Give your windows a low energy makeover

Check regularly

• That that there are no gaps between the window frame and the brickwork. If not, seal the gaps with a suitable mastic.
• That the window frames are fitted with draught excluder strips to prevent cold air being sucked in. If not they can easily be fitted, or replaced – even in existing windows. 

   

  Many types of windows
  There are many types of windows: Single pane, double pane, double-glazed, and sealed (gas-filled) double-glazed energy windows. Always choose energy (Low-E) glass, both for new windows and when giving your existing windows a makeover. Energy glass insulates much better than older double-glazed and ordinary glass windows.

  Windows with energy glass
  If you have sound, older single-pane windows or windows with secondary glazing (i.e. single-glazed outer and inner frames), then you should replace the inner panes with energy glass.

  Energy (Low-E) glass is a single puncture-resistant inner pane of glass with a thin film which reduces the transmission of radiant heat. A Danish wooden astragal window (dannebrogsvindue) fitted with this type of glass is generally more energy efficient than an equivalent new sealed (gas-filled) double-glazed energy window.

  Sealed (gas-filled) double-glazing for new and old double-glazed windows is standard
  Energy windows look similar to ordinary double-glazed windows except that that the glass inside the air space is coated with a thin film, and the space between the double glazing is filled with a gas, which provides superior insulation compared with ordinary air, which was used in the earliest double-glazed windows. You should always choose so-called warm edges made of plastic composite. These reduce possible condensation round the edges of the window. 

  • Winter: Energy windows trap more heat from the sun inside a room than is released as heat loss. You will therefore always get free heat in your house, which you will notice on your heating bill. You will also avoid a cold downdraught from the window panes.
  • Summer: Energy windows ensure that your home is a little colder in the summer because, compared with ordinary glass, the film on the inside of the glass acts as a sun screen.

  Energy glass is fitted as standard in all new windows. And when replacing double-glazing you can find a cheap standard product, which means you will not have to go to the expense of fitting new standard double-glazed windows.