FAQ's
Q: Will installing a SIGSeal system reduce my carbon footprint?
A: Yes. Whatever frame you choose for your windows, simply by having a SIGSeal energy-efficient glazing system, you will be making a positive step towards reducing your carbon footprint. A SIGSeal energy-efficient glazing system will make the most of the heat from the sun - the low emissivity of the glass means the absorbed solar heat is reflected back into your room. In conjunction with this, a SIGSeal system will also prevent heat escaping from your home - keeping it warmer when you need it to. You'll use less energy/fuel to heat your home, in turn, reducing your carbon footprint. Q: What are U-values? A: A ‘U’ value is a measure of heat loss from a building. The lower the value the better the performance. To illustrate, the U-value of single clear glass is 5.4. Installing double glazing can improve the U-value to 2.6. Add to this features available from SIGSeal, such as argon gas between the glass of the unit with low emissivity glass used and the U-value goes down to 1.2. (Source: www.greenconsumerguide.com) Q: What are window energy ratings (WERs?) A: Window Energy Ratings (WER) is a straightforward system that provides consumers with a familiar grading regarding the energy performance of a window. It rates windows within a band between A-G - similar to that used on white goods - making it easy for consumers to quickly compare the energy-efficient ranges of different glazing companies. WER bands work in the same way as they do for washing machines and dishwashers; products with an 'A' rating have a higher energy-efficiency than those that are rated 'G'. The ratings applied to energy-efficient windows refer to the complete window, and take into consideration the type of glass used, the material and construction of the frame, along with the level of air leakage and solar gain (the amount of heat that the window retains). SIGSeal has been working in partnership with a number of its stockists to support their efforts to obtain high Window Energy Ratings for their energy-efficient window ranges. It is worth noting that legislation is in place in the UK which states that windows, doors and roof lights must have a minimum WER of Band D. Q: Is the Argon gas used in the units safe? A: Yes. Argon is an inert, colourless, odourless, non-toxic gas that can be used to fill the cavity between the glass of your SIGSeal glazing system. Argon is six times heavier than normal air and therefore improves the thermal performance of your bespoke unit by drastically slowing down heat loss. Q: My conservatory gets too hot in summer. Could a SIGSeal system help? A: The beauty of a bespoke SIGSeal glazing system is that you can select glass that makes your conservatory a pleasant environment all year-round. The glass can help retain heat in the cooler months and can ensure it it temperate in the summer. Q: Will I save money on my utilities bills by installing SIGSeal? A: Saving money is of course one of the key benefits to homeowners installing energy-efficient windows. A window with a high WER (see above) will retain heat better than say, standard single or double glazing. The glazing system within the window can also act to absorb the heat from the sun. With the improved thermal performance of the window, the homeowner can spend less on heating their home as less heat escapes out the window. Q: Can I buy my glass direct? A: Yes. Please call us on 01698-284-554, via e-mail [email protected] or please use the enquiries form on the Contact Us page Q: I would like to install French windows, but I'm concerned about making my property an easy target for burglers. Is there a SIGSeal product that I could use? A: Homeowners seeking additional peace of mind when considering the security of their home, can select laminated security glass. This might be suited to particular areas of glazing in your home, for example, a back door, or large set of French doors. The laminate can be manufactured to a variety of thicknesses; able to withstand varying levels of impact. Photochromatic laminates are another option for consideration too. This glass provides homeowners with enhanced privacy when required. It is not designed to withstand impact like our security glass, but more to prevent unwanted visitors seeing into your home. The laminate changes from clear to opaque or coloured when, for instance, power is switched on in a room or area of your home. This type of glazing allows homeowners enhanced privacy and allows them the opportunity to inject some designer touches to their home too. Q: How does self-cleaning glass work? A: This is a particularly useful product in rooms with a lot of glass, such as a conservatory. A coating is applied to the glass which is activated by UV light. Dirt on the glass is then broken down by the coating, making organic and inorganic dirt unable to 'stick' to the windows. When it rains, the rain drops pick up the dirt and wash it off. Genius! As with all of our glazing systems, you can choose to add the self-cleaning option to your specification, combining energy - efficiency with hassle-free clean windows. Q: Are there legislative requirements concerning the glass I install in my house? A: Legislation is in place in the UK which states that windows, doors and roof lights must have a minimum WER of Band D. |