Home Alternative Green Energy

Given the huge demand for fuel and power, energy rates are expected to surge in the near future. To save on energy expenses, there is a significant push towards deploying green methods in building construction. Fitting uPVC windows is one of the methods for curbing energy consumption. These windows are specially manufactured to enhance the thermal properties of the building without reducing the solar light passing through the windows. However, in order to buy good quality uPVC windows and to fit them properly into the building structure, it is essential to gain some knowledge of window insulation systems.

Fitting uPVC Windows: Essential Considerations

Prior to fitting uPVC windows, it is essential to test their thermal insulation properties. The insulation testing standards used for windows are different from those used for general building material. Usually, the resistance of a material against heat loss is defined by its R-value. This value is considered as the benchmark in determining the insulation properties of building materials used to construct walls and roofs. However, it is not the perfect standard to judge the insulation properties of materials used in the construction of windows. This is due to the fact that unlike walls and roofs, windows have to allow solar light to pass through them to ensure energy conservation. Thus, for windows, one should consider the U-value as the standard unit to test thermal characteristics. It measures the rate of transfer of heat from a solid material. Thus, while buying a uPVC window, look for a high R-value and a low U-value. 

Other properties that help in the selection of energy-efficient uPVC windows are:

• Condensation resistance: The condensation effect in a closed environment deters thermal control. This unit determines the property of a solid material to curb the condensation process. The higher the condensation resistance, the better is the product.

• Air leakage: It is hard to search for a uPVC window product with no air leakage. Most products allow some amount of air to pass through. The market needs to be scanned for a product with minimum air passage. Use cavity closers to eliminate the possibility of air leakage after fitting windows.

• Visible transmittance: It is the property of a solid material to allow light to pass through. Unlike the U-value, it does not provide the exact rate at which light can travel through the material.

• Heat gain coefficient: It defines the property of a product to block solar heat. The lower the coefficient, the higher is the ability to block heat. To exercise high control over the temperature inside the building, use a product with a low heat gain coefficient.

Fitting uPVC Windows With Flexible Straps

Fitting uPVC windows, while preserving thermal control, is a daunting task. A bad fit can lead to cavities in the construction, which will hamper the insulation characteristics of the building. Using flexible straps is a smart solution to these problems. These straps are adjustable with different window systems and help to position the uPVC windows perfectly into the building structure. Initially, these steel straps are fixed to the outer frame of the window. The window is then placed in the cavity and adjusted. Once the window is fixed nicely, it is secured by locking the straps with interior blockwork. These straps can fix into cavities of different sizes and enhance the insulation properties of the building. Using straps also eliminates the use of screws for fixing the window.

For more information on fitting uPVC windows, visit http://www.cavalok.com. Cavalok Building Products is a leading manufacturer of cavity closers and insulated window templates. Mastering the science and art of manufacturing cavity closers, Cavalok has developed innovative products that provide a thermal break from the external environment. Approved by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and the National House Building Council (NHBC), Cavalok provides building insulation material to leading UK builders and installers.