Large windows are perfectly on-trend in modern homes, as are wide, glass doors (e.g. patio, French and bi-fold doors). This is because they open up the living space beautifully, and allow sunlight to flow in. In the summer, large surface areas of glass increase the home’s solar gain, and make it naturally warmer. Modern windows are also fitted with double glazing and energy-efficient frames so that, in the winter, heat is not lost through the glass. If your windows are old, then you may experience draughts and cold spots throughout the winter months. Here are some tips on keeping homes with large windows warm this winter.
Hang thick curtains to keep the heat in
During the summer months, you may choose to hang light drapes or simple blinds to allow as much light into your home as possible. It is advisable to swap these for thicker curtains during the winter, in order to keep the home warm. Hanging thicker curtains doesn’t mean that you have to block out natural light, though: you could combine these with sheer drapes so that, during the day, light is able to flow through the window dressings. Close the curtains when it starts to get dark, and you will soon notice an improvement in the temperature.
The same goes for conservatories – by simply fitting blinds to act as a barrier against the cold glass (and putting down rugs to protect your feet from carpet-less flooring), you can enjoy the large windows in your home this winter.
Draught-proof your windows
If your windows were installed after 2002, when the Building Regulations were updated to say that any replacement glazing must meet new thermal performance standards, then you shouldn’t feel any draughts coming from them (if you do, the seal might have broken). Draughts and cold spots are common in old, single-glazed windows, and can be protected against with simple, draught-excluding compression seals. Inserting these into the gaps between the glass and the frame reduces the ability of heat to pass through the windows. We recently fitted replacement windows in Kingston for a new homeowner to help with their draught problem.
Insulate the rest of your house
Having a cold home doesn’t necessarily mean that your windows are in poor condition – it might just mean that it’s exceptionally cold outside, or that other areas of your property need to be better insulated. Energy-efficient windows can only be properly effective if the rest of your home is also designed to keep the heat in (if you don’t have roof and cavity wall insulation, for example, warm air can escape through the top of the house and the walls).
Here at Hamilton Windows, our double and triple-glazed windows are guaranteed to keep your home warm this winter. If you need advice about improving the thermal efficiency of your Surrey home, contact us today.
