NEWS
September 7th, 2022
With the long-term concern around energy price rises, it’s no wonder individuals across the UK are looking for ways to increase the energy efficiency of their homes and avoid incurring increased costs.
Windows and doors can be among the most common causes of poor temperature control within a home, especially if they’re not double glazed.
The benefits of double glazed windows, and doubled glazed steel windows, go beyond money saving, improving the comfort of your home through temperature control and noise-proofing. But what actually makes double glazing so effective?
Photograph provided by Silver Cloud Photography.
Many people aren’t aware that double glazing means windows are fitted with two panes of glass separated by a layer of trapped gas in between. So how does it work and what difference will this make to the energy efficiency of your property?
Gases used can include krypton and argon, neither of which are harmful, but they are poor conductors of heat meaning warm air is kept inside your home leading to improved thermal and energy efficiency. The additional pane of glass in double glazing can also act as an extra barrier against noise and increase the strength of the window, further improving security.
At Clement, we use both krypton and argon gases in the manufacturing of our bespoke double glazed steel windows.
Krypton and argon gases are both great for increasing the energy efficiency of double glazed windows, because they are heavier than air and they are poor thermal conductors that slow down and can even stop energy from traveling through them. Argon is almost six times denser than air, while krypton is 12 times denser. Both are popular solutions for improved energy efficiency, but the density of krypton makes it a more costly option.
When shopping for new windows, an important thing to bear in mind is the Window Energy Rating (WER). To comply with Building Regulations, all new windows should be C-rated or above. This is calculated by several variables, including:
The air we breathe is full of small droplets of water that are invisible to the naked eye. As the air molecules cool they come together, forming visible liquid known as the ‘dew point’ or condensation. Condensation forms most when air comes into contact with a cold surface, for example, a windowpane.
By opting for double glazed windows, you should see a reduction in condensation as the gases between the panes of glass do not contain moisture.
It is essential to let fresh air into a building and to keep rooms well heated and ventilated all year round to avoid the build up of damp which may lead to condensation. Any moisture which does appear should be regularly wiped down.
One of our EB24 windows with a white fenestra joint
Our EB20 range is exceptionally slim (20mm insulated glass units) and comes as standard with krypton gas, achieving a B Window Energy Rating.
Additionally, our low-maintenance EB24 range is available with argon gas filling and can equally achieve a B or a C rating. This is another slim option (24mm insulated glass units). Most of our units are available with bespoke measurements to suit your needs.
Of course, many Conservation Officers will not approve double glazing for many sensitive heritage and refurbishment projects. Where this is the case, Clement can offer various window ranges which have been created specifically for use in fenestration projects where double glazing is not an option.
To find out more about the benefits of double glazed steel windows and the various options we have available, get in touch.