Can Double Glazed Sash Windows Keep Heat Out?

woman drinking at window

Can double glazed sash windows keep heat out?

We already know that the technology of a modern double-glazed window can keep cold out and help maintain the room’s ambient temperature. However, in these sweltering days of summer, keeping the room warm is the last of our worries! At this time of year, we’re more concerned about keeping the sun’s heat out and keeping the room cool.

Can modern window technology help with this? It depends on the types and ratings of glass that you use and the design of the window frame.

 

Yes, double glazed sash windows can indeed help keep heat out during hot summers. While they are often praised for their ability to retain warmth during colder months, their insulation properties also work effectively in the opposite direction, helping to keep heat from entering the interior of a home when temperatures rise. Here’s how double glazed sash windows accomplish this:

  1. Insulation: Double glazed windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a layer of gas, typically argon or krypton. This design creates a barrier that inhibits the transfer of heat from the outside to the inside, as well as vice versa. During hot summer days, the double glazing prevents the heat from penetrating through the windows, helping to maintain a cooler indoor temperature.
  2. Low-E Coatings: Many double glazed windows are coated with a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating. This coating is virtually invisible but helps to reflect a significant portion of the sun’s heat away from the glass, reducing solar heat gain inside the home. By minimising the amount of heat that enters through the windows, Low-E coatings enhance the cooling efficiency of double glazed sash windows during hot weather.
  3. UV Protection: Double glazed windows often offer UV protection, which not only helps to prevent fading of furniture and fabrics but also reduces the amount of heat transmitted through the glass. By blocking a portion of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, these windows contribute to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment during sunny summer days.
  4. Sealing and Insulation: Properly installed double glazed windows feature tight seals and insulation around the frame, minimizing air leakage and preventing drafts. This airtight construction helps to further reduce heat transfer, ensuring that the cool air generated by air conditioning systems remains inside the home, rather than escaping through inefficient windows.
  5. Ventilation Options: Some double glazed sash windows offer ventilation features that allow for controlled airflow while maintaining security and energy efficiency. By strategically opening windows during cooler times of the day or night, homeowners can promote natural ventilation and facilitate the exchange of indoor and outdoor air, helping to regulate indoor temperatures without relying solely on mechanical cooling systems.

Overall, double glazed sash windows are an effective solution for keeping heat out during hot summers. Their insulation properties, combined with features such as Low-E coatings, UV protection, proper sealing, and ventilation options, contribute to creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient living environment, even when temperatures soar outside.

Glass to keep the Sun’s heat out

When choosing glass for your windows, it’s wise to look at the U rating. This rating will tell you how thermally efficient the pane is. A single pane typically has a rating of 5. The thermally efficient double-glazed panes in  Ventrolla sash windows have a rating of 1.5 – a much more efficient score.

Other ratings to consider in choosing your windows to keep heat out are the G value (which measures how much heat from the sun is transferred through the window) and the BFRC rating (which is an independent efficiency rating).

Frames to keep you cool

Ventrolla sash windows are hand-designed to look great and to keep you cool on hot summer days. No more stuck, jammed windows. On a hot day, the windows slide open with ease to let in the breeze.

If you’re feeling the heat this summer, it may be time to upgrade your windows. For more information about the thermal advantages of Ventrolla sash windows, please speak with our experts.

FAQs About Double Glazed Sash Windows

1. What are double glazed sash windows?

Double glazed sash windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a layer of inert gas within a single window frame. They are designed to provide improved insulation and energy efficiency compared to traditional single-glazed windows.

2. How do double glazed sash windows keep heat out during hot summers?

Double glazed sash windows prevent heat from entering the interior of a home during hot summers through several mechanisms:

  • Insulation: The double glazing creates a barrier that inhibits the transfer of heat from the outside to the inside.
  • Low-E Coatings: Many double glazed windows are coated with a low-emissivity coating, which reflects a portion of the sun’s heat away from the glass.
  • UV Protection: Double glazed windows often offer UV protection, reducing the amount of heat transmitted through the glass.
  • Proper Sealing and Insulation: Tight seals and insulation around the frame minimise air leakage and prevent drafts, further reducing heat transfer.
  • Ventilation Options: Some double glazed sash windows offer ventilation features that allow for controlled airflow, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.

3. Are double glazed sash windows energy efficient?

Yes, double glazed sash windows are known for their energy efficiency. They help to reduce heat loss during colder months and heat gain during hotter months, thereby lowering energy consumption for heating and cooling.

4. Do double glazed sash windows require special maintenance?

Double glazed sash windows typically require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning of the glass and lubrication of moving parts are recommended to ensure smooth operation. It’s also important to inspect the seals and frames periodically to identify and address any potential issues.

5. Can double glazed sash windows reduce outside noise?

Yes, double glazed sash windows provide better sound insulation compared to single-glazed windows. The additional layer of glass and the trapped gas between the panes help to reduce noise transmission, creating a quieter indoor environment.

6. How long do double glazed sash windows last?

The lifespan of double glazed sash windows can vary depending on factors such as the quality of materials, installation, and maintenance. Generally, well-maintained double glazed windows can last for decades before needing replacement.

7. Are there any benefits to upgrading to double glazed sash windows?

Upgrading to double glazed sash windows offers several benefits, including improved insulation, energy efficiency, sound insulation, enhanced security, and increased property value. Additionally, they can contribute to a more comfortable and environmentally friendly living space.