The bathroom is almost always the smallest room in the house. In most homes, it’s the room you spend the least time in, so it makes sense to sacrifice space here and share it with bedrooms, kitchens or even hallways instead.

However, there is a difference between being a little short on space and having a dark tiny room sucks all the enjoyment out of bathing. No one  wants to get clean in a cramped space, however short the time you spend in there.

Luckily they are plenty of ways to make a small bathroom feel bigger without having to knock walls down to find more actual space. In this post, we’ll look at ways you can make a small bathroom feel bigger, from small design choices to bigger lifestyle-affecting changes.

First off, here are some general rules to remember when decorating a small bathroom.

How can I make my small bathroom look bigger without a window?

One of the best ways to make any small space feel bigger is to maximise the amount of natural light in it but that is pretty difficult if you have no windows to start with. And even if this is the case, you still need to fill the space with light and minimise the shadows. Use strategically-placed wall lights instead of one strong overhead light. It will increase the light available in the room but also avoid unflattering shadows shrinking your small bathroom back down.

What flooring is good for small bathrooms?

Tiles are always an excellent choice when it comes to bathroom floors. Being waterproof they can stand up to constant splashes and spills and they are robust enough to withstand the heavy traffic of such an often-used room. Make sure you get an anti-slip set and you’ve got an ideal floor for any bathroom.

With small bathrooms, it’s a great idea to go for gloss tiles. The reflective surface, particularly of plain tiles, will help bounce light back around the room increasing the sense of space.

When you’re short on square footage, the floor also makes a fantastic focal point. Add a bright block of colour or vivid pattern such as a chequerboard design to an otherwise neutral room and you can add personality without worrying about stealing any space or light that is already limited.

How do you make a small bathroom feel luxurious?

Just because your bathroom is small doesn’t mean you can’t bring a touch of luxury to it. The best way to do that will, as with all rooms, depend on the overall interior design and what aesthetic you’re going for but certain choices will always upgrade the general look.

Picking matte taps for your bath and sink, especially more decorative bronze and brass ones will add a more unusual look and a dash of luxury. Picking mirrors with decorative frames can also add a flash of design

Another way to up the luxury of your bathroom is using soft furnishings like towels, bath mats and blinds. A mountain of big fluffy towels, a large deep-pile bath mat and similar simple additions will give your bathroom that luxurious edge without taking up any precious space.

6 tips to make a cramped bathroom feel bigger

While the above suggestions can work for any interior design scheme, some specific suggestions depend on your choices. Bear the following tips in mind when designing your small bathroom and pick out the ones that work for you.

Don’t be afraid of colour

It is a commonly known rule of interior design that light colours are great for increasing space. This is true, but has bred an army of stark, white bathrooms that feel clinical rather calming.

Pale pastels make a softer alternative to a sharp white, as do creams and off-whites. These will help create a more tranquil, comfortable feeling bathroom while still keeping your sense of space.

Natural materials like wood, stone and marble can also help soften an otherwise harsh white palette.

Pick a frameless clear glass shower screen

A glass shower screen is an obvious choice when you’re sick of a damp clingy shower curtain sticking to your skin, but did you know they can make your tiny bathroom feel bigger and brighter too?

A shower curtain creates a obscure barrier in your bathroom, blocking light and shrinking the space. Even when it’s open, its a bright flash of colour that draws the eye, and disects the room, sectioning it into many small spaces rather than one flowing one.

Use a clear glass panel instead, and your sightlines will remain uninterrupted. This will help your bathroom look like a single larger space that includes your bath and shower space rather than separating them off. A frameless glass shower door is best to removed all the lines and barriers.

Get smart with storage

Storage is often overlooked in bathrooms, particularly when you’re already struggling for space.

Using wall-hung units and cabinets is an easy way to free up more floor space without sacrificing all-important bathroom furniture and storage space. Using wall space over your sink for cupboards or shelves is a particularly great way to save space.

Plump for bigger tiles

This one might feel counterintuitive but using bigger wall tiles in a smaller bathroom can increase the sense of space. Small tiles don’t immediately equal a squashed space feeling but you don’t have to default to tiny tiles either.

Large format tiles play with the proportions of the room and create large clear expanses of space. It will look cleaner and clearer too, while lots of small floor or wall tiles can create a sense of clutter that shrinks your small bathroom even more.

Make the most of your natural light with mirrors

Adding bathroom mirrors to your small bathroom is one of those clever design tricks that has many practical benefits.

Firstly, the reflected images help the room feel bigger, almost twice the size. A mirror will also reflect light effectively around the space, helping even a tiny space feel brighter – and thus bigger.

The bigger the mirror the better as well. Lots of tiny mirrors will just create clutter, and break the room up. Go for large mirrors – or even a mirrored wall – to get the most benefits from this classic design hack.

Ditch the tub

This is a contentious one because some people just prefer can’t live without with a freestanding bath. It’s non-negotiable. But if you can bear to be without, then replacing your bath with a floor-level shower will increase the feel of size in the room by a lot more than it saves in floor space.

Combine it with a clear glass shower door and you will increase the sense of flow in the room. This will feel like you’ve added a lot more square footage than you actually have.

Custom glass items for your home

Whether you’re looking for a bespoke mirror to make the most of your light, or a clear glass shower screen to break down the barriers, we’ve got glass products to help make your small bathroom feel bigger.

 

If you’re looking to buy bannisters or balustrades for your home, you’ll probably think of using wood first. If you’re looking for something to use outside, you might think of using metal too. But what about glass?

People often pick glass balustrades to suit a specific design idea or concept. However, they bring a wide range of practical advantages too. Here are 5 practical benefits of glass balustrades that show why they’re such a smart choice.

Stylish

This first reason is pretty obvious. Glass balustrades have a simple but sleek, stylish aesthetic appeal. They bring their own design edge to any home, turning a simple staircase into a focal point.

They are also incredibly versatile, thanks to their range of framing options and glass decoration. Frameless glass balustrades create a clean, minimalist look while the soft contrast of chrome and glass carries a modern but elegant feel. Even the choice between frosted or patterned glass will help tailor your rails to your interior design.

Simple to install

As they come in fewer, larger pieces, the process to install glass balustrades can be a lot easier than with a wood or metal bannister. This is a major benefit – even when you have your balustrade installed by a professional. As the job is quicker to carry out, it causes less disruption and costs less in labour time.

If the measurements for your glass railings are done correctly, you are unlikely to encounter any issues to slow the process down, so you can start enjoying the sleek look of your glass balustrade immediately.

Durable (and safe)

Don’t be fooled into thinking that glass is a delicate or fragile option when it comes to balustrade material.

In reality, glass ages slowly and is very strong. This gives glass balustrades excellent durability even when exposed to the elements on outdoor decking areas or balconies. And as long as you pick toughened glass or tempered safety glass, a glass balustrade is also an incredibly safe option.

It is a lot harder to damage a glass balustrade than one made of other materials. The surfaces of tempered glass and laminated glass are incredibly strong so it’s hard to scratch or damage accidentally unlike wood or metal.

Even better, unlike metal or wood balustrades you don’t need to worry about refinishing a glass railing during its lifetime. With other materials, regular maintenance with paint, varnish or wax is needed to keep them looking their best – and at their strongest. With glass, once your balustrades are installed you only need to worry about keeping them clean.

Easy to clean

Another major advantage that comes with the sleek, smooth surface of glass panels is how easy they are to clean. Grab some glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth and you’ll be able quickly and easily wipe your glass free of smears or dirt without having to delve into any deep crevices or corners.

This is particularly important for railings and balustrades. Internally these tend to be used in high-traffic areas, touched by many hands every day while external railings are obviously exposed to the elements.

In either case, grime can build up quickly so having a simple-to-clean surface is a definite bonus.

 

Stops chills (while still letting natural light flow)

Glass balustrades make a fantastic choice for a balcony or decking area because the glass creates a solid surface. This helps prevent drafts or chills from whipping around decking areas and protects against strong winds at heights.

Of course, the transparent nature of glass balustrades means that natural light will still flow freely so to let you enjoy sun spots on warm days.

If you want to embrace these practical benefits in your home, KLG Glass offer high-quality, made-to-measure glass balustrades in bespoke designs. Browse our range to find out more.

 

It goes without saying that we love glass here at KLG Rutland. We love helping households get the most from their glass windows and doors, not just in terms of aesthetics but in terms of energy savings, thermal efficiency, sound insulation, and glare reduction. But we also love to help households to explore some of the less conventional ways in which glass can be used in their household decor. 

Glass can be a wonderful feature in all kinds of design concepts, whether your tastes lean towards traditional, rustic, or farmhouse aesthetics or you prefer something a little more contemporary or industrial. From innovative glass shelving solutions in the office or bathroom to glass kitchen splashbacks, there’s no shortage of ways in which this versatile material can help beautify your home. 

But did you know that glass is also the perfect medium for wall art? We often rely on glass to protect our framed wall prints, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This post is dedicated to the wonderful wall decorations that can be achieved with glass.

What are the different styles and types of glass wall art available?

Glass is one of the most versatile materials out there, capable of creating a huge variety of looks and effects. Glass is a great choice for wall art because it captures, reflects and defuses the light within your home beautifully, allowing artists to create a bewitching range of effects for every home. 

• Stained glass- Stained glass is made by adding different metal oxides to the molten glass to create different colours. Multicoloured glass segments are encased in a metal frame and separated by strips of lead or other pliable materials.
• Fused glass- Fused glass (also known as warm glass or kiln-fused glass) uses glass pieces that have been melted and fused together in a kiln to create distinctive multicoloured or three-dimensional pieces.
• Metal and glass- Metal is often used to support glass elements to create bold and beautiful shapes for wall art. However, metal can also create a compelling visual juxtaposition with a fascinating interplay between the solid and the translucent.
• Mosaic glass- Mosaic wall art uses small glass pieces embedded in a ceramic or polymer backing and arranged to form stunning shapes and images. As the pieces catch the light they can create a spellbinding shimmering effect.
• Recycled glass- Recycled glass wall art uses repurposed post-consumer glass that has been altered by staining, melting, cutting or fusing to create wall art that is as sustainable as it is breathtaking.
• Mirrored glass- Mirrored glass typically uses a melange of mirrored glass pieces of different sizes and shapes to reflect surrounding light and images to create uniquely beautiful visual effects.
• Etched glass- A range of techniques from laser etching to sandblasting or acid etching can be used to imbue the glass with stunning shapes and images that reflect the light with a slightly spectral sheen.
• Bevelled glass- Bevelled glass is created by grinding and polishing the surface so that it is no longer flat. This distorts the reflected properties of the glass for some beautiful and challenging optics.

How can homeowners choose the best glass wall art option for their space and style?

There’s an incredible range of glass wall art available. With such incredible variety from an extraordinary range of talented artists, it can be difficult to choose the right piece for your home. Whether you have a traditional or modern home aesthetic, we have some tips to help you find the perfect glass wall art option for you.

When shopping for glass wall art, you should consider:

The function of the space

Each room has a slightly different set of needs and practical considerations. For instance, a lounge or dining room might benefit from a statement piece that’s designed to provoke conversation. However, a bathroom or kitchen might benefit from something more modest and discreet, especially given the presence of steam, smoke, and airborne oil deposits.  

The design and decor of the space

Some interior design concepts lend themselves to different types of glass wall art. In a chic urban apartment with a contemporary feel, a challenging piece of mirrored wall art or bold fused glass piece might add an intriguing sense of depth and dimension when juxtaposed with plain white walls. Alternatively, stained glass and mosaics can lend a greater sense of heritage to cottage core, farmhouse or traditional aesthetics. 

The function of the wall art

Are you looking for a bold statement piece to wow guests at dinner parties? Or do you want something soothing to look at as you drift to sleep at night? It helps for your glass wall art to have an intended function in order to choose the best piece for your space.

Size and placement 

Finally, the intended size and placement of your piece will also help to guide your decision. Smaller spaces, for instance, might benefit from a mirrored glass piece or the elegant simplicity of etched glass wall art. In larger spaces with a greater abundance of usable wall space, however, might benefit more from a large fused glass piece that uses different colours and textures to create three-dimensional or overlapping effects.

What are some creative ways to use colour, pattern, and texture in glass wall art?

The great thing about glass is that it can be infused, imprinted, and crafted into all kinds of colours, textures, and ornate patterns. So feel free to experiment with these to complement and contrast with the surrounding furniture, decor, and architectural features. For instance, a glass and wrought iron piece is a stunning addition to a country house or repurposed barn with smooth white walls and exposed timber ceiling beams. 

Likewise, a bold recycled piece can lend a cool factor to a newly developed semi-detached house or loft-style apartment. 

How can glass wall art be incorporated into traditional or modern home designs?

While there is often some overlap (such as in farmhouse or industrial interior design concepts), styles tend to veer more towards either the modern or the traditional. Modern or contemporary styles tend to favour clean lines, minimalism, and elegant simplicity. Traditional homes may incorporate older production techniques and more ornate designs. 

As such, stained glass, glass and metalwork, or mosaic pieces are generally a good fit for traditional homes. They are not only time-honoured techniques, but they create a classic look that is ageless yet full of history and antiquity. 

On the other hand, a more contemporary design concept may use mirrored glass to create a greater sense of light and space that works well with minimalistic interiors. 

Both traditional and modern homes can benefit equally from incorporating glass wall art into their interior design. The piece just needs to be carefully considered, chosen and placed in accordance with its intended setting.

How can glass wall art be customised or personalised for a unique touch?

Looking for truly personal to decorate your home? One of the wonderful things about glass wall art is that it can be customised in creative and unique ways. Glass wall art can be etched with specific patterns or images. It can incorporate a wide range of colours, depending on your preference and the surrounding design concept. It can be personalised with unique laser engravings or inscriptions. 

A little customisation can make a rare piece into a piece that’s truly one of a kind. 

What are some practical considerations for hanging and maintaining glass wall art?

When choosing glass wall art, it’s important to balance the practical with the creative. The glass used in most wall art, while fairly resilient, is much less toughened than the glass that’s used for your windows and doors. As such, it’s essential to ensure proper hanging and installation. Ensure that the piece is firmly secured at multiple points of contact on the wall. Edge grip stand-off mounts can be used to securely hang glass art seemingly invisibly while providing a firm hold. 

Glass wall art can accrue dust and dirt over time, so it’s important to ensure that your art is cleaned or wiped down fairly regularly to preserve its beauty for the long haul. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. A dash of spirit vinegar diluted in water is usually all that is required to make your glass wall art sparkle. Wipe with a soft microfibre cloth to avoid dulling the glass with tiny scratches, and consider using an electrostatic duster to remove dust from elaborate three-dimensional art which may have nooks and crannies where dust can accumulate. 

When it comes to wall art, glass adds a touch of class

As we can see, glass is a medium for all art that combines striking beauty with unmatched versatility. If you’re looking for something truly unique, there’s no better choice. What’s more, because glass wall art encompasses so many different styles and techniques, there’s a piece for traditional homes, modern homes, and every type of interior design. 

Shelves are more than just a way to store your belongings. They’re a showcase for your treasured possessions. They’re a means of celebrating your framed pictures, books, flowers and vases. They’re a great way to help you to make your home look larger by making use of your vertical space, and a valuable ally in the battle against clutter. Of course, shelving can be made from all kinds of materials from oak to bamboo to wrought iron. But too few of us have stopped to consider the potential benefits of glass shelving. 

Strong, affordable and scratch-resistant, glass can be used for all kinds of shelving solutions from floating open shelving to wall-mounted built-in storage units. It’s even easy to clean and maintain so it will continue to look terrific for years to come with very little upkeep. 

What’s more, because glass is so incredibly versatile, it will look equally at home in both contemporary and traditional interiors. Let’s take a look at 10 breathtaking glass shelving ideas for all kinds of homes. 

Idea 1: Use floating glass shelves for a sleek, modern look

Floating glass shelves create a wonderfully minimalist look, displaying items without calling attention to themselves. They make the items on them look as if they are quite literally floating in the air.

To help a glass shelf pull off this illusion, floating shelves need hidden wall mountings. This creates a stylishly clean and contemporary look. As the brackets and mounts are so small, floating glass shelves use up very little space. This creates plenty of opportunities to vary the spacings and groupings of the shelves.

Using different sizes and depths of glass wall shelves is a great way to add interest to your space while also placing added emphasis on whatever you want to put on display. Floating shelves can also look incredible in the bathroom, creating a spa-like effect and preventing things like towels, washcloths and toiletries from creating clutter. 

Idea 2: Incorporate built-in glass shelving for a custom look

When you’re installing a new bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or office, it’s easy to incorporate built-in glass shelving into whatever units you wish to install. This helps to ensure that your storage solutions fit elegantly and unobtrusively into your design concept, helping to create a cohesive look.

That’s not to say, of course, that you can’t have some fun with your glass shelf space. You can customise your look by using different colours, finishes and fittings to unify your look and create storage solutions that are both beautiful and practical.

Idea 3: Add a touch of glamour with mirrored glass shelves

Of course, one of the most common uses for glass in interior design is the humble mirror. Mirrored glass can add a touch of magic to your shelves and display space. Mirror and open shelving arranged into beautiful geometric shapes create a glamorous, Hollywood Regency-style aesthetic. Ornate decorative frames can further enhance the feeling of glamour and elegance. What’s more, mirrored shelving can reflect the ambient light around it as well as reflect the image of its surroundings. This can help to create an illusion of space and prevent your walls from looking too busy. 

Idea 4: Create a rustic or industrial look with metal and glass shelves

Glass and metal often get along very well together in all kinds of interior design concepts. Wrought iron, steel, bronze, and other metals have the strength and stability to support the tempered glass shelving while subtly complementing the aesthetic of the glass itself. The solidity of the metal frames and supports combined with the elegance and simplicity of the glass makes for a visually striking juxtaposition. 

This lends itself to a surprisingly diverse range of aesthetics from an ultra-modern industrial design concept to a more rustic farmhouse look that is perfect for bathrooms and bedrooms. 

Idea 5: Use glass shelves to create a cohesive look with other elements in the room

One of the many great things about glass shelving is its ability to blend seamlessly into virtually any design concept due to its sheer versatility. Because it can be made into all kinds of shapes, with a huge range of colours and finishes, it can be used to create a seamless match with its surroundings. As such, it can be rendered to fit in with surrounding design elements like cabinets, countertops, wardrobes, drawers, and bookcases. 

This helps to create a unified and cohesive look and tie together the surrounding design elements in a satisfying and aesthetically pleasing way. 

Idea 6: Go for a minimalist look with clear glass shelves

While glass can be made and printed with all kinds of colours, finishes and textures, there are many who prefer to celebrate the elegance of clear glass. Especially those whose tastes veer towards the contemporary and minimalist.

Clear glass fits seamlessly into all kinds of design aesthetics, and when combined with smaller and more discreet frames and wall mountings can look practically invisible. This can be a great way to draw the eye’s attention to other design elements within the space, or accentuate the beauty of whatever you choose to display on your glass shelving.

Idea 7: Add a touch of whimsy with coloured or patterned glass shelves

Neutral colour palettes can give your home’s interiors a calming and minimalist appearance. However, in such a space, a splash of bold colour or dramatic pattern can add a sense of visual punctuation, lending life and fun to the design concept.

Glass shelves can be made in a range of colours and printed with all sorts of patterns for a more dazzling effect that elevates the look of whatever you choose to store on your shelves. Bent glass shelves are a visually striking and popular choice, adding a sloping effect to the storage solution that adds a dash of whimsy and fun. 

Some may even use resin to preserve dried flowers on the surface of the glass, or use coloured LEDs to lend an ethereal and dazzling quality to their storage.

Idea 8: Use glass shelves to display collections or sentimental items

Glass shelving can either add a wow factor to your storage or it can be an ultra-discreet way to showcase the things that matter the most to you, enabling them to speak for themselves as eloquently as possible. 

They can draw the eye to the intricate beauty of collectables, accentuate the joy of a family photo, add a stately air to beloved books, or create a reverential place for family heirlooms to rest. 

Idea 9: Utilise glass shelves in a small space to make the most of limited storage

Slender, discreet, and virtually invisible, glass shelving is the perfect storage medium to use when usable space is limited. What’s more, because glass reflects and amplifies ambient light, it can prevent shadows from making the shelving area feel cramped, dark or gloomy.

The bathroom and kitchen are two areas where compact shelving units can be employed to reduce clutter by maximising storage space, even when there is only a little wall space available. 

Idea 10: Use glass shelves to add an outdoor element to an indoor space

We all know that proximity to plants, flowers and other natural materials can help us feel calmer, happier and more relaxed at home. Elements of nature can beautify our living space while helping us to feel a greater sense of equilibrium with the world around us. 

Combining glass shelving with a natural wooden frame or encasement can create a beautiful and stylish juxtaposition, while glass shelving units with terrarium-like designs can be a great space in which to store houseplants and succulents. They can look great with creepers cascading from them, and refract the light reflected from crystals, geodes and other minerals beautifully. 

Glass always adds a touch of class

There are few materials as sturdy, versatile, low-maintenance and elegantly beautiful as glass. While it may not be the most obvious way to showcase your stored items, we can see it as an excellent choice where space is limited, where minimalist design concepts are preferred, or where space and light come at a premium. Whether they’re installed in a traditional or contemporary setting, glass shelves have the potential to subtly enhance and elevate your storage solutions. 

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.