Latest News

Christmas, and all that comes with it, is approaching quickly. The drawn-out nights and the cold weather can often lead to an increase in energy bills to combat the discomfort. The months of December and January are also statistically some of the most targeted times for home intruders. Getting your home secure as well as improving its efficiency are two important things to ensure this winter. How can you make your windows more energy-efficient this winter? One of the easiest ways to make your windows more energy efficient is to use a number of draught-proofing methods. Draughts can be a major cause of problems relating to your energy bills soaring, given all the warm air that can easily escape. There are several ways to deal with draughts, some easier and more budget-friendly than others. Draught-proofing strips – these can be stuck around the frame of the window and help to fill any gaps between the frame and the window itself. Self-adhesive strips are popular because they are budget-friendly and simple to install. The downside is that they don’t always last a long time. Plastic or metal strips are better in terms of durability but tend to be more expensive. It is also important to ensure that the strips are the correct size. Draught excluders – these are another effective and inexpensive option to help reduce draughts. They can come in the form of draught snakes or letterbox excluders. You can even make your own if you have a big piece of fabric that you can fill with something like rice or old clothes. Sealing and caulking – your windows can be easily prone to leaks or draughts through cracks or holes that have appeared. Naturally, if there is a draught then you are losing heat from your home. Look for things such as cracks, gaps, missing glass or rotting wood as signs that you need to repair or replace your windows. What can you do to improve the security of your windows this winter? When it comes to security, statistics show that the majority of break-ins come via forced entry through windows and doors. It may sound like a simple thing, but make sure to check that your locks are actually in working order. Any issues with your locks can present an opportunity to a would-be burglar to take advantage. Installing multi-point locking systems on your windows is another good option to enhance security or installing further features such as deadbolts or keyed locks. Glass and glazing are also important in helping to protect your windows. Laminated or toughened glass can help to prevent break-ins. Laminated glass stays in place when broken, while toughened glass breaks into many different pieces to help reduce the risk of injury. Single glazing can not only hamper your home’s thermal efficiency, but it is also a considerable security threat. Upgrading to double glazing can significantly decrease the chances of intruders being successful as well as decrease your energy expenditure. Make your windows more energy-efficient and secure this winter with Sheffield Double Glazing At Sheffield Double Glazing, we offer a fantastic range of uPVC windows that are sure to enhance your home’s efficiency and security. From casement windows to flush sash windows and many more, there is a window style to fit the aesthetic of your Sheffield property. Contact us today on 01143 273433 or get a free online quote to get your windows ready for winter.  

The subject of energy saving is one that continues to raise questions, with people continuing to look for answers. There are a number of home improvements that can be made to a property to help to reduce energy bills. One of those is the addition of uPVC windows, which have several related benefits. They are a great budget-friendly option to increase the efficiency of your Sheffield property. Here are some ways in which they allow you to make those important savings. 1) Double glazing is a key factor One of the most important and influential factors when it comes to the increase in a window’s energy efficiency, double glazing can play a key role in reducing energy bills. There are a number of reasons for this. High-quality double glazing is able to create a significant sealing within the window frame to cut draughts. Single glazing is often a problematic glazing source, as it is simply not as efficient. It is therefore prone to draughts and general issues which can cause a comparatively higher energy expenditure. 2) The glass used in uPVC windows Using low-emissivity glass (low-e), uPVC windows are able to prevent heat from escaping to the outside. The window energy rating (WER) will improve as a result and can considerably reduce the amount of energy that would otherwise be lost through your windows. The low-e glass works by having an exceptionally thin coating on the side of the internal surface of the glass. With that, it is able to reflect heat back into the home as well as letting in more light. The gaps in between the glass is a key component of double-glazed uPVC windows. The size of the gap can often influence the overall performance of the windows. It is not necessarily a case of ‘bigger the better’, with 16mm often seen as the ideal. However, smaller can also be better in certain scenarios. While air can sometimes be used in between each pane of glass, adding an inert gas like argon gas can significantly improve the performance of your uPVC windows. The argon gas is denser than air and, combined with the low-e glass, can regulate your home’s temperature. 3) Draught-proof to help reduce energy bills While double glazing, especially when new, tends to excel when it comes to excluding draughts, there can still sometimes be issues. Draught-proofing in general is a budget-friendly way of ensuring any gaps are plugged. Just some simple extra draught-proofing around your uPVC windows and doors can save you around £25 a year. One way to improve ventilation is through the use of trickle vents. These are small openings in a window that allows air to pass through the window, thus offering fresh air without the need to open the window. Additional benefits to this design include noise reduction and increased security, given that you don’t have to open your window for ventilation. 4) Window ratings will give a good indication of energy efficiency Look out for some ratings when it comes to choosing some uPVC windows. The WER is used to show how energy efficient a window is. There is a range of factors considered, relating to the air output (L-value), solar gain (G-value) and heat retention (U-value). The BFRC ratings range from E to A++, with C being the minimum requirement. These ratings balance the positive gained from the G-value with the more negative factors of the L-value and U-value to come to an overall formula-based conclusion. Get your high-performing double glazed uPVC windows today At Sheffield Double Glazing Company, we offer a fantastic range of uPVC windows that will easily improve both your home’s performance and its aesthetics. Ahead of the winter, these are the perfect addition to your Sheffield property, with excellent security features and heat retention. Contact us today on 01143 273433 or get a free online quote.

Not only are uPVC windows a great budget-friendly option with fantastic energy efficient qualities, they are also very secure. This is due to a range of security features that provide homeowners with peace of mind, as well as value for money. 1) Multipoint locking systems As standard, our uPVC windows come with multi-point locking systems. These provide Sheffield homeowners with tried and tested UKAS accredited PAS 24 enhanced security. With multi-point locking systems, the security is increased through the strength of the seal that is able to be created. The multi-point locks will essentially bolt the window right into the frame, ensuring it is secure at a number of points. Generally, there will be between three and five locking points on a window. 2) Internal beading A bead is something that helps to hold the glazing in place. It is a small strip that runs along the edges of a window sash. Internal beading is where the glazing is fixed on the inside of a home, as opposed to on the outside. External beading was largely seen as a security issue because intruders were able to remove the beads and glass, which is not possible with internal beading because it is secured in place on the inside. 3) Double glazing for windows in Sheffield Double glazing is a potentially crucial addition to your uPVC windows. Not only do the two panes of glass that make up the glazing provide reductions in noise and increased energy efficiency, but it also significantly improves security. The internal beading helps considerably with the security of double glazing, as well as the thickness and strength of the glass. Additionally, the argon gas that is used in between each pane to help with heat retention is also able to act as a shock absorber. 4) Toughened/laminated glass There are further options to increase the security of your windows by way of strengthening the glass. Toughened glass provides a superb resistance to force by being able to absorb increased levels of shock, as well as being very durable and robust. Laminated glass is effective in preventing the after effects of glass being smashed. The plastic used in the lamination can hold broken shards from an attempted break-in, further thwarting the intruder. It can also help to prevent cracks and holes from appearing. 5) Accessories can enhance security for uPVC windows As with many areas of home improvement, there are several extras that can be added to improve security. These can include: Shoot bolts – these are added into the window at the top and bottom to secure it even further in place. They are mainly made from steel for extra durability. Opening restrictors – these help to restrict how far a window is able to open, helping to prevent any intruder from accessing windows that open widely. They can also reduce the danger of children falling. Key lockable handles – modern window handles are able to be locked by a key. This adds another layer to the difficulties intruders will face in trying to access the window. How can I make my uPVC windows more secure? Along with the aforementioned security features of uPVC windows, there are also some things that you can do to help make your windows even more secure. Replace or upgrade your locks – under-performing access points to your house such as your locks can make for easy targets for intruders. Replace single glazing – single glazing is vulnerable to burglaries and is not particularly secure in its design. It would be a good idea to look at replacing your single glazing if that is what you have installed. Lock your windows – this may sound like a simple factor and one that is generally second nature, but double-checking your windows are locked can help to prevent that one lapse that could prove costly. Get your secure uPVC windows from Sheffield Double Glazing At Sheffield Double Glazing, our uPVC windows offer a number of security layers and features. Sheffield homeowners are sure to be safe and secure with the level of security that our windows provide. Contact us today on 01143 273433 or get in touch via a free online quote and get your secure uPVC windows today from Sheffield Double Glazing.

As winter approaches and the nights begin to draw in, it is always tempting to go straight to the heating in order to avoid discomfort. This is great for the short term and fighting back against the cold, but it will also hurt your pockets. That is why it is important to look into your windows and what can be done to help to reduce those mounting bills. UPVC windows provide a number of fantastic features that can not only make your home more pleasant, but also save you money. Is uPVC energy efficient? UPVC windows are fantastic in terms of thermal efficiency, with high insulation values preventing any considerable heat loss. This therefore ensures that the temperature indoors is regulated and optimal for the homeowner’s requirements. It also means that they are effective for all types of weather. UPVC keeps the house cool during the summer and, due to its non-absorption of heat, keeps the house cool during the summer. Reduce your energy bills with our double glazed uPVC windows With double glazing, you are sure to feel the benefits when it comes to heat retention. The double glazing design sees two panes of glass fitted into a window which provides both solid protection and insulation. In between those two panes of glass, there is an argon gas filling which helps to provide a further reduction in heat transference. Double glazing can seriously help when it comes to making savings on your energy bills, most significantly in detached properties. The design of uPVC windows help to enhance energy efficiency UPVC windows are designed with an internal multi-chambered profile which is both versatile and robust. They also use sealed units on both sides of each pane of glass. Those chambers can often range from four to eight, with the higher amount of chambers generally meaning better energy efficiency. Not to mention, uPVC is a great insulator in itself. How do I know when my uPVC windows need replacing? In order to make the most of the thermally efficient benefits offered by uPVC windows, you need to ensure that they are performing as optimally as possible. If not, it would be a good idea to look into replacing them. Some signs to look for to see if your uPVC windows need replacing include: If they are old – If your windows are 15 or more years old, then it would likely be a good idea to replace them. Not only to ensure your windows are up to date when it comes to energy efficiency and all those benefits, but also in terms of other factors such as security. Also, discolourations such as yellowing could be signs that you need replacement windows. Not having double glazing installed – Double glazing is something that is sure to provide your home with a boost in thermal efficiency. If, for example, you have single glazing installed on your windows then you are losing out on heat-saving benefits that double glazing offers. Any signs of damage or performance issues – Cracks and broken seals are among some of the more problematic issues when it comes to ensuring that your windows are in an optimal state. Any such damage can cause draughts and condensation to appear within your windows which can cause big issues when it comes to heat loss. Being unable to open properly – Similarly, if your windows do not open properly, you will be potentially sacrificing heat retention as well as general performance. Which type of windows are the most energy efficient and airtight? Our uPVC casement windows are an excellent option when it comes to improving the energy efficiency of your Sheffield home. Their design means that air is less likely to sneak through, with strong seals along the frame allowing the structure to be securely fitted. Choose Sheffield Double Glazing to help reduce your energy bills this winter Our uPVC windows are designed and manufactured to meet the high standards needed for thermal efficiency, all helping to reduce energy bills for the upcoming winter period. If you are in need of upgraded windows or require replacements for your Sheffield home, contact us on 01143 273433 or get a quote online.

Two of our most popular window styles here at Sheffield Double Glazing are casement windows and sliding sash windows. Read on for more information about their individual benefits and ultimately, help you to decide which style is best for you. Casement Sliding sash Material uPVC or aluminium uPVC timber effect Energy efficiency Thanks to a seal around their edges, which, when the window is closed, is compressed against the frame, casement windows are very energy efficiency Colour palette Available in a selection of attractive colours such as Chartwell Green and includes a range of realistic woodgrain effect finishes Configurations An array of configurations including top hung, side hung, or bottom hung. The most popular is the side hung casement window A sliding sash window is opened using the window catch and leaving it in the same position Frame width More specifically aluminium casement windows are a more premium product and have a slimline appearance which is perfect for contemporary property installations Because a sash window needs some form of counterbalance mechanism built into the outer frames, the frames will be thicker than the average casement window Period features available The intricate detailing creates a beautiful aesthetic to the façade of your home and can add a modern twist to a traditional Yorkshire property You can choose from a selection of astragal bar configurations to really get the period aesthetic. Or perhaps add run through sash horns or your choice of traditional hardware to finish your window frames Which is better, casement windows or sliding sash windows? We have highlighted some of the benefits between these window types, but which one is better? Ultimately, this answer is entirely down to you and your personal requirements. Saying that however, something to bear in mind is that traditional wooden sash windows are often the only option in conservation areas because of legislation surrounding the preservation of heritage properties. So, in this instance, they are better. However, normally, the decision is that it is down to your preference and the style of your South Yorkshire home. Arrange your free quotation today and let our team help you. Attractive and high performing windows from Sheffield Double Glazing At Sheffield Double Glazing we install top quality windows, from casement and sliding sash windows to tilt and turn and bay windows, whatever your preferences, we are sure to meet them. Design your dream windows now or alternatively contact our team today on 0114 327433. Read our related blogs: Composite entrance doors vs uPVC entrance doors: what are the differences? 3 ways to spot that your windows and doors are a security hazard 3 home improvement trend predictions for 2021