Experienced Conservatory Surveyor
Due to expansion Hazlemere Window Company Ltd. is looking for an experienced double glazing conservatory surveyor. We are looking to immediately appoint the right candidate.
Promoting the highest industry standards
Due to expansion Hazlemere Window Company Ltd. is looking for an experienced double glazing conservatory surveyor. We are looking to immediately appoint the right candidate.
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Energy efficient glazing helps keep heat inside the home and, in combination with other home energy efficiency measures (such as cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and an energy-efficient heating system), can lead to a reduction in annual heating bills.
And that’s just the start. The benefits of having energy efficient glazing installed in your home can also include a reduced carbon footprint, improved home security and noise reduction.
If you’re considering investing in energy-efficient glazing, you’re certainly not alone. There’s a lot to gain from this home improvement, but of course there is also a lot to consider.
This short guide will take you through some key information that will help you make an informed decision.
Energy-efficient glazing is the term used to describe glazing consisting of two or more glass panes within a sealed unit. This includes double and triple glazed windows and similar units found within doors.
Energy-efficient windows and doors consist of a framing material (timber, aluminium, PVC-U or composite) into which one or more glass sealed units are fitted according to the style of the window or door.
Energy-efficient glazing is rated according to its ability to reduce the amount of heat that can pass through the window, the capacity for sunlight to travel through the glass unit, and the capacity for air to move through the unit.
Commonly, the highest-rated glazing according to efficiency is made with Low-Emissivity Glass which has a special coating on the inner surface of one pane, enabling light to travel through whilst reflecting heat back into the room.
The air gap limits the amount of cold air able to get into your home. It does this by acting as an insulator and is completely sealed.
The space between the glass panes is filled with air or gas such as argon, krypton or xenon. These help reduce heat loss through the unit. When gas such as argon – which has low conductivity – is used within this space, the window is then even more efficient at keeping heat inside the property and also at interfering with sound waves from inside or outside the house, reducing noise pollution.
Sealed units also have a strip in between the panes, made from metal or polymer. This strip is called a spacer which can contain a drying agent that deals with any moisture that is trapped in the space between the sheets of glass.
As with the glass itself, the frame material used in energy-efficient windows and doors is also important.
There are several options here:
For ease of purchase, certain window manufacturers label the energy efficiency of their windows with an energy rating ranging from A++ to C, A++ being the most efficient. This rating system has been developed by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) and it takes into consideration the entire window.
When this energy rating is given, a whole window u-value is also calculated. The u-value refers to how easily heat can pass through the unit. The u-value scale works in the opposite way to an energy rating, in that the higher the u-value, the more easily heat can pass through the window and the window is less efficient.
There are many benefits of EEG, which are increasing all the time as technology and building techniques advance, and our eco-awareness increases.
Key benefits include:
See more: Glazing and noise reduction in homes
See more: How double or triple glazing helps reduce condensation
In newer dwellings with higher-efficiency insulation, a lack of adequate ventilation can increase the risk of condensation forming on internal surfaces – including on windows and other glazed surfaces. A way of reducing this risk is to ensure each room has adequate ventilation, such as trickle ventilators or other forms of ventilation.
Continuous improvements in frames, glass and gas combinations mean the consumer’s energy-efficient window choice is increasing all the time. Energy-efficient glazing is a beneficial addition to any modern
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Noise is unwanted sound. In the home, this is any sound that distracts or disturbs the occupants.
This could be anything from nearby traffic or low flying aircraft to sounds coming from neighbouring properties such as music and loud conversation.
Sound travels through the air (and solids and liquids) like the ripples seen on the surface of a pond when you throw a stone into it. Just like these ripples, the waves decrease in intensity as they move away from the source.
Sound intensity is measured in decibels (dB). A low dB value indicates a soft sound and a high dB value a loud sound.
The perception of noise will vary from person to person depending upon the source of the noise and the individual’s tolerance/acceptance of a given type of noise.
For example, a person living next to a busy road for a number of years may have become accustomed to it, whereas someone relocating from a quiet location to the same busy road may find the noise a nuisance.
One of the many potential benefits of replacing windows or installing secondary glazing in your home is that in doing so you can often also improve your property’s noise insulation.
The correct installation of good quality, well-made windows or secondary glazing systems can result in a noticeable reduction in noise levels.
The type of glass used within your replacement window could have an effect on the level of noise reduction. Glass is available in a range of thicknesses and typically thicker glasses reduce more noise.
Domestic windows usually use 4mm-6mm thick glass. Some window panes are made up of two or more pieces of glass that have been bonded together; these are known as laminates. Specialist, acoustic laminated glass is available from many glass manufacturers.
Different thicknesses of glass are effective at reducing noise at different frequencies. As a result, a sealed double or triple glazed unit with glass panes of different thicknesses (i.e. both 4mm and 6mm) will be effective at reducing noise across a wider range of frequencies than if both panes of glass were the same thickness.
In addition to reduced thermal losses, triple glazed units can provide a reduction in noise. By increasing the combined thickness of the glass within the unit, the mass is increased. A reduction in noise transmission will result from this additional mass.
The size of the air gap between the panes of glass in either a double or triple glazed window or a secondary glazing system makes a significant difference to the level of noise insulation. Typically a large air gap will improve noise insulation.
Secondary glazing is when another window or glazed screen is positioned within the window reveal of an existing window.
The extra glass pane and air gap now present in the window unit help to improve its noise insulation properties. In some cases, noise reduction can be further improved by lining the window reveal with sound insulation material.
To be effective in reducing noise new windows and secondary glazing systems must be fitted and sealed correctly. Any air gaps around your window will seriously affect its noise reduction properties.
It is also important that any opening window can be securely closed with a good quality seal. If the window does not close correctly noise will be able to infiltrate the property.
Bear in mind that many windows are designed to provide your property with a means of ventilation. Background ventilation through trickle ventilators can, if left in the open position, provide a passage for sound to travel.
Likewise, an open window, perhaps in the night lock position, will not aid sound reduction.
Replacing or upgrading the glazed elements of a home may not singlehandedly solve the problem of excessive noise levels.
This is because noise entering the home via roofs, walls and floors will not be reduced as a result of changes to glazing. Depending upon the source of the noise and type of property, replacing or upgrading the glazing may only be part of the solution.
It is important to discuss your requirements and your expectations with the window installation company.
By explaining the source of noise that you are trying to reduce, the glazing company can advise you on what can be achieved.
The dB reductions possible using the various methods can be supplied by your glazing contractor. Any claim of noise reduction should be backed up by test evidence.
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Secondary glazing involves installing a “secondary” window, i.e. a fully independent internal window, on the room side of your existing primary window.
Fitting an internal secondary window forms double glazing with your existing single glazed window. The secondary window is a separate unit consisting of a single glazed pane within its own frame and is fitted on the room side of your existing windows and sealed around the edges.
The range of secondary windows includes horizontal sliders, vertical sliders, top hung, side hung, double side hung, lift-outs, and removable fixed panels fitted onto the back of doors.
Secondary glazing is a cost-effective way of improving heat retention and sound reduction in your home, as well as providing some additional security.
It can be a great less expensive alternative to replacing double or triple glazed primary windows.
Secondary windows units usually have separate handles and open so that you can get access to clean and open your primary windows.
Secondary glazing is considerably cheaper and easier to fit than replacement windows because it doesn’t require complete removal and replacement of your existing windows.
A major long-term benefit of secondary glazing is heat retention properties. This is because it adds a second layer of glass behind your existing primary windows that reduce both the amount of warm air that can escape from your home and the amount of cold air that can enter.
The heat generated from your heating system will remain inside rather than escaping through inefficient windows, and there will be fewer draughts, making you feel warmer. Your heating bills could drop substantially as your home becomes more energy efficient, great for you and great for the environment.
Secondary glazing also acts as an extra physical barrier against outside noise, reducing the amount of sound coming into your home through (closed) windows.
This noise reduction can be further improved by installing special sound-reducing laminate glass, or by having a gap of at least 100 mm between the secondary and primary window and lining the window head and reveals in between with acoustic tiles.
Secondary glazing means your existing primary windows do not need to be removed, and there are many reasons why you might need to retain your original windows.
This is particularly useful in listed buildings, buildings in areas where they are subject to an Article 4 Directive, and areas where planning permission rules do not allow any aesthetic changes whatsoever to the external primary windows.
These older properties are often draughty and adding secondary glazing that doesn’t require any planning permission may be the only effective way to reduce heat loss and improve sound insulation.
In other circumstances where windows cannot be replaced or where you don’t have the budget to replace them, secondary glazing can provide an alternative solution. It’s also a great cost-effective option for rented accommodation.
Secondary glazing is low maintenance and doesn’t cause the same level of disruption as fitting replacement primary double or triple glazed windows, and can last for many years.
Members News, News |
There is an extremely important consultation that is live until 31st May 2023 and the GGF are asking for your assistance to ensure that the Glazing sector provides the maximum number of responses possible.
The installation of certain energy saving materials (ESMs) in residential accommodation benefits from a VAT relief, supporting households to improve the energy efficiency of their homes by reducing or removing VAT due on installations of qualifying materials.
Windows and doors do not appear on this list and this consultation seeks views on which additional technologies should benefit from VAT relief. It also seeks views on whether the relief should be re-introduced for installations of ESMs in buildings intended solely for a relevant charitable purpose.
Click here to read the consultation: Call for evidence: VAT energy saving materials relief – improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
There is 19 questions in total.
A summary of the question is in Chapter 6 of the consultation document.
The three Objectives are:
This is an open Government consultation and you can respond as an individual or a business. Each responses counts as one and therefore it is important that as many responses are received as possible. Some organisations are asking their employees to respond as individuals.
We have listed out below each question concerning additional technologies and some information that you may wish to provide as part of your answer. Please note that the answer you provide must be your own and not copied and pasted as the algorithm used to assess the responses may identify answers that are similar and remove them for the consultation evidence submissions.
Question 7: How would you describe and define this technology for the purposes of the ESMs relief? The technology should include replacement windows, doors, roof lights and roof windows. |
Question 8: How does the suggested technology meet each of the 3 objectives in Chapter 2? Objective 1: Windows and doors are energy saving materials as they are required to meet the Government’s energy efficiency requirements from the Approved Documents and Technical Handbook in the same way that all other insulation materials are required to do. The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has calculated that replacing windows on a home that already benefits from floor, wall & loft insulation, fraught proofing, low energy lighting and solar water heating (where possible to fit), benefits from a heat energy loss saving of 22%. Objective 2: Replacing windows and doors represents excellent return on investment and the GGF has calculated a saving of £467 per household per annum on heat energy costs at the current capped rates. Objective 3: Providing VAT relief on replacing windows and doors will stimulate the uptake in energy efficiency in dwellings and will result in the saving identified above. All other fabric insulating materials used in existing dwellings already benefit from VAT relief and appear on the ESM. The total C02 savings See response to question 11 will contribute to the Governments Net Zero targets. |
Question 9: Can you explain how this technology operates and does it work conjunction with other technology? If so, how? Replacement windows and doors are probably one of the most important element of a building’s fabric and work in conjunction will all other construction and insulation elements. They ensure that there is a total fabric solution. The current list of qualifying ESM’s includes a number of technologies such as Heat pumps and Micro combined heat and power units. None of these will operate and function to their optimum if the building fabric including replacing windows are doors are not addressed at the same time. The Approved Documents in England, Wales and Northern Ireland plus the Technical Handbook in Scotland prescribe the energy efficiency levels that windows and doors must achieve. As such they are already classed and energy saving materials but do not currently benefit from VAT relief like all other insulating materials. High performing glazing will be an integral part of the Future Homes Standard for new build as part of delivering a C02 neutral dwelling |
Question 10: What is the typical cost of installing this technology in residential accommodation? Typical costs for a whole house replacement range from £4,500 to £6,000. However, with a saving of £467 each year through energy cost savings, windows and doors represent an excellent return on investment. However, windows and doors do not sell themselves and compared to other insulating materials they are not incentivised in any way. When other insulation materials are installed, the windows and doors become the point of least resistance leading to heat losses of 44.3%. This can be halved by the simple replacement of windows to current standards. |
Question 11: What are the advantages and disadvantages of including this technology within the relief? It is reported that 86% of homes already benefit from double glazing (windows), yet the majority of these are at least 10 – 25 years old and their energy efficiency performance less than 50% compared to windows fitted today for compliance with the Government’s energy efficiency requirements as set out in the Approved Documents and Technical Handbook. Most homeowners do not realise that their existing double glazed windows would not meet the Government’s current energy efficiency requirements and that replacing them would deliver increased warmth and comfort, reduce their heat loss, save them an average of £467 per year and reduce C02 emissions. Replacing pre 2002 double glazing with new double glazing to current standard would save 3.16million tonnes of C02. This is the equivalent of taking 1.88 Million cars off the road. Replacing single glazing (5% of market) with new double glazing to current standard would save 2.8 million tonnes of C02, the equivalent of taking a further 1.66 Million cars off the road. These are very important number when considering how the UK will meet its Net Zero obligations and windows and doors must been seen as part of the solution. The annual savings to householders if all pre-2002 windows are replaced is calculated at £4.1 Billion. The GGF estimates that 80 million windows need replacing now. |
There does not appear to be a template for a response but the consultation on Chapter 7 states that responses should be sent to the VAT Reliefs Team by 31 May 2023 by email, or by post to:
HM Revenue and Customs
VAT Reliefs Team
B7.25
7th Floor
14 Westfield Avenue
Stratford
London
E20 1HZ
Chris Beedel, Head of Government Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations said “We might not get the chance to comment on VAT relief for our industry sector again for many years to come, so we really do need thousands of replies to this consultation.”
When responding please you will need to say if you are a business, individual or representative body.
In the case of representative bodies please provide information on the number and nature of people you represent.
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When it comes to finding a double-glazing company that does it all, look no further than Braham Glazing Ltd. We are one of the area’s most trusted suppliers and installers of windows, doors, skylights, and conservatories – and for your absolute peace of mind. All of our work is fully guaranteed!
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Founded in 1997 Mark Smith has earned a deserved reputation for quality craftsmanship, competitive and transparent pricing, reliability and sensitivity to his customer needs. Above all, Mark has a dedicated, experienced team to back up this reputation.
We will competitively quote for all domestic and commercial glass and mirror work including double glazing, sash and case windows, shop fronts, patio doors, balustrades and balconies and energy efficient windows.
Mark Smith Glazing expanded in 2006 purchasing what was (previously J&B Windows). Our products include UPVC, Aluminium Windows and Doors and roof lights.
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Empire Glass are a leading family-owned glazing contractor, glass merchant, processor and decorator with offices in Southwark and factory conveniently located in the village of Laddingford, a stone’s throw from Tonbridge.
We operate Monday to Saturday 8am to 6pm assisting domestic, commercial and construction customers across every London postcode and the whole of Kent providing free site surveys, expert advice and emailed quotations so feel free to get in touch as we`re always happy to help, even if it’s just for advice.
Empire are one of the UK’s most rated and reviewed glazing contractors gaining over 200 five-star reviews across Google, Trustatrader, Yell and Thomson’s. Our reviews are complimented by fully uniformed glaziers with company ID badges arriving in clean well-equipped sign written vans.
Empire are one of only a handful of “proper” glazing companies exclusively undertaking glazing projects, with regards to glass, we do it all. Our works are varied ranging from a small single glazed window or double-glazed conservatory repair on behalf of a local domestic customer through to a large replacement high rise double glazed unit or 100 shower doors for a large hotel chain in London’s West End.
There’s not much we can’t usually help with in the way of glass or the related so get in touch whether it be domestic, commercial, construction, large/small, basic or complex!
It’s worth visiting our website and Instagram @Glasshelpdesk as these both show in detail and step by step the extensive range of products and services we offer whilst we actually undertake the work so no need to take our work for it!
Empire take training, safety and appearance seriously, as such, all glaziers are trained in all the following disciplines: First Aid, Ladder Trained, IPAF, PASMA and CSCS.
For customer peace of mind Empire Glass are Trading Standards recommended plus members of The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), Made in Britain and Safe Contractor and Construction Line approved.
We`re active on Instagram posting most days so why not follow us @GlassHelpdesk for glazing and @Empiredecrotive for decorating to us to see what were up to……
Glassi |
Following a proposal by the GGF Political Strategy Committee, the GGF commissioned GK Strategy (political advisers and researchers) to produce a research report, titled “Glazing – a Route to Net Zero”, which will show the impact of glazing in relation to the government’s zero-carbon targets.
This unique research project will include views and stats from all parts of the glass, glazing and fenestration industries against data on zero carbon.
Ahead of their GK Strategy’s presentation on Members Day, GLASSi interviewed the team who will present the progress of this research report. In this interview, the GK Team, Scott Dodsworth, Joe Cormack and Jamie Cater share some of the background so far as well as some pointers on how the project will develop in the coming months.
What can Members expect from your presentation?
Scott Dodsworth: Attendees will learn about the GGF’s new priority campaign – to make the compelling case to national policymakers and members of the public about the essential contribution of modern glass, glazing and fenestration materials in achieving the Government’s net-zero carbon targets.
We kick-started the new report titled: Glazing – a Route to Net Zero, and we look forward to sharing with audiences our methodology, new data sources, affiliated stakeholders and the GGF’s recommendations to the government.
What is the broad objective of the report?
The report comprises of not one but three main objectives.: Firstly, to demonstrate how upgrades in glazing (and related products) can improve domestic energy efficiency. Secondly, to establish a clear connection between an expansion of glazing services and products and the Government’s commitments for the UK to become carbon net-zero by 2050. Thirdly, to define the asks and recommendations that will form the core of the GGF’s longer-term campaign for policy change, which aims to incentivise an increase in the installation of energy-efficient glazing products.
How challenging is it to get accurate information on the impact of glazing on net-zero carbon?
Jamie Cater: We are bringing together the UK and international case studies and sources to build an accurate picture of the glazing and energy efficiency landscape. There is good existing data regarding the average energy use within homes and when combined with the specification of modern glass, glazing and fenestration products, we can develop approximate data for the estimated energy savings accrued if good quality glazing products were to be installed universally across the UK.
This is an incredibly important message to articulate, as Government Ministers are still identifying that approximately 85% of the housing stock is double glazed. This incorrectly assumes that there are not substantial improvements that can be made to the housing stock in relation to energy efficient glazing.
How is the report structured?
Joe Cormack: Subject to finalisation with the GGF, it is envisaged that a parliamentarian with a role or strong interest in the energy efficiency policy environment will endorse our findings and provide a foreword. This will be accompanied by an overview of the Government’s policy initiatives to meet carbon net-zero and where existing and new buildings fit in with this.
The core of the report will then focus on making the case for how improved glazing supports the decarbonisation agenda, identifying barriers for the adoption of these new materials, and what the Government and the sector need to do to make this a reality.
How will the GGF and subsequently members benefit from the Report?
This report and the subsequent campaign will demonstrate that the GGF is leading the conversation on this hugely important issue for the government, GGF members and all those who are committed to reducing carbon emissions.
Members will benefit from a more holistic view from the government on improving energy efficiency in buildings. This could manifest itself via more support to develop the glazing workforce and to attract more people into the industry, as well as an overall increase in consumer demand for modern glazing installation (supported by government incentives). This is a flavour of the type of recommendations that will be included in the report and will form the basis of the ongoing campaign.
When can we expect the Report to be launched?
Scott Dodsworth: Members’ Day will provide the opportunity to share examples of the data collected and the structure and objectives of the report. Subject to revisions, final endorsements and approval, we hope to have the report ready by early October. An event to formally launch the report and the campaign will be scheduled for November/December.
Following the launch of the Report what are the next steps?
Joe Cormack: The GGF is aiming to promote the report’s findings and recommendations in 2021/22 with Ministers and officials within relevant government departments such as the Cabinet Office, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the COP26 leadership and a selection of net-zero champions.
There are also plans to launch the report at an event, bringing together national and trade media, relevant government departments, industry representatives and parliamentarians with a specific interest in the environment and construction policy agenda. A set-piece launch will drive independent publicity and awareness via social media and follow-up engagement.
To hear the GK Strategy presentation on “Glazing – a Route to Net Zero” at Members’ Day – Book your free place via the online booking form click here to access
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If you’re planning a home improvement there are various measures you can implement to make your home more energy-efficient, warmer and healthier. Making the right and smart decisions on home improvements can reduce your environmental footprint, cut down your energy bills and increase the value of your property. Research we recently commissioned revealed that 85% of UK homeowners will be scheduling work on their properties in the near future, with 19% exploring extensions or work to create more space, while 14% are looking to make a specific energy-efficient home improvement. Furthermore, 40% of homeowners and renters across the UK admit they wouldn’t view or buy a potential new home that didn’t have double or triple glazing, energy-efficient doors, insulation or low carbon heat.
Energy-efficient upgrades are no longer just a ‘nice to have,’ they can make a significant difference to the energy performance of a property and ultimately create large cost savings on household bills – especially if you decide on a whole house approach to improving your home’s efficiency.
The best home improvements to reduce your household’s environmental footprint include:
If you’re planning renovations and want to increase your home’s energy efficiency, improve your lifestyle, save on energy bills and help the environment, installing energy-efficient windows is a must. Up to 24% of heat energy can escape from old, draughty glazing. When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms particularly, it’s also important to remember that these rooms typically have more moisture so you should ensure you have good ventilation. There are countless benefits to good home ventilation including reducing odours and water vapour from cooking, washing and bathing, as well as reducing condensation and mould which could also reduce damage to your décor and potential health problems for asthma and allergy sufferers. Good ventilation also ensures fresh air can enter your home, while stale air can escape to keep your indoor atmosphere healthier.
If your double or single glazing is more than 20 years old in other parts of your home, it is also unlikely to be as energy-efficient as modern glazing. As in the last 20 years advanced technological innovation has seen energy-efficient glazing significantly develop, from specialist glass types through to improved double and triple glazed windows and doors, which can save over 50% in fuel bills.
Thinking about investing in new external French, patio or bi-folding doors? When it comes to exterior doors, there are various different factors that could be impacting their environmentally friendliness. For instance, do your doors have modern glazing in them? Are they single, double or triple glazed? What materials (e.g., wood, plastic (UPVC), steel, aluminium or composite – a combination of materials) are the doors made from? Are your door frames sealed correctly? All of these factors have a significant effect on your household’s carbon footprint. Upgrading your older doors for newer, more energy-efficient alternatives can really reduce your energy consumption and bills.
It’s worth noting that homes can lose almost a quarter of their heat through inefficient windows and external doors, so installing high thermal performance doors can be a great way to reduce heat loss and keep the warmth in your home. By installing energy-efficient doors you can also improve your household’s environmental footprint and reduce your heating bills. In addition, thanks to modern technology they are also highly energy-efficient, and can now be double or triple glazed.
If you’re planning to extend your home or convert your loft, insulation is a must – and is another popular route to make your home more energy-efficient. Insulation essentially reduces the exchange of heat (both gain and loss) through the surfaces of the property. From cavity wall insulation to loft insulation or underfloor insulation, there are a range of options available to ensure your home is cool in the summer and warm in the winter, reducing your carbon footprint and of course your energy bills all year round.
The use of oil/gas heating systems and hot water in our homes accounts for around 15% of the UK’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, but there are ways to reduce your carbon footprint when it comes to heating your home. From air source heat pumps to water source heat pumps, there are various different low carbon heating avenues to explore to help your household contribute to tackling the climate crisis. Heat pumps are essentially an alternative to boilers and run off electricity (as opposed to gas) to heat your home/water. It’s also worth noting that they don’t produce carbon emissions while operating, unlike gas boilers.
When making the decision to improve your home to make it more energy-efficient, the key thing is to adopt a whole house approach. If you only opt to invest in one element, you won’t be getting the benefit of making your whole home energy-efficient. For example, it’s less beneficial to have loft insulation installed if your windows and doors are letting heat escape because they are old and leaky. Long term, the investment in improving your property will pay off if you have made sure that your whole house is well insulated and ventilated. Not only will you see a difference in your bills, but also in your overall health and wellbeing. By making smart home improvements you’ll also be helping to improve the environment for the future.
If you’re planning home improvements, here are some more helpful tips.
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WGS Glazing is an independent home improvement specialist which can boast more than 25 years’ experience of installing double glazing windows in Hull and East Yorkshire. A one-stop shop for anything to do with glazing; we can supply and fit contemporary composite doors, uPVC windows, orangeries, conservatories, fascia and soffits.
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The Government has now launched a new scheme to improve the energy efficiency in domestic homes, but what does it mean for your glazing.
If you are upgrading your home and thinking about installing double or triple glazing then you may be disappointed with the Green Homes Grant Scheme, because to upgrade you need to have single glazing already in place. If your windows are double glazed then you will not qualify for an upgrade under the new scheme.
Here’s the information on the scheme as well as the best advice for your glazing home improvement.
What does the Green Home Grant Scheme Cover?
A maximum grant of £5,000 covers up to two-thirds of the cost of some of the energy-efficient improvements you can make in your home. The improvements you can make using the grant are split into two categories – primary measures and secondary measures.
The primary measures cover loft, wall and floor insulation as well as thermal systems and ground or air source heat pumps.
If you already have these features, you can apply for grant money to improve them and if you do this, you can then claim funding for secondary measures which means you can upgrade your single glazing with double or triple glazing, or secondary glazing.
Worth noting that you cannot get more money for secondary features than you can for primary. For example, if you got £1,000 for insulating a loft and installing a solar thermal system, you could not get more than £1,000 for putting in double glazing to replace your single glazing.
Are you eligible?
The scheme is expected to help 600,000 homeowners to make properties more energy efficient.
If you live in a home you own, the scheme includes long-leaseholders and homes with shared ownership.
If you are a landlord and rent out privately or for social rent you are also eligible, while park homeowners, including traveller sites, also qualify for the scheme, though new-build homes are not eligible.
If you own your own home and are on Government benefits like Jobseeker’s Allowance you could be eligible for a bigger grant of up to £10,000 for the improvements – covering the entire cost of the refurbishments.
How to apply?
The Government will later in August provide advice to homeowners on how to apply from the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) website which will tell you in greater detail what areas of your property may be eligible for funding.
A list of government-accredited builders and tradespeople will also be available to choose from when the scheme is launched. Once the work is agreed, the Government will issue vouchers from the end of September.
Best Advice
Replacing Double Glazing
Replacing Doors
Installing a conservatory or orangery
The Scheme is launched in September, but it is estimated that vouchers will be issued at the earliest at the end of September. Replacing single glazing with double/triple or secondary glazing is a secondary measure and not guaranteed unless you install or upgrade other measures. It’s also worth getting your home improvement done before the winter sets in, so our advice is, don’t rely on the Green Homes Grant Scheme but if you feel it’s worth the wait and you are sure you can upgrade your single glazing then it may be worth getting your application in when the scheme is launched in September.
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Following the Government’s inclusion of secondary glazing in the Green Homes Grant Scheme (launched 1st September), there have been many queries made to MyGlazing.com and the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) about the performance and qualities of Secondary Glazing.
Here’s the responses from the MyGlazing.com team in conjunction with the Glass and Glazing Federation and GGF Members Pilkington UK and Roseview Windows.
Secondary glazing when placed in close proximity to a primary window can offer good thermal improvements and increase your energy efficiency. If you live in a listed buildings often local council restrictions means that you can’t replace the original window design (and specification which is usually single glazed) with double or triple glazing so secondary glazing units can be a good alternative.
The energy efficiency performance is not as high as that of a full double or triple glazing replacement, mainly because of the huge advance in the quality of sealed insulating double and triple glazed windows and doors, however, secondary glazing can still be an effective solution.
One the most common ways of determining thermal performance in building materials is the U value, which measures how easily heat can pass through a material. Materials that allow more heat to escape from a building have higher (i.e. worse) U-values. Materials that let less heat pass through them have lower (i.e. better) U-values.
Solely based on glass U-values the table below is a reasonable measure of the difference on different window types:
Glass type | U value (W/m2K) |
Single pane | 5.7 to 5.8 |
Single pane with secondary glazing (with 150mm air gap) | 2.9 |
Single pane with Pilkington K GlassTM coated secondary glazing (with typical 150mm air gap) | 2.0 |
Replacement double glazing unit with low E coating | 1.0 – 1.5 |
Single pane with secondary glazing, glazed with double glazing slim unit with low E coating (not often used as cost is similar to standard double glazing) | 0.9 |
Replacement triple glazing unit with two panes with low E coating | 0.5 – 0.8 |
The above table does not include the individual performance of frames, seals and insulation around the frames, the U values of the glass are based on typical performances.
Low emissivity (low E) coatings are microscopically thin, transparent coatings (much thinner than a human hair) that reflect long-wave infrared energy (or heat). So instead of heat escaping through the glass, a low E coating will reflect heat back into the home. In secondary glazing hard coat Pilkington K Glass™ is used to create the same effect.
The table shows the difference in thermal insulation from a single pane of glass through to a triple glazing unit with two panes of low E glass. As you can see the difference from single glazing with the addition of secondary glazing approximately doubles energy efficiency.
Many homeowners living in conservation areas and/or listed buildings who may be restricted by local authorities on installing modern home improvements, use secondary glazing as a solution to improve energy efficiency because once installed, it improves energy bills immediately. However, it is worth noting that installing double glazing or triple glazing does increase thermal performance even more significantly, by roughly 100% from secondary glazing.
Secondary glazing can also effectively eliminate the draughts commonly found with old single glazed windows. Draughts aren’t directly measured by U value but they can of course adversely affect a building’s energy efficiency and the occupant’s comfort levels.
Being a less expensive option (approximately 50% less on a supply and install) Secondary glazing is often an easier or temporary solution for those homeowners who want to improve their energy efficiency but may not have a huge budget.
Cost varies depending on the specification. Secondary glazing can be bespoke, coloured and shaped to suit the period properties they are found in. Designed to cover the existing window style and be hardly visible, the variation in styles these days includes fully tilt out to clean units. On average, a typical secondary glazing window/unit is around half the price of a double glazing window. The installation of secondary glazing is also better for acoustics, whether it’s keeping sound out or in.
Noise prevention is one of the main benefits. Secondary glazing is used extensively throughout the country to combat noise pollution. It is often fully subsidised as part of government schemes to improve living conditions in particular situations such as airport flight paths and housing in proximity of railways or highways. The noise cancelling effects of secondary glazing are particularly impressive.
Secondly in conservation areas or listed buildings where restrictions are in place. Many older public buildings like museums, schools or town halls have secondary glazing installed because the owners or local councils may have to retain the external appearance of the building. Professionally installed secondary glazing is virtually invisible from the exterior of such a property and delivers the advantages of energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Secondary glazing also offers an added layer of security and the internal finishes that can be achieved with secondary glazing are now of such a high quality, they can be a real feature of the interior design.
Secondary glazing is not as energy efficient as a new double or triple glazing windows, though it does improve energy efficiency where there are local council restrictions. One drawback that is sometimes mentioned is the maintenance and cleaning of secondary glazing. It can mean twice as much work when cleaning, especially when double and triple glazing can also feature self-cleaning glass. However, most modern secondary glazing panels are removable and the weight of a single glazed panel is much lighter to handle when doing so.
It has been mentioned that in some situations, secondary glazing can resolve a problem with condensation. Providing an extra barrier of glass can help regulate the extreme temperature clash of cold glass pane against warm centrally heated air though it should always be well ventilated to reduce the likelihood of condensation. Secondary glazing is not the best energy efficient glazing solution, because the seals are not as airtight as those on double and triple glazing. In addition, the thermal performance of secondary glazing is very much dependent on the condition of the prime single glazed window on a building’s exterior.
Video: See secondary glazing sound reduction demonstration.
The answers provided have been supplied by the technical team of MyGlazing.com and the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). The information has been corroborated with research, product testing and product data from GGF Members including Pilkington UK and Roseview Windows. Video courtesy of Roseview Windows.
The Government has released more details of the Green Homes Grant Scheme almost one month after it was announced by the Chancellor. The announcement adversely affected many home improvement companies as consumers cancelled or postponed orders until the launch of the scheme, which is set for September and will be available in England only, with an estimated 600k homes benefiting.
In the detail, the glazing element is relatively low priority with only those upgrading from single glazing to double or triple glazing or if installing secondary glazing, being able to claim funding under the scheme.
The scheme also covers upgrading to energy efficient doors but at present there is no detail as to what this means and which products will be eligible. The amount of Government assistance for glazing cannot be more than the value of the initial measures which will need to be completed first and which are different types of insulation and / or low carbon heating.
On receiving the details of the scheme, John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “The Green Homes Grant Scheme announcement and delayed publication of operating detail has caused significant damage to many companies in our membership. Following the initial announcement last month, many homeowners cancelled or simply didn’t order their replacement glazing, in anticipation of the scheme’s September launch. Now that the details have been confirmed it’s clear there is very little in this scheme for the glazing industry”.
The biggest glazing challenge for homes is to have modern energy efficient windows – those that are C rated or above. There are currently tens of millions of double glazed windows in the UK that have been installed pre-2002 that need replacing because they are inefficient. The Green Homes Grant Scheme does not tackle this issue. Instead it leans towards, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and cheaper, easier options.
The other reality in the scheme’s details is that it is very limited in terms of suppliers. Only installers who are accredited to PAS2030 will be allowed to carry out work under the scheme. It is estimated that of the 15,000 window and door installers in the UK, less than 5% (under 500) are PAS2030 registered. FENSA can accredit installers to PAS2030, and the GGF recommends all glazing home improvement companies who wish to qualify for work under the Green Homes Grant Scheme, register with FENSA who will support GGF members with any additional assessment requirements.
Later this month, homeowners across England will be able to access advice and support on improving the energy efficiency of their homes from the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) service. SEA will suggest appropriate home improvements that homeowners may be able to apply for support in funding.
Once the works are agreed, vouchers will start to be issued from the end of September so work can commence.
The GGF is continuing to engage in the Government’s work streams regarding the road to recovery from lockdown impact and will keep members up to speed with all developments.
To read more details of the Green Homes Grant Scheme please click here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/quality-assurance-at-heart-of-new-2-billion-green-homes-grants
Separate guidance for the local authority scheme has also been issued and can be accessed on the BEIS pages of .GOV at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/green-homes-grant-local-authority-delivery-scheme-entering-a-bid
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Evander Glazing & Locks are a nationwide business offering a wide variety of property improvement and glazing solutions for both residential and commercial premises. With a comprehensive range of services and products, including emergency glazing and double & triple-glazed window/door solutions, Evander can cover almost any requirement. We also specialise in garage doors, Bi-Fold doors and home security.
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We are an independent, hardworking team of glaziers with an established history dating back to 1981. Located on Putney Bridge Road, our glass merchants meet the glazing requirements of domestic and commercial customers throughout South West London and the wider South East area. If you need to discuss double glazing or replacement windows, call in to see us at our popular premises today.
In addition to Putney, we extend our services into the nearby areas of Fulham and Richmond, among many others, to reinforce our position as genuine local glaziers who believe in making the customer the most important person in our business.
Whenever you visit our Putney glass merchants, we know you’ll be nothing less than delighted with the traditional, customer-focused services we have to offer.
We supply, cut and install a complete range of glass types at competitive prices, using dedicated fitting teams with a wealth of experience in the double glazing industry. Just as importantly, we provide an emergency service for the times when you need a team of glaziers urgently.
Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson took to the stage to debate the future of fenestration at May’s Glazing Summit.
Well-respected Chris, who worked as European Sales Director for one of the world’s biggest adhesive and sealant companies before joining Edgetech in 2016, discussed how innovation and technology is reshaping the sector as part of a panel of industry experts.
“At Edgetech, we’ve always prided ourselves on focusing on more than just our own day-to-day objectives as a business,” Chris comments. “We’ve got a long track record of helping drive the industry forward, including with our Energy Efficiency in Focus and Triple Glazing Question events, and the Glazing Summit has given us a chance to do so again.
“On stage, while acknowledging that innovation has and is continuing to transform the way we work, I also stressed that fenestration is lagging behind other industries in many ways. Other sectors invest a significant proportion of their annual sales revenue in research and development – in the pharmaceuticals industry, the figure is in double digits. In glass and glazing, by contrast, it’s estimated to be less than 1% – and that’s undoubtedly held us back.
“I also suggested a number of ways fenestration businesses can accelerate and incentivise innovation. At my previous employer, a percentage of our sales targets had to be fulfilled by selling new products, for example.
“At Edgetech, we’re focused on new product development, and we’re also championing modern automated insulated glass manufacturing techniques. We’re seeing other countries already investing significantly in manufacturing automation and the UK needs to embrace these efficient manufacturing methods and technologies to be able to compete in the global marketplace and offset the widespread labour shortages.
“Fenestration faces challenges in the years ahead, there’s no doubt – but seeing the industry come together to intelligently discuss them at events like this makes me optimistic about the future.”
Held at the St John’s Exhibition Centre in Solihull on May 22nd, the Glazing Summit brought together 400 senior figures from across fenestration to discuss new product developments, emerging opportunities, and the future of the sector in the wake of Brexit.
For more information on Edgetech’s range of spacers and to stay up-to-date with the latest developments from the company visit: www.edgetechig.co.uk
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The Wright Glazing Company is Sutton’s premium double glazing and home improvements company. Our team of dedicated and highly skilled double glazing experts has received the highest standards of training in order to offer a truly unique and professional experience.
Here at The Wright Glazing Company, we are solely dedicated to professionalism and customer satisfaction. We carefully select the double glazing products we offer, to ensure they provide your property with increased levels of energy efficiency and security. All of our windows, doors and conservatories have been subjected to rigorous tests to ensure that they deliver the reliability your family deserves, 100% of the time.
Throughout our years in the industry, our hard work has led us to become accredited by some of the most respected names in the double glazing industry. Including Trust a Trader, FENSA, GGF, GGFI and Checkatrade.
In an age when energy prices are only heading in one direction, fitting your home with new KJM Veka 44mm Triple Glazed Windows can offer additional savings compared to standard ‘A’ rated double glazing. Well that’s the selling bit over and done with!
Triple glazed windows are still a relatively new concept in the UK. But in colder countries like Scandinavia, where homes endure extreme winter weather, they have been a standard fitment for many years. While we might not get the same severity of conditions, the UK does still suffer from harsh winters and of course increasing energy prices.
There are other ways to insulate your home like the roof, walls and floor, but neglecting your windows can result in cold spots and condensation. Personally I installed 44mm triple glazing in to my own home around three years ago and I have never looked back since then.
Some from within KJM would describe me as “KJM’s Triple Glazing King”, as I passionately believe in the product. I was even asked to speak at our national trade show about the benefits of triple glazing, but declined as it was over three days and in Telford, a long way from our base in Andover in Hampshire.
There are many benefits to installing triple glazing in your home but the important thing to remember is that all triple glazing is not the same. There are many systems available but to really get the maximum benefit then the gaps between the panes of glass should be 16mm and filled with argon gas.
Argon is an inert gas that reduces the heat loss through the panes. If the gap is reduced then the thermal performance is reduced, unless you start to use an expensive gas like krypton. So generally speaking the optimum size of a triple glazed sealed unit should be 4mm glass, 16mm gaps, so in our industry it’s called a 4/16/4/16/4 unit and that equals 44mm in total. You then need to factor in the number of chambers within the frame, the fewer chambers the less insulated the frame. The Veka system uses thermal inserts within the frame to improve the insulation further.
Are there any down-falls I hear you ask? The biggest problem I’ve encountered with my own windows would be external condensation on the glass. This happens because the external pane of glass is not being heated so well by your house, so if the glass drops to less in temperature than the outside air, then you reach “dew point” and condensation forms. It’s the exact reason that you get dew on your car windows. It will generally happen after a cold clear night and it would best be described as a light misting that forms from the centre of the pane, actually it’s in the complete opposite place it would form on the inside. This is because the glass in effect is being heated through the frame and spacer bar, so the outer edge of the glass is warmer than the centre.
When you get internal condensation it’s the opposite way, because in reverse the outer perimeter of the internal glass is the coldest. You can find that ‘A’ rated double glazing will suffer from the same problem, but the effects are much less. As I told my wife when she first spotted the external condensation “It just goes to show how well insulated our windows are”. They usually clear fairly quickly in the morning, so it certainly does not bother me. Further information on this can be found on this technical document from our glass supplier.
Light? Having three panes of glass, with two of them having a low e coating, there would be a drop in the natural light coming through the window as the low e coatings darken the glass slightly. Back to my own experience of my windows at home, from the old double glazing to the new triple glazing I did not notice any difference, so I expect this would only be detected with some some good light monitoring equipment.
Security? Three panes would have to be more secure than two, so there is an obvious difference. The middle pane of a triple glazed unit should be toughened especially if the glass faces a sunny elevation, at KJM we toughen all middle panes regardless of elevation. This helps with the stresses that occur with the heat build up within the sealed unit.
The next thing you might find on the internet about triple glazing is sound insulation. There is a lot of misinformation out there and many claim it improves sound insulation because they believe three panes are better than two. Scientific tests would show that if all three panes are the same thickness of glass then the benefit to sound insulation is very marginally better at best.
If you introduce one different thickness of pane, say one pane of 6mm glass and two panes of 4mm then this would improve the sound insulation more, because the different thicknesses will change the wave length of the sound as it passes through the window, thus reducing the sound transmittance. It would be worth pointing out at this stage that an open window will stop nothing and then there is my other pet-hate “trickle vents” that are notorious for leaking sound. That is a subject for another blog as there are better quality trickle vents on the market.
Extra weight from the glass is another problem, so oversized opening windows and doors are generally a “no-no” but traditional British casement window sizes have not produced a problem for KJM over the last few years, so we are confident in what we sell.
Finally did you know that you can buy the mainly recycled PVC system Veka Infinity in our triple glazing range? So if you really want to protect the environment then you can specify this system. Up to 80% of the core (the bits you don’t see) are made from recycled PVC, the important outside is manufactured from Virgin PVC in a very clever co-extruded process.
In summary I love triple glazing and I can see no reason why if you were changing your windows that you did not consider the option. Yes it costs more, but it will “future proof” your home and in the long term you will recoup your extra costs through the energy savings. It should also make your home much more attractive to potential buyers, if you decided to sell. At KJM it costs nothing to get a quotation and of course we can price for both ‘A’ rated double glazing and provide an additional upgrade cost to triple glazing.
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R.E.C Glazing Ltd was founded in 1980 with the intention to supply a quality double glazed seald unit. over the years we have seen the industry change dramatically, with the tranisition of standard clear clear units to coated glass like low e or soft coat. the move from timber windows to Upvc windows and back again and now with the introduction of window energy ratings.
R.E.C have taken every step to complie with all regulations with our kitemark en1279 parts 1 – 6 , our membership to the GGF and with the Certass TRR scheme we can supply a standard double glazed units to achive a “C” energy rating on any Upvc window and a whole window u-value of 1.6 in any timber or aliminum window.
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We are glass suppliers and carry out all aspects of glazing including window installation, aluminium and UPVC. Glass screens, balustrades, window repairs including replacement double glazed units, window and door handles/locks and hinges.
We also supply and fit mirrors. We can provide a window filming service which includes sola reflective film, safety film and decorative film(fenestration).
We have contracts with local authorities, city councils (Liverpool, Knowsley, Halton, Chester and Sefton), community colleges, universities, asda, MOD, Costa Coffee, Merseyside Police and many schools. We have also carried out contracts for many English heritage sites including Osborne House Isle of Wight, St Georges Hall Liverpool and Walker Art Gallery Liverpool
All employee’s of the company are CSCS card holders, CRB checked, first aiders and licensed for use of cherry pickers/scissor lift.
We are fully trained in use of tower scaffold and fully competent in all aspects of H&S.
We have been an established limited company since 1982.
If you have a comment to make or any information relating to this article please contact the GGF