Thermal Performance
Thermal performance is a key factor in finding windows that will offer quality and performance for your home combined. Up to 20 percent of the home’s heat can be lost through its windows, particularly if they are poorly installed or single glazed. Over time, this can result in a substantial increase in the cost of heating your home.
Heat loss can be measured by either thermal transmittance or U-value. The lower the U-value, the better the thermal insulation. In 2006, Window Energy Ratings (or WERs) were introduced to take account of the levels of solar energy our homes receive (known as g-value). These ratings are helpful for calculating the energy efficiency of different windows. Correspondingly, ratings are awarded from A+ to G, with an A+ rating indicating the highest levels of energy efficiency.
The average heat loss through replacement windows can range from 50 watts per square meter to as little as 13 watts per square meter. For a three bed house, this can amount to a huge difference in annual energy use. To maintain a constant comfortable room temperature of 21 centigrade across the year, the difference could be 11,400 KW hours compared to 3,150 KW hours per annum. In financial terms, this could be a difference of over £500 a year.
Significant savings with energy efficient windows, improving thermal performance
The average heat loss through replacement windows can range from 50 watts per square meter to as little as 13 watts per square meter. For a three bed house, this can amount to a huge difference in annual energy use. To maintain a constant comfortable room temperature of 21 centigrade across the year, the difference could be 11,400 KW hours compared to 3,150 KW hours per annum. In financial terms, this could be a difference of over £500 a year.
Finding the right windows, therefore, is a must. Consequently, Windows with high levels of efficient thermal performance can lead to significantly reduced energy costs. This is especially important for those properties that are more difficult to keep heated, such as large homes or period properties. For many older properties, it is nearly impossible to retain heat inside, due to insufficient insulation. Energy efficient windows can make a dramatic impact on heat retention throughout these properties.
The most thermally efficient glass used for quality, long-lasting windows and glazing is known as low-emissivity or ‘Low-E’ glass, which has been specially manufactured and treated to ensure the highest levels of energy performance.
Environmental awareness is another important consideration when assessing the thermal performance of windows. Energy saving windows help to reduce our impact on the environment, because by using less energy, we are contributing to a healthier environment for ourselves and for future generations.
Detailed, impartial surveys to find the most thermally efficient windows for you
At Window Advice Centre, the first stage in our tried and tested process involves a detailed survey of your property. We work with impartial and independent industry professionals, who are experts in their field, to thoroughly assess your property’s requirements when it comes to thermal performance. This allows us to determine the best thermally efficient glass for your home, taking into account your specific needs. We will provide you with an honest report, covering all aspects of the survey, including factors that affect the energy efficiency of your home.
When sourcing the right windows for your property, we can even ensure that the energy efficient windows meet the standards for retaining the value of certain period properties, as well as maintaining the aesthetic of the home.
If you’d like to find out more about our process, you can find out more on our website, or by giving us a call on 0141 332 7878. For high performance, thermally efficient windows in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Stirling, Perth, Fife, Lanarkshire and Ayrshire, speak to a member of our friendly team today.
