiency rating. This might seem the wrong way round as lower u-values indicate better insulation levels. However, in these cases it will be that there are other aspects of the window that make them better overall such as coating used on the glass and the gap between the glass panes.

Ventilation
Replacement windows will be more airtight than your original frames, so condensation may build up in your house due to the reduced ventilation. If your house does not have much background ventilation, look for replacement windows with trickle vents incorporated into the frame to let in a controlled amount of ventilation.

If you start to see condensation building up around your windows, there may be a damp problem in your home. As a general rule, damp occurs when there is inadequate ventilation, inadequate heating, inadequate insulation or a combination of these. If youve started to notice condensation in between the panes of glass in your double-glazing units then it is likely that the seal is broken, and the unit will need to be replaced.

Want more information...
For your free window energy efficient guide please click here or call us on 0800 035 4180

 

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