Due to the recent rise in energy bills, now more than ever, homeowners are considering ways in which they can cut their energy costs. A way in which people can do this is through upgrading their existing exterior windows to casement windows.
Essentially, casement windows are those windows that are directly attached to their frames via hinges that can be fixed on to the top, bottom, or sides of the frame. Because of this hinge mechanism, a casement window comes with significantly tighter seals than a sliding window thus allowing them to be more energy efficient.
In this article, we will show you why casement windows are a more economical choice in the process of replacing your existing windows, as well as providing you with a host of other benefits of their design too.
1. Tight Seals
A standout feature for prospective customers looking at casement windows are the tight seals that are installed on every side of the frame. Because of the type of seals that our casement windows are designed with, weather conditions such as strong winds actually help to strengthen the seals over time, opposed to weakening them which is common for other types of external windows.
This resultantly helps to stop air escaping through cracks that could be found in the frame’s edges, allowing heat to be better retained in your home.
The reason for this is because a casement window does not depend on a rail system which is more commonly found on sliding mechanism windows such as sash windows. When a casement window is pulled shut, its strong seals create a barrier that wind is unable to penetrate.
Regarding energy efficiency, a casement window will stop any cold winds coming into your home, and similarly stop any heat escaping, thus reducing the need to excessively heat your house at all times of the day.
2. Low E-Glass
Another common feature of casement windows that helps to improve their energy efficiency is the use of low E-Glass.
Although not found in all casement windows, high quality retailers will often produce all of their casement windows with this type of glass. You may not have heard about it before however, it is a great addition to your home if you want to block out any harmful UV rays and to reduce heat loss in your home.
The only downside that prospective customers often find when considering designing their casement windows with low E-Glass is that the initial cost can be quite expensive, especially if all your windows are being replaced at one time.
However, studies have shown that low e-glass can contribute to a 30-50% reduction in heat loss after sealing. Due to its heat retaining capabilities, you may find yourself saving costs on your energy bills longer-term, making low e-glass a worthwhile investment at the start.
This type of glass is also designed to let in visible light but deflect both ultraviolet and infrared light by blocking their respective wave lengths; this is achieved through a specially designed reflective coating. This can further help to minimise damage within your home, including reducing the chance of damp and furniture bleaching from sunlight.
3. Argon Gas
Similarly, to low E-Glass, some window manufacturers also use argon gas to better insulate their windows, and thus making them more energy efficient.
Argon gas is a substance that can be used in double or triple paned windows and is inserted into the area between each pane of glass.
Because argon gas is much denser than regular air, it is better suited to minimise the transfer of heat through a window, and keeps the temperature of your internal environment regulated, and stops cooler air penetrating through as well. Often, this feature is used in conjunction with low e-glass to further eliminate any cold air currents coming through your windows.
Much like low E-Glass casement windows, argon gas casement windows are set at a higher price point than regular air-filled windows. However, considering its improved energy efficiency, over time this higher initial cost will be subsidised by a decrease in your home energy bills.
How Can We Help?
Here at Timber Windows, our aim is to make all our windows and doors as energy efficient for you as possible. We know that a surge in energy prices is something that a lot of you may be thinking about at the moment and you could be looking for ways to minimise these costs where possible.
All of our wooden casement windows that we offer here, are made with thermal efficiency in mind. All of our glass panelling is double-glazed with enhanced thermally insulating glass and filled with argon gas for maximum thermal efficiency.
Why not take a look at our brochure to see what we can do for you and if you like what you see, get in touch with us here.
