If you want to save energy in your home, your windows could be a good item to consider. Often they can be the source of a great deal of heat loss, especially in period or listed properties where the windows are older and have to conform to a certain style. Regardless of the kind of property you live in, though, there are a number of ways in which you can make your windows more energy efficient.
Double glazing is the most popular way of ensuring that your windows are as insulated as possible. This kind of window consists of two panes of glass with a gap in between. A type of double glazing called low emissivity glass is the most energy efficient. It allows light and heat to enter, but reduces the amount which goes out, usually through an invisible metal oxide coating.
A good quality frame will also help to keep heat in. Frames can be found in all materials to suit your windows – vinyl, wood, fiberglass and some composite frames tend to be better than metal at keeping heat in.
If you live in a listed property where you can’t install double glazed windows, secondary glazing might be an option for you. This is a second pane of glass which can be fitted inside the window frame, so it creates a new layer of insulation without actually affecting the existing window structure. You can also use curtains, blinds and shutters to provide extra insulation.