Why Your Windows Should Be Sustainable: The Benefits of a Well-Built Window
High-performance sustainable windows come in many types, shapes, and sizes. But regardless of their aesthetic or structural variations, all well-made sustainable windows have one thing in common: They feature a design that’s not only energy efficient and cost-effective to own and operate, but also reduces maintenance needs over time. In fact, the benefits of a well-built sustainable window extend far beyond its initial low impact on your monthly utility bill or operating expenses. From improved indoor air quality to enhanced noise control and thermal comfort, these top reasons why your windows should be sustainable will help you understand why investing in high-quality windows is worth every penny!
Reasons to Choose Sustainable Windows
1 – Reduce Energy Loss and Increase Thermal Comfort
When it comes to heat loss, thermal bridging and poor air seals are two problems that can be responsible for a large percentage of your home’s heat loss. Fortunately, many sustainable windows are made to a very high standard and are designed to reduce heat loss.
Many modern sustainable windows also feature high performance components such as vacuum glazing and treated timbers that have excellent insulation.
Another common problem with energy loss is the inability to properly seal your windows. This can lead to decreased thermal comfort in your home, especially in the winter months. Fortunately, many sustainable windows come with a variety of different sealing systems, including gaskets and weather-stripping. These options allow the windows to be properly sealed, which can help increase thermal comfort in your home.
2 – Provide Sound Reduction and Noise Control
If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to have a home with high-quality windows, you know how much it can reduce all types of noise. Sustainable windows are manufactured with noise reduction in mind, which makes them a great option for anyone who wants to improve their indoor sound quality. Sustainable windows come with several different noise-reducing features, including thicker glass, specially treated glass, double or triple glazing, and weather stripping. A vacuum insulated glass option is the best at reducing noise, for those who want the most effective solution. Other noise-reducing features can help insulate your windows against outdoor noise, so you can enjoy peace and quiet inside your home.
3 – Lower Maintenance Costs Over Time
Many homeowners are unsure how windows are maintained on a regular basis. Fortunately, sustainable windows are built to last, making them a great investment in the long run.
Widows made with high quality materials, such as modern treated timbers like Accoya® and Red Grandis are expected to have a service life of over 60 years with a minimum of maintenance.
Gowercroft windows come with a 10 year no-quibble guarantee and the option for a lifetime maintenance service called TimbaCare so you never have to worry about the condition of your sustainable timber windows again.
4 – Help reduce carbon emissions and preserve the environment
When you have more efficient windows, then your home costs less to heat. By reducing the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home, you can lower your carbon emissions.
The materials and manufacturing processes also have a huge impact on the environment. Gowercroft timber windows have been compared to Aluminium and uPVC windows in a study by Derby University. The results of the study revealed that our classic range of windows had a positive effect on the environment. This is because they are made from timber that comes from sustainable sources. The growing process and our efficient manufacturing methods mean that our windows actually reduce the amount of CO2 equivalent in the air through their typical manufacture and in-use lifespan. Aluminium, uPVC and other timber products have a negative impact on the environment. You can read more about the study here.
5 – Sustainable windows can be beautiful
Some sustainable windows can be truly beautiful. Timber windows made with ultra-thin vacuum glass can enhance the looks of your home and increase kerb appeal when you come to sell your property.
The thin vacuum glass has such a narrow cavity that you can barely see the unsightly inner frame of the windows. Standard double glazing has a much wider cavity, so more of the inner frame is on show. The narrow gap in vacuum glass also reduces the double-reflection effect. This feature is particularly important when replacing the windows in restoration projects such as listed buildings. These types of windows are called Heritage Windows, you can read more about them on our Heritage Windows pages.
Conclusion
Your windows are a big part of your indoor environment, so it’s important to choose a type that will not only look good but will also be efficient and sustainable. When shopping for new windows, keep in mind that the more high-quality features they have, the higher the cost will be. However, the benefits of a well-built sustainable window will go far beyond the initial low impact on your monthly utility bill or operating expenses. From improved indoor air quality to enhanced noise control and thermal comfort, these top reasons why your windows should be sustainable will help you understand why investing in high-quality windows is worth every penny!