Does Double Glazing Save You Money on Your Heating Bill?

Double glazed windows have soared in popularity over the past few decades, prompting those with single glazed windows to start considering the benefits of upgrading. One assertion often accompanying discussion of double glazed windows is that they can save you money on your heating bill. Is this statement true? And if so, how? Lee Glass are dedicated to ensuring our customers receive as much honest and transparent information as possible, so today we’re going to discuss exactly what double-glazing is, how it works and how it can be considered an investment to save you money in the long run.

What is Double Glazing?

Double glazing is the application of windows comprised of two layers of glass, as opposed to the one layer found in standard single glazed windows. These two layers of glass are separated by a small albeit vital gap, usually around 16mm wide. A layer of an inert gas — most commonly Argon — is contained within the small gap between the glass panels. Due to being colourless and odourless, most people are unaware that this gas exists. It does not pose a safety risk, however, as any gas used for double glazing windows will always be unreactive, non-toxic and non-flammable.

Does double glazing keep heat in?

The primary benefit of double glazing is that it does in fact keep rooms warm by preventing heat from escaping. It does this by preventing the transfer of heat by convection. The gap between the two panels of glass is purposely small and filled with a gas that is a poor conductor of heat; the gas prevents the transfer of heat and the size of the gap prevents circulation. Thus, the rate of heat loss is significantly reduced and the warm air continues circulating back around the room, keeping it warmer for longer. The second panel is also instrumental in reducing noise pollution from outside. Double glazed windows therefore keep your home quiet as well as warm.

What is Low E coated glass and how can it improve my window?

Double glazing has improved dramatically in recent years. The double-panelled design as described in the previous section, though effective at preventing heat loss, is bolstered even further by the modern glass innovation known as Low-E coated glass. Lee Glass are proud to announce that they include Low-E coated glass with all their double glazing installations.

Low-E coated glass, also known as a low-emissivity glass, is a type of energy efficient glass, glazed with a microscopically thin coating, that has been specifically engineered to filter infrared and ultraviolet light, among other beneficial features. Infrared rays are primarily responsible for heat transmission; using a glass that filters these rays will be more effective at preventing heat loss than standard panels of glass. Blocking ultraviolet light will help to protect your furnishings against deterioration, damage and fabric fading. Hence, both these features combined provides a second-to-none window solution that preserves your furniture — and your money.

How much can you save a year?

Because double glazing prevents heat loss in the home, your heating won’t need to be on as much or at as high a temperature, thus reducing your heating bill. It can be claimed then that double glazing is an investment; pay a little extra for double glazing now and save a little money later.

But how much does double glazing cost? Compared with how much is saved?

The cost of double glazing will vary greatly depending on the type and size of the window involved, but the average double glazed window will set you back around £350-£500 without installation costs. In contrast, the amount you save on your energy bill can be around £130 a year, depending on how efficient you are with your heating.

Is double glazing worth the money?

Your double glazing should last around 20 years, and therefore you should save a significant amount of money over this period by opting for the energy efficient windows.

This is of course in addition to the benefits of added warmth and lack of noise that many tout as being worth the initial costs anyway, even before factoring in the money saved off your energy bill.

Plus, there are other factors that enhance the value of getting double glazed windows.

Environmental – Reducing your energy bill not only saves money but it also saves the environment. Double glazing can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 680kg a year, and this can amount to a hugely significant number when combined with the other millions of houses utilising double glazed windows and reducing their carbon emissions.

Home value – Double glazed windows are becoming a standard necessity when house hunting, and upgrading from single to double glazed windows can increase the value of your home by up to 10%.

To enquire about double glazing installation and start saving money today, give our friendly team a call.