Save money with double glazing

find out how double glazing can lower your fuel bills, increase security, reduce noise pollution and help the environment.

Double glazing can
save you money

Double glazing can be an expensive investment for your home and the decision to make the jump can be daunting given the reputation of hard-selling window salesmen. But despite its cost, double glazing not only looks good but provides your house with a variety of advantages.

Double glazing:

Saves you money – heat loss through your windows is reduced with double glazing by as much as 40 percent, so you will be able to reduce your fuel bills over the colder months of the year. Although it’s not enough of a reduction to pay for itself quickly, consider it a discount on the cost of your new windows. Also, with reduced heat loss you will be burning less fuel and doing your bit to help the environment.

Increases your home security – double glazing also offers better security for your house – the two panes of glass are, of course, stronger than single glazing. Some come with laminated or toughened glass, meaning less chance of shattering, and damage to one pane often won’t carry through to the next. The security benefits of double glazing are also increased when you choose high-security window frames or locking systems to deter intruders. Many windows are installed with multi-locking systems to allow you lock them partially open for keeping cool at night.

Reduces noise pollution – double glazing also helps to keep sound out (and in) though if this is your main concern, consider secondary glazing where a new single pane is fitted in front of the window. The larger the air gap, the greater the sound reduction.

Requires minimal maintenance – the windows will not need much maintenance, though it can help to occasionally lubricate the hinges and locks to keep their mechanisms smooth. Aluminium and uPVC frames require less maintenance than wooden ones which may need to be painted, oiled or varnished every so often.

Hiring a double glazing professional

There are over 13,000 window and double glazing contractors in the UK, so it can be difficult to separate the professionals from the cowboys. To make sure your double glazing is installed properly and conforms to building regulations; check the contractor’s qualifications, references and insurance details. A good way of finding a reliable contractor is to use one registered with a trade association like the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) or the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS). Your double glazing should conform to government thermal standards – the easiest way to do this is to make sure the installer is registered with a self-assessment scheme like FENSA.