Ian Greenhalgh, Author at Cloudy2Clear Windows

25 DIY Home Improvement Ideas

Posted February 19, 2025 by Ian Greenhalgh

Whether you’re tired of the decor in your house or need some low-cost ideas to make it feel more homely, we’ve got some home improvement DIY ideas to help you out. From free and simple fixes like clearing out to converting attic space and updating security systems, there’s plenty you can do to give your home the refresh it deserves.

Cheap home improvement hacks if you can’t afford to redecorate

Home modernisation doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, there are lots of low-cost ways to improve your home without taking on huge renovation work, so start by giving it a deep clean.

1. Have a good old-fashioned clean-out

Set aside a weekend to declutter your home, tackling each room by deciding what to keep, donate, upcycle, or throw away. Letting go of unnecessary items will reduce stress and make cleaning quicker and more enjoyable. With less clutter, your home will be easier to maintain, giving you more time to relax and appreciate your space.

2. Clean up any paths or paving

Use a pressure washer to clean large areas and remove dirt and moss to quickly and easily improve your home’s exterior. In smaller spaces, a scrubbing brush with a specially formulated outdoor paving cleaner will help make the surface sparkling clean and prevent mould growth. Use weed killer on any plants growing up through paving cracks or dig them up by the root.

3. Tidy up greenery

A neat and tidy garden can be a lovely place to relax in the warmer months. Make sure to trim any shrubbery or bushes, mow long grass and pull weeds. Sure, you can hire a gardener — but with a pair of shears, some gardening gloves and determination, it’ll be much cheaper.

4. Clean the gutters

Over time, gutters can fill with debris like leaves, shingle granules, bird feathers and more, so it’s important to make sure that you regularly clean your gutters — once at the end of spring and once towards the end of autumn as a minimum. Once you’ve dislodged all of the debris from your gutters, use a garden hose to expel the remaining waste.

5. Get your glass gleaming

Ensure your windows are gleaming by giving them a proper clean. Clean windows look attractive outside and flood your home with natural light. A sponge and fairy cleaning liquid is the easiest way to clean the windows you can reach. For more effective cleaning on higher-up windows, professional tools will be able to get the job done and leave a sparkling finish.

6.Use walnuts to remove scratches on wooden furniture

An ingenious hack for those looking to freshen up their furniture. The natural oils of a walnut penetrate the wood and restore the blemishes so use the innards to gently remove marks and scratches.

Image of walnuts on a table, in and out of their shells.

7. Repair any annoying snags

How many times have you said you would get around to fixing that dripping tap or repairing the broken drawer? Getting these seemingly small repairs sorted can ease your mind of extra worry. If you have repairs that need an expert touch, such as cloudy or misty windows, or a toilet that’s flush isn’t as powerful as it used to be, there’s no harm in calling in the experts.

8. Try your hand at upcycling

Upcycling is a great way to put a creative spin on your home. Think about whether the furniture can be sanded down and painted, perhaps even add new knobs or handles, and maybe even think about utilising them as outdoor furniture. An old side table can make a great drinks holder for those summer barbecues, and bookcases can be used as planters.

9. Accessorise, if redecorating isn’t an option

Accessorising is a budget-friendly way to enhance your home’s charm without a full makeover. Simple additions like rugs can add colour and depth, fairy lights create a peaceful ambience, scatter cushions bring pops of colour and house plants can improve our wellbeing which makes a big difference.
Outside, potted plants, a fun doormat, or a small sculpture can boost curb appeal, while unique artwork from new artists can add personality to your walls without costing a fortune.

10. Paint your front door in a new colour

If you have a wooden door, a lick of paint can brighten up the space. Complement the style of the building with a colour that enhances the colour of the bricks. For a more coordinated look, match your garage door, front porch and gate.

For homes with uPVC doors, give your front door a new lease of life with a specialist cleaner to remove stubborn stains and improve wear and tear from weather damage.

11. Dress your windows properly

Updating worn window dressings can be a great way to refresh an old, outdated style. Light or natural-toned curtains let natural light shine through and have a chic appearance from the outside. You can also add some simple decor, like photo frames, ornaments, plants and flowers, onto your sills for a touch of warmth.

Image of a window with a flowerbox on the window ledge.

12. Update your hardware

Updating small items can lift a room and improve the look of your home from the outside. Using vintage knobs, such as ceramic, glass, or wood, can instantly transform an older piece of furniture. Meanwhile, a new door number, knocker or letter box can instantly update your home and reflect your personality.

13. Half paint walls to create height

Painting half your walls is cheap and creates the illusion of height which is perfect for those smaller rooms. Keep darker colours to the bottom of the walls and use a magnolia or white to blend in with the ceiling.

14. Add towel rails to your bathroom door

If you’re struggling for space in your bathroom or want to keep damp towels out of the way, install towel rails to the back of the door. This is a cost-effective and space-saving way to hang and dry towels, instead of fitting a heated towel rail.

15. Use felt pads on your furniture legs to stop scrapes

Simple, but effective. To preserve the life span of both your flooring and your furniture, use felt pads on the feet of your chairs or tables to stop any unnecessary damage.

16. Install shelves towards the top of your walls

Cupboards and bookcases can often take up unnecessary space, so why not fix sturdy shelving towards the top of your walls? This allows you to store books, without taking up floor space.

17. Use drawer organisers

Instead of bundling everything into a drawer, use dividers and organisers to separate your possessions. You will save on space and time because your items are easy to locate.

Home modernisation projects if you’ve got a bit more to spend

Sometimes a fresh coat of paint isn’t enough, so it might be time to take on a room or house renovation project. This could include anything from updating your security system to seeking planning permission and renovating entire rooms. Whatever it is, these DIY projects can bring a new lease of life to your home.

18. Change or upgrade your furniture

Once you’ve decluttered, you can have some fun with your home. Simply moving a side table or repositioning your sofa can change the whole look of a room while moving a lamp can add depth and size.

If you do have more budget, think about investing in fitted wardrobes. This can free up space you didn’t know you had, and provide more storage for those decluttered items. Choosing furniture with clean lines and minimalistic designs can also contribute to a more contemporary look.

Image of a livingroom with a sofa in front of a window with white curtains and a cat on the window ledge.

19. Make eco-friendly upgrades

Curating an eco-friendly home is the first step towards modernisation. Replacing traditional light bulbs with energy-saving LED alternatives and opting for energy-efficient appliances can save money whilst reducing your carbon footprint. For bigger, eco-friendly changes to your home, effective insulation can make a more noticeable impact.

20. Choose ‘Smart’ appliances

Introduce a smart home system that integrates devices and appliances, allowing you to control them from your smartphone. Smart home appliances and apps can manage and optimise your home by setting timers around your daily routines. Automated lighting, heating, and security make everyday tasks seamless whilst conserving energy.

21. Let there be light

Create an illusion of space and breathe life into otherwise dull areas by ensuring your windows are clean and clutter-free. Consider installing larger Velux windows to allow more light in. Or, install fixtures that allow greater control over how much sunlight enters the home.

A light fixture by your front door adds extra security and gives your home a welcome glow in the evenings. Choose a design that complements your building. Classic, vintage styles look stunning on older properties, while more modern designs like solar lights or lanterns are a nice touch for newer homes.

22. Utilise your stairs effectively for storage

Staircases can take up a lot of space, but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from them. Install an under-stair cubby for coats and shoes, a modern under-stair storage solution to maximise space or even create a hideaway for reading.

23. Turn your garden shed into a practical space

Is your house getting too small for your family? Utilise garden space to create another room. Whether you want an outdoor office or a kids’ playroom, it’s a quick and easy way to produce more space.

24. Convert your attic into a guest room

Not so much of a hack, but converting your loft can create more space in your home without having to move. Adding an extra bedroom or chill-out area could even increase the price of your home.

25. Upgrade security

Enhance security by ensuring your windows and doors are stable before adding gadgets like motion sensor lights, video doorbells, and alarms. Robust external doors and double-glazed windows can protect against intruders and provide insulation. However, even double glazing isn’t foolproof, so regularly check for damaged seals, cracks, or weak spots, and ensure locks, handles, and hinges are in good condition to prevent easy tampering.

Image of smart speaker next to a smartphone on the floor.

As well as making your home more secure, double-glazing windows can be a game-changer. Saving on heating costs by reducing heat loss in winter and keeping your home cooler in the summer. Quality double glazing also insulates against noise pollution, making your space quieter and more peaceful.

If you have failed double glazing that’s ruining your home, whether in a standalone window, double glazed door or conservatory, contact your local Cloudy2Clear branch today for a free quote.

What is Triple Glazing, and is it Right for You?

Posted February 28, 2024 by Ian Greenhalgh

After the double glazing boom of the 1970s, double glazed windows quickly became a commonplace feature within modern homes. Today, it’s only natural that the homeowners that can afford to do so are looking to upgrade their windows beyond standard. The next logical step in upgrading from double glazing is to have triple glazed windows.

However, adding extra layers to your windows can only offer so many benefits. The performance of your windows also depends on climate. Rather than jumping straight in and investing in triple glazing without weighing up the pros and cons, this guide to whether triple glazing would work for you can help you decide.

What is Triple Glazing?

If you know what double glazing is already, the term ‘triple glazing’ speaks for itself. Triple glazing features an additional pane of glass alongside the two found within double glazed windows. This creates two gas-filled spaces within the window, rather than one.

Triple glazed windows can offer more insulating impact than double glazed windows can, since the amount of heat that can pass through the window is reduced with each additional layer of glass.

How Does it Compare to Double Glazing?

Cost

When considering the benefits of triple glazing vs. double glazing, cost becomes a significant factor. The cost of any window can vary drastically depending on frame material, size, treatments, and any additional features. The price of standard uPVC double glazed windows is relatively affordable, with the manufacture and installation of a classic casement window costing about £450 on average (as of April 2022). If we imagine an average semi-detached 3-bed home has 9 windows, this will come to £4,050 per home.

Investing in double glazing can end up being cost-effective in the long term. The energy efficient properties of A-rated double glazing windows can save homeowners up to £175 per year on their heating bills.

Taking into account the rising cost of fuel, triple glazed windows may be more cost effective than they once were. The average cost of a triple glazed window is around £550, so for a 9-window house this would be £4,950. Triple glazing is 20% more expensive than double glazing, but is it 20% more efficient?

Climate

The more energy efficient windows are in certain climates, the more money they will save homeowners. So, climate and cost go hand in hand when considering whether triple glazed windows are worth it. Those countries that have adopted triple glazed windows as standard are also more likely to have more affordable installation options. Scandinavia now uses triple glazing as standard, as consistently cold weather conditions justify the cost of installation and can save more money.

While it can help retain heat inside, triple glazing also blocks more sunlight and heat from entering the house. This can make your home feel noticeably darker and even chillier than it otherwise would on warmer days.

Security

Triple glazed windows naturally add an extra layer of security to your home than double glazed windows – though double glazed windows are already sufficient to stop most burglaries.

Sound Insulation

The most compelling benefit to installing triple glazing is the extra level of sound insulation it can offer. For those living in high traffic and built-up areas or main roads, that extra layer of sound protection can make all the difference. At a time when many people are working from home, it’s worth considering whether the sound insulating properties of triple glazing would ramp up your productivity levels in your office.

How Much Heat Can It Retain?

The U value of a window can be found on its energy label. Simply put, the u value explains how much heat can pass through a window with ease. The higher the U value, the more heat can escape your home through the windowpanes.

The U value of standard double glazing is ~1.4W/m²k. The U value of triple glazing is ~0.8W/m²k, so less heat can pass through a triple glazed window. Triple glazed windows therefore offer a 5% improvement in energy performance.

The energy performance of your windows alone doesn’t add up to all that much if you’re not investing in retaining heat in the rest of the house. If you are installing triple glazed windows, you might only noticeably benefit from their heat retaining impact if you subsequently insulate the rest of your home to such a high standard. This would incur more costs, further increasing the amount you’ll have to spend to see any returns on your investment.

Do I Need Triple Glazing?

Triple glazing has become a tempting upgrade for those who want to go all out on their property. For example, self-built homes are increasingly using triple glazed windows, as the option to install them from the beginning is there, with no replacement fees involved.

From an energy efficiency point of view, having all your double glazed windows replaced with triple glazed ones won’t make too much of a difference. Having single pane windows replaced with triple glazing is worth it, as triple glazing offers up to 50% more energy efficiency in comparison. In this scenario you could still opt for double glazing, which is almost as effective and quite a bit more affordable.

If tempted by the promise of extra comfort, you don’t have to have a whole house replaced with triple glazing. If you do opt for some triple glazed windows, you can choose to insulate only the rooms that would benefit you most.

What is Quadruple Glazing?

The innovations in double glazing don’t stop at three layers. Quadruple glazing – again, as its name suggests – features four layers of glass with three gas-filled gaps in between them.

The use of quadruple glazing is typically only found within very cold climates that remain at freezing temperatures or in the dark throughout most of the year. This is because the additional layer of glass and gas block the heat from sunlight from penetrating the window, as well as the cold. This can lead to those with quadruple glazing turning on the heating despite an otherwise warm day – reducing the energy efficiency of these windows for plenty of climates.

Windows with up to 6 panes are now available, though whether the benefits of using them will ever justify ever the cost is up for debate.

Verdict: Double Glazing vs. Triple Glazing

Considering climate, energy efficiency, and cost – double glazing remains the most efficient option for those living in the UK. They still allow the heat from sunlight to warm the home, while impressively reducing the loss of heat from within the home on cold winter days.

That’s not to say innovations in triple glazing won’t outshine its predecessor with time. US-based researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed what they called the “super window” back in 2018. Their design is a low-E triple glazed invention featuring a super-thin layer of glass as the third pane. They replaced the argon gas between the panes with highly insulating krypton.

It sounds just like a standard triple glazed window – however, these windows weigh almost the same, and are virtually the same dimensions, as their popular double-glazed counterparts in the US. This means only the windowpanes need to be replaced, while the frames can remain, cutting a significant portion from the cost of having triple glazed windows installed. When a great deal of the comparison between double glazing vs. triple glazing concentrates on cost, there is potential for further, more cost-efficient inventions to promote the uptake of triple glazing in the future.

Until then, we’re saving our money and sticking with double glazed! Well-maintained double glazed windows are highly energy efficient, whereas a failed double glazing window can cause up to 30% of heat loss within your home. If your double glazed windows need repairing, get in touch with us at Cloudy2Clear for a free, no-obligation quote. Call our expert team on 0800 61 21 119 to get started.

Understanding the Different Types of Window Materials

Posted February 21, 2024 by Ian Greenhalgh

It might be time to upgrade your windows due general damages and wear or tear, or a lack of maintenance. Damp and mould in surrounding areas, cracked or broken glazing seals, and draughts within the home could be a sign your double glazing needs looking at. Replacing your windows can help cut down on your energy bills by ensuring effective insulation, while this can also stop the growth and spread of damp. If you’ve noticed your double glazing isn’t working like it used to, it’s worth discovering which other types of materials you can opt for while getting them replaced.

While aesthetics will undoubtedly play a key role when it comes to deciding which type of window material you will choose for your home, there are more factors to consider than looks alone. Whether you’re choosing between a traditional wooden frame or a sleek, modern aluminium look; it’s important to research the practical advantages and disadvantages of each window material before deciding which will work best for you.

In this guide to understanding the different types of window materials for double glazing, we’ll explore a few of the options available – and how they can benefit your home.

Wooden Windows

Wooden frames are a great choice if you are looking for a more authentic or traditional look throughout the home. They are also the best option when it comes to eco-friendly window materials. Timber production uses less fossil fuels in its manufacturing, significantly decreasing your carbon footprint in comparison with other options such as aluminium or steel. However, that’s not to say wooden windows are an easy choice – they may need more maintenance over time to remain in quality condition.

Timber for wooden frames can vary from softwood such as pine, to hardwoods such as oak. While these differences may seem minimal, your choice of timbers can influence the level of maintenance required, as well as the longevity of your frames.

Hardwood, for example, is better at withstanding damage as it is heavier and denser than softwood. For this reason, it is often more expensive; however, it’s a worthwhile investment for its strength and resilience. Softwood, on the other hand, is a lighter and less dense wood. This is because the material grows quicker, it cheaper to replace and install. Softwoods are also much easier to cut, so they’re a popular option due to ease of installation and manufacture. Despite being a lighter wood, softwoods can be a great insulator as a window frame, making them a reliable yet affordable choice.

It’s important to note that wood can change with the weather, expanding and contracting as humidity and temperatures fluctuate. To prevent warping, window frame wood used is often finished with a preservative that protects against weather and rotting from moisture damage – which are all risks that come with poorly maintained wooden frames. Oiling or waxing the wood regularly and examining for any damages can aid in preventing this.

Wooden frames are best suited to those who want to add a more authentic look to their home, or for those looking toward more eco-friendly options for their window frames. Don’t forget they do require a little extra maintenance, with regular oiling and careful cleaning recommended to maximise the longevity of the materials.

uPVC Windows

uPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) is a synthetic plastic material, and is one of most common frame materials used in the UK. It’s cheaper and easier to install than other materials and is highly customisable, available in a range of colours and able to be shaped to fit the space it is being used in.

Unlike wooden frames, uPVC is incredibly easy to clean due to its plastic-based surface. uPVC is more durable with less maintenance, being unlikely to bend or rot in fluctuating weather conditions. Whilst longevity is not an issue with uPVC frames, they are not as easy to repair as other options. Minor scratches and dents are easy enough to fix, however larger damages may require a full replacement of the window in order to maintain waterproofing and the integrity of the seal. uPVC can also gradually become discoloured over time if the material becomes sun bleached. You may prefer a wooden or aluminium alternative if you prioritise the aesthetics of your home, or if you’re looking for a more unique or modern look.

Overall, uPVC is an ideal choice if you’re looking for low maintenance window materials that are cost effective and equally as insulative as your other options.

Aluminium Windows

Aluminium frames are ideal for the sleek and modern home. Both lightweight and strong, it offers extreme durability and efficiency which is only improved upon when you pair it with double glazing. Once thought to be a poor choice for insulation due to the threat of moisture build up within the frames, design improvements in modern aluminium framing and double glazing such as the insertion of a non-conductive material between the window panes has changed this.

This makes aluminium windows a great choice for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home all year round. It’s also an excellent choice for the environment (and your wallet!) with enhanced insulation cutting down on your heating and therefore energy usage. While this makes aluminium frames a worthwhile investment in the long run, given the amount of money you would save on your household energy bills, the initial price of these frames can be quite costly in comparison to significantly cheaper uPVC or timber materials.

Despite their durability, these windows can fall victim to discoloration from the sun just like uPVC. This means the aluminium gradually grows darker depending on exposure to sunlight. However, if the sleek and slimline look is for you and you’re willing to spend now to save later; aluminium windows may be an ideal choice for your home.

Upgrade Your Window Materials with Cloudy2Clear

At Cloudy2Clear, we specialise in double glazing window repairs and replacements. Having worked across over 35 areas within the UK to install the latest developments in window materials and eco-friendly technology, we’re best placed to advise you on your double glazing upgrades or installations. We’re so dedicated to delivering quality service and products that we offer a 25-year guarantee on all our windows – ensuring lasting quality and a comfortable, well-maintained home.

Give our team a call today on 0800 61 21 119 to book a free, no obligation quote with our expert engineers. Alternatively, fill out our online contact form and we’ll get back to you at a time that works for you.

A first-time buyer’s guide to static caravan insulation and security

Posted February 20, 2024 by Ian Greenhalgh

Buying a static caravan and creating your own home away from home is appealing to many of us. Who wouldn’t want a place to escape to and relax? If you’re thinking about taking the leap and becoming a caravan owner, be mindful not to overlook insulation and security when you’re looking at different options.

If you overlook insulation and security, it can impact the comfort, safety, and energy efficiency of your caravan.

In this guide, we’ll show you why effective insulation and reliable security measures shouldn’t be ignored. You’ll find easy-to-follow tips to make sure your new caravan is warm, secure, and efficient all year round, so you can relax.

Why are insulation and security important for caravan owners?

Caravans aren’t cheap. So, when you purchase a caravan, you’re probably counting on enjoying as many trips as possible. But having a poorly insulated or insecure caravan puts those happy memories at risk.

Firstly, poor insulation can make for an uncomfortable caravan stay, with temperatures fluctuating and condensation building, the chill will certainly put a dampener on things.

Secondly, if you have windows and doors with loose or broken locks, you’re putting yourself at greater risk from theft and damage. Poor insulation and security can both result in unexpected costs; whether it’s higher energy costs or fixes due to attempted break-ins.

Effective insulation and security measures help to:

Keep your caravan warm and homely
Cut your energy bills and have less environmental impact
Prevent condensation and mould from taking hold
Keep your belongings protected and give peace of mind

Signs your caravan needs better insulation and security

If you’re looking to buy a caravan, or you’ve recently purchased one, check for these signs that can indicate potential problems with insulation and security that will need fixing quickly:

Insulation problems: A checklist

You can feel cold draughts around windows and doors
Your caravan frequently suffers from build-ups of moisture and condensation
You notice that the temperature drops quickly inside your caravan
The cost of heating is considerably high

Security concerns: A checklist

Your window and door locks are loose
Your doors or windows don’t close securely
Signs of forced entry or attempted break-ins
The window hinges, locks, or frames are damaged

TOP TIP: Our caravan window maintenance tips can help you catch common problems early and keep your windows in shape.

Easy ways to make your caravan cosier and more secure

Want to make your static caravan feel warmer and safer, you absolutely can! Here are some things you can do to improve the insulation and security:

How to keep your caravan warm:

Upgrade your windows: Ok, so swapping old windows for double glazing is a bigger job, but it does make a difference! Having double glazing in your caravan will keep the heat in much better and can even lower your heating costs.
Cosy curtains & blinds: Hang up some thick thermal curtains or invest in insulated blinds. They act like a warm blanket for your windows, holding heat in and keeping chilly draughts out.
Try window insulation film: It’s an affordable sticky film you put on your windows that adds an extra layer of insulation. Easy to do but surprisingly effective.
Seal the gaps: Take a look at the rubber seals around your windows and doors. If they’re cracked, worn, or peeling, replace them! It stops heat from escaping and also helps to keep damp away.
Beat the draughts: Grab some draught-proofing strips (they’re cheap and easy to find). Stick them around window frames and door frames where you feel cold air coming through.

Boosting your caravan’s security:

Lock check: Regularly give your window and door locks a quick test. Do they lock smoothly and feel secure? If any seem stiff, loose, or damaged, get them replaced straight away.
Add extra safety measures: Add things like window restrictors (so windows only open a little), sturdy door chains, or even a simple battery-powered alarm to put off anyone thinking of trying their luck.
Keep hinges & frames strong: Check that hinges and frames are solid and not damaged or rotten. Fix up any weak spots you find.

Your static caravan should be a place of comfort, security, and peace of mind; somewhere you can truly relax. By making smart choices around insulation and security, you’ll not only create a cosier, safer space, but also protect your investment and avoid costly issues down the line.

So, whether you’re upgrading an older model or buying your first static caravan, don’t overlook the condition of your windows and doors.

At Cloudy2Clear, we specialise in static caravan window repairs and replacements that improve both insulation and security.

Our team can assess your caravan windows for issues like condensation, draughts, or damaged locks, and advise a cost-effective solution that fits your needs.

Get in touch today for your free, no-obligation quote and enjoy a warmer, safer caravan all year round.

What Is Energy Efficient Glass and How Does It Work?

Posted February 17, 2024 by Ian Greenhalgh

With heating costs on the rise, plenty of homeowners are seeking ways to cut down on their monthly bill and save money in the long run.

There are hundreds of ways you can boost the energy efficiency of your house. One of the most effective ways to enhance the efficiency of your home is by opting for energy efficient glass.

What is Energy Efficient Glass?

Energy efficient glass is specially designed to reflect heat back into the home, optimising the money you spend on energy bills. Instead of escaping through windows and doors, the reflected warm air can be recirculated around the house.

Double glazed windows are considered a form of energy efficient glazing, as their insulating properties also stop warm air from escaping. The most energy efficient glass, however, is called low emissivity, or ‘low-E’ glass. The emissivity of a glass refers to how well it can radiate heat energy.

Normal glass has a relatively high emissivity rating, allowing 90% of thermal energy to escape through your windows and doors.

Low-E glass features a microscopically thin coating applied to one side. This coating is made from low emissivity materials that improve the thermal performance of the glass, such as silver and other metallic oxides. These coatings are so thin and transparent that they don’t impact the amount of light that can enter the home – maintaining the original function of windows as intended while keeping heat energy in.

Double glazed windows are often made with low-E glass, leading to more efficient fixtures that reap the benefits of both energy saving designs.

How Does Energy Efficient Glass Work?

The nature of heat energy means it will always flow towards colder areas. This is because warmer molecules move faster and collide with cooler atoms, transferring heat energy. This means any heat in your home will naturally move towards the coldest point – which is usually the glass within your windows and doors, since they are in direct contact with the cooler air outside.

Glass without a coating will absorb this heat energy, cooling your home down faster. The reflective coating on low-E glass does the opposite, reflecting most of the heat trying to escape back into the home.

Low-E glass isn’t just for keeping your home warm. Since it also reflects solar heat energy away from your windows, low-E glass can help keep your surroundings cool in the summer months too.

What are the Benefits of Energy Efficient Glass?

Having energy efficient glass installed in your home offers a range of benefits. Low-E glass is not expensive to install, especially if you already have windows you’d like to make more energy efficient. Low-E films are available if you don’t want to splash out on an entire new window, so you can quickly upgrade your own windows if you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Keep Your House Comfortable

In the UK, low-E glass combined with double glazing is best recommended for keeping your house warm. When we do get into those (far and few between!) summer months, energy efficient glass can help cool down your house too. This keeps your home at a more comfortable temperature year-round.

Reduce Your Energy Bills

The insulating effect of low-E glass can reduce your energy bills each year. Preventing the heat transfer through your windows, low-E coatings can reduce heat loss from the home by up to 50%.

Protect Against UV Rays

We know UV rays are harmful to our health – but they can also damage our homes and furniture. UV radiation can break down the elements that hold paint together, which is why spaces exposed to too much sunlight often have peeling paint or cracked walls. It can also lead to a sun-bleached effect, making the furniture and walls exposed to UV light look more faded than they should. Since low-E glass is made with coatings that reflect UV rays away from the home, energy efficient glass can limit the damage otherwise caused by UV light.

Keep Condensation at Bay

Low-E glass keeps the inside of your glass warmer, reducing the chance you’ll find condensation on the inside of your windows. Any condensation on the inside of your home can quickly spread, as damp environments are the perfect conditions for mould to grow in. Mould and damp also pose a variety of health risks, so low-E glass can even keep your home safer.

Less Maintenance & Upkeep

Low-E glass keeps your windows, doors, and their surroundings safer from external weather conditions. The coating on the glass is also highly durable, and more resistant to scratches than normal glass alone.

More Environmentally Friendly

Energy efficient glass is more eco-friendly as it means less fuel is used to heat the home. It can be combined with other energy efficient designs throughout your house to reduce your carbon footprint (and the costs involved) on an even greater scale.

Other energy efficient home upgrades include:

Renewable Energy Sources – Solar Panels, Wind Turbines
Quality Insulation
Installing a Smart Meter
Energy Storage Systems
Draught Proof Materials
Updated Heating Systems

Keep Your Home Energy Efficient with Cloudy2Clear

There’s no use investing in energy efficient glass if your windows and doors are letting heat out of your home anyway. Most fixtures are now double glazed as standard within the UK, which boosts the energy efficiency of your glass with an additional window pane that insulates your surroundings.

Despite its effectiveness, double glazing can fail over time. Failed double glazing, also known as a ‘blown window’, lets warm air escape the home through gaps in the sealant that attaches your windowpane to its frame. Windows and doors account for up to 30% of heat loss within a home, so keeping your energy efficient glass well maintained is key to maximizing savings on your energy bills.

At Cloudy2Clear, our dedicated team of double glazing repair specialists can restore your doors and windows at minimal cost. Make the most of your energy efficient glass by keeping your double glazing in check.

Call our team on 0800 61 21 119 for a free consultation. Alternatively, fill out our easy online contact form and we’ll get back to you with more information as soon as possible.

Author: Ian Greenhalgh