Sydney’s climate is quite mild, which allows us to often forget how cold our homes actually get. It can be difficult to heat up a home if it has been solely designed to stay cooler in summer. A main culprit letting heat escape in the home are windows and doors, which can account for up to 49% of heat loss. Here are some easy ways to keep your home cosy this winter.
Draught Proofing
Draughts from leaky windows or poorly fitted doors can account for 25% of heat loss during winter. Weather stripping older timber windows can reduce the cold draughts making a dramatic difference to your comfort. Simple draught seals can be purchased from the local hardware however you get what you pay for. There is a limit to the styles available in a hardware store and what is on offer may not fit properly, potentially making the problem worse or they may peel, making the job only a temporary solution. Having a professional company fit custom seals for you can deliver excellent value and durability.
Double Glazing
If your windows are rotting or falling apart and need to be replaced, consider purchasing a window that is double glazed. Double glazed windows have two layers of glass in the frame separated by a small air cavity. The air cavity helps the glass insulate against heat loss. While double glazing can come in aluminium, timber or uPVC frames it is best to use either a timber or uPVC frame for the best performance. Aluminium is a metal and a poor insulation material therefore is not a good choice for double glazing.
Retrofit Double Glazing
If your windows are in decent condition then there’s no need to rip them out and add to landfill. Often the existing windows give a home character so it may be worth some minor repairs or draught seals combined with a retrofit double glazing solution. Retrofitting is the process of adding another layer of glazing, with an air cavity, to the existing window. This can either be direct to the existing frame or potentially as a second frame or second window. Done correctly this can improve the thermal efficiency of the window by up to 70% and cost half as much as a replacement window with similar performance.
Improving the seals on your existing windows and doors and upgrading them with retrofit double glazing will dramatically improve the comfort of your home throughout winter. Allowing the natural sunlight in, creating a bright and open feeling, the windows will help to passively warm your home. In addition the refurbished windows will reduce noise ensuring your home is peaceful and cosy all year round.
Thanks to Magnetite for supplying this article. Magnetite will be exhibiting at the Sydney HIA Home Show from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th March 2020. Head down to check out their stand and take advantage of exclusive show specials!
