With rising energy costs and growing awareness of the need for sustainable living, making choices that reduce energy consumption is more important to homeowners than ever before. One effective way to improve a home’s energy efficiency is by upgrading windows, and thermally broken windows are among the best options available. 

But what are thermally broken windows, and how do they help cut energy bills? In this blog, we’ll explain how they work and the benefits they offer so you can make an informed choice about whether they’re right for your home. 

What are thermally broken windows? 

The term “thermally broken” refers to a specific feature in modern windows and doors that prevents heat from passing through the frame. Traditional windows, especially those with metal frames like aluminium, allow heat to transfer from inside your home to the outside, or vice versa. This happens because metals are good conductors of heat, making it easy for energy to escape. 

Thermally broken windows include a non-conductive material (usually plastic or polymer) between the inside and outside frame, which stops heat from traveling through the metal. This simple barrier, known as a thermal break, dramatically improves insulation. As a result, these windows help keep indoor temperatures stable, reducing the need for heating in winter and cooling in summer. 

The energy efficiency benefits of thermally broken windows 

Thermally broken windows offer an effective solution to help reduce heat loss and improve a home’s overall energy efficiency. By preventing the transfer of heat through the window frames, they allow homes to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This reduces the workload on heating and cooling systems, leading to lower energy use. 

One of the most noticeable benefits of thermally broken windows is the potential for energy savings. Since they help maintain indoor temperatures, homeowners spend less on heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. Homes with thermally broken windows can save up to 30% on energy bills. These savings, over time, more than cover the initial cost of the windows, making them a wise long-term investment! 

Energy efficiency regulations and standards 

In the UK, all windows must meet certain energy efficiency standards, with a minimum energy rating of D. In fact, many new builds only have D-rated windows as that is all that is required for the site developers to use. This often won’t be flagged on a buyer’s survey report either, as they don’t classify the windows into what ratings are used.  

For those who want better performance, A-rated windows are a more effective choice. These windows provide superior insulation, helping to cut energy use even further. Most thermally broken windows achieve A or A+ ratings, ensuring that they meet or exceed energy efficiency requirements. They are designed to prevent heat loss, making them an excellent option for those seeking to reduce energy costs and comply with current regulations. 

Why choose A-rated windows over D-rated windows? 

While D-rated windows might have a tempting lower initial cost, they don’t offer the same energy-saving benefits as A-rated models. Choosing A-rated thermally broken windows ensures better insulation, which leads to greater long-term savings on energy bills. It’s worth considering that the upfront cost of higher-rated windows can quickly be offset by the reduced energy expenses over time. 

At Birmingham Glass, we only sell A-rated models. This is because we want to ensure that all of our customers get the very best quality for their money. 

Use our energy calculator to compare savings 

If you’re curious about how much energy you could save by upgrading to thermally broken windows, why not try out our simple Energy Calculator? All you need to do is enter your home’s details, and you will get an instant estimate of the savings our double glazing can provide! 

 

Want to know more about thermally broken windows and doors? Contact our team today or get a no-obligation quote.