Thousands of households all over the UK currently find themselves struggling with the rising cost of energy. A perfect storm of a global pandemic, geopolitical conflict and strained international relations have conspired to push the wholesale cost of gas to astronomical highs. So, even if your household has a 100% renewable electricity tariff, the rising cost of gas still affects your energy prices_, as even the cost of renewables is linked to gas prices. The turn of the decade has seen the energy market transform in a very short space of time, with many suppliers going bust and the energy watchdog, Ofgem, raising its energy price cap, from £1,042 per year at the end of 2020 to £2,800 per year for the winter of 2022/2023. While there is government support available for households, many are still feeling the pinch when their energy bills arrive. The good news is that your double glazing could be your fiercest ally in the battle against sky-high energy bills. Let’s take a look at how double glazing can help households to deal with the energy price increase.

Prevent Warm Air From Escaping

Did you know that around 18% of your home’s heat loss occurs through its windows? When windows lose an excess of heat, we have no choice but to crank up the thermostat, thereby increasing our energy costs even more. More thermally efficient double-glazed windows and doors prevent warm air from escaping out of your home. As well as boasting two panes of glass, double-glazed windows contain a layer of insulating gas. This keeps the cold air outside where it belongs, while also ensuring that the warm air you are paying for remains in your home.

Absorbs And Traps Heat Energy From The Sun

In the wake of the pandemic, more and more of us are working remotely from home on a part-time or full-time basis. This may require a greater reliance on your home’s heating to keep you warm and comfortable while you work. Which, in turn, may cause your energy bills to rise. The great thing about thermally-efficient double-glazed windows is that they trap the free heat energy that floods into your home from the sun. The short-wave radiation from the sun is absorbed by the glass from the outside and re-radiated from the inside as long-wave infrared, which cannot escape back out through the glass. This greenhouse effect prevents households from relying on their central gas heating, electric wall heaters, or storage heaters throughout the day.

Keeps Your Home Cool in Summer

With winter on the way, many households are thinking about how they can stay warm. However, double glazing doesn’t just help to save energy during cold weather. They can also be a saving grace during the warm summer months. During the warm months, double glazing can actually prevent an excess of heat transference from the outside of the glass to the inside. So, you can keep your home relatively cool when the sun is bright and shining. This means that you spend far less on cooling your home artificially with electric fans or air conditioning units. The unfortunate truth is that the current energy price hike is likely to extend far beyond the coming winter. Therefore, thermally-efficient double-glazed windows can help you to make your energy bills more manageable all year round.

May Even Increase Your Property’s Value

As we can see, double-glazed windows benefit your home all year round. Given that most double-glazed window units last for anything between 20 and 35 years, households can enjoy those cost-saving benefits in the long term. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why double glazing can even help if you decide to move by potentially adding to the resale value of your property. It’s estimated that installing double glazing in your home could add up to 10% to its resale value. Furthermore, it makes your property more desirable in a competitive market. Every home that has been put on the market requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that helps prospective buyers to understand how energy-efficient the property is. Properties are rated from A to G for both their energy efficiency and carbon impact rating. The higher the letter grade, the more eco-friendly a property is. Properties with higher EPCs are naturally more appealing to prospective buyers, whether they’re looking for a home or an investment property.

I Already Have Double Glazed Windows. Should I Consider Replacing Them?

If you already have double-glazed windows, there’s a chance that they may not be working as hard on your behalf as they could be. Especially if they are getting on in years. With time and wear, the seal that keeps the insulating gas between the layers of glass in your windows can deteriorate. When this happens, the gas may leak out of your window units. Don’t worry, the gas is perfectly breathable and harmless. However, without the gas present in your windows, heat may be allowed to transfer more readily inside and outside. While you will still notice a marginal improvement when compared to single-glazed windows, an upgrade now could save you more on your energy bills in the long term. In these economically tumultuous times, we understand that many householders may be nervous about a significant investment like new double-glazed windows. Fortunately, there are options that can help them to ameliorate the costs. For instance, did you know that you can replace the glass in your windows without having to replace the whole unit? This can bring the cost down significantly from around £150 and over £600+ per window to around £55-£150 per window. Still not sure if improving your double glazing will help you to navigate the energy price increase? Why not have a chat with our team? We’ll help you to find the most efficient and cost-effective options for your home.

High-quality, modern windows enjoy a long lifespan that lasts decades. However, if you’re windows are old, they may not have the same build quality and strength or provide the aesthetic feel you would like, especially when compared to newer models.

So, you need to know when you should replace them, here are 5 key tell-tale signs that your windows are no longer functioning to their best and therefore would benefit from a replacement

They Are Sticking When You Open Or Close Them

One very obvious sign your windows are ready to be replaced is if they no longer open or close smoothly. There are likely to be a few reasons this can happen, the first being that the handle or opening mechanism is beginning to fail. 

Another can be that the timber frames may have swollen in size. If water gets into timber frames they will start to warp and expand. This can be avoided by regular maintenance of your windows. However, once the timber is swollen it can be almost impossible to return it to normal and a replacement will be the best solution.

Similarly, with extreme temperatures, uPVC windows will also expand and contract. Over the years this can affect the size or shape of the frames, making them difficult to use. Replacing them with Aluminium windows, with robust frames will help them last longer against the elements.

Condensation Forms Between The Panes

Double-glazed windows are made of two thin layers of glass sandwiched together with gas between them. If moisture gets in between the panes, clouding or condensation can start to form, in high volumes this can be problematic.

Some form of condensation is normal and can be particularly visible during cold weather when the heating is on high. If you do notice a lot of condensation, between the panes rather than on them,  this is a key indicator that the window seals are failing. Unfortunately, replacing windows is the only answer. 

More Notable Cold Drafts

As your windows age, they begin to deteriorate and this does mean they might begin to let in more noticeable cold drafts. 

There could be several reasons for this, including a break in the frame, which is more common with wooden frames. The seals could also be broken as they are allowing air to pass through, there might also be an issue with the fit.

Another sign that your seals are no longer working is if you start to notice puddles or leaks on your window sill.

Your Home Feels Colder Than Usual

A sure-fire sign that your windows need checking or potentially replacing is if you find the house is colder than usual or you are having to put the heating on high more. 

This is something that can be noticed over time, as the seal on your windows may be keeping any drafts at bay. When the insulating gas between the panes is compromised, you will like begin to notice the house feeling colder, or when the heating is switched in, you will feel as though the hot air is escaping. 

As the cost of energy bills are soaring enough already and having inefficient windows will only add to this problem. 

They’re No Longer Soundproof

A key function of windows, aside from protecting your home from the elements, is soundproofing. If you feel as though you can hear all the sounds from outside, inside your home, then the chances are your windows are not soundproofing the same way anymore. A common issue is when the insulating gas between the panes is no longer there, it cannot be the barrier to protect you from the noise.

You Only Have Single Glazing

When it was initially introduced, double-glazed windows were an expensive investment, however, with modern technology, the cost has reduced and we are also seeing triple-glazing windows!

Single-glazing windows are not known to be good for soundproofing and insulation. If the idea of wasting money on expensive central heating that will quickly escape your home isn’t enough to spur you to replace your windows, then do it for the planet! 

At KLG Glass, we offer a complete range of glass products including double-glazed windows.

As we head into the cooler months, it is inevitable that you will want to keep your house as warm as you can without increasing energy bills. We’ve put together a few key ways to ensure your home is ready for the cold, winter months to come.

Inspect Your Windows

Over time, temperature changes can cause problems with older windows and doors, it is important to regularly inspect your window and door frames, checking for signs of warping, rotting or even cracking. A problem with the frame can result in poor insulation throughout your home. This can mean you may need to keep putting your heating on high but your house isn’t truly warming up as the heat is escaping.

If you do notice any issues, then we’d recommend speaking to a professional as you may need to replace your windows.

Consider Upgrading The Glass in Your Windows

If you currently have single-glazed windows a cost-effective way to increase your home insulation is to upgrade to double or even triple-glazing windows. As the name suggests, double-glazed windows are two panes of glass which trap insulated gas to stop the cold from getting into your home. Triple glazed is similar but with 3 panes.

Therefore, they reduce heat loss and reduce how long or how often you have to switch on your heating, which when energy bills are rising, can save you money. Although, it is important to note they can be quite expensive to replace an entire home, however, are a great investment to consider.

Fix Any Breaks or Cracks

Although straightforward, fixing and sealing any breaks or cracks is a cost-effective way to prepare your home before the rain, wind and possible snow you might face through the winter. If you have a broken seal, you may be able to repair or replace the seal. This can however be a short-term solution. 

Clean Your Windows

Summer heat often means plenty of dust particles around which can stick to your window. As we head into the autumn and winter, there are fewer hours of daylight and dirty window can reduce how much natural light comes into your home. So, ensuring the windows are cleaned regularly can help uplift your mood and the light in each room.

If you need any advice or help about replacing or repairing your windows, contact our team at KLG Glass on 0115 9222233. 

Spring is well and truly with us, the days are growing longer, the nights have lost their bitter cold bite, and the glowing promise of summer is just around the corner. Many of us are using this time to make changes to our homes that will help us to make the most of the clement weather. We’re clearing away clutter, taking down the heavy drapes, patching up cracks in the drive and sprucing up the flower beds in our gardens. 

But in this spring cleaning fervour, don’t make the mistake of neglecting your windows. Those clever glass panels work very hard for you, keeping the heat inside where it belongs, shutting out draughts and unwelcome sounds and keeping your home as cosy as possible all year round. 

Your windows need a little extra care as spring bleeds into summer to ensure that they provide peak protection and comfort for your household in the warmer months. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you prepare your windows for summer. 

Inspect The Seals, Strips And Frames

The cold, wet weather of autumn and winter can cause damage to certain parts of your window frames as the years go by. Now that the weather has regained its cheer, it’s the perfect time to inspect your window frames, paying special attention to the seals and weather strips. 

Weatherstripping is the rubbery strip of material between the sash and the windowpane that maintains a consistent temperature in your home and keeps out the excesses of the weather outside. If it has become worn or cracked, now is the perfect time to replace it. 

You should check the caulking around the window frame that seals the gap between your window and your wall. Wear and cracks here can cause thermal leakage that could seriously add to your heating and cooling costs.  

Inspect The Hardware

Many of us like to keep our windows partially open at night during the summer. It admits a gentle breeze into the home and helps us to stay cool as we drift away to sleep. During the colder months, however, our windows usually stay firmly shut. With this in mind, it’s always a good idea to inspect your window handles and hardware to ensure that they open and close properly. The last thing you want is to cause accidental damage by forcing them. 

If your handles feel wobbly, loose screws on the base plate are usually to blame. This is common as the metal plate expands and contracts slightly with the passing of the seasons. Tightening these up with a screwdriver and spraying all joints with a silicone lubricant will have your windows feeling like new again. 

Consider Adding A Window Film Layer

There’s nothing quite like seeing your home bathed in rays of gorgeous natural light from your windows. There’s no better showcase for your home’s interior design concept and all the little flourishes that make your home your own. However, those UV rays also have their caveats.

They can cause your furniture and other belongings to fade or become discoloured. Furthermore, they can cause an irritating glare that hurts your eyes and potentially ruins a family movie night on a bright summer evening. Whilst also making your living space uncomfortably hot. 

Window film is a thin plastic coating that can be applied to your window glass.  It can be installed on the inside or outside of the window, although it is usually installed on the inside to protect them from the elements. It is easy to install and can be quickly removed when the autumn chills set in. They can also help to protect your household’s privacy without ruining your view. 

These film layers are generally silver or metallic, enabling them to reflect heat and UV light away from the home. They are best suited for use on the south, east and west-facing windows as these receive the most direct sunlight in summer. 

Consider Installing Awnings

If the idea of installing window film doesn’t appeal to you, awnings can be a great compromise, especially for downstairs windows. Retractable or roll-up awnings can be positioned above the window frame, and be folded down when you need to provide a little shade over your windows. This reduces glare and excessive heat without blocking your view. 

In fact, installing awnings above your windows can reduce heat gain by 77% on west-facing windows and as much as 65% when installed above south-facing windows. Plus, when the darker, colder weather sets in, these awnings can be rolled up or retracted and sit above your window in a protective cassette. 

Know The Signs That Your Windows Need To Be Replaced

All windows are built to last and as long as they are properly maintained, double glazed windows can last for anywhere between 20 and 40 years. However, it’s important to be able to identify the signs that could indicate that your windows need to be replaced. One of the most obvious of which is condensation. 

Condensation between the panes of glass in your windows indicates that the window unit’s airtight seal has failed. This has allowed the insulating gas between the panes to escape, meaning that your window is far less efficient than it should be. The longer you wait to replace this window, the more money you could be losing in unnecessary heating costs. 

You should also consider replacing your windows if:

• You notice a breeze or drop in temperature when you walk past them
• The pane has noticeable chips or cracks
• You notice puddles of moisture or mould around your window frame
• They no longer open or close smoothly

In financially troubled times, many may be wary of replacing their double glazing. However, it is only a matter of time until this becomes a false economy. The sooner damaged or worn window units are replaced with more energy-efficient alternatives, the more you will save on heating and cooling bills and the more comfortable you will be in your home. 

Get The Most From Your Windows With Klg Glass

At KLG Glass, we specialise in all kinds of glass installations and repairs, including the replacement of double glazed window and door units. If you want to ensure that your home stays cool in the coming summer while also remaining warm in winter, we can install highly efficient double glazing units. So you can make the most of your windows this summer!

In recent years, we’ve seen a big shift within interior design ideas to maximise and take advantage of all the natural light available. However, the big question is always how to increase the light as much as possible? So, here are our top tips on how to increase the natural light in your home.

Use Lighter And Brighter Colours

Although decorating might not be the first thing you want to invest in, it is a really easy and effective way to utilise the natural light available. The best way to achieve this is, is to use painting the walls and ceilings white, if this isn’t to your taste, keeping your walls neutral, light tones and ceilings white is a great start.

Adding Reflective Furnishings 

A simple and effective way to create the illusion of more light is to add large mirrors opposite windows, as they reflect all the light. If you can’t have it opposite, you can place a mirror on an adjacent wall far away from the window, that way, you can see the window reflecting in the mirror. In a space where you have tiles, an option would be to use glass or reflective tiling. Light fixtures made from glass offer an abundance of reflective surfaces too.

Windows And Skylights

New large windows and skylights are an amazing way of pulling in natural light. New windows can offer multiple advantages from more light but also new double glazing can mean a reduction in energy bills too. 

As skylights are placed on the roof of your house, they are directly in line with the sunlight, meaning they will provide the most light possible.

Doors With Windows

Entryways and passages are usually ignored when it comes to creating light, but a simple door change can make a significant difference. Why not try Swapping your front door from all wood to doors with window panels? It can also be great for a utility room. 

Replace Walls & Balustrades With Glass 

Now, this is likely to be a costly and lengthy process, replacing certain areas with glass allows light to flow through your entire home. Folding windows and doors open up wall space and glass balustrades offer a similar result. However, these aren’t always appropriate for every family or home, so this will be something you need to consider.

Ultimately, there are many things you need to consider when trying to maximize your space and available light. 

Making changes to your property can seem like a time consuming and expensive process that you might not want to undertake. With so many different ways to improve your home, it can be overwhelming to choose the best ones to suit your needs and budget. Although, changing things over time and working on your property can add value to your home should you ever decide to sell it. 

Conversions  

If you’re lucky enough to have extra space which you can convert into living spaces, then it is the perfect way to completely transform your home. It is a great way to create more space for you to utilise in your home effectively whilst also increasing your home value in the long term. A great option is to convert an attic into a bedroom, an unused garage into a second reception room or proper storage space. 

Extensions

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to simply expand the space you have, you can consider an extension instead. You can add a sunroom or conservation space, perfect to enjoy the warmth in the summer months or extend the kitchen and reception room. However, adding more functional spaces to your house can be expensive but is a great long term investment and is likely to add more value. 

Renovations 

Although this seems like a very obvious and naturally the first place to start, home renovations are a really easy way to simultaneously spruce up your home and add value. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are usually the more expensive options, this does however mean they add the most value. Replacing old kitchen worktops, cabinets and flooring can really give the space a new lease of life. A brand new toilet, sink and shower or bath can really increase the appeal of your house.

New Windows

Similar to the other suggestions, additions to your home are very likely to increase value, so the addition of new windows can definitely help. Naturally, ensuring you have high quality, glazed and insulated windows is a key aspect of any home renovation and can be a costly addition but offers long term benefits. At KLG Glass, we supply a complete range of glass units that are tailored to you. 

Garden

If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that access to outside space while being at home is a real perk and if done properly, can serve a variety of functions. Whether you want to use the space to exercise, work or socialise, a well-designed garden can be perfect. For example, having some grassy spaces is great for relaxing in the sun and working out, if you choose to have artificial grass the maintenance will be minimal. Adding garden furniture with seating and table options can be used for working from home or as an eating spot. You can decorate with lighting and plants to create an atmosphere.

Ultimately, there are a multitude of home improvements that can result in adding value to your property in the long run. A key decision you will need to consider is how much they will initially cost compared to how much value they will add. We would recommend speaking to experts who can help you make effective and efficient decisions for you.