Most homeowners are unaware that their properties that are older and have wooden doors and window frames are likely to lose 20% of the property’s heat. At a time when energy costs are escalating, homeowners would try to do anything to help reduce energy consumption and wastage. Double glazed uPVC doors and windows can significantly reduce energy inefficiencies.
The benefits of installing uPVC double glazing units
Installation of double glazed uPVC doors and windows will reduce the heat that is otherwise lost from your home and the drafts that enter the house will reduce. These two factors combine to bring about a dramatic decrease in the household energy bills.
How does uPVC double glazing work?
Double glazed windows have two separate panes of glass instead of single panes that make up traditional windows. The two panes are spaced a few millimetres apart from one another. The space between the panes is either a vacuum or is filled by a gas, such as argon, thereby enhancing their insulating efficiency. This also helps in reducing noise. These effects can be multiplied by increasing the glazing or increasing the amount of space between two panes.
How are uPVC double glazing units made?
Double glazed uPVC windows and doors are constructed by the addition of an uPVC (unplasticized Poly Vinyl Chloride) cover to a rigid frame, which is usually made of steel. The uPVC coating is carefully fitted and sealed around the window and door frame to ensure it is waterproof, whilst the rigid frame ensures that the units are secure. The uPVC coating is usually white in colour, although it is also possible to find windows and doors that come in alternative colours or in a grain effect. One of the major benefits associated with uPVC is that it does not require painting and, therefore, it is relatively easy to maintain.
Can uPVC double glazing units break down?
Although uPVC windows and doors are very durable, it is possible that they will suffer a breakdown. This will be made evident by the appearance of moisture or droplets of water in the cavity between the panes. In this eventuality, the units will need to be repaired or replaced. Due to the cost of installing uPVC double glazing and the risk, however slight, that it might break down, it is always prudent to use a supplier who provides a long-term guarantee. In fact, most major double glazing companies are happy to guarantee their products for up to ten years.
What kind of houses and buildings can benefit from double glazing?
There are no particular limitations on the type of property that is suitable for the installation of uPVC windows and doors. However, certain properties which are located in conservation areas or are subject to listed building status, are likely to require special permission. In certain cases, the local planning authority may be reluctant to agree to the installation of uPVC double glazing at all and an alternative energy saving strategy, such as secondary double glazing, may be the only option available.
