Many people believe that living sustainably is achieved through big decisions, but things like choosing eco friendly windows can make a huge difference.
Not only can environmentally friendly windows reduce your household’s carbon footprint, but they can effectively reduce bills by creating a well insulated property. What’s more, modern sustainable windows look fantastic as they make use of some of the best materials available on the market.
Today the team at The Glass Door Centre are taking a deep dive into eco friendly windows. We are going to outline how, exactly, windows qualify as environmentally friendly. Additionally, we are going to explore some of the benefits that can be enjoyed from windows created with sustainable materials.
Environmentally Friendly Windows: What to Look For
Making sustainable choices that contribute to the planet in a positive way start in the home. The common misconception is that the environmental crisis we are currently faced with is too big to be solved by the individual.
We are here to tell you that small, everyday choices can go a long way. This is especially true if we make similar choices as a collective.
The windows you choose to have installed in your home, whether you are renovating or purchasing a new property, make a huge difference.
Not only does the right window offer you the opportunity to lower your carbon footprint, but it can improve the aesthetic value of the property as well as thermal efficiency. People often ask us what they should look for when choosing environmentally friendly options. Things like FSC certification are a good place to start, as well as choosing materials that can be, or have been, recycled. We take a closer look at this below.
Responsibly Sourced Timber
If you are opting for timber frames, and you want to make sustainable choices, you should consider FSC certification. This organisation helps to ensure that strict environmental, social and biological standards are enforced within forests where wood is sourced.
Without organisations such as FSC, with their strict standards, we are likely to lose portions of forest at a rate that is extremely harmful.
If the timber you source is FSC certified, from a trustworthy supplier, you can be sure that the material has been sourced responsibly. The forest from which it was taken has been carefully managed to guarantee minimal disruption to the environment and biological life.
If you are looking to stain or paint your timber frames after installation, or as a project, explore the market for water based, non toxic paints and stains. There are a huge number of sustainable paint suppliers on the market, all offering unique choices, colours and finishes.
Aluminium
People often refer to aluminium as the ‘green metal’. But why is this? Simply put, ‘’Aluminium is 100% recyclable and can be recycled again and again without degrading its inherent value. Nearly 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today’’.
If you are serious about eco friendly windows, choosing an aluminium frame is a potential option to explore. Not only does it create a unique, modern look, but it is extremely strong and durable. This is hugely beneficial to those who need to house bigger panes of glass. But most importantly, you are choosing to make use of a material that can be easily recycled and repurposed. It’s a win win!
The Right Type of Glass
A staggering amount of energy loss occurs through windows and doors. Not only does choosing the right glass ensure you are doing your bit for the environment, but it can help to improve your home to no end.
Take Low E Glass, for example. This special type of glass features a microscopic coating which improves thermal efficiency. This helps to both keep your property warmer, for longer, in the winter, as well as creating a cooler interior in the summer. You may be wondering how this has any impact on the environment.
A home that maintains warmth is one that is energy efficient, as you, the homeowner, are not having to work harder to heat the property. Heating your property, however you wish to do so, contributes to our collective carbon footprint. Even electricity generation, which is seemingly cleaner, is a huge carbon contributor.
Therefore, the less reliant we are on gas and electricity, the better it is for the planet. Low-Emissivity glass, and other types of eco friendly glazing, can help you achieve this.
If you are considering environmentally friendly windows, we encourage you to explore the market’s glazing options in full. You may be surprised at what you find, as innovative companies are forever searching for ways to create products that are stylish, functional and good for the environment.
Glass Door Centre: Helping You Make the Right Choice
There is a wealth of information online, which can make choosing the right eco friendly windows challenging. By visiting our bespoke quote page, we can give you a personalised quote based on your requirements and budget.
We have options to suit all clients. So whether you require a certain type of glazing, or would like to understand more about how we can provide sustainable options, we can help. Contact a member of our team today to start your journey. Industry experts with years of collective experience and expertise.