Double glazing uses two panes of glass separated by a sealed cavity. This gap creates an insulating barrier between the inside of the property and outside conditions. Depending on the specification, the cavity may contain an inert gas such as argon to help reduce heat transfer. Modern double glazed units can also incorporate low-emissivity glass. Often called Low-E glass, this has a transparent coating designed to reflect heat back towards the room while allowing natural daylight through.
The performance of the glass needs to be considered alongside the window frame. Modern UPVC frames use internal chambers to improve insulation, while timber provides natural insulating properties. Contemporary aluminium windows use a thermal break within the frame to reduce heat transfer through the metal.
The result is a complete window system designed to provide better thermal performance than older single glazing and many early generations of double glazing.
Energy efficiency is one of the main reasons homeowners consider replacement windows. Older windows can allow valuable heat to escape through the glass, frames, seals and gaps around the installation. According to the Energy Saving Trust, replacing single glazing with A-rated double glazed windows can reduce household energy bills. The exact saving depends on factors including property type, the windows being replaced and the home’s heating system.
South Lakes Windows offers A-rated windows and can explain the different specifications available for your property. Window Energy Ratings provide a straightforward way of comparing overall window performance, while U-values measure the rate at which heat passes through a building element. In general, a lower U-value indicates better thermal insulation. Good installation is equally important. Incorrectly fitted frames or inadequate sealing around an opening can undermine the performance of an otherwise efficient window. Our experienced installers ensure frames are correctly positioned and sealed to provide the intended performance.
The right frame material depends on the property, preferred appearance and individual requirements. UPVC double glazed windows remain a popular choice for replacement projects. They provide good thermal insulation, require relatively little maintenance and are available in numerous colours and woodgrain finishes. Casement, bay, bow and vertical sliding sash designs are among the options available.
For period homes and properties where natural materials are preferred, timber double glazed windows provide traditional character with modern glazing technology. South Lakes Windows supplies Bereco timber windows, including Contemporary, Traditional and Heritage options. These can be particularly suitable for cottages, period properties and some conservation projects. Our aluminium double glazed windows provide a different appearance. Aluminium’s strength allows slimmer frame sections and larger areas of glass, making it particularly suitable for modern houses, extensions and large picture windows. Modern thermally broken aluminium systems provide strong thermal performance alongside their slim profiles.
We can discuss each option during your home survey and help you choose a system that suits the building rather than simply recommending one material for every property.
Standard double glazing can be supplemented with specialist glass according to where a window is positioned and what the homeowner needs from it. Acoustic glass can help reduce external noise and may be worth considering for homes near busy roads or other sources of unwanted sound. Laminated glass provides additional resistance to impact and can form part of a security-focused specification.
Privacy is another consideration. Bathrooms, entrance areas and windows facing neighbouring properties can be fitted with obscure or patterned glass, allowing daylight into the room while limiting visibility. Decorative glazing can also form part of the design. Georgian bars, astragal bars and leaded glass can help new double glazed windows reproduce the appearance of older window styles. This can be particularly useful when replacing windows in traditional cottages and period homes.
For properties in conservation areas, window replacements may need to preserve specific architectural details. South Lakes Windows can advise on timber, heritage and sliding sash window options where maintaining the character of the property is particularly important.
There are several signs that existing windows may be ready for replacement. Persistent draughts, damaged frames, windows that are difficult to operate and condensation trapped between the panes can all indicate problems. Replacement does not mean that every property needs the same window design. If the existing windows suit the house, we can look at ways to retain their proportions and character while updating their thermal and security performance. Alternatively, a replacement project can provide an opportunity to introduce a different style, frame colour or glazing configuration.
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South Lakes Windows Ltd supplies and installs premium quality glazed windows, UPVC and composite doors, conservatories and orangeries across a wide service area covering Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire.
We work with homeowners in towns and villages across the region, including:
Cumbria: Barrow-in-Furness, Dalton in Furness, Ulverston, Broughton-in-Furness, Penrith, Keswick, Grasmere, Ambleside, Windermere, Coniston, Hawkshead, Kendal, Natland, Staveley, Tebay, Sedbergh, Arnside, Allithwaite, Grange-over-Sands, Cartmel, Lindale, Levens, Milnthorpe, Heversham, Holme, Witherslack, Dent, Cark and Flookburgh, Newby Bridge.
Lancashire: Preston, Lancaster, Garstang, Morecambe, Heysham, Clitheroe, Ribchester, Poulton-le-Fylde.
North Yorkshire & Border Areas: Settle, Ingleton, Kirkby Lonsdale, Burton-in-Kendal, Burton in Lonsdale, Bentham.
If you are looking for a reliable double glazing company to supply and install replacement windows, our team can manage the complete process. We will survey your existing windows, discuss materials and glazing options, take accurate measurements and provide a clear quotation for the work.
Contact South Lakes Windows Ltd today to arrange a home survey and quotation for new or replacement double glazed windows.
