As the seasons begin to change and temperatures start to dip, many of us begin thinking about switching the heating back on.
But before turning up the thermostat, it’s worth considering how well your home is holding on to that heat.
Windows and doors play an important part in the overall energy efficiency of your home. Older or poorly performing windows and doors can allow valuable warmth to escape and cold air to find its way in, making your heating work harder to keep your home comfortable.
So, if you’ve been considering replacing your windows or doors, now is a good time to start planning ahead.
How do windows and doors affect energy efficiency?
Your windows and doors form part of the barrier between your home and the outside world, so their ability to retain heat can have a real impact on how comfortable your home feels.
Modern energy-efficient windows are designed to reduce the amount of heat that passes through the glass and frames. Good quality double or triple glazing, combined with well-insulated frames and effective seals, can help keep more warmth inside your home.
The result? Fewer draughts, fewer cold spots and a more comfortable temperature throughout your home.
And, with less heat escaping, your heating system doesn’t have to work quite as hard to maintain that temperature, which can also help reduce energy use.
How do you know if your windows need replacing?
Windows don’t necessarily need to look obviously damaged to be performing poorly. Look out for things like draughts around your windows or doors, rooms that feel noticeably colder than others, condensation or misting between the panes of glass, damaged or deteriorating frames and seals or windows that are difficult to open, close or lock properly.
If you’re experiencing any of these, it could be worth having your windows or doors checked.
Don’t forget about your doors
When we’re talking about energy efficiency, windows often get most of the attention – but your external doors matter too.
An older or poorly fitted front, back or patio door can allow draughts into the home and warmth to escape.
Today’s modern doors are designed with thermal performance in mind, combining insulated materials, quality glazing where required and effective weather seals to help protect your home from the elements.
Replacing an older door can therefore make a difference not only to the appearance and security of your property, but to how comfortable it feels too.
Why planning ahead makes sense
It’s easy to ignore a draughty window when the weather is mild. It’s much harder once the temperatures drop and the heating is on every day. That’s why September is a good time to take a closer look at your home.
Planning ahead gives you time to explore your options, decide what’s right for your property and arrange any work before the colder months really set in.
It also means you can make a considered decision rather than waiting until an old window or door becomes an urgent problem.
More than just saving energy
Improving the energy efficiency of your windows and doors isn’t only about your energy bills.
Modern windows and doors can help make your home feel warmer and more comfortable, reduce draughts and external noise, improve security and give the exterior of your property a fresh new look.
At McGregor Glazing, we can talk you through the options available and help you find windows and doors that suit your property, requirements and budget. No pressure and no one-size-fits-all approach, just honest advice from an experienced local team.
If you’re thinking about replacing your windows or doors, now is a great time to start the conversation.
Visit our showroom at Unit 8, Links Street, Aberdeen, or get in touch with the McGregor Glazing team to find out more.
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