If you want to save money on your heating bills and do your bit for the environment, the first step you should take is to install insulative and energy-efficient windows. Whilst there are all sorts of tips and tricks out there claiming to pinch pennies on your utility bills, having windows with the latest modern and efficient adjustments is one of the single most effective ways to trap heat into your home.

When you’re shopping around for new windows, there are a few key elements to look out for that will ensure maximum energy efficiency. First and foremost, you should check the energy rating of the product. Energy ratings range from E to A++, with the latter being most efficient. According to recent Building Regulations, the minimum rating you should aim for is C, however, obviously the higher the rating, the more money you’re going to save long-term.

Next, you should also check the materials and features of a new window, as these determine the overall energy rating. Let’s take a look at which modern features can save you some cash:

uPVC frames

If you have an older, period property, your window frames are most probably made from wood. Whilst wood can be effective, it’s certainly not the most insulating option. uPVC frames offer high thermal performance, protecting your windows from a buildup of condensation and eliminating cold draughts. As a material, uPVC will also last a long time and, despite what you may think, can eventually be recycled, presenting another environmental benefit to choosing uPVC windows. 

What’s more, you can get uPVC frames in a huge range of colours and finishes, replicating original wooden frames. Nowadays, the only difference between modern uPVC and wood frames is not the aesthetic appearance, but the energy performance.

Double and triple-glazed glass

To save overspending on your utility bills, it’s crucial that you team uPVC frames with double or triple-glazed glass. With more than one pane of glass, double and triple-glazed windows are the most insulative option and again protects the window from condensation. For a high performing window, choose panes that are filled with argon, xenon or krypton gas, and opt for low-emissivity (Low-E) glass which lets in light and heat, but prevents heat from escaping. Keep an eye on the energy rating, as double and triple-glazed windows with these features could be as high as A+ or A++.

Window pane spacers

In order to optimise the efficiency of your double or triple-glazed windows, you should speak to your window installer about the window pane spacers they use. Pane spacers are set around the inside edges of window glazing, keeping the two (or three) panes of glass apart. Older models were made from aluminium, until manufacturers realised that these were inefficient and actually reducing the insulative quality of double and triple glazing. The most efficient pane spacers have little or no metal in, and are known as warm edge spacers.

Lifestyle Windows are your choice for quality uPVC window installation in Stoke-On-Trent. With a wide range of glazing products, you can guarantee quality, energy efficiency and value for money.