With the colder stint fast approaching, here at Silent View Windows we thought we’d share our top five tips on how best to keep the cold out & the warm in. Your automatic reaction when the colder weather hits is to turn your heating on however, relying on this only can lead to costly energy bills. The windows in your house are a key part of your property’s thermal envelope, if the entire house is insulated but, your windows aren’t up to par you will see no benefit. Windows are a much quicker, easier and cost-effective way to renovate and improve the energy efficiency within your home.
If your windows are old & cold air is coming in then, yes you probably need to replace however, there are other ways you can try & keep the draft out as a short-term solution… Let’s take a look, after all everyone deserves to be cosy…
1. Re-sealing your windows
Over time, the sealant or caulking around your windows can start to break down. This, in time can create small gaps around the windows which, would allow the cold air to get in. These gaps can also allow room for moisture to come in leading to further damage. If you’re not planning on opening your windows in the winter months caulking is an effective way to reduce the cold air coming in.
However, if your windows are going to get sealed & opening isn’t an option we need to mention the risk of mould. The biggest cause of mould around windows is condensation & so to prevent this – we would suggest opening your trickle vents (if you have them) What is a trickle vent? It’s a small opening in a window or door that allows fresh air to circulate into a room, they are often fitted at the top of the window and for any new builds / replacement windows they are essential when it comes to building regulations. (see image, below)
If your windows don’t have trickle vents you can set your window to what we call the ‘night vent’ mode – which, put simply is a feature enabling additional ventilation through the window without having it fully open. See a window in vent mode, below.
2.Thicker curtains
No doubt you’ll already have something in place however, how thick are your curtains? Are they lined? People often forget that curtains are a great way to retain heat. If you have just blinds or lightweight curtains you could be missing a trick. There are designs which are made specifically with thermal efficiency in mind. Thermal-backed curtains are designed with an insulated backing that prevents heat from escaping through windows, keeping rooms warmer during colder months. By blocking draughts and reducing heat loss, they provide an extra layer of protection without the need for expensive window upgrades. Available in various styles and sizes, thermal-backed curtains can easily fit into any home decor. Their affordability and energy-saving benefits make them an ideal solution when it comes to improving your home’s insulation on a budget.
3.Secondary Glazing: A Smart Solution for Heat Retention
Secondary glazing is one of the most effective solutions for improving heat retention in your home, especially if you have single-glazed windows. This option is particularly beneficial for properties that are listed or located in conservation areas, where replacing original windows is often restricted. Instead of undergoing a full window replacement, a discreet secondary pane of glass is installed on the inside of your existing windows, preserving their original character.
Secondary glazing is carefully designed to blend seamlessly with your existing windows. The bars and sightlines are crafted to match the original window style, ensuring that the overall aesthetic of the building is maintained. This makes it an ideal choice for period properties with historical or architectural significance, where maintaining the look of original windows is crucial.
In addition to improving heat retention, secondary glazing also offers enhanced soundproofing and increased security. It provides an additional layer of protection against draughts, noise, and external elements without compromising the appearance of your windows.
At Silent View Windows Ltd, we offer a range of secondary glazing options tailored to meet the unique needs of period and heritage buildings. Our team of experts will work closely with you to ensure a perfect fit and high-quality installation, helping you achieve greater energy efficiency and comfort in your home.
To learn more about the secondary glazing options we provide at Silent View Windows Ltd, click here.
4.Draught snakes
You’ve probably come across these sat at the bottom of a door but, did you know they work brilliantly with windows too? What are draught snakes? They are fabric long tubes which, don’t have to mimic an actual snake like they always seemed to back in the day! These days you can get an abundance of designs & fabrics to compliment your doors, windows and decor. They are a fantastic way of keeping that pesky draught out.
5.Replacement Glass Units –
If you notice condensation forming inside your double-glazed, sealed glass unit, this indicates a breakdown in the thermal seal. This break compromises the window’s ability to insulate properly, meaning it won’t be as effective at keeping cold air out and maintaining energy efficiency. To restore the window’s thermal barrier and stop condensation from forming, the glass unit will need to be replaced. Silent View Windows Ltd offers a comprehensive replacement glass unit service, managed by a dedicated service engineer and office team, ensuring a smooth and efficient process from start to finish.
It’s worth mentioning – the glass we supply and install at Silent View Windows comes with a Low-E glass coating and argon gas filled spaces as standard. They work together to significantly improve a window’s ability to retain warmth, making them highly efficient. Let’s learn a little bit more about the science behind it…
Low-E Glass Coating:
The Low-E (low emissivity) coating is a microscopically thin, transparent layer applied to the glass. It reflects infrared heat back into the room, reducing heat loss through the glass.
In cold weather, this means less heat escapes from inside, keeping your home warmer while still allowing sunlight to pass through and naturally heat the space.
Argon Gas:
The gap between the panes of glass is filled with argon gas instead of regular air. Argon is a poor conductor of heat, which means it slows down the transfer of heat through the window.
As a result, the argon gas layer further reduces the loss of indoor heat, keeping the warmth in and making your windows more energy-efficient. Together, Low-E coating and argon gas create a powerful barrier against heat loss, ensuring better insulation and energy savings.
In summary….
While all of the above suggestions are great short-term solutions, the real problem will lie with the glazing – draughts are a sign of ageing windows & it might be time to replace. By upgrading to modern double glazing you will benefit from multiple improvements. Silent View Windows have fitted & upgraded hundreds & hundreds of windows across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & afar.
If you have any specific questions regarding your windows or, after reading this realise it might be time to get a quote to replace drafty, tired windows give Silent View Windows a call on 01844 397700 or, fill out an enquiry form where our friendly team will be more than happy to help.
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