As the days start to draw shorter, it’s a good time to start thinking about getting your home prepared for the change in weather that is fast approaching.
It is not immediately obvious how much of your home’s energy is being lost through old windows and doors. Factors such as age, poor insulation and the general wear and tear over time mean you could be potentially losing up to 30% of the heat that should be retained in your home.
Investing in quality windows
It is important to carry out regular maintenance on your windows and doors to ensure they are performing at their best. However, if your windows and doors have been neglected and not aged well then it may be time to invest in timber windows and doors that make use of the latest material and technology advances.
Benefits of choosing windows that have good thermal efficiency:
- Help you contain and conserve heat within your property during winter
- Keep out the wind and draughts
- Reduce condensation
- Improve sound insulation.
Glazing type
Glazing is responsible for most of the heat loss through a window. Glazing will absorb heat from the room and transfer it to the outside by conduction currents. This is why double glazing is recommended for energy conservation and helping to keep your home warm and your energy bills low.
The reason double glazing is so effective lies between the glass panes. These are either filled with a form of inert gas such as argon or a vacuum space that reduces the heat transfer from your home – helping to keep the heat in!
Let the light in!
A lot of people like to shut the cold out in the winter months by drawing the curtains. However, it is important to take advantage of the low winter sun by keeping the curtains open during the day to let the light pour in. Curtains can then be drawn once the sun has gone down to keep the heat in.
Draught exclusion
Poorly fitted windows and doors can result in heat loss and draughts by leaving gaps in the seal and in the joints.
Older windows and doors that have not been maintained over time can also allow draughts into your home. It is important to keep your windows and doors well maintained throughout the year to ensure they protect your home during the colder months.
Draught excluders can be used as a temporary measure to block some of the draughts, however, these are not a suitable long-term solution or appropriate in areas where the weather can be particularly bad. For a long-term solution, opt for windows and doors that provide good insulation and quality fitting to ensure the thermal efficiency of your home and removal of those chilly draughts.
Give yourself peace of mind this winter knowing that you’ll be able to rely on your windows and doors to protect you from the winter elements whilst you’re snuggled up on the sofa, hot chocolate in hand, watching the seasons change and indulging in the warmth of your home.
For more information about our extensive range of timber door and window options we provide, contact a member of our team for a free no obligation quote! Email us at [email protected] or call us on 01264 771900 We would love to hear from you!
