Double glazing windows

Well, you're not imagining things, because the majority of your home's heat is lost through the windows and roof.

Energy efficient glazing is the obvious answer to this chilly problem, and whether you choose double or triple glazing you'll reap the benefits. Although the initial cost might make you reach for your thermals, there are loads of good reasons to invest:

• Smaller bills
  Double glazing could save you around £130 per year on your energy bills.
• Cosy nights in
  Double glazing can cut heat loss through windows by 50 percent, so no more nasty draughts and cold spots!
• A smaller carbon footprint
  You’ll generate less of the CO2 that leads to global warming.
• Peace and quiet
  As well as keeping the heat in, double glazed windows will help to insulate your home against unwanted outside noise.

An energy saving grant could help you to cut the cost of installing glazing in your home, or you could choose to have certain rooms glazed rather than the whole house.

Choose the right replacement windows

Whether you go for double or triple glazing, replacement windows come in many styles and designs. Problems with energy efficient windows are rare, but if you need to troubleshoot your double glazing then our windows and glazing advice will help.

There are particular features you should look out for to increase energy efficiency:

How energy efficient are the windows?

You can check the energy efficiency of double glazed windows by looking for the Energy Saving Trust Recommended logo and BFRC energy label.

The higher the energy rating, the more energy efficient the window. The Energy Saving Trust endorses any windows rated C or above. At the moment window manufacturers don't have to label their products, but if you go for a high rated window then you know you'll be buying the most efficient.

How many layers of glass do you need?

Double glazing has two layers of glass with a gap of around 16mm between them.

You can probably guess that triple glazing has three layers! However this doesn't always mean that you have to choose triple glazing to get the most energy efficient option.

What's between the panes?

Insulated windows might use gases in the gap between the sheets of glass, usually:

• Argon
• Xenon
• Krypton

Which frame suits your home?

The frame you choose will depend on your home and your personal taste. For all frame materials there are windows available in each energy rating.

• UPVC frames
  The most common type of frame. They last a long time and can be recycled.
• Wooden frames
  These can have a lower environmental impact, but require maintenance.
• Aluminium/steel frames
  Slim and long-lasting. They can 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.

Alternatives to double glazing

If you can't install double glazing – for example, if you live in a conservation area or a listed building – you can still keep the cold at bay with a few clever tricks.

• Heavy curtains
  Curtains lined with a layer of heavy material can reduce heat loss from a room and cut draughts.
• Secondary glazing
  Secondary glazing works by fitting a secondary pane of glass and frame, inside the existing window reveal. This is an ideal solution if you are unable to fit double glazing because you live in a conservation area or a listed building.

If you're feeling the chill, take a look at our winter top tips for ways to keep warm without spending a fortune.

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