How do advanced energy efficient windows work?
Creating a comfortable and energy-efficient living space is now more important than ever. As homeowners, architects, and builders, we're always looking for innovative ways to reduce energy consumption, lower our environmental impact, and enhance the overall comfort of our homes. One of the most effective ways to achieve these goals is by investing in energy-efficient windows.
We specialise in providing efficient window solutions that play a significant role in transforming houses into energy-efficient homes by reducing drafts dramatically. In this guide, we'll investigate the science behind these windows, explore their key features and benefits, and provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your next project.
The science behind energy-efficient windows
Layers of Glass: Double and Triple Glazing
Imagine a window as a barrier between your home's warm interior and the unpredictable elements outside. Traditional single-pane windows offer minimal resistance to heat flow, leading to significant energy loss.
Replacing a single-glazed window with a triple-glazed one will reduce the heat loss through the window by circa 90% and even a modern double-glazed window will reduce it by circa 75%.
The early double-glazed windows featured two panes of glass separated by a sealed air gap, significantly reduced heat transfer compared to their single-pane counterparts. The air gap acts as an insulator, slowing the rate at which heat escapes your home in the winter and enters during the summer.
Modern double-glazed units are a step forward in energy efficiency, featuring argon gas fill and a special Low-E coating inside the unit.
Taking energy efficiency another step further, modern triple-glazed windows incorporate a third pane of glass, two argon-filled gaps, and 2 Low-E coatings creating an even more formidable barrier against heat transfer. This advanced technology sets the gold standard for thermal insulation, providing exceptional energy savings and year-round comfort.
Low-E coatings: reflecting heat, transmitting light
Think of Low-E coatings as invisible guards on your windows, selectively controlling the energy flow, a little like a vacuum flask. These microscopically thin metallic coatings are applied to the internal surface of the glass, reflecting heat back into the room while allowing sunlight to pass through.
In colder months, Low-E coatings reflect the heat generated by your home's heating system back into the living space, keeping you warm and cosy. During the summer, they reflect some of the sun's heat away from the building, reducing the need for excessive air cooling.
Gas Fills: enhancing Insulation
The spaces between the glass panes in modern double or triple-glazed windows are always filled with inert gases like argon. This gas is denser than air, further improving insulation by reducing heat conduction.
Key features of energy efficient windows
Warm edge spacers: breaking thermal bridges
Traditional window spacers, often made of aluminium, do create thermal bridges, allowing heat to escape around the edges of the glass. Warm edge spacers, crafted from non-metallic materials like silicone foam or plastic, combat this issue by minimising heat transfer and reducing condensation.
These innovative spacers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall energy performance of your windows, ensuring optimal thermal efficiency, and preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mould and mildew.
Thermally insulated frames: the foundation of efficiency
The frame material of your windows plays a crucial role in their environmental impact, aesthetics, and durability. At 21 Degrees, we specialise in two primary frame materials: timber and aluminium-clad timber. Both options offer excellent thermal insulation and contribute to creating energy-efficient windows that enhance the comfort of your home.
Advancements in timber window technology have further enhanced their energy efficiency. Engineered timber, with its multiple layers and advanced modern finishes, offers exceptional durability and resistance to weathering and an organic visage to complement any home. Our laminated timber is responsibly sourced FSC-certified wood.
Aluminium-clad timber frames combine the natural beauty and insulation of wood with the durability and modest maintenance of aluminium. These frames feature a timber core for superior thermal performance and an exterior aluminium cladding that protects the wood from the elements.
Airtight seals: keeping the elements at bay
Airtight construction is paramount to achieving optimal energy efficiency in windows. Drafts and air leaks can compromise thermal performance, leading to uncomfortable homes and wasted energy.
Energy-efficient windows incorporate high-quality seals and weatherstripping to prevent air infiltration and ensure consistent indoor temperatures. These airtight seals create a barrier against the elements, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Benefits of energy efficient windows
Improved year-round comfort
Imagine a comfortable home without cold spots and drafts and with very low heating costs.' Energy-efficient windows are a strong ally when creating a more comfortable living environment by maintaining consistent temperatures throughout your space.
These windows help provide a haven of comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy your home whilst minimising temperature fluctuations.
Reducing your carbon footprint
As we become increasingly conscious of our environmental impact, energy-efficient windows offer a sustainable solution for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.
By minimising heat loss and gain, these windows lessen the demand for heating and cooling systems, resulting in lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. Choosing energy-efficient windows is a responsible choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet.
Why choose triple glazed windows from 21 Degrees?
Materials that are built to last
We’re committed to sourcing the highest quality materials for our windows, ensuring optimal thermal efficiency and long-lasting performance. Our triple-glazed windows are crafted with precision using premium components that meet the most stringent industry standards.
Integration with Passivhaus design
Passivhaus is a rigorous standard for energy efficiency in buildings, emphasising airtightness, insulation, and optimal solar gain. Our windows seamlessly integrate with Passivhaus principles, ensuring maximum performance and minimal energy consumption.
A holistic approach
We go beyond just windows, offering a range of complementary services to enhance the overall energy efficiency of your home. From insulation materials and airtight construction advice to Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems, we provide holistic solutions for a truly sustainable living space.
Enhancing performance with whole-home solutions
Importance of airtightness and Insulation
Energy-efficient windows perform best when combined with airtight construction and proper insulation. Airtightness prevents drafts and air leaks, while insulation creates a thermal barrier, minimising heat transfer through walls, roofs, and floors.
MVHR for fresh air and minimal heat loss
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems work in parallel with energy-efficient windows to maintain a constant supply of fresh, filtered air while minimising heat loss. These systems extract stale, humid air from your home and use its heat to warm incoming fresh air, ensuring optimal indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Harnessing the power of the sun with solar
Adding solar panels or battery storage to your home further enhances energy savings and sustainability. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, reducing your reliance on the grid, while battery storage allows you to store excess solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining.
How to choose the right windows for your home
Understanding energy ratings
When selecting energy-efficient windows, it's essential to understand energy ratings, particularly U-values. U-values measure the rate of heat transfer through a window, with lower values indicating better insulation. Our experts can guide you through the different energy ratings and help you choose the best windows for your needs.
Custom solutions from 21 Degrees
We know that every home is unique. So, we offer tailored advice and custom styles (including sash windows) to meet your requirements. Our team of experts will collaborate closely with you to assess your needs, recommend the most suitable products, and ensure a seamless window installation process.
Considering long-term value
While the initial investment in highly energy-efficient windows may be higher than standard options, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. These windows deliver significant energy savings, reduce maintenance expenses, and enhance the comfort and value of your home.
Transform your home with 21 Degrees
Expert consultation
Embarking on a window replacement project can feel overwhelming, but with 21 Degrees, you're not alone. Our team of experts provide clear consultations, guiding you through the entire process and answering all your questions. We'll help you choose the perfect energy-efficient windows that align with your aesthetic preferences, budget, and energy-saving goals.
Comprehensive services
We believe in a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency. That's why we offer a wide range of services beyond just window installation. We can assist you with insulation upgrades, airtightness solutions, and Passivhaus principles, ensuring your home is optimised for maximum energy performance.
In conclusion
Energy-efficient windows are no longer a luxury; they're a necessity for modern homes. They offer a transformative solution that enhances comfort, reduces energy consumption, and lessens environmental impact.
At 21 Degrees, we're devoted to providing premium thermal efficiency solutions that create comfortable, sustainable living spaces with responsive aftercare and a comprehensive warranty. We believe everyone deserves a warm, eco-friendly home, and we're committed to helping you achieve that vision.
Contact 21 Degrees
Ready to transform your home into a warmer, more sustainable haven? Contact us today. Our team of experts is eager to discuss your project, provide personalised recommendations, and help you achieve your energy-saving goals.
