Choosing the right windows is crucial to the energy efficiency of a building and the comfort of its occupants. Well-chosen windows can significantly reduce heat loss, which translates directly into lower heating bills. In this article, we will suggest what features windows should have in order to maximally reduce the running costs of a house or flat.
Why pay attention to energy-efficient windows?
Windows play a key role in the heat balance of a building, accounting for 20-30% of heat loss. Their correct choice is therefore one of the key elements influencing the thermal comfort and energy efficiency of a property. Energy-efficient windows reduce heat loss, which not only affects lower heating costs, but also the comfort of the occupants.
When purchasing, it is worth paying particular attention to the heat transfer coefficient (Uw), which determines the amount of heat penetrating the window. The lower the Uw value, the better the thermal insulation parameters. Modern energy-saving windows are characterised by Uw values below 1.0 W/(m²K), which ensures optimal thermal insulation. As a result, by investing in the right window joinery, you can significantly reduce your heating bills, while caring for the environment by reducing CO2 emissions.
Glazing types and energy efficiency
Glazing is a key component of any window, affecting its thermal insulation. When choosing windows, it is worth opting for double glazing (triple glazing), which provides optimum thermal insulation. They are more effective than traditional single-chamber glazing because they have two spaces between the panes, filled with noble gases such as argon or krypton. These gases reduce thermal conductivity, resulting in better insulation performance.
Modern glazing is also coated with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings. These coatings reflect heat into the room while allowing natural light to pass through. This keeps rooms warm in winter and avoids excessive heat in summer. It is also worth noting the noise dampening properties of the glazing, which further enhances the comfort of the building.
Window frame materials and their impact on thermal insulation
Window frames play as important a role as glazing in providing adequate thermal insulation. PVC frames are the most popular choice, combining good thermal insulation performance with affordability. Thanks to their multi-chamber construction, these frames effectively prevent heat loss. An alternative to PVC are timber frames, which have excellent thermal insulation and a natural appearance, ideally suited to classic or eco-friendly designs.
Aluminium windows are often chosen for their durability and modern appearance. To improve their thermal performance, thermal breaks and additional insulation layers are used. It is important when choosing frames to pay attention to the number of chambers in their construction – the more chambers, the better the insulation performance, which directly affects energy savings.
Additional energy-saving features
Energy-efficient windows are not just about high-quality glazing and frames. Additional construction and installation elements also play an important role. One of them is the warm frames between the panes, which reduce thermal bridges at the edges of the panes, limiting the risk of water vapour condensation. This not only makes the windows more energy efficient, but also more comfortable to use.
Another important aspect is a tight three-layer installation. Properly installed windows prevent thermal bridges at the window-wall junction, minimising heat loss. It is also worth considering the installation of airflow control ventilators, which allow proper ventilation to be maintained while limiting energy losses. Such solutions allow the full potential of energy-efficient windows to be exploited.
How to select windows to suit the specifics of the building?
Every building has different heating needs, so the choice of windows should be tailored to the specifics of the building. An important aspect is to analyse the local climate and the orientation of the building in relation to the world. For example, on the north side, where the greatest heat loss occurs, it is advisable to use smaller windows with the highest insulation parameters. On the south side, on the other hand, larger glazing can be used, which allows passive solar heating in winter.
The type of building and its overall thermal insulation is also important. In passive and energy-efficient houses, windows should have a Uw factor of less than 0.8 W/(m²K), which will ensure minimal heat loss. In addition, attention should be paid to the construction of the building – solid wall and roof insulation combined with energy-efficient windows gives the best results in reducing heating costs.
Investment in energy-efficient windows
Choosing the right windows is one of the most important steps towards reducing heating costs. Windows with a low overall heat-transfer coefficient (Uw), equipped with high-quality glazing and multi-chamber frames, can make a significant contribution to thermal comfort and energy savings. Equally important is their professional installation, which prevents thermal bridges and guarantees optimal insulation.
Additional features, such as warm glazing frames or ventilators, increase the efficiency of the windows while ensuring a healthy microclimate in the rooms. Every building is different, so it’s worth consulting with experienced experts who can help you choose the perfect window solution for your individual needs. Investing in energy-efficient windows means not only lower heating bills, but also higher living comfort and a lower impact on the environment.
