Aluminium windows are a popular choice for homeowners because of their sleek appearance, durability and low maintenance properties. But the right choice of aluminium windows can also bring many energy efficiency benefits.
In this article, we’ll look at the factors that affect the energy efficiency of aluminium windows. It will help you as you start to research your aluminium window options.
Understanding the jargon around energy efficiency in aluminium windows
To understand the factors that affect the energy efficiency of aluminium windows, let’s start by looking at some of the jargon you might come across.
The U-value measures how much heat escapes through a window. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation. For example, a window with a U-value of 1.2W/m²K will lose less heat than one with a U-value of 1.4W/m²K.
In the UK, windows have a Window Energy Rating (WER) from A to G. These ratings work in the same way as the energy efficiency ratings you see on electrical appliances. A is the most energy efficient and G is the least energy efficient.
The thermal break is the barrier within the window frame that prevents heat transfer between the part of the frame that’s on the inside of your home and the part of the frame that’s on the outside. The thermal break is one of the factors that helps to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Today’s aluminium windows have much more advanced thermal breaks than the aluminium windows of the past, which makes them much more energy efficient.
The glazing refers to the glass panes in your aluminium window. Double glazing, with two panes of glass with a space between them, is more energy efficient than single glazing. Triple glazing, with three panes, offers even better insulation. You can make the glazing even more energy efficient with argon gas between the panes and Low-E (low emissivity) coatings are also an option to go one step further.
The profile refers to the window frame itself. Aluminium is a strong material, so the profile can be slimmer than profiles made from other materials. A slimmer profile means less frame and more glass, which lets in more natural light. This can reduce your reliance on artificial light, which brings more energy efficiency benefits.
Choosing the right aluminium windows for your home
Here at Capital Windows, we have over 45 years’ experience in helping our customers choose the right aluminium windows for their home. The aluminium windows we manufacture and fit offer the best combination of aesthetics and energy efficiency on the market today.
The Sapa Crown Casement Aluminium Window System is popular in both replacement and new build projects. It’s also suitable for listed properties, or houses that fall inside Conservation Areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Download the Sapa Crown Casement brochure.
The AluK 58BW Aluminium Window System is a versatile system that includes Casement, Flush, Heritage and Tilt Before Turn options. It’s designed by one of the industry’s leaders and delivers great performance and a distinctive style. Download the AluK 58BW brochure.
Our Evoke Flush Aluminium Window System offers exceptional aesthetics and the slimmest sightlines on the market, which helps to maximise the amount of natural light in your home. Download the Evoke Flush brochure.
Whichever window you choose, proper installation is essential to maximise the energy efficiency of your aluminium windows. A professional installer will have all the necessary knowledge to ensure your aluminium window installation complies with building regulations and industry standards in terms of energy efficiency.
The energy efficiency benefits of aluminium windows
By understanding the factors that contribute to energy efficiency you can choose the aluminium windows that will give you a comfortable, stylish and energy-efficient home.
To find out more about energy efficient aluminium windows for your home, get in touch with Capital Windows today.