The colder months are upon us here in the UK. After something of a late summer surge, the temperature continues to drop, and it can be difficult to keep our homes warm.
If you’re worried about the cost of heating, we have a few tricks of the trade to help you stay warm and toasty while reducing your heating bills this Autumn/Winter.
Choosing the Right Windows and Doors:
Since up to 40% of heat is lost through windows and doors, your choice has a significant impact on the overall thermal efficiency of your home.
Double or triple-glazed windows and doors can help to reduce heat loss and Planitherm triple glazing is one of the most energy-efficient glazing solutions on the market.
Both glazing options can be used in any Manchester Window Factory windows or doors, and Planthitherrm windows are designed specifically for the UK climate.
All our windows and doors are made from sustainable, thermally efficient materials and feature airtight seals, designed to retain more heat and help regulate the room’s temperature.
Energy Efficiency Benefits:
Energy-efficient windows and doors reduce heat loss and help you to maintain a comfortable temperature for longer.
It is not just heating bills you are reducing either. Using less heating means you are creating fewer carbon emissions. That’s right, the best windows and doors can help you significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
Winter Considerations:
Each type of window has its benefits and potential drawbacks, but which style is better for winter conditions?
Casement Windows
Casement windows swing open on a hinge or hinges from the side, top or bottom. They can be flush against the frame or have a lip to further protect against harsh weather conditions. The latter type is called stormproof casement windows. Available from Manchester Window Factory in a wide range of styles, colours and finishes, casement windows also have excellent energy-saving credentials.
Fast opening and closing mechanisms retain more warmth, and the airtight seals are engineered to seal every time. Argon gas between the panes of glass helps to block out cold air, and the windows are draught-proofed with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee.
Sliding Sash Windows:
‘Floating’ above Denmark’s capital city, The Crystal is a pointed glass building with subtle satin double-glazed obscure glass The satin finish helps the building ‘work’ in different levels of sunlight and allows natural light to flow while protecting against harmful UV rays. It also affords the inhabitants some privacy. Elegant and functional, this is Scandi design at its finest.
Maintenance Tips for Winter-Ready Windows and Doors:
Cleaning & Fixing:
Having clean windows not only maximises your view, it also helps you identify any issues. If the frame or glass is dirty, it can be harder to see any cracks or gaps in the sealant. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then do a full inspection. It is fairly simple to fill any gaps in the sealant but you may need a professional to remove and replace a broken frame. You can replace old weather stripping yourself with plenty of how-to guides on the Internet.
Clean glass will also allow you to see if there is any internal or external condensation.
Draught-Proofing:
Draught-proofing your windows and doors could help you save a significant amount of energy and money. Yet this is not a common practice. It is estimated only 15% of UK residents draught-proof their homes. Costing between £85 – £275 for materials and installation, draught proofing could save you money on heating bills and generally make your home more comfortable.
How can I keep my house warm without heating?
- Draught-proof your windows and doors – a professional job will cost around £250 but could save you £90 a year
- Increase your hot water cylinder insulation to an 80mm British Standard Jacket to save approximately £45 a year
- Increase/update your loft insulation – it should be around 270mm to be effective
- Insulate your pipes – reduces heat loss from your heating system and prevents pipes from freezing and bursting
- Have your walls insulated – a bigger investment
- Bleed your radiators – a 5-10 minute job that can make a big difference
- Use an electric or wood-burning fire
- Invest in a room thermostat to better regulate the room’s temperature
- Dress warmly & use blankets – Wearing thick jumpers or cuddling up on the sofa with a blanket will keep you warm, so you may be able to leave it a few more weeks before you put the heating on
- Switch to a thicker duvet – If your duvet is too thin, you may wake up cold once the heating goes off overnight
- Close curtains and blinds at night to keep the warmth in the rooms
- Use rugs on wooden or tiled floors, such as in kitchens and bathrooms
- Light candles during the evening – also saves you from having lights on all the time
What temperature should rooms be in winter?
The Met Office guidelines state that your home should be heated to at least 18 degrees during the colder months. Since breathing cold air can increase the risk of chest infections and respiratory illnesses, this is particularly important if any household members are aged or infirm.
We hope these tips will help you stay warm this winter. To learn more about our energy-efficient windows and doors, call us at 0161 976 4739 to request a callback. You can also email at [email protected] or pop into our Altrincham showroom.
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