Can the InivisiTherm® system improve your health?

How InvisiTherm® Stands Out Among Secondary Glazing Solutions

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 06:51:34 GMT

How InvisiTherm® Stands Out Among Secondary Glazing Solutions

When it comes to preserving the charm and character of historic windows while enhancing energy efficiency, homeowners often face a challenging decision. With a variety of secondary glazing options available in the UK, choosing the right solution for different window archetypes can be daunting. Among the numerous products on the market, InvisiTherm® by Cocoon™ stands out for its exceptional flexibility and adaptability across a wide range of traditional window styles.

Understanding the Archetypes: Traditional Windows in the UK

The UK is home to a rich architectural heritage, with traditional windows playing a significant role in defining the character of historic properties. From Georgian sash windows to Victorian bay windows, each archetype presents unique challenges in terms of energy efficiency and preservation. Homeowners often seek secondary glazing solutions that can seamlessly integrate with these diverse styles without compromising the aesthetic appeal.

InvisiTherm®: A Flexible Solution for Every Archetype

InvisiTherm® is designed to meet the needs of various window archetypes, offering a versatile and discreet secondary glazing solution. Unlike many alternative products, InvisiTherm® is virtually invisible once installed, making it an ideal choice for listed buildings and properties in conservation areas. Let's explore how InvisiTherm® compares with other secondary glazing solutions across different window styles.

1. Georgian Sash Windows

Georgian sash windows, characterised by their six-over-six panes and elegant proportions, are a staple in many historic homes. These windows often feature narrow glazing bars, making them particularly susceptible to heat loss. InvisiTherm® provides an effective secondary glazing solution that fits snugly within the window frame, preserving the window's slender profile.

Comparison with Alternatives: Unlike bulkier secondary glazing systems, InvisiTherm® maintains the delicate appearance of Georgian windows. Many alternative products, such as magnetic or hinged systems, can be more noticeable and may require additional framing, potentially detracting from the window's historical accuracy.

2. Victorian Bay Windows

Victorian bay windows, with their expansive glass areas and intricate woodwork, are iconic features of Victorian architecture. These windows often present a challenge in terms of energy efficiency due to their size and complex shapes. InvisiTherm® can be custom-fitted to these windows, providing an unobtrusive solution that enhances thermal insulation.

Comparison with Alternatives: While some secondary glazing systems may struggle with the curved or angled aspects of bay windows, InvisiTherm® excels in adaptability. Products like traditional sliding systems may require more intrusive installation methods, potentially affecting the window's appearance and functionality.

3. Edwardian Casement Windows

Edwardian casement windows, known for their larger panes and simplified design, offer a different set of challenges. These windows often feature intricate leaded glass patterns, which homeowners may want to preserve. InvisiTherm® can be applied without interfering with the window's decorative elements, ensuring that the aesthetic value remains intact.

Comparison with Alternatives: Other secondary glazing options, such as thick aluminum frames, can obscure the details of leaded glass. In contrast, InvisiTherm®'s slimline design ensures that the focus remains on the original window, not the secondary glazing.

4. Art Deco Critall Windows

Art Deco Critall windows, with their distinctive steel frames and geometric designs, require a specific approach to secondary glazing. These windows are often found in 20th-century buildings and pose a challenge due to their thin profiles and metal construction. InvisiTherm® provides an effective solution by offering a lightweight, non-intrusive secondary glazing option.

Comparison with Alternatives: Many alternative products, such as heavy sliding units or bulky fixed panels, can overwhelm the delicate structure of Critall windows. InvisiTherm® offers a more subtle approach, enhancing energy efficiency without compromising the window's sleek lines.

Why Choose InvisiTherm®?

The key to InvisiTherm®'s success lies in its flexibility and discreet design. Unlike many alternative products that may require extensive modifications or detract from the window's original appearance, InvisiTherm® offers a seamless integration that enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The system is designed to accommodate the unique characteristics of each window archetype, making it a versatile choice for homeowners who want to preserve their property's heritage while enjoying modern comfort.

Conclusion

In the world of secondary glazing, not all products are created equal. InvisiTherm® by Cocoon™ stands out for its exceptional flexibility and adaptability across a wide range of traditional window styles. Whether you're looking to enhance the energy efficiency of Georgian sash windows, Victorian bay windows, Edwardian casement windows, or Art Deco Critall windows, InvisiTherm® offers a discreet, effective solution that preserves the beauty and character of your home.

Enhancing Comfort in Historic Homes: The Role of InvisiTherm®

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:19:28 GMT

Enhancing Comfort in Historic Homes: The Role of InvisiTherm®

Historic homes hold a special place in the hearts of their owners and admirers alike. These properties, often graced with traditional sash windows and period features, provide a tangible link to the past. However, the charm of historic homes often comes with a set of challenges, particularly in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. This is where InvisiTherm®, an innovative secondary glazing system, becomes an invaluable solution.

The Unique Challenges of Historic Homes

While historic homes are rich in character, they can be notoriously difficult to insulate. The original construction materials and techniques, although aesthetically pleasing, were not designed with modern energy efficiency standards in mind. Sash windows, a common feature in many historic properties, are particularly prone to draughts due to their single-glazed panes and the gaps that develop over time.

These issues not only lead to uncomfortable living conditions but also result in higher energy bills as homeowners struggle to keep their spaces warm. Additionally, the preservation of the home's aesthetic and architectural integrity often limits the types of modifications that can be made, particularly in listed buildings and conservation areas.

InvisiTherm®: A Modern Solution for a Traditional Problem

InvisiTherm® offers a unique solution to these challenges. As a secondary glazing system, it provides an additional layer of insulation by fitting a discreet pane of glass over the existing window. This system significantly reduces heat loss without altering the original windows' appearance, making it an ideal choice for historic homes.

Key Benefits of InvisiTherm®:

Invisible Insulation: The system is designed to be unobtrusive, preserving the historic character of the property. Unlike traditional double glazing, InvisiTherm® does not require the removal or replacement of existing windows.
Enhanced Comfort: By reducing draughts and improving thermal insulation, InvisiTherm® creates a more consistent and comfortable indoor environment. Homeowners can enjoy a warm, cozy home even during the coldest months.
Energy Efficiency: The additional layer of insulation provided by InvisiTherm® helps retain heat, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced heating costs. This makes it a cost-effective investment for long-term savings.

Installation and Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of InvisiTherm® is its ease of installation. The process is straightforward and minimally invasive, ensuring that the home's daily life is not disrupted. Skilled professionals can install the system without the need for extensive alterations, which is crucial for maintaining the property's historical value.

Moreover, InvisiTherm® is low-maintenance. Unlike traditional window upgrades, which may require frequent upkeep, the secondary glazing system is durable and requires only occasional cleaning to maintain its clarity and functionality.

Balancing Heritage and Modern Comfort

Preserving the aesthetic integrity of historic homes is a priority for many homeowners and conservation authorities. InvisiTherm® addresses this concern by offering a solution that respects the home's original design while providing the benefits of modern technology. The system is virtually invisible, ensuring that the property's exterior appearance remains unchanged.

This delicate balance between heritage and comfort is essential for maintaining the value and appeal of historic homes. By choosing InvisiTherm®, homeowners can enjoy the best of both worlds: a warm, energy-efficient living space that retains its historical charm.

Case Studies and Real-Life Applications

Numerous historic properties across the UK have successfully integrated InvisiTherm® into their preservation efforts. For example, a Victorian townhouse in Edinburgh experienced a dramatic reduction in heating costs and a noticeable improvement in indoor comfort after the installation of InvisiTherm®. The homeowners reported that the secondary glazing system maintained the aesthetic integrity of their sash windows, a crucial factor in their decision-making process.

Conclusion

InvisiTherm® is a revolutionary product that offers a practical solution to the unique challenges of living in a historic home. By providing invisible insulation, it enhances comfort, improves energy efficiency, and preserves the architectural beauty of traditional sash windows. For homeowners seeking to maintain the character of their property while enjoying the benefits of modern technology, InvisiTherm® is an ideal choice.

The Challenges & Solutions of Retrofitting Traditional Windows

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 11:01:39 GMT

The Challenges and Solutions of Retrofitting Traditional Windows

The allure of traditional windows in historic homes is undeniable. These architectural features not only add character and charm but also tell a story of the past. However, they often come with their own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency and modern living standards. Retrofitting traditional windows is a delicate balance between preserving historical integrity and embracing contemporary comfort.

The Historical Significance of Traditional Windows

Traditional windows, such as sash and case windows, are a hallmark of many historic properties across the UK. They represent a bygone era of craftsmanship and architectural design that modern windows often lack. These windows are typically made from high-quality materials like timber and feature intricate details that add to the aesthetic appeal of the building. Preserving these elements is crucial not only for maintaining the character of the property but also for adhering to conservation regulations that protect historic buildings.

Common Issues with Traditional Windows

While traditional windows are beautiful, they are not without their problems. One of the most common issues is poor thermal performance. Single glazing and the inherent gaps in the design of sash windows can lead to significant heat loss, resulting in higher energy bills and a less comfortable living environment. Additionally, the materials used, such as timber, can deteriorate over time, especially if not properly maintained. This deterioration can lead to draughts, rattling panes, and even structural issues.

The Role of InvisiTherm® in Retrofitting

InvisiTherm® offers an elegant solution to these issues by providing an invisible layer of secondary glazing. This system improves thermal insulation without altering the appearance of the windows, making it an ideal solution for listed buildings and conservation areas. InvisiTherm® can significantly reduce heat loss, thereby lowering energy bills and improving indoor comfort. The installation process is minimally invasive, ensuring that the historic integrity of the windows is preserved.

Addressing Moisture and Structural Issues

Before installing any secondary glazing system, it is crucial to assess the condition of the surrounding brickwork and window frames. In older homes, particularly those in areas with high rainfall or poor drainage, bricks can absorb moisture. This can lead to a variety of problems, including weakened mortar, crumbling bricks, and internal dampness. Moisture issues must be addressed prior to installation to prevent trapping moisture, which can cause further damage and potentially compromise the effectiveness of the insulation.

Proper moisture management includes ensuring that the building's drainage systems are functioning correctly, repairing any damaged mortar, and treating the timber frames to prevent rot. It is advisable to consult with professionals who specialize in historic buildings to conduct a thorough assessment and carry out any necessary repairs.

Balancing Aesthetics and Modern Comfort

One of the main concerns for homeowners when retrofitting traditional windows is maintaining the property's aesthetic appeal. InvisiTherm® is designed to be discreet, ensuring that the visual aspects of the windows remain unchanged. This is particularly important for properties in conservation areas where alterations are often restricted. By retaining the original windows, homeowners can preserve the historical and architectural value of their property.

Furthermore, upgrading traditional windows can enhance the overall market value of the home. Many prospective buyers appreciate the charm of historic properties but also seek modern comforts. InvisiTherm® provides the perfect balance, offering the best of both worlds.

Practical Considerations and Cost

While retrofitting traditional windows with secondary glazing like InvisiTherm® offers numerous benefits, it is essential to consider the practical aspects and associated costs. The initial investment may be higher compared to standard double glazing; however, the long-term savings on energy bills and the preservation of the property's value can make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, grants and funding may be available for energy efficiency improvements in historic properties, which can help offset the costs.

Conclusion

Retrofitting traditional windows is a complex but rewarding endeavour. It requires careful planning, expert execution, and a commitment to preserving the unique character of historic properties. InvisiTherm® offers an effective solution, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort without compromising on aesthetics. By addressing both the technical and aesthetic challenges, homeowners can enjoy the timeless elegance of traditional windows while benefiting from modern insulation technology.

Spotting an Unhealthy Home

0017223474 (T EWING) — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 15:14:58 GMT

Spotting an Unhealthy Home

Recognising the Signs of an Unhealthy Home

When it comes to the health of your home, early detection of issues is key to preventing more significant problems down the line. In Scotland, where weather conditions can be harsh and unpredictable, maintaining a healthy home is even more crucial. Here are some tell-tale signs that your home's health might not be up to scratch:

Condensation on Windows: Excessive condensation on your windows can indicate high humidity levels and poor ventilation, which can lead to mould growth.
Draughts and Cold Spots: Feeling cold spots or draughts in certain areas of your home suggests that your insulation might be inadequate or your windows and doors are not sealing properly.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: This can be a sign of dampness or leaks in the walls, often caused by poor insulation or water ingress.
Visible Mould or Mildew: The presence of mould or mildew around windows, doors, or in corners of rooms is a clear indicator of moisture problems.
Sticking or Warped Windows: Old wooden windows that are difficult to open or have warped frames can compromise the energy efficiency and overall comfort of your home.

Keeping Old Wooden Windows Healthy

Old wooden windows add charm and character to Scottish homes, especially in historical buildings. However, they require regular maintenance to remain in good condition and continue to provide the benefits of insulation and security. Here are some essential tips for keeping your old wooden windows healthy:

Regular Inspection and Cleaning: Check your windows regularly for signs of damage or wear. Clean the frames and glass to prevent the build-up of dirt and moisture.
Repairing Damage: Address any cracks, holes, or rot as soon as they appear. Use wood filler for small repairs and consider professional restoration for more extensive damage.
Repainting and Sealing: Repaint your wooden windows every few years to protect them from the elements. Ensure all joints and edges are sealed properly to prevent water ingress.
Improving Ventilation: Proper ventilation can help reduce moisture levels inside your home, preventing condensation and mould growth around your windows.
Adding Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping around the frames to improve insulation and prevent draughts. This can make a significant difference in maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.

For more detailed guidance on maintaining wooden windows, you can refer to resources from the Scottish Lime Trust .

How InvisiTherm® Can Help

InvisiTherm® is an innovative secondary glazing system that offers an effective solution for maintaining the health of your old wooden windows. Here’s how InvisiTherm® can make a difference:

Enhanced Insulation: InvisiTherm® provides an additional layer of insulation, reducing heat loss and helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This means your home will be warmer in winter and cooler in summer, without overworking your primary heating or cooling systems.

Condensation Control: By improving the insulation and reducing temperature fluctuations, InvisiTherm® helps to minimise condensation on your windows. This is crucial in preventing the growth of mould and mildew.

Preserving Aesthetics: InvisiTherm® is designed to be discreet and unobtrusive, preserving the historical and aesthetic value of your old wooden windows. It integrates seamlessly with the existing structure, providing the benefits of modern technology without compromising on style.

Noise Reduction: The secondary glazing system also offers excellent acoustic insulation, reducing external noise and creating a more peaceful indoor environment.

Energy Efficiency: By improving the overall insulation of your windows, InvisiTherm® helps to reduce energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

Maintaining the health of your home, particularly when it comes to old wooden windows, is essential for comfort, energy efficiency, a n d l o n g evity. With r egular maintenance and the innovative support of InvisiTherm®, you can ensure your home remains a cosy and healthy haven all year round.

Revolutionising Home Comfort: How Invisitherm® Transforms Scottish Homes

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 14:40:06 GMT

Revolutionising Home Comfort: How InvisiTherm® Transforms Scottish Homes

Introduction to Invisitherm®

When it comes to home comfort, there's a new player on the block that’s taking Scotland by storm—InvisiTherm®. Created by Cocoon Tech, InvisiTherm® is a cutting-edge secondary glazing solution designed to transform the way we think about maintaining our homes. But what exactly is InvisiTherm®? Simply put, it’s an advanced Thermoacoustic technology that offers unparalleled comfort and efficiency, ensuring your home is not only cosy & quiet but also energy-efficient.

InvisiTherm® works by integrating seamlessly into your home's infrastructure, providing consistent thermal management throughout. Unlike traditional systems that rely on visible components, Invisitherm® is a discrete solution to secondary glazing, maintaining the aesthetics of your living space. Whether you're dealing with the chill of a Scottish winter or the rare but delightful warmth of summer, InvisiTherm® adapts to your needs, ensuring optimal indoor conditions all year round.

Why Home Health Matters in Scotland

Home health might sound like a modern buzzword, but it’s a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment—especially in Scotland. The unique climate and architectural heritage of Scottish homes present specific challenges that can affect the overall health of your living space. Dampness, poor insulation, and inconsistent heating are common issues that many homeowners face, which can lead to more significant problems like mould growth, structural damage, and even health concerns for the residents.

Maintaining a healthy home isn't just about comfort; it's about ensuring the well-being of everyone who lives there. A healthy home provides better air quality, consistent temperature control, and protection from the elements. For Scottish homeowners, addressing these issues means tackling the damp and cold head-on, which is where innovations like Invisitherm® come into play. By providing a reliable, energy-efficient thermal management solution, InvisiTherm® helps create a healthier living environment, reducing the risk of dampness and improving overall home health. For more on the importance of maintaining historical homes, check out resources from Historic Environment Scotland .

Enhancing Indoor Air Quality with Invisitherm®

One of the standout benefits of Invisitherm® is its impact on indoor air quality. In many Scottish homes, dampness and poor ventilation can lead to a build-up of allergens, mould, and other harmful pollutants. Invisitherm® helps to mitigate these issues by maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and reducing humidity levels. This not only keeps your home more comfortable but also significantly improves the air quality, making it a healthier place to live.

Moreover, InvisiTherm® is designed with energy efficiency in mind. By using less energy to maintain optimal temperatures, it reduces your carbon footprint and lowers utility bills. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to live more sustainably without compromising on comfort. With InvisiTherm®, you're investing in a technology that not only enhances your home's comfort but also contributes to a greener future.

Preventing Sash Window Rot: Effective Stone Moisture Management

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:58:10 GMT

Preventing Sash Window Rot: Effective Stone Moisture Management

Introduction

Moisture retention in stone around sash windows is a common issue for many UK homeowners. These stone elements, while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a property, can absorb water and cause adjacent wooden window frames to rot. Properly managing this moisture is key to maintaining both the appearance and structural integrity of sash windows.

Understanding Moisture Retention in Stone

Stone is naturally porous and can absorb significant amounts of water. In the UK’s often damp climate, stone around windows can remain wet for prolonged periods, allowing moisture to seep into wooden sash windows. This can lead to decay and rot, which compromises the window's structural integrity and efficiency.

The Risks of Ignoring Moisture Issues

Ignoring moisture-related issues can rapidly lead to extensive damage. Rotting windows not only require costly repairs but also reduce a home’s energy efficiency by allowing drafts and heat loss. Additionally, the visible decay can decrease property value, emphasising the importance of timely and effective moisture management.

Practical Solutions for Moisture Management

Here are some practical steps homeowners can take to manage moisture around sash windows:

Ensure Proper Drainage : Keeping gutters and downspouts clear is crucial to prevent water accumulation around window areas.
Seal and Treat Wood : Regularly inspect and seal wooden frames to prevent moisture ingress. Treatments can repel water and protect the wood from rot.
Ventilation : Improve air circulation around windows to help keep the area dry, reducing the likelihood of moisture buildup.
Use of Moisture Barriers : Applying waterproofing materials or techniques can provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.

The Role of Gleen in Managing Moisture

For an additional layer of protection, products like Gleen, the UK equivalent of Wet & Forget, can be useful. Gleen helps in cleaning and protecting stone around windows by removing and preventing the growth of moss, algae, and lichens, which contribute to moisture retention. Its easy application and protective qualities make it a convenient choice for regular maintenance.

Improving Breathability in Traditional Buildings

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:49:53 GMT

Improving Breathability in Traditional Buildings

Traditional buildings, often defined as those constructed before 1919, are known for their 'breathable construction'. This characteristic means that the materials used in their construction, such as lime mortars and soft bricks, can absorb and release moisture naturally. While this trait is beneficial for managing indoor climate and prolonging the lifespan of building materials, it also poses unique challenges, particularly in maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels and ensuring the building remains in good health. Cocoon's InvisiTherm® product plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges, offering a solution that complements the breathable nature of traditional buildings while enhancing their energy efficiency and comfort.

The Importance of Breathability

Breathability is crucial in traditional buildings to prevent issues such as damp, mould, and structural decay. These problems often arise when moisture becomes trapped within the building's fabric, a common occurrence when modern, impermeable materials are incorrectly used in repairs or upgrades. Ensuring that a traditional building can 'breathe' effectively means allowing moisture generated from everyday activities and the natural environment to escape, maintaining a balance that protects the building's integrity and the health of its occupants.

Challenges to Breathability

Maintaining this delicate balance is not without its challenges. Modern living generates a significant amount of indoor moisture, from cooking and bathing to washing clothes. Without adequate ventilation and moisture management, this can lead to excessive humidity levels, condensation on windows, and ultimately, the growth of mould and mildew. Furthermore, efforts to improve energy efficiency, such as sealing gaps to prevent draughts, can inadvertently reduce a building's ability to manage moisture effectively. Find more reading on ventilation in this Historic Environment Scotland article.

InvisiTherm®: Enhancing Breathability

InvisiTherm® offers an innovative solution to these challenges. As a secondary glazing product, it is specifically designed to be water vapour permeable, meaning it allows moisture to pass through it, thereby supporting the natural breathability of traditional buildings. This feature is particularly beneficial in preventing condensation build-up on windows, a common problem in colder months when the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is most pronounced. By installing InvisiTherm®, homeowners can improve the thermal insulation of their windows, reducing heat loss without compromising on air and moisture movement. This not only leads to energy savings and enhanced comfort but also contributes to the building's overall health by maintaining appropriate humidity levels. Moreover, InvisiTherm® achieves this without altering the building's aesthetic appearance, an important consideration in heritage conservation.

The water vapour permeable abilities of InvisiTherm® offer several advantages:

Preservation of Building Fabric: By allowing moisture to escape, InvisiTherm® prevents the accumulation of damp and the risk of related structural issues. -

Improved Indoor Air Quality: Effective moisture management helps maintain a healthier indoor environment, reducing the risk of mould and mildew.

Energy Efficiency: InvisiTherm® enhances the insulation properties of traditional windows, contributing to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

Conservation of Heritage: The discreet nature of InvisiTherm® ensures that the aesthetic and historical value of traditional buildings is preserved.

Conclusion

The breathable construction of traditional buildings is a testament to the sustainable practices of the past. However, adapting these structures to meet modern standards of comfort and energy efficiency requires careful consideration of their unique characteristics. InvisiTherm® represents a significant step forward in this regard, offering a solution that respects the need for breathability while enhancing the building's performance. For owners of traditional properties, InvisiTherm® not only provides a practical route to improving their homes but also contributes to the preservation of our architectural heritage.

Whats the definition of relative humidity?

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:48:29 GMT

What is the Definition of Relative Humidity

Understanding the concept of relative humidity is crucial for maintaining a comfortable, healthy indoor environment, especially in traditional buildings where preserving the integrity of the structure is essential. Relative humidity (RH) is a measure of the water vapour content in the air relative to what the air can hold at a given temperature. It's expressed as a percentage; the higher the percentage, the more water vapour the air contains relative to its capacity. This seemingly simple concept has profound implications for both the wellbeing of a building's occupants and the preservation of the building itself. Cocoon's innovative product, InvisiTherm®, offers a sophisticated solution to managing relative humidity, leveraging its water vapour permeable abilities to maintain optimal indoor conditions.

The Significance of Managing Relative Humidity

In environments where relative humidity is too high, condensation can form on surfaces, leading to mold growth, deterioration of building materials, and an overall decrease in indoor air quality. On the other hand, air that's too dry can lead to respiratory discomfort, irritation of skin and eyes, and can damage wooden structures and artwork by causing them to dry out and crack. In traditional buildings, managing relative humidity is even more critical. These structures often rely on the natural movement of air and moisture through their fabric to stay healthy. Modern interventions, such as sealing up buildings to improve energy efficiency, can disrupt these natural processes, leading to issues with moisture accumulation. This UK-based building science centre has multiple publications and articles on building preservation and moisture management in buildings.

InvisiTherm®: Tailored for Optimal Humidity Management

InvisiTherm® stands out as a particularly effective tool for managing the delicate balance of relative humidity in traditional buildings. It is a secondary glazing product designed to be water vapour permeable, which means it allows moisture in the air to pass through it. This characteristic is crucial for several reasons:

1. Preventing Condensation: By allowing moisture to move freely, InvisiTherm® helps prevent the buildup of condensation on window surfaces. This is particularly important in colder months when the temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor environments can make windows a prime site for condensation and subsequent mold growth.

2. Maintaining Building Health: The permeability of InvisiTherm® supports the 'breathable' nature of traditional construction materials, allowing the building to regulate moisture levels naturally. This prevents the accumulation of excess moisture within walls and other structural elements, safeguarding against damp-related decay.

3. Enhancing Occupant Comfort: By contributing to a balanced indoor humidity level, InvisiTherm® creates a more comfortable living environment. Adequate humidity levels are essential for human health, contributing to better respiratory conditions and general wellbeing.

The Advantages of Water Vapour Permeability

The water vapour permeable abilities of InvisiTherm® offer tangible benefits for traditional buildings. This feature means that while the system enhances the thermal insulation of the windows, it does not compromise the necessary exchange of air and moisture. The result is a win-win: improved energy efficiency and a healthier building fabric. Additionally, the discreet nature of the InvisiTherm® installation ensures that the aesthetic and historical integrity of the building is preserved, making it an ideal choice for heritage properties.

Why Choose InvisiTherm®?

Opting for InvisiTherm® brings numerous advantages to traditional building owners concerned about relative humidity and its effects. Firstly, it addresses the common challenge of upgrading the performance of historic windows without compromising their character or the building's overall authenticity. Secondly, it offers a sustainable way to enhance comfort and reduce energy consumption, aligning with broader environmental goals. In summary, understanding and managing relative humidity is essential for the health of both the building and its occupants. For owners of traditional buildings, the challenge is to achieve this balance without compromising the structure's integrity or historical value. InvisiTherm® provides a solution that respects the unique needs of these buildings, offering a modern approach to a timeless challenge. Its water vapour permeable properties ensure that while buildings are made more energy-efficient and comfortable, they remain healthy and true to their heritage. In an era where the conservation of historic buildings is more important than ever, InvisiTherm® represents a significant step forward in sustainable, sympathetic building care.

The Pitfalls of Using Cement for Pointing

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:40:14 GMT

The Pitfalls of Using Cement for Pointing in Traditional Structures

In traditional buildings, the use of appropriate materials for restoration and repairs is crucial. A common practice that has been widely criticised is the use of cement for pointing. This approach can lead to a host of problems, undermining the structural integrity and historical value of these buildings. This blog delves into why cement should not be used for pointing in traditional structures and highlights how products like Cocoon's InvisiTherm® can complement the maintenance of such buildings.

Understanding Traditional Buildings

Traditional structures are known for their breathable construction, allowing for the natural movement of moisture through their fabric. This characteristic is largely due to the use of lime mortar in their construction, which facilitates the absorption and release of moisture, thereby preventing the accumulation of damp within the building's walls. Cement, in contrast, is much less permeable, trapping moisture and leading to issues such as damp, frost damage, and decay of the building fabric.

Why Cement Is a Poor Choice

Cement's impermeability is a major issue in traditional buildings. It traps moisture, leading to dampness and deterioration of surrounding brick or stone. Moreover, cement's rigidity compared to the more flexible lime mortar means it can crack due to the building's natural movements, further allowing moisture ingress and leading to structural damage.

InvisiTherm® and Traditional Building Maintenance

Innovations like InvisiTherm® offer modern solutions that respect the unique needs of traditional buildings. InvisiTherm® is a secondary glazing system designed to improve a building's thermal efficiency without compromising its breathability. Its ability to allow water vapour to pass through supports the natural moisture regulation of traditional buildings when used alongside appropriate materials like lime mortar, enhancing both the structure's longevity and interior comfort.

Repointing Best Practices

Repointing traditional buildings demands adherence to best practices that respect their historical construction methods. This includes using a lime mortar mix that matches the original, adequately preparing surfaces, correctly applying and curing the lime mortar, and adjusting the mix to the building's exposure to the elements. These steps ensure that repointing enhances the building's durability without sacrificing its historical integrity or moisture-regulating capabilities. For more advice on on the challenges presented, the Scottish Lime Centre Trust share many in depth articles on this topic.

Conclusion

The material choice for repointing traditional buildings significantly impacts their preservation and durability. Cement, with its impermeability and rigidity, is ill-suited for such applications. Lime mortar, known for its flexibility and breathability, is the recommended choice, working in harmony with the building's original materials to ensure moisture is appropriately managed. Modern advancements like InvisiTherm® further aid in the sympathetic maintenance of these structures, offering energy efficiency improvements while respecting their need for breathability

How to Maintain your Heritage Sash Windows

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:33:08 GMT

How to Maintain Your Heritage Sash Windows

Heritage sash windows are a quintessential feature of many historic buildings across the UK, offering charm and character that modern windows simply cannot replicate. Maintaining these windows is not just about preserving the appearance of a building; it's about conserving a piece of history. With advancements in technology, such as Cocoon's InvisiTherm® secondary glazing system, it's now easier than ever to maintain these windows' functionality and improve their efficiency without compromising their historical integrity. This blog delves into practical steps for maintaining heritage sash windows, inspired by the expertise of Historic Environment Scotland, you can find more reading on today's topic in this publication from Historic Environment Scotland .

Understanding Heritage Sash Windows

Originating in the late seventeenth century, the design of sash windows has evolved significantly. Early versions featured thick timber frames and small panes, adapting over time to accommodate larger glass panes and slimmer frames as glass-making technology improved. By the Georgian era, the classic 6-pane sash window had become a staple of architectural design. Despite changes in fashion and technology, including the move towards larger panes in the Victorian era and back to smaller, ornate designs in the late nineteenth century, sash windows have remained a beloved feature of British architecture.

Regular Maintenance

The key to preserving sash windows lies in regular, careful maintenance. Simple actions like routine cleaning of glass and timber surfaces can prevent decay and extend the windows' lifespan. It's also crucial to inspect the windows regularly for signs of wear or damage, particularly in the operating mechanisms, and to address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Painting and Weatherproofing

Protecting the woodwork with appropriate paint and treatments is essential for weatherproofing and can prevent rot and decay. It's generally recommended to repaint exterior surfaces every five years, depending on exposure to the elements. Using microporous paint allows the timber to breathe, reducing the risk of moisture build-up and subsequent damage.

Upgrades for Efficiency

One of the challenges of maintaining heritage sash windows is improving their energy efficiency without altering their appearance. Traditional sash windows are known for being draughty, but ever since the invention of InvisiTherm®, it's possible to enhance thermal performance and sound insulation. InvisiTherm® is designed to be discreet, preserving the windows' original aesthetic while significantly reducing heat loss and noise infiltration.

Repairs and Restoration

Despite their robust design, sash windows may require repairs due to age or environmental factors. Techniques such as splicing in new timber for decayed sections, replacing damaged cords or chains, and restoring stuck windows can all be undertaken to restore functionality. It's usually far more cost-effective and sustainable to repair existing windows than to replace them, especially considering the superior quality of the original materials.

Navigating Regulations

When undertaking maintenance or upgrades, it's important to be aware of any regulations that apply, especially for listed buildings or properties in conservation areas. Many interventions, particularly those that alter the appearance or function of the windows, may require consent from local authorities. Consulting with experts or heritage organisations can provide guidance on compliance and available grants for restoration projects.

Incorporating Modern Solutions

While traditional craftsmanship is essential for maintaining the character of sash windows, modern innovations like InvisiTherm® can play a crucial role in ensuring their viability as functional elements of a building. By choosing solutions designed with heritage in mind, it's possible to enjoy the best of both worlds: preserving historical charm while meeting (and exceeding) contemporary standards of comfort and energy efficiency.

Conclusion

Maintaining heritage sash windows helps to protect our architectural heritage and enhances your living environment. With regular maintenance, careful upgrades, and a respect for historical integrity, these timeless features can continue to grace our buildings for generations to come. Whether you're a homeowner, a heritage professional, or simply someone with an appreciation for historical architecture, understanding and preserving sash windows is a valuable investment in our collective history. Cocoon's InvisiTherm® system offers an innovative way to contribute to this legacy, ensuring that heritage sash windows can meet today's needs without losing their historical essence.

7 Energy Myths that are Costing You Money

0017223474 (T EWING) — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 14:03:14 GMT

Last week we looked at some common misconceptions about the energy price cap that could potentially cost you money, and since last week saw Blue Monday (apparently the most depressing day of the year, in part caused by unpaid bills surfacing after the festive period) it’s worth looking at the general energy myths that cost us all hundreds of pounds of year. The thing about myths, luckily, is that they’re not real, so check out these seven energy myths that are costing you money, and start looking at a more prosperous and energy efficient 2019.

Myth 1: Turning your thermostat up higher will heat your home more quickly

We’ve all been guilty of it, especially when feeling the chill: cranking the thermostat up by a few extra degrees to heat up our homes ore quickly. But according to Energy Saving Trust expert Caitlin Bent, speaking in This is Money , this wont make a difference. 'Turning up your thermostat won’t heat your home any faster, it’ll heat at the same rate, but unless you remember to turn it down again will keep heating to a higher temperature, wasting energy.'

In fact, the quickest way to warm your home up is to ensure that it is properly insulated and draught proofed: not only will this bring your home up to temperature more quickly, it will also better trap the heat so that it stays that way for longer too.

Myth 2: Turning my heating up slightly wont make a difference to my bill

Similarly to cranking the temperature to heat your home more quickly, there is something of a common myth that raising the temperature of your heating only a wee bit will not make any real difference to your energy bills. But according to N Power this is very much incorrect, because turning your thermostat down by just one degree can save around £75 per year on your energy bills. This is backed up by the Energy Saving Trust who say that turning a room thermostat down by just one degree can not only save £75 per year but also saves 340kg of carbon per year!

Myth 3: It’s cheaper to leave your heating on low all day rather than turning it on and off

Many heating engineers recommend leaving heating on low all day can be a more efficient way of running your heating, but this is only really true for properties that experience severe condensation. If your property does not suffer from condensation issues, then leaving your heating on low all day effectively just wastes energy. According to Martin Lewis, speaking in The Mirror, “Just pay to pump energy in as and when it is needed. To keep pumping it in constantly isn’t efficient. Using a timer is best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it. This is the view of both the Energy Saving Trust and British Gas, so in general I’d stick with that.”

Myth 4: Electric heaters are cheap to run

This misconception seems to arise from the fact that electric heaters can be cheap to buy and can allow for a quick blast of intense heat as and when required. However, as we all know, electricity is an expensive source of energy. Electric heaters generally use a lot of electricity and depending on the type of heater, may not keep a room warm for a long period of time. The cost to run an electric heater also depends very much on the make, model and power of the heater, You Gen calculated that a 3kW heater will use 3kW (3000 watts) per hour and cost roughly £3.43 to run for 8 hours for just one heater.

Cheaper solutions include using radiators and central heating, preferably gas, but if you are saddled with expensive heating it pays to make your home as energy efficient as possible with insulation, secondary glazing, heavy curtains, and draught proofing.

Myth 5: It’s cheaper to heat an empty house

Related to leaving your heating on low all day, this myth posits that leaving the heating on all day will make it cheaper to bring it up to temperature when you need it. However, this is not true. According to Choose Energy “the longer your heating or cooling system is turned off, the greater your savings will be . “Adjusting your thermostat 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hours a day can save you 5 to 15 percent per year on heating and cooling costs – 1 percent for each degree it’s set back.”

Myth 6: I need to get boiler cover with my energy supplier

Many people think that they are locked into obtaining boiler cover from their energy supplier, a misconception that can cost you hundreds of pounds per year. Energy firms use our fear of being left without a working boiler to charge well over the odds for boiler cover, but just like home insurance, energy supplier or your broadband, you can easily use a price comparison site to switch and save money. Writing in The Mirror, Martin Lewis states “[Energy Firms] want us to think there’s some link between our energy provider and our boiler cover. There isn’t – you’re not locked in, so if you do need it, go elsewhere, like Amanda who emailed: “I swapped my boiler cover company and saved £213 a year whilst also increasing cover – and still with an annual service included. Thanks.””

Myth 7: Double glazing is the most energy efficient solution for my windows

Okay you can call us biased here, but this is an energy saving myth that really grinds our gears at Glaze & Save! While it’s true that double glazing can stop heat loss through windows, it’s often very expensive and the payback time can be as high as 100 years ! This means that your double glazing will effectively never “pay for itself” in energy savings. The Green Age writes “you can make big gains on the efficiency of your windows by simply adding some good draught proofing or inexpensive magnetic secondary glazing. New windows are nice to have, but there other energy efficiency measures that we would get installed first based on the payback.”

In fact, compare the payback time of double glazing to that of InvisiTherm® bespoke magnetic secondary glazing . Our innovative slim glazing has a payback time of around just 4 years. Quite a difference to double glazing!

Dispel the double glazing myths and keep your original windows with InvisiTherm ® secondary glazing . Our VIBES awarding-winning systems reduce heat loss by 63% and reduce noise by 58-88%, all while completely eradicating condensation and draughts. It’s also fully compatible with working shutters to enhance your energy saving superpowers! Contact us today for your FREE home survey, or give us a call on 01738 562 068 and speak to one of our friendly team members. We’re happy to answer your questions and bust those energy myths!

Heritage Organisations for Listed Building Owners | Glaze & Save

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Owning a listed building can sometimes feel like a frustrating and lonely journey with a steep learning curve. Take all of the usual stresses and strains of property ownership and add to that the gravity of maintaining a unique building of historic interest, and it is all too easy to see where frustrations might arise.

Luckily, there are many heritage organisations in Scotland who are there to inform, educate and guide listed building owners to make the best decisions for their properties. Here are seven heritage organisations operating in Scotland that every listed building owner must know about.

1. Architectural Heritage Society Scotland

Founded in 1956, the AHSS is a Scottish charity dedicated to “the protection, preservation, study and appreciation of Scotland’s historic buildings.”

The AHSS has over 1,000 members throughout Scotland and elsewhere, and their six regional groups organize local activities and carry out casework and campaigns against changes to local historic buildings to preserve the character of Scotland’s traditional built heritage.

2. Scottish Lime Centre Trust

The Scottish Lime Centre Trust promotes the knowledge and traditional skills required for the conservation, repair and maintenance of the historic built environment. They work nationally to provide advice and information to homeowners and the building industry alike to promote traditional skills and maintenance knowledge.

If you are stuck with how to care for your traditional sash and case windows, then you can take up one of their many courses on the subject. A great resource for hands-on practical training and advice.

3. Glasgow City Heritage Trust

Established in 2007, the Glasgow City Heritage Trust is an independent charity supported by Glasgow City Council and Historic Environment Scotland. The GCHT promotes understanding and appreciation of Glasgow’s historic buildings for the benefit of the city’s residents and visitors.

The GCHT has publicly accessible headquarters in Glasgow, where you can pop in to collect leaflets, view exhibitions, get advice, or take one of their many talks and workshops.

4. The Cockburn Association

The Cockburn Association is one of the oldest conservation organisations in the world, founded in 1875 and committed to the preservation and protection of Edinburgh’s character.

They work to promote the conservation and enhancement of the landscape of Edinburgh’s architectural heritage, as well as it’s landscape, encouraging the development of high quality contemporary buildings to complement Edinburgh’s historic building stock.

5. Historic Environment Scotland

Historic Environment Scotland is Scotland’s leading public body established to investigate, promote and care for Scotland’s built heritage and historic landscapes.

Historic Environment Scotland have a vast library of publications which cover everything from windows to garden landscaping, as well as a hub at the Engine Shed which you can visit for information and advice about your historic building.

6. Aberdeen City Heritage Trust

Incorporated in 2004, the ACHT works to promote and encourage the preservation, maintenance and enhancement of the historic, architectural and landscape heritage within the City of Aberdeen, all for the benefit of the general public and to further knowledge and understanding of such heritage and of conservation practices and techniques.

It delivers grants, education, training, and partnership working for historic building owners, community organisations and employers, while promoting a strong sustainability ethic.

7. Listed Property Owners Club

The Listed Property Owners Club is the only membership advice organisation in the UK specifically for the owners of listed buildings. Providing a wealth of independent support and advice for listed property owners, as well as lobbying government for the interests of listed building owners, the LPOC provides practical, independent help to assist listed building owners with the myriad of decisions that they are faced with at every stage of their ownership.

The LPOC is organising the first ever Scottish Listed Property Show on the 27th of October at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh. You can quote GLAZESAVE for a special discount on your tickets. https://www.lpoc.co.uk/the-listed-property-show-scotland/

5 Reasons Why You Should Keep your Window Shutters | Glaze & Save

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Shutters have been used as a traditional covering for windows for hundreds years. In fact, timber was the original Scottish window covering, with glazed windows not becoming popular until the 16th century when glass became more affordable.

Even when glass become more commonplace, timber window panels remained, in part due to the cost of glass, and in part because of the exceptional insulating properties of wood .

Now, working shutters are usually preserved for conservation concerns, and can be seen as both a blessing and a curse by homeowners. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Working shutters can be a great benefit for homeowners, whether you’re worried about house prices or energy usage. So without further ado, this blog will look at five reasons why you should keep your working shutters, yes, even if you don’t live in a listed building!

1. They keep your home much warmer

Shutters can reduce heat loss through a window by 50%, so if you have draughty single glazed windows, you have the option of increasing your thermal comfort as required. They do this by trapping a layer of insulating warm air between the window and the shutter, keeping the area warmer than windows alone.

2. They save you money on your energy bills

A 2010 BBC article reported that shutters effectively act as a form of double glazing in period properties. It showed that the energy efficiency of the window area was greatly improved with the addition of shutters, reducing heat loss by half, meaning that less heat is required to maintain the temperature of a room.

3. They reduce noise pollution

Shutters are considered t be one of the most effective ways to reduce the levels of external noise in the home. This is because the wood creates a barrier across the window which absorbs much of the noise that curtains or blinds would not stop. Traditional shutters can reduce around 50% of all noise pollution entering a home.

4. They eliminate light

A shutter’s ability to eliminate light has two fold benefits. Firstly, eliminating light can eliminate fading of furnishing, décor and valuables in a room, making your original shutters a great device to combat sun fading and general light fading. Secondly, shutters eliminate the need for blackout blinds or curtains, perfect for shift or night workers, light sleepers, babies, and anyone else who needs a dark environment to sleep in.

5. They will increase the value of your property

Its common knowledge that maintaining and retaining period features in your home will increase the desirability and value of that property. Working shutters are a period feature that not only look stunning, but are completely practical. It’s a win win!

Never choose between your shutters or your vista again! You can keep your working shutters and make your windows thermally efficient with InvisiTherm® bespoke magnetic secondary glazing. Our systems are fully compatible with working shutters and work in tandem with your shutters to deliver an energy efficient, affordable solution for your period home that is conservation friendly and usually requires no permissions. Contact us today to arrange your free no obligation survey.

Dyslexia Awareness Week: My Dyslexia Story | Glaze & Save

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Tanya Ewing, PhD(hd) FRSA is the CEO and Director of Glaze & Save. She writes here about her experiences living with dyslexia and how she has overcome the difficulties and embraced the different way that she sees the world.

I have been living with dyslexia all my life, but growing up in the 70s and 80s, it took some time for it to be recognised.

I think my school realised that I couldn’t write at around primary four, up until which point school had been fine for me. It was the mid-seventies, and so little was known about dyslexia, so when I was moved from my class into remedial classes, I was very upset and didn’t really understand why.

I focused on activities outside school to help increase my self-worth. I was very sporty and participating activities like the Brownies, where I gained lots of certificates and accolades. This gave me the strength to keep believing in myself where my school was unable to. The people I socialised with outside school didn’t know that I was in remedial classes.

Secondary school was very difficult and turbulent for me. I was given a lot of freedom but what I needed what guidance and help. When it came time for me to set my exams I was advised that I wouldn’t be able to sit any exams and that I should go onto a vocational college. This isn’t what I wanted to do, so I went on to two other secondary schools, including private school and private tuition. I eventually level school in 6th year with six O Levels and one Higher, which was a huge achievement for me.

It wasn’t until I entered the working world that I started to better understand the issues that I was facing with dyslexia.

One of my first jobs out of school was working for the AA in insurance sales. I made so many spelling and grammar mistakes in my work that they threatened to sack me, but I was the seventh-best sales person in the whole of the UK, so after much pleading from me, they decided to keep me on, but on the condition that I saw my GP to be assessed.

When I was assessed I found out I had a reading age of nine, I was 19. Suddenly realising what the problem was and that there were things that could be done made such a difference to me.

I continued to be a really sporty person, but in 1999 I contracted Lyme Disease. I battled with the condition for six or seven years, and still struggle with it today. But the biggest thing it did for me was getting me out of the mentality that I was a “sporty” person who couldn’t (and wouldn’t) undertake any academic achievements. Because I could no longer carry out my sporting activities, I knew I had to start using my brain, and so I started attending night classes at Perth College.

I had my lightbulb moment when I received a huge gas bill, and I wanted to figure out how to understand it and reduce my energy consumption. There was nothing on the market that I could buy that would show me how much energy I was actually consuming, so I took the leap and decided to design an energy monitor display that would show people their energy usage. I definitely think that this was a product of the way my mind works! I learn and understand particularly well with pictures and images, and thought that other people might benefit from being able to see a visual representation of their energy consumption.

Despite being registered disabled, pregnant, not having worked for seven years, not having an inventing track record or experience in the energy sector, not being IT literate or having attended university or college, as well as being dyslexic, I managed to turn my idea into the first energy monitor on the market, called Ewgeco (now Netthings). I also successfully lobbied the government to ensure that all new homes would have energy monitors installed in them.

In 2014, I embarked on a new journey with my new company Glaze & Save. Once again, we are industry disruptors, award winners and innovators.

I’m still dyslexic, I still struggle. But my customers and colleagues understand where I am and utilise the strengths that I have rather than focusing on my weaknesses. The advice that I could give to other people experiencing dyslexia, is not to be afraid to say that you’re dyslexia, although some old fashioned attitudes do still exist. Love that you are different, embrace your unique skills, and get out of your comfort zone once in a while. You’ll find that you can live a full life while embracing your differences with nothing holding you back.

18 Energy Saving Tips you can do for Free | Glaze & Save

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Energy efficiency is not only good for the planet, it can also be good for your pocket, but some energy efficiency measures can have a hefty initial outlay and sluggish payback. So we thought we’d take a look at some energy saving tips that you can do for free: that’s right, these energy saving hints won’t cost you a penny, and will save you a few quid here and there. Use them all together and you’ll be quids in and well on your way to doing your bit for a greener planet.

1. Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree: turning your thermostat down by just one degree can save you an astonishing 10% on your energy bills each year.

2. Close your window vents: as long as you have sufficient ventilation in your property, shutting window vents can reduce draughts and increase thermal comfort.

3. Time Your Showers: while we all know what baths are a better choice for energy efficiency than showers, timing your showers and keeping them to under 5 minutes is a sure fire way to reap the maximum energy efficiency benefits from your morning shower!

4. Heat your body, not the room: your granny was right, if you’re cold, put a jumper on! Making sure your body is kept well wrapped up and warm will help save unnecessary heating costs. It’s time to dig out the warm slippers and long underwear then!

5. Use lids when cooking: using lids on pots and pans when cooking your food will not only save energy, but it will cook your food more quickly. No need to wait so long for your tea!

6. Learn to batch cook: batch cooking means you are concentrating you usage of expensive appliances such as the oven and the hob and heating up in the microwave. This is a double whammy: batch cooking means you’ll use less energy on your oven and hob, and microwaves use just 20% of the energy of a regular cooker.

7. Hang Your Laundry: give your tumble dryer a rest, and treat your clothing a little better, by line hanging your clothes. If the weather doesn’t permit it, you can use an indoor clothes dryer, although ensure you use it in a well ventilated area to avoid damp building up. You can save £115 per year by forgoing your tumble dryer.

8. Try a cooler wash: while we’re on the subject of laundry, try washing your clothes on a cooler wash, as 40 or even 30 degrees. Many detergents are now formulated to work specifically with lower temperatures.

9. Unplug your appliances: unplugging unused or rarely used appliances can save an astonishing 5-10% per year on your energy bills.

10. Switch your energy supplier: not only could you save hundreds of pounds per year, but you can also switch to a supplier who provides renewable energy for greener energy usage.

11. Turn down the thermostat on your hot water tank: what’s the point in heating your hot water to scalding point if you’re just going to add cold water to it? Save money (and burnt tootsies!) by turning down the thermostat on your hot water tank and maintaining a more manageable water temperature.

12. Turn off lights when you leave the room: you no doubt tell your kids this but how guilty are you of this yourself? Going back to basics like turning off lights as you leave a room can save you hundreds per year on your energy bills.

13. Only boil as much water as you need: when boiling a kettle, boil the water you need rather than a full kettle. Not only will this boil more quickly, but it will also save energy.

14. Always do a full load of washing: unless your washing machine has a half load setting, ensuring that you do a full load of washing will save energy (and get the laundry done more quickly!).

15. Vacuum your fridge: okay so this one sounds a bit weird, but if you can reach the back of your fridge, then give the pipework a vacuum. It will ensure that your fridge continues to work efficiently, using less energy in the process.

16. Use the right size burner for the job: If your hob has different sizes of burners, then choose small burners for medium/low cooking and large burners for large dishes and rapid cooking.

17. Use glass and ceramic dishes when oven cooking: glass and ceramic ovenware retains heat more effectively than other materials, allowing for greater heat conductivity, meaning you can reduce the oven temperature.

18. Don’t dry clothing directly on radiators: drying clothing on radiators reduces the temperature of your radiator, forcing it to work harder to achieve its ambient temperature. Invest in a drying rack to dry your clothing inside your house without putting your radiators under undue pressure.

Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm ® the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey

My Journey to Zero Emissions and a Low Carbon Home | Glaze & Save

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Today is Zero Emissions Day , and it has never been so vital that we make the switch to a greener, cleaner and less wasteful society. It is up to each of us to take care of the planet, and it is up to each of us to call for change. Zero Emissions Day is a 24-hour moratorium on the use of fossil fuels. One person who has worked on reducing her home and transport emissions is Shirley Paterson, founder and energy adviser at NextGenergy , and two times VIBES Award finalist. In the second part of our 2-part guest blogging series featuring Shirley, she will be telling us about her carbon-saving journey.

In my work as an energy adviser, customers often ask me where my passion for the job comes from. For me, there are a number of reasons why I have so much enthusiasm for energy efficiency. The seed was sown on a visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales some 40 years ago on a family holiday, but it was from the complete renovation of my own home that my journey into energy efficiency really began.

Long before I even kicked off my career as an energy adviser, I embarked on an extensive conversion and improvement of my own property. Having invested in energy efficiency measures and renewable technologies, my family home now sits comfortably with a high Energy Efficiency Rating in Band B on its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), with an impressive (if I do say so myself) 88 points – it is only 4 points from being in the top potential Band of A, which can be expected of a new build property, but far less achievable for an older retrofitted property. An EPC rating reflects the current efficiency of a home, taking account of both energy efficiency and fuel costs. The higher the rating, the lower the fuel bill running costs are likely to be!

As well as implementing energy-saving improvements made to the property, my home has now also become such a convenient ‘fuel-station’ for our transport, as I have been driving an electric car since 2014 (together we’ve travelled 65,000 miles!). My transport is completely emissions free, and thanks to the renewable technology I have installed on my property, much of the time it can also be completely free to fuel here at home, due to how I manage the use of our on-site generated electricity from our solar pv panels.

The Environmental Impact Rating of my home also has a high rating in Band B with 85 points (and this excludes my electric car charging activity) – this rating reflects the effect of my home on the environment in terms of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. The average Environmental Impact Rating for a home in Scotland is in Band D with 59 points.

A bonus has been the financial outcome of making these improvements - my energy bills have reduced by 42% per year compared with where they were in 2011 prior to implementing these changes which have made such an enormous impact on the cost of our car fuel and home energy bills – here this has amounted to a saving of more than £3,000 per year!

What did I do to my home to experience such dramatic results? A mixture of high impact measures made for the best outcome, including:

· Condensing regular mains gas wall-mounted boiler – when we were extending our house in 2009, we replaced the property’s original floor-standing non-condensing mains gas combi boiler – the new boiler was fitted in the garage, freeing up space in our hall cupboard to accommodate a 250-litre hot water tank

· Double Glazing – replaced some faulty double glazed keeping their original timber frames, when extension was being constructed, rather than replacing the blown ground floor windows with entire new windows

· Draught-proofing – of all windows and doors

· Floor Insulation – our ground floor suspended timber floor of original 1989 build had no insulation beneath it, though it had a good depth for the insulation fitters to work in between the floor and the solum to ensure our home was better insulated to prevent our heat escaping

· Loft Insulation – loft in our case, with a room-in-roof style of roof - as is reported in an EPC, refers to the floor level insulation in the eaves spaces – these areas were well insulated during our extension’s construction

· Room-in-Roof Insulation – this is insulation around the heated space of the rooms on the 1st floor – our extension - ie up the vertical walls, up the slopes of the combed ceiling and at the flat ceiling

· Low Energy Lighting – we have very low energy LED lighting throughout our home now – we have since changed the 11-watt compact fluorescent bulbs that were fitted in the new extension’s light fittings, with 5-watt LEDs – not just for the 6-watt energy gain per spotlight, but because they give off a better quality of light over the earlier CFL bulbs

· Solar PV Panels – we retrofitted solar panels onto our extension’s roof in 2011 to generate our own supply of electricity on-site, however I now know of a better option whenever a new roof is involved – solar panels can be inlaid into a new roof, so that the panels are more aesthetically pleasing to look at, and sit flush with the slates or tiles

· Solar Water Heating – we don’t have solar thermal panels for water heating – but do successfully heat a substantial amount of hot water in our 250-litre tank, smartly, via the use of a solar pv diverter device which smart switches instantaneously any surplus pv panel-generated electricity into the heating of hot water, whenever we are not using all the solar electricity

· Smart Technologies – we have an energy management system, managing the cycling of our boiler, it uses weather compensation, with a temperature feed coming from the Met Office’s Leuchars’ weather station – this system also monitors our solar electricity generation, and has 3 smart plugs – we can power devices smartly from surplus energy, in the same way as our water tank can heat water using surplus pv energy

· Electric Car Charging points – much learning on the car charging front – we started off in 2014 with only a 7kw chargepoint, with a tethered lead attached to it – we also now have a 3½kw chargepoint untethered (we use the leads that came with the cars when using this future-proofing untethered lead charging option) – and we have 2 external 13-amp sockets safely installed, beside our 7kw chargepoint, to trickle charge the cars, wisely managing our solar pv-generated energy, and also usually leaving solar energy available for concurrent use to power an appliance or heat water in the house

The home improvements made here have also been remotely assessed by the National Energy Foundation’s SuperHome initiative, and through the energy-saving improvements which we have done, they have calculated that we have reduced the carbon footprint of our property by 64%. Given that the property was built in 1989, then extended in 2009, an overall 64% improvement is an excellent result, and we are delighted that our family of 5 now live in this home with a lower carbon footprint on the environment.

You may wonder why we chose to start our retrofit journey with such a major extension project which literally involved having our home’s roof taken off, and a new room-in-roof design constructed, and the rear of the ground floor layout re-designed. We had a young growing family at the time – now they’re 19, 19 and 21! This was a far less disruptive option for us (it was all of 10 weeks of disruption during the conversion itself) – we have considered the disruption in terms of potentially having to move our kids out of their present school, to a school in another area closer to a suitably sized house we may have found, and any new home may also have required further improvement. We had looked around our local area and hadn’t found a property offering any advantages over what we already had, given it had the potential it had to be extended upwards. We had already invested in upgrading bathrooms, kitchen and garden – we also liked the area we’ve lived in since 1992 and we really had made this our home preferring not to move. In the end, the costs involved in altering our present home through extending it, was a far more cost-effective solution than the costs involved in selling, moving, purchasing a new home and upgrading any of those homes for sale in our local area which we had viewed. It has worked out very well – we are delighted with the outcome achieved – and I have to say we had superb builders!

It’s important to think outside of the box when looking at the energy efficiency improvements that you can add to your home. Whilst I did in fact replace a 1989 non-condensing floor-standing mains gas combi boiler with a condensing regular gas boiler in 2009, if faced with changing my heating system today, staying with gas certainly would not be my automatic choice – occupancy factors, and existing renewable technologies need to be considered too. I also find so many clients who think that upgrading their heating system means that they need a new boiler using the same fuel and that is that. A heating upgrade does not necessarily mean that old storage heaters need replacing with new storage heaters, or that a boiler needs replacing with a boiler! There are now other renewable options that can be more than three times as efficient, cost-effective to run, with Scottish government funding available to support their implementation, and UK-wide financial incentives to transition off fossil fuels bringing the additional benefit of reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and further benefits environmentally, and even more so when a home is already, or can be, a mini power station, generating its own electricity.

You will likely by now have a sense of how passionate I am about supporting progressive improvements, all with the aim of encouraging us to use less costly energy – costly in terms of impact on our environment as well as our pocket. I believe we can all upgrade our properties to facilitate this, and I have witnessed and enjoyed the additional financial benefits of doing so, hence why I am so encouraging of clients to embrace this sooner rather than later!

One thing that is obvious to me is the massive scope for improvements across the board: from property upgrades and energy efficiency ratings, to the tools we assessors currently use in our reporting – I am certainly evidencing examples of innovation in properties, which as yet don’t get reflected in an EPC – so scope for further development of the EPC as a standardized means of measuring what exactly is going on in our properties with energy - some properties are even storing energy now too, in the form or heat and electricity stationary storage batteries for their own property’s consumption later on, rather than exporting on-site generated energy, and later drawing on more fossil fuel or grid-supplied energy to heat and power our homes – and cars! Even the way I do at home, using my hot water tank to store solar-generated electricity in the form of heated water, reduces my use of fossil fuel to heat the water in that tank!

I have found that assessing properties, producing clients’ EPCs, sharing appropriate energy-saving advice, and indeed first-hand experience, has helped so many clients on their journeys, reducing their impact on our environment too. My home in Glenrothes has also now been listed on www.superhomes.org.uk as the first exemplar “SuperHome” in Scotland - now we have 4 exemplars on the Scottish map on this website! To qualify as a SuperHome, a property must be assessed by the SuperHomes scheme as having achieved a minimum of 60% carbon savings. With the coming introduction of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in Scotland, I can see this facilitating a change in general attitude that could see more energy-saving homes developing as a result!

Shirley Paterson is the founder of NextGenergy a "not only for profit" business, with giving at its core.

NextGenergy offers energy advice and assessment in the form of Energy Performance Certification (EPCs) and Advice Reports, while supporting the installation of heat-generating and electricity-generating technologies, and of energy-saving improvement measures such as glazing, boilers, insulations and low energy lighting. Contact Shirley here to arrange your energy assessment.

Energy Efficiency Standards for Scottish Rentals | Glaze & Save

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

With new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for privately rented properties having been set out by the Scottish Government to come into effect for private properties that are let or re-let on or after the 1st of April 2020, this seems like the perfect opportunity to get some information and advice from an EPC expert to find out just what the new MEES are about, and what impact this will have on the Scottish Private rental sector. We are happy to have Shirley Paterson, founder and energy adviser at NextGenergy, and two times VIBES Award finalist, guest blogging for us this week giving her perspective on the effects we are about to see from MEES in Scotland.

As part of the Scottish Government’s Route Map to Energy Efficiency, landlords must ensure that their properties meet a minimum of Band E on their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) - from 1st April 2020 this is to apply to new tenancies, and by 31st March 2022 applicable for continuing tenancies.

As someone with a lifelong interest in energy efficiency, this is something of a welcome improvement to Scottish Energy Efficiency standards, bringing us into line with the standards introduced in England and Wales in April 2018.

The introduction of MEES will kick off a progressive series of increases in the standards of rented stock, which will see the Scottish rented sector progressively improving on energy efficiency. The MEES are set to achieve EPC Band D for new tenancies from April 2022, and Band D for continuing tenancies by 2025. Standards will continue to rise with Band C being the minimum by 2040, though there are proposals being consulted on, to bring this goal forward by a decade, to 2030! We will all find out more when the draft regulations are published in 2019. Landlords need not wait for regulation to force the implementation of energy-saving improvements: they can be preparing and acting on this now. The benefits of being ahead of the curve means that compliance is ensured, penalties are avoided, and new tenancies are not prevented from commencing!

The legislation establishing EPCs in Scotland, The Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2008, means that EPCs exist for all residential property transactions since 4th January 2009. So, from next year, properties with those early EPCs certified in 2009, will be coming up for renewal, many of which will have been carried out to be compliant for letting purposes. There has also been some discussion about shortening the validity period of EPCs to 5 years, perhaps to even just 3 years. The message is getting stronger, that we must tackle climate change, and reduce our use of energy. MEES is another means to ensure we will be held to account. In future, new tenants and property buyers will be paying much more attention to EPC ratings prior to signing on the dotted line.

I certainly know the benefits of raising the energy efficiency standards of Scottish homes. Long before I even kicked off my career as an Energy Adviser, I embarked on an extensive conversion and improvement of my own property. Having invested in energy efficiency measures and renewable technologies, my family home now sits comfortably with a high B rating on its EPC, with 88 points. The financial result is that my own energy bills are now reduced by 42% per annum: a saving of more than £3,000 per year compared with where they were in 2011! This was achieved through a combination of energy-saving improvements being made to the property which has now also become such a convenient ‘fuel-station’ for our transport too (I’ve been driving an electric car since 2014: together we’ve travelled 64,000 miles!).

For me, investing in energy efficiency and renewable technologies and innovation in my home was a choice, but many private landlords will have their hands forced by the MEES to improve the energy ratings of their properties. For properties which have the lowest standards, Band F or Band G, Scottish landlords could have just a 6-month period in which they are required to bring their property up to the minimum standard. Six months is not a long time in the world of property retrofitting, so the time for landlords to take this seriously is really from now!

For those failing to comply with the deadlines, there will be fines. What those fines will be set at for Scotland, we are yet to find out. They are currently set at up to £5,000 for non-compliance with the law in England and Wales and it is expected that Scotland will introduce similar levels of fine, which can be enforced by local authorities, through their Trading Standards or Environmental Health departments. Landlords will also be obliged to leave their property standing empty if it is in breach of the law, so this is no joke! There are going to be serious repercussions for non-compliance when these regulations are introduced: the time to take action is now!

Since these new standards will apply to most of the homes in the private rented sector, we can expect this to impart some sweeping changes across the country. There will likely be some exceptions, as there are in England and Wales regarding legal, technical or cost implications; but what those exceptions are, and how they are expected to work in practice, will remain a mystery until the draft regulations for Scotland are made available in 2019.

The specific measures which will need to be introduced into your rental property will depend entirely on your EPC. The most common measures tend to be insulations, secondary or double glazing, upgrades to the heating system, and renewables can be applicable of course, which clients can often be dismissive of, without firstly weighing up the costs versus benefits of what those improvements would mean for their unique property, and potentially of financial benefit for them given the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). I rarely find a landlord aware of what the Renewable Heat Incentive means: it provides an index-linked incentive income for transitioning off fossil fuel and onto a heat-generating renewable heating system.

So what do landlords need to know about making the biggest impact on your EPC to meet the MEES? As it so often goes, it comes down to implementing the recommendations set out in your EPC. An EPC survey by a Domestic Energy Assessor, and the resulting EPC certificate listing recommendations, can help you form your action plan.

One of my personal bugbears about the EPC in its current form is that it does not list recommendations in any priority order for the client. Recommendations can actually be implemented in any order, and I often need to explain this to clients. An assessor/adviser, upon finding out more about the occupants’ lifestyles and their heating systems, thermostat settings, and appliance use, could offer further advice on which improvements would likely make the greatest impact to their bills and level of comfort in the shortest time. This is something I do myself when working with clients: I can create a scenario of their proposed implementation plan on a copy of their EPC and demonstrate different scenarios with measures that often appear further down the list of EPC recommendations. It is a frustrating thing: often implementing measures which are typically close to the bottom of the list, such as glazing improvements or solar PV, could in fact make the greatest impact on energy bills going forward. I receive plenty of feedback from clients after they have implemented improvements, with them keeping me posted on their energy-saving journeys (of which more than a few have said I’ve inspired!). I also know how much benefit Solar PV Panels, generating electricity, has made to my own home – absolutely nothing to do with the 20-year feed-in tariff income, which is still current and available to apply for until the scheme closes in March 2019. Here I use our solar-generated electricity as car fuel, to help with heating, and for the usual domestic appliances: we use 92% of what our home generates, supplying the grid with our surplus 8% and that likely then gets used by our neighbours!

While we wait for the MEES deadline to come into effect, we can watch and learn from early experience in England and Wales. As matters progress down south, the EPC accreditation bodies will be feeding back their insights and recommendations to us Scottish assessors, and the way forward will become clearer. However one thing that is already obvious is the massive scope for improvements across the board: from property upgrades and energy efficiency ratings, to the tools we assessors currently use in our reporting. I am certainly evidencing examples of innovation in properties, which as yet don’t get reflected in an EPC. Some properties are even storing energy now too, in the form or heat and electricity stationary storage batteries, and even the way I do at home, using my hot water tank to store solar-generated electricity in the form of heated water, reducing my use of fossil fuel to heat water in that tank! These are all innovations that could be better evidenced in the EPC.

MEES could provide an opportunity to elevate the position of energy efficiency in the public’s mind, with the added benefit of improving EPC uptake. This is where landlords can see real added value in using the services of an experienced assessor/adviser. The benefits are all worth looking forward to: my own home story is a testament to that!

4 Energy Efficient Innovations for Autumn | Glaze & Save

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The weather outside is certainly not frightful, but there’s no denying that the chill in the air spells the changing of the seasons. Now is the perfect time to start investing in energy efficiency innovations for your home or workplace that will pay dividends in the coming colder months.

Energy efficiency isn’t only for saving money and providing comfort in your home or business, although that is a very important benefit! Currently Europe’s buildings; homes, businesses and public areas, use roughly 40% of all energy in circulation . This is more than either the industrial or transportation sectors, which use 32% and 28% respectively.

“This translates into about 20 exajoules of energy per year - the rough equivalent of 3.5 billion barrels of oil - and means our buildings are responsible for about 36% of the continent's carbon emissions.”

Never before has it been so important to curb our appetite for energy, and our buildings seem to be a great place to start making some significant savings.

Intelligent Lighting

As the darker nights draw in it’s only natural that we would want to use artificial lighting more and more. After all, it is not only more comfortable, but safer to inhabit a well-lit environment. And while automatic lighting is not a new thing, there are new advances that develop this concept even further.

Several new developments in lighting such as Li-Fi, the use of indoor positioning to track location, and the increase of recycled materials in lighting have all firmly put lighting in the tech sphere.

However one of the main developments is that of good old LED lighting. According to the US Department of energy, swift and extensive adoption of LED bulbs over the next two decades will save an astonishing $265billion , while also eliminating the need to build 40 new power plants and save hundreds of millions of tons of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.

Which? reported last year that the average UK household could save £232 per year by switching their halogen bulbs to LEDs, making this innovation a must have for your home as the dark nights set in.

Staying insulated

It mightn’t be sexy, but insulation is vital to ensuring that your building stays thermally efficient. While you may be aware of developments in commonly used insulators such as insulating concrete forms and structural insulated panels, there is a new development that has been causing something of a stir in the insulation industry.

“A new type of insulation, which employs a different thermal principle, has been creating a small sensation in the field since its emergence a little more than five years ago. Unlike typical insulation that traps air in pockets, often between strands of fibrous material to resist the flow of heat, phase-change materials (PCMs)absorb or discharge heat as they change back and forth from a solid to liquid state. In a sense they "melt" and "freeze" at conditions close to room temperature and draw in or release heat in the process.”

There is also a natural alternative to some of the more environmentally concerning PCMs on the market. Unfired clay boards may provide a more natural alternative , simulating PCM-type properties while regulating moisture levels, providing acoustic insulation and absorbing smells.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

2018 has been the year of the efficient heat pump, with recent innovations placing the humble heat pump in the perfect space to provide more heating and cooling facilities to more homes. Recent developments include new utility programme designs with an eye on escalating the uptake heat pumps for both water and space heating; increased access to geothermal heat pump systems through the development of cheaper drilling techniques, and the increased consensus by the research community that air source heat pumps are “cost effective and cold climate ready” .

An international team of researchers has joined forces through the GEOTeCH project, where they have used advances made geothermal heat pump technology to develop a novel dual-source heat pump unit for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production. The pump is being demonstrated and monitored in four sites across Europe, one of which is UK project partner De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) .

InvisiTherm®

Existing secondary glazing solutions are often limited in their capabilities, offering little for areas with multiple issues, or where internal aesthetics is a key driver. That’s where an innovative solution like InvisiTherm® comes in.

InvisiTherm® is the most efficient energy saving secondary glazing on the market, giving a U-Value as low as 1.7.

InvisiTherm® is constructed from sophisticated slimline polycarbonate, coupled with our long life non-polarity magnet. InvisiTherm® can achieve a draught free and soundproofed environment with an efficient heat repelling system; all of which deliver outstanding results. Best of all, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm® is virtually invisible.

As Glaze & Save InvisTherm® is a warm product: we will eradicate condensation, giving you back your views, and prolonging the life of your existing windows, reducing the need for cleaning or painting.

It’s no wonder that with all of these benefits (and more) that we call ourselves the all-in-one window solution.

How to Identify Asbestos in your Windows | Glaze & Save

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Ten years ago, famed London department store Selfridges was forced to close the window display of its Oxford Street store for over a month after the discovery of asbestos in the five main window units. Yet this incident is just one of the many where asbestos is uncovered in older properties.

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals widely used as insulation in the UK between the 1950s and 1980s , known for its many attractive properties including heat resistance, sound absorption, incombustibility and strength.

Asbestos is not a single type of mineral : in fact the term asbestos refers to a group od silicate minerals that share the same fibrous nature. It is therefore common to hear references to “white asbestos” (chrysotile), and the less common “blue asbestos” (crocidolite) and “brown asbestos” (amosite).

According to High Speed Training , “In the UK, any building or material manufactured or refurbished before the year 2000 may contain asbestos. Therefore, you have an increased risk of encountering it when working on pre-2000 properties.”

When the materials that contain asbestos are disturbed, the asbestos fibres are released into the air. On inhalation, these fibres can caused serious diseases that develop over time .

“ Once asbestos fibers are in the body, they never dissolve, and the body has extreme difficulty expelling them. Over years of time, trapped asbestos fibers can cause inflammation, scarring and eventually genetic damage to the body’s cells.”

In fact, asbestos-related diseases can be so devastating that, even though safety regulations banning the use of asbestos were brought into force in the UK in 1999, asbestos still kills around 5000 workers each year, more than the number of people killed on the road, with around 20 tradesman die each week as a result of past exposure .

Because any building or material manufactured or refurbished prior to the year 2000 may contain asbestos, it is important to be aware of how to identify asbestos, particularly in the window rebate since windows are the component of a property most likely to be removed and refurbished.

While asbestos can be difficult to identify with the naked eye, there are certain traits that make it identifiable such as dimpling and textured coatings such as Artex.

Also, the use of asbestos was so widespread and given that there has been no comprehensive list of products or brands made using the material: data sheets and safety information labels were also not commonly in use during the peak years of asbestos utilization. This can make the identification of asbestos even more challenging. According to Asbestos Guide.org;

“Just performing a visual inspection or comparing products you think may contain asbestos with photos online, no matter how reliable the source, is not a sufficient way to determine whether a material contains asbestos or not.”

Asbestos can be found in numerous places in your windows. Fire resistant window putty was sometimes produced with asbestos. For this caution is recommended when handling older windows putty;

“ We recommend caution around window putty for the same reason we urge people to take care around asbestos roofs : although the material is not dangerous in its original, bonded form, the fact that it’s constantly exposed to the elements means that it will inevitably break down over the years. Weathering can make non-friable asbestos friable.”

The Health & Safety Executive also details several other areas that asbestos can be found in the window area. Asbestos can be found in window paneling and in window sills, and the HES provides picture examples of what this might look like.

If during the course of work in or around your home you discover materials that you believe to be asbestos, you or your tradespeople must stop work immediately. Professionals should put up a warning sign and ensure that no one enters the area. A sample of the material must be analysed to ascertain if it does in fact contain asbestos. The Health and Safety Executive has provided a flow chart which advises of whether the material requires the use of a license contractor to remove.

Redecorating your Listed Building | Glaze & Save

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

One of the joys of home ownership is the ability to really put your own stamp on your property, and in most cases, if you wanted to paint every surface of your home’s exterior neon pink, or turn your property into a replica of the palace of Versailles, you’d be bang to rights. Unfortunately, there is no such freedom for listed property owners, and frustratingly, it can feel like even carrying out a simple paint job can be fraught with bureaucracy. That’s why we thought we’d put together this list of five things you really should know before redecorating your listed building, to make sure you get it right first time with minimal hassle.

1. You May Need Permission for External Painting

Semi-regular external paint jobs are important, particularly for listed buildings, as they help prevent decay. This is particularly true of external woodwork. However, if you have designs on painting the exterior of your listed property in a different shade to its current state, you may well need consent. According to Historic England:

“If your house is listed you may need to get permission for external redecoration if this would change the character of the building, for example by painting outside walls if they have never been painted before, or using bright red! In some conservation areas there may be special controls on the colours you can use, so check with your local authority first. If your house is in a terrace there may be a tradition of using different bright colours, or for all houses to match; it’s a good idea to take account of local approaches.

2. Although the Rules May Be More Relaxed for Painted Properties

Whether or not planning permission is required to repaint the exterior of a listed building that has already been painted is something of a grey area. Listed Building Consent may be required, but, as stated in BuildingConservation.com;

“In many cases the colour of the paint may be less important than the first application of an unsuitable covering which could be damaging to remove’. This sensible and pragmatic approach made it clear that conservation officers should not (as they are sometimes accused of doing) act as ‘taste police’, dictating which colours they feel are appropriate and which are not.”

This is particularly so in a case highlighted in South Oxfordshire council, where a prominent Grade II listed building was previously painted light green in colour, and redecorated in a new dark pink shade. In this situation there was no evidence to suggest that the changing of the exterior colour from one “non-conservation” color to another had any effect on the character of the listed building, to the chagrin of the locals who did not appreciate pink!

3. Be Mindful of Internal Alternations

While internal repainting does not usually require Listed Building Consent unless a historic scheme of decoration requires to be preserved , there are still aspects of the interior which may be listed. Original features such as finishes on woodwork, wall-panelling, cornice work, pictures rails and timber mouldings around windows and doors are all considered to be valuable original features and you may well require Listed Building Consent to remove or alter them.

4. Be Aware of Hidden Treasures

If your property is of some historical importance or recently listed, there is a possibility that potentially important wall paintings, plasterwork, etc lurks beneath the wallpaper and paint you so desparately want to be rid of. A careful hand is therefore always recommended in these situations. As advised by Historic England:

“If you suspect your house has early wall decoration, you may need specialist advice and conservation , rather than just redecoration. Stripping paint or lime plaster can take away layers of history that can’t be replaced.”

5. Traditional Finishes can Affect Retrofitting Projects

Depending on the category of your listed building, maintaining woodwork in its original paint colours or finishes may be required. For example, if your window frames are a particular shade of green, or have a particular wood finish on them which is of some historic significance of is in keeping with the overall character of the property, then you may be required to maintain that finish. This means that investing in alterations such as secondary glazing can be fraught with issues. For example, many secondary glazing installers offer a limited range of finishes on their products, which can create a distracting eyesore. At Glaze & Save , we offer entirely bespoke colour matching with InvisiTherm® bespoke magnetic secondary glazing . Our surveyors carry approximately 300 colour swatches for you to choose from, and if we cant find a match we’ll have one specially created for you. This ensures that no matter what colour of finish your windows have, you’ll always receive a bespoke, seamless and virtually invisible finish that your conservation officer will love as much as you do!

Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm® the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey.

Alter Listed Buildings without Planning Permission | Glaze & Save

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For many people, the thought of obtaining planning permission for a project fills them with dread: and this can be doubly so for listed building owners, where restrictions can be tough and punishments for flouting planning laws severe. That’s why we thought we’d look at a few things that you can do to your listed building without the need to obtain planning permission. This blog is a general guide only: we would also recommend that you speak to your local planning or conservation officer to find out exactly if your proposed renovations require planning permission for your area.

1. Internal Alternations

While you will generally not require planning permission for internal alterations to a building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works such as interfering with original fixtures, removing internal walls etc if you own a listed building.

2. Replacing Fixtures or Materials on a Like for Like Basis

According to Historic Environment Scotland , it is unlikely that you would require planning permission or listed building consent if old materials are being replaced for new on a like for like basis and the repair work doesn’t affect the character of the building.

3. Draught proofing

We all need controlled levels of ventilation in our homes in order to avoid damp and the clear the air; however, when the air flow becomes uncontrolled this can lead to a cold and draughty home which is not only uncomfortable to live in, but can be very costly in energy expenditure.

Older buildings can lose around 15-20% of their heat via draughts but there are many ways to tackle this without damaging the historic character of your building. And the good news is, such work can pay for itself very quickly. (Historic England)

This is a particularly major issue in historic properties, where wear and tear of the general fabric of the building can lead to uncontrolled air flow and multiple air changes and hour. Most draught proofing work will not require Listed Building consent, however if you intend to install draught proofing in your listed building you should check with your local planning or conservation officer as some more invasive types may require consent. You can read more about draught proofing your historic building in our blog post here.

4. Secondary Glazing

It’s worth noting from the outset that not all secondary glazing is created equal in this respect. In most cases for secondary glazing to not require any permissions in a listed building, it must not interfere with the original structure or the building, or be visible from the outside. Unfortunately, most secondary glazing does not pass this test and would therefore require consent to be installed. However InvisiTherm® is a completely demountable, reversible system which is non-invasive to both original windows and the structure of the building, while being virtually invisible inside and outside. While InvisiTherm® generally does not require any permissions, we would nevertheless recommend getting in touch with your local planning or conservation department to discuss your plans and find out if consent is a requirement.

Consumers: Don't Accept Bad Selling Practices | Glaze & Save

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

It’s a sad fact for those of us in the window industry, but sometimes the truth hurts: the window industry has a track record of unacceptable selling practices AKA duping the consumer and, dare I say it, ripping them off.

As the Double Glazing Blogger notes:

“The reputation of the industry is really taking a battering at the moment. Days after the BBC reported that Safestyle had been fined £120,000 for unlawful selling methods, another Bradford-based company has been fined for the very same thing. This time for the amount of nearly £65,000. And there was a 15 month suspended jail sentence for the person responsible too.”

A recent case from Bradford saw a double glazing “cowboy” fined £65,000 and given a 15 months suspended jail sentence for engaging in a range of nasty selling practices including:

· Taking unauthorised payments from customers’ bank cards.

· Charging customers VAT – despite not being VAT registered.

· Leaving jobs unfinished.

· Ignoring complaints.

· Failing to provide safety glass in locations where it was required by law.

· Lying about belonging to an industry accreditation body.

Perhaps even more shocking is the news that national double glazing chain SafeStyle UK has been fined £120,000 and ordered to pay £52,000 court costs for their own aggressive sales practices.

Quoted by the BBC, Prosecutor Ayesha Smart said : "These improper business practices were not limited to a small geographical area or just one rogue salesman but were repeated across the country and repeated over a period of around 17 months.”

These practices included an 86-year old man reporting that he was told there would “be trouble” if he cancelled his contract, employees lying about having a contract with Southampton Council, and false claims about having access to government allowances.

While there are around 4,500 window and door installation companies in the UK, the UK double glazing ombudsman DGCOS reports that they alone received 385 complaints in 2017.

So what can be done to stop these unacceptable practices? The Double Glazing Blogger has his own thoughts:

“This is … the exact reason why hard-selling of any kind has to be banned outright. It’s worth stating from the start that there are plenty of good installers out there who obviously don’t participate in dodgy sales methods, which is only right. However, there remains a stubborn portion of the sector that still think hard-sell of any kind is OK. When it isn’t. And as we have seen in the past week or so, it only takes a handful of companies to step over the line of what is right to bring their companies and the industry into disrepute…

…it only demonstrates further that pressure selling tactics have to be outlawed. Not just in the window industry, but across business as a whole. It preys on the elderly, the vulnerable and those who are too trusting to question what they are being told. Any decent person would know that to take advantage of those sorts of people with pressure and hard-sell methods is plain old wrong. It does not justify the sales person winning a sale.”

Pressure selling is something we are completely against at Glaze & Save . We believe that our products speak for themselves and it is our policy not to produce quotes on the day; you’ll receive your quote to consider at your leisure. We work hard to counteract the negative effect that the bad apples of the window industry have on public perception, it’s one of the reasons why we are an award-winning company and an Edinburgh City Council Trusted Trader .

Consumers: you do not have to accept bad selling practices from the window industry. You can choose Trusted Traders with a track record of excellent service. It also helps to know your rights.

Why Energy Efficiency is a Necessity Not a Luxury | Glaze & Save

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Earth Overshoot Day has been moved back by two days this year , and today is now the day where we humans have consumed a year’s worth of natural resources. That leaves four months of the year where we are now consuming resources at a deficit.

Speaking in The Guardian , Mattias Wackernagel, chief executive and co-founder of Global Footprint Network, says “Our current economies are running a Ponzi scheme with our planet…We are borrowing the Earth’s future resources to operate our economies in the present. Like any Ponzi scheme, this works for some time. But as nations, companies, or households dig themselves deeper and deeper into debt, they eventually fall apart.”

Earth Overshoot Day marks the date when our demand for ecological resources and services in a given year exceeds what Earth can regenerate in that year. We maintain this deficit by utilizing more than the Earth can produce, while ourselves producing waste in the form of carbon dioxide and other environmental pollutants.

We are already starting to see the devastating effects of our over-consumption of the Earth’s resources in increased resource scarcity and climate destabilisation across the world. As stated in Innovators Mag “tweaking habits and business cultures won’t even scratch the surface, a transformation of behaviours at all levels is needed”.

This is especially true when just 100 companies create 71% of all carbon emissions , including some fossil fuel giants of the world, which just reinforces how important it is to move away from fossil fuels and embrace renewable technology.

We need to face the facts: to ensure the continued survival of our planet and the being living on it, we need to make far reaching, global and drastic changes especially those of us who live in the wealthier countries of the world. The richest 10% of the population create half of all carbon dioxide emissions , while the poorest half of the population create just 10% of the carbon dioxide emissions, so it is clear where the changes need to come from.

At Glaze & Save we know that the construction industry is one of the worst offenders when it comes to consuming resources.

The UK construction industry uses 295 million tonnes of virgin materials every year, and produces 150 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste annually. This is one of the reasons why we developed our End of Life Recycling Policy for InvisiTherm® systems, whereby in the event that our InvisiTherm® systems were no longer required in a building, we will remove them free of charge. We are committed to reducing waste and saving energy. The systems will then be used in fuel-poor households with all unused systems being fully recycled. We hope that by working together we can reduce construction waste and continue to find new lives and new homes for high quality materials such as InvisiTherm®.

But what can we do on a day to day basis to reduce the demands that we make on the earth and turn back the clock on Earth Overshoot Day?

Cutting back on the amount of meat and dairy we eat, reducing the amount that we fly, choosing renewable energy suppliers and choosing to carpool or use public transport are all ways in which we can reduce our consumption of natural resources. However, one of the major things that we can do, and that we at Glaze & Save always encourage, is to improve the energy efficiency of our buildings.

A study carried out by Global Footprint Network looked at how much of an impact retrofitting buildings with technology available today could reduce the carbon footprint:

“Since we wanted to analyze what is possible already today, the assessment focused on retrofitting existing buildings and industrial processes. On the energy side, we estimated current decarbonization opportunities of the electricity systems, based on current grid limitations. We found that these opportunities can move the date by 15 days . The energy retrofit and the decarbonization of electricity combined would move the date by over 21 days . This is a conservative estimate as it is based on Schneider Electric’s tested offerings. In addition, technologies outside of Schneider Electric’s realm may well exist to make those sectors even more efficient and move the date even further. On top of that, shifting people’s resource use habits also holds a large potential.”

The results can also be measured in cold, hard cash as well as in days .

“Dallas County, the ninth largest county in the U.S., government spent $600,000 on 54 buildings for improvements including mechanical system upgrades, water conservation controls and fixtures, and lighting with motion sensors. The project is expected to reduce utility bills by 31 percent, ultimately saving $73 million over 10 years. The county expects to reduce carbon emissions by more than 500,000 tons, which equates to removing nearly 85,000 cars from the road or planting 125,000 trees.”

While the biggest ways to claw back some days from the Earth Overshoot calendar is to engage is political action to change the way that our world is run and the way that it is allowed to be exploited, we can still make changes as individuals. For many of us, energy efficiency retrofitting represents a painless way to save the earth (while saving some cash at the same time). But know that the steps we must take are no longer a luxury, they are a necessity, and something we must start today to ensure that there is a tomorrow.

Save energy, reduce construction waste and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm® the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 58%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more about our environmental award-winning all-in-one window solution, and arrange your free survey.

What not to do when Retrofitting Older Buildings | Glaze & Save

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

As we have stated already in a previous blog on retrofitting “Listed and historic buildings need some extra attention when it comes to adding energy efficient improvements to their windows, but we could all do with enhancing the efficiency of our homes. By adding improvements to the existing windows, you can save yourself money as well as saving the planet.” So as you can no doubt tell, we are pretty passionate about responsible and sustainable retrofitting here at Glaze & Save . And while knowing what you should do in your quest for a fully energy efficient retrofitted wonder property, it is just as important to know what, in most cases, you should not do. And with irresponsible retrofitting representing a real threat to the sustainability of our built heritage, it is a lesson we could all do with learning. So without further ado, here are five things you should never do when retrofitting your traditional building.

1. Use Unbreathable Materials

Traditional buildings (that is, those built prior to 1919) were built with breathable walls that allowed for the ingress and excretion of water through those walls. It is one of the fundamental differences, one could argue, between traditional buildings and modern buildings, where ventilation is often mechanical.

It therefore goes almost without saying that retrofitting an unbreathable material, such as concrete, can have devastating effects on the fabric of your traditional buildings. As SPAB states :

“A modern cement render is incompatible with the construction of most old buildings and can cause or accelerate serious decay. Modern buildings generally depend on an impervious outer layer and cavities to keep out moisture. By contrast, old buildings tend to rely on their permeable nature ('breathability') to allow water absorbed by the fabric to evaporate back out.”

Using unbreathable materials can cause damp and rot to set into your traditional building, but can also lead to cracking and other structural problems.

2. Insulate External Walls

Investing in insulation seems like a smart retrofit for increasing the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of your original window. However, it is important to make sure that the correct insulation is installed. Speaking in The Guardian Rob Lloyd-Sweet, historic buildings adviser states “If you insulate [a] wall on the outside, that could keep the moisture in, causing damp and mould. If you insulate on the inside the wall outside will get colder, possibly making the moisture condense and saturate the wall.”

3. Overlook Simple Fixes

When retrofitting traditional buildings, it is tempting to splash out on big changes and the latest innovations. But it is often the common sense quick fixes that can provide the biggest energy savers: and should be carried out before dropping serious cash on bigger alterations to at least ensure the maximum efficiency of your big purchases.

Speaking in the Guardian , a panel of traditional building experts advocate the common sense approach, “Fit draught excluders to your letterbox and outside doors, get heavier curtains, make sure your radiators aren’t blocked by furniture, mend the broken panes of glass, fill in the gaps in the wooden panelling, insulate the loft access hatch, change all lights to LED and up the loft insulation,” they agreed.

Of course, at Glaze & Save we’ve been encouraging people to make low cost, high impact changes to their properties for maximum energy savings for a minimal cost. You can get your free copy of our Home Energy Hacks guide here .

4. Ignore Routine Maintenance

Similarly to the previous point, it cannot be denied that much energy waste in traditional buildings comes from overdue maintenance .

Roger Hunt, co-author of the Old House Eco Handbook, states in Green Spec , “Neglect the maintenance of an old building at your peril.” And he is not wrong! Routine and relatively minor issues such as blocked drains, loosened window putty, or cracked guttering can rapidly become serious issues if ignored, leading to decay, damp and structural instability. “The longer the problem goes unchecked, the greater the damage and the further the building’s history, character and value will be eroded and the less sustainable it becomes as more raw materials, resources, money and time will be needed to put things right.”

5. Replace Original Windows

Okay so if you windows are completely rotten, or falling out of their frames, or some other such injustice, then perhaps you should look into replacing your original windows. For everyone else, replacing original windows in a traditional building is a sure-fire way to devalue your property while causing further problems for the future.

Keeping your original windows in tact is almost always the best way to ensure the look, feel and character of your property, while reducing the construction waste associated with installing replacement windows. Original windows are almost always made of superior quality materials as well, ensuring that they will stand the test of time better than their modern equivalents.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm® changes that by using innovative polycarbonate and a discrete, demountable magnetic strip to hang from. Because InvisiTherm®is completely removable with no damage to your existing windows, in many cases you do not need to obtain planning permission to install it. Not only that but InvisiTherm®can also be fitted to allow shutters to work and involves no loss of the original fabric of your windows. You can retain original your sash windows with historic glass, and avoid altering or removing them to receive double glazing.

Thermal Imaging for Retrofitting Older Buildings | Glaze & Save

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There is something of a misunderstanding in the retrofitting of traditional buildings, that modern technology is somehow incompatible with traditional crafts. However, applying fairly modern techniques to energy efficiency retrofitting can yield exceptional results. This blog will look at why thermal imaging is the way forward in the field of building conservation, and in retrofitting historic buildings.

What is thermography?

Thermography is the method of illustrating visible heat energy in a visual method , ordinarily through the use of an infrared red camera. The images produced by the camera show a range of temperature variations across a surface or area which are above absolute zero.

Objects within the image are displayed as thermal patterns of different colours or shades of grey depending on the palette selected. At Glaze & Save we use a palette ranging from deep blue to red, which is why you will see so many brightly coloured images in your personal quote document. These thermal patterns illustrate the variations of heat energy which are emitted from the surface of the object or area.

Interpretation of the thermal patterns and colours requires an understanding of the various environmental conditions at the time of capturing the image, as well as an understanding of the surface materials being viewed.

Emissivity (an object’s ability to emit infrared radiation ) and reflectivity (the property of reflecting radiation ) are the two characteristics of materials which determine how reliable the thermal pattern is in the image. Materials with high emissivity have a low reflectivity and vice versa. Only materials with a high emissivity provide a reliable reading. This is because materials with a low emissivity have a tendency to reflect the temperature of surrounding objects.

How can it be used in traditional buildings?

In most buildings, the energy used for space heating represents a significant cost factor; however traditional buildings cant experience greater issues than monetary loss from cold spots and heat loss.

Cold areas attract condensation and damp: this can lead to damp, mould and rotting in all buildings, but in traditional buildings this can be of particular concern. Thermal imaging is a fantastic tool for identifying heat loss and cold spots and therefore allowing you to take action.

As well as showing cold spots and potential areas for concern in buildings, thermography also has the added benefit of being completely non-invasive . To otherwise identify missing insulation, gaps and cracks in the building fabric or other issues with building elements would require intrusive investigations such as drilling holes or dismantling the elements. Infrared thermography can demonstrate issues without affecting the fabric of the building. This is without even taking into account the difficulty in identifying the location of draughts and air leakages, and the fact that moisture and damp often goes unseen until it appears on the surface of walls, windows or roofs.

How can it improve energy efficiency?

Thermography can be used to improve energy efficiency by identifying unwanted heat transfers for later correction, this is the fundamental method in which to optimise energy usage of a building. Although draughts in traditional buildings can occasionally be felt and even located manually, it is often much more difficult to perceive other areas of heat loss and cold spots.

With the development of modern thermographic technology, handheld thermal cameras have emerged as a potential tool for building inspections. Noted for being non-destructive, thermal cameras are now commonly used to identify construction problems, design flaws, aging building materials and other sources of preventable heat loss. In many cases, locating issues on a thermal image is less time consuming than with traditional survey methods, while providing the added benefit of visual documentation that can be included in inspection reports.

Detecting Moisture

As well as showing areas of heat loss in a building, thermal imaging can also be invaluable in the detection of moisture, the build-up if which is a significant concern in property maintenance. While thermal camera cannot direct measure the water content of a selected are, patches of damp and moisture can be inferred from thermal images taking into consideration content such as the shape and pattern of the cold spot image, along with its location and the existence of surrounding pipework, guttering etc.

Condensation occurs in particularly cool and humid sections of a structure. By locating areas with temperatures below the dew point, inspectors can locate areas that are at-risk for moisture build-up.

Thermal imaging is a great tool for use in surveying traditional buildings for heat loss, cold spots and damp, which is why we utilise thermal cameras in our surveys. We want to demonstrate to you not only the energy loss you currently experience through your windows, but also potential areas of damp, areas of heat loss and potential maintenance issues for the future. It’s all part of our mission to make people fall in love with their old properties again!

Should Listed Buildings Be VAT Exempt? | Glaze & Save

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Listed buildings are a vital part of our built heritage, preserving the character, colour and charm of villages, towns and cities across the United Kingdom. While preservation of these buildings could well be thought of as a privilege, the cost for repair and conservation is often steep.

The typical image of a listed building owner is one of a wealthy type engaging in the conspicuous consumption dwelling in a lavish building. But with one in five buildings in the U.K being constructed pre-1919, and buildings as modern as the British Library in London, completed in 1997, receiving listed status numbers suggest that it is far more than the wealthy elites looking after these buildings.

According to the Federation of Master Builders half of the people who live in listed buildings are in the four socio-economic groups with the lowest income.

Given the importance and prevalence of listed buildings throughout the United Kingdom, coupled with the variability of financial means of the people dwelling in said buildings, it came as something of a blow to the listed building community of owners, conservators, builders and heritage experts when VAT was introduced on alternations and repairs to listed buildings in 2012.

Prior to 2012 the only financial aid given by central government to owners of listed buildings came via VAT. In simple terms, an alteration to a listed building for which listed building consent has been granted did not attract VAT.

This decision has received extensive criticism over the last six years, not least from the Listed Property Owners Club , who have campaigned to have the 20% VAT on listed building repairs reduced to 5%. Editor-in-chief Martin Anslow stated in the latest issue of Listed Property (July/August 2018) ,

“As owners of listed buildings we are the backbone of so much that is great about British heritage. We spend our time and money cherishing and protecting hundreds of thousands of these historic buildings that create the character and colour of our country. However, for too many owners the pleasure and pride they once had in their home is becoming a burden and a worry.”

In order to collect their efforts ahead of the November 2018 Budget, the LPOC launched a petition to call for a reduction in VAT to the 5% rate for essential and approved repairs to listed buildings, hoping to mobilise the 1.5million listed property owners in the country who want to make their voices heard.

The petition notes that “since 2012, The Listed Property Owners’ Club has noticed a distinct fall in certain types of applications for listed building consent”. The LPOC argue that reduction of VAT to 5% on repairs and approved alterations would provide an incentive for owners to maintain their homes and safely conserve historic and heritage buildings.

Without listed buildings or landscape would certainly be a much duller place, and it goes without saying that these buildings often require extensive maintenance and repair. We all enjoy the aesthetic and personality that these buildings bring to our country, in fact, many listed buildings, streets and whole villages are national treasures. Should VAT be reduced in order to reflect that social and environmental significance? It seems that a renewed focus on maintaining our built heritage, and making it easier and more affordable to do so, is in everyone’s best interests.

You can sign the Listed Property Owners Club’ petition here.

InvisiTherm and Energy Performance Certificates | Glaze & Save

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you are looking to sell your property, either in the future or currently in the process, you must be able to provide a valid energy performance certificate (EPC) free of charge to anyone interested in buying the property. You also need to know the EPC rating of your property and include this in any advertising. You must obtain your EPC certificate before your property can be sold.

An EPC contains:

· information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs

· recommendations about how to reduce energy use and save money

An EPC gives a property an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is valid for 10 years.

If you implement any of the energy efficiency recommendations outlined in your EPC, you may wish to get a fresh EPC done to include these improvements.

Glaze & Save have carried out EPC tests to find out what difference an InvisiTherm® install would make to your single glazing. Please note under the current regulations you need to have U & g Values for any double glazing otherwise the default rating will be used.

EPCs and InvisiTherm ®

We have carried out EPC tests to find out what difference Glaze & Save InvisiTherm ® install would make to your single glazing, and therefore your EPC rating. For example in a pre-1919 detached sandstone cottage, an installation of InvisiTherm® over single glazing took the EPC rating from E39 to E43, an improvement level of four points.

Why is this important?

Well, not only does this show that InvisiTherm® increases efficiency and therefore your EPC rating as effectively as double glazing, but it is also important for in demonstrating that InvisiTherm® is a proven technology that has the relevant effect on raising your EPC in order to access Scottish Government funding for energy efficiency measures such as the Home Energy Scotland Loan .

4 Reasons why you need Secondary Glazing in Summer | Glaze & Save

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

InvisiTherm™ bespoke magnetic secondary glazing is naturally often thought of a winter home improvement, after all, one of the biggest benefits of InvisiTherm™ is its exceptional heat retention benefits. But did you know that it also makes sense to have secondary glazing installed in the summer? Let’s take a look at four scorching reasons to have secondary glazing installed in the summer, to stay cooler and more comfortable any time of the year.

Completely eliminates UV rays

Single glazing and double glazing that dates from before 2003 admits a large amount of ultraviolent rays. These rays can damage furnishings, artworks and documentation by causing fading, but can also cause sunburn and aging damage to the skin. Glaze & Save’s InvisiTherm™ has an ultraviolet filter which blocks over 99.9% of the sun’s harmful rays, eradicating fading, and minimizing exposure to the potentially harmful effects of the sun. This is great for those of us who have light sensitive furniture of artefacts (such as in stately homes), but is also great for preserving the life of your soft furnishings, artworks, curtains or wallpaper: in fact, anything that may ordinarily become faded by the sun.

Reduce the heat of the sun

InvisiTherm™ is known for its exceptional heat retention properties, but did you know that it could also keep you cooler in the summer? InvisiTherm™ reflects 27% of the heat of the sun due to the reflective properties of the polycarbonate. This means you can avoid the “greenhouse effect” that is an unfortunate side effect of glass secondary glazing, and enjoy a cooler home in the summer.

Helps contribute to a pollen free environment

InvisiTherm™ creates a complete seal over your windows, stemming the ingress of dirt, dust, pollution and pollen into your home. Old windows have multiple gaps and cracks where particles of pollen can make their way into the home. By sealing over the cracks with a secondary glazing system such as InvisiTherm™, pollen. dirt and dust ingress is virtually eliminated, leading to a cleaner home and better air quality. Perfect for summer hay fever sufferers!

Beat the winter rush

It happens like clockwork: the first signs of winter and the demand for secondary glazing goes through the roof. Waiting for winter can leave you at the mercy of long lead times…and no one wants to be cold! Think outside the box and beat the crowds by installing your secondary glazing in the summer and enjoy a quicker install and a warm home from the second the temperature drops.

Beat the winter rush Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm ™ the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey.

Innovative Scottish Female Engineers | Glaze & Save

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow is International Women in Engineering Day , an international awareness campaign to raise the profile of women in engineering. It focuses attention on career opportunities available to girls looking to enter this field while celebrating the outstanding achievements of women engineers throughout the world.

Scotland has a strong engineering tradition, and given that Glaze & Save is a clean tech construction company headed up by former British Female Inventor of the Year, Dr Tanya Ewing, we’re particularly invested in raiding the profile of women in engineering and opening up all STEM fields to women and girls. So we thought we’d dedicate this very special blog to celebrating some of Scotland’s more innovative and inspirational female engineers, past and present.

Victoria Drummond

Victoria Drummond was a naval trailblazer born in 1894 and raised in Megginch Castle in Perthshire. Despite her aristocratic background (she was the goddaughter of Queen Victoria), Victoria was determined to become a marine engineer, and in an attempt to dissuade her of this idea, her father sent her to be an apprentice at a garage, fully expecting that she would give up on her engineering aspirations.

Instead, Victoria flourished, completing her time and heading off to train at the Caledon Shipworks in Dundee where she was the only woman among 3,000 men.

Against all odds, in 1940 Victoria was the second engineer on the cargo ship Bonita, carrying goods across the Atlantic to the USA. The ship was attacked by Nazi planes, but Victoria used her ingenuity and skill to keep the engines going to speed up the ship and dodge the bombs. She was later awarded a bravery medal.

However, despite her obvious capabilities and having tried numerous times, she never passed the test that would have allowed her to become a chief engineer in the Merchant Navy. It has been said that she would never have been allowed to pass the exam as a woman . Instead, Victoria qualified as a chief engineer to sail for Panama, and became the first British woman member of the Institute of Marine Engineers.

Dorothee Pullinger

Dorothee Pullinger was a pioneering automobile engineer, born in France in 1894. As well as being credited with designing the first car “for women”, Dorothee was also one of the founding members of the Women's Engineering Society , and was a life-long member and active in the society's Council.

In 1910, Pullinger began work in the Paisley-based Scottish automobile firm Arrol-Johnston, where she worked as a draftsperson. Pullinger remained at Arrol-Johnston until the start of World War I when it changed from producing cars to aeroplanes. She was appointed female supervisor of the very large munitions facility operated in Barrow in Furness, where women were employed in the manufacture of high explosive shells. In 1916, her father created a new munitions facility at Arrol-Johnston near Kirkcudbright which included an engineering college for women and an apprenticeship program.

After the war, she returned to Scotland where the munitions facility was converted back to the manufacture of automobiles and renamed Galloway Motors Ltd , where she was a director and manager. The company produced a car, the Galloway, for Arrol-Johnston that was designed for women. The company employed a largely female work force under Pullinger's direction and produced automobiles until 1923 when production was transferred to Arrol-Johnston's Heathhall works. She was an enthusiastic race car driver and won the cup in the Scottish Six Day Car Trials in 1924.

Lynsey Lennon

Lynsey Lennon is a Scottish Water engineer who, in 2017, was named one of the UK’s 50 most influential female engineers despite having kicked off her career in engineering just ten years previously.

Lynsey, an ambassador for the water industry and careers for women in the STEM fields, was recognised as part of last year’s International Women in Engineering Day.

She started her career with Scottish Water as a graduate engineer in 2007 and has worked on a range of civil engineering projects including the flagship Glencorse Water Treatment Works which provides 350,000 people in Edinburgh with clear, fresh drinking water.

Lynsey is currently leading an innovative project to ensure that Scottish Water’s £600m a year capital investment programme is as productive as possible.

Anne Gillespie Shaw

Anne Gillespie Shaw was a pioneering production engineer practising in the 1930s to the 1970s, who was inducted into the Engineering Hall of Fame in 2017 .

In 1930 Anne became a personnel officer for Metropolitan-Vickers Electrical Company in Manchester, and in 1933 was made the chief supervisor of women workers. From 1930 to 1945 she was the firm’s first and chief motion-study investigator, and as consultant to the entire Associated Electrical Industries group, of which Metropolitan-Vickers was a part, she organized motion study courses.

In 1935 Shaw joined the Women’s Engineering Society and helped the Electrical Association for Women produce an experimental film demonstrating the application of motion study to food preparation in the home. Also in 1935 she gained a private pilot’s licence.

During the Second World War the government requested that her motion study courses for AEI be given to the rest of the munitions industry. In 1942 Stafford Cripps, Minister of Aircraft Production, recruited Shaw onto his Production Efficiency Board, to advise on work methods in the aircraft industry. In 1945 she organized a national exhibition to demonstrate that her motion study methods applied to all industries.

Don't Replace Original Windows in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Windows are a much maligned aspect of historic buildings: their seeming fragility and inefficiency, coupled with the double glazing boom over the last few decades has led to original windows in traditional buildings often being seen as something of a liability rather than the asset that they are.

However, as concerns about resource efficiency, retention of built heritage and sustainability become more pressing concerns, keeping original windows is becoming a much more attractive option. But for those of your still considering new windows for your historic properties, here are five reasons why you should never replace the original windows in your historic property.

1. Replacement Windows Aren’t Sustainable

One of the biggest reasons for us at Glaze & Save as to why you should never replace the original windows in your historic property is that it is simply not sustainable. Treated correctly, original wood windows will withstand the test of time, lasting for as long as the property lasts. Replacement windows last anything between 10 to 40 years, with the WWF finding that the average UPVC window unit is replaced after just 18 years . Replacing original windows with new, but poor quality windows, simply commences a cycle or waste and replace. As Scott Sidler from The Craftsman Blog states, “The greenest window is the one that is already installed.”

2. Replacement Windows Destroy Built Heritage

Windows are part of what makes buildings unique, attractive and in-keeping with a specific time, period or design style. Even where a building is not listed, keeping the original windows is an easy way to retain sought-after period features and ensure that your property stays true to the appearance and style of its era. As stated in the Craftsmen Blog “A large part of a historic home’s character is held in its windows. Original historic windows were custom built to fit their frames and complement the design of the house in a way that no replacement can.”

3. You Might Not Get Planning Permission

Leading on from the importance of maintaining built heritage, another reason to never get replacement windows in your historic property is that you may not even be allowed to! Planning permission varies across the country; however, replacement windows for listed buildings are usually not allowed unless they are on a like for like basis, and this means expensive and unreliable slim line double glazing. Even if you do choose to go down the planning permission route for replacement windows, you could wait for months or even years to receive the correct permission that you need. It really is less hassle to restore your original windows where required and invest in discrete and effective secondary glazing.

4. New Windows are Difficult (Sometimes Impossible) to Maintain and Repair

Original windows are made to be repaired and restored, so if your windows are draughty, rattle in the window or are painted shut that doesn’t mean that you need to replace them. Window restoration specialists can carry out a host of maintenance works to get your original windows operating as good as new. According to Time Money a complete window overhaul typically runs £100 to £350 per window, and by the time you’re finished, the old windows may wind up nearly as efficient as brand new ones.

You can even check out our other blog posts on window restoration and repair to get you started, such as this one on How To Restore Your Original Windows .

5. You’ll Have Less Light

According to Double Hung Window Restoration , on average you get 15% less viewing area and therefore less light due to replacement windows being set inside the original window opening. And nobody wants a house with less light!

6. You’ll Be Paying Them Off For Years

Replacement windows may seem like the type of investment that will pay for itself, but is that really the case? The payback period for replacement windows can be anything from 40-60 years, according to Landmark Services or even up to 100 years according to Time Money ! Add this into the fact that the best guarantee that the WWF could find for replacement windows was just 40 years , then you start to see how replacement windows are not quite the sound investment that their often touted as.

7. You’ll Reduce the Value of Your Property

Added to this the reduction in property value you could be looking at if you replace the windows. Buyers of historic properties will pay top dollar for homes that are chock full of original features , and windows have a huge part to play in this, with the most important features that buyers look for being original floors and windows.

Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm ™ the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey.

Beating Plastic Waste in the Window Industry | Glaze & Save

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday was World Environment Day , and the theme was “Beat Plastic Pollution”. Without a doubt we are drowning in plastic pollution across the globe, and the window industry is a major contributor to that. But is doesn’t have to be this way. Not only can plastic products be greener, but they can also contribute to a reduction in plastic waste as a whole.

Over the past two decades the UK has become dependent on China for low cost recycling exportation to meet environmental targets, shipping 2.7million tonnes of plastics waste to China and Hong Kong since 2012, according to Greenpeace . But since the beginning of the year, China has no longer accepted foreign plastic waste, with the ban putting more pressure on the UK’s already over stretched recycling services, with a chronic shortages of capacity and the threat that some more hard to treat plastics will no longer be accepted for recycling .

This means that it is even more imperative for the UK to reduce plastic pollution.

There is a huge emphasis on food an retail sectors to reduce plastic consumption, however the largest consumer of plastic in the UK is the construction industry. It should therefore be no surprise that the construction industry is also the UK’s largest waste producer, accounting for more than fifty percent of the UK’s total waste output, according to Willmott Dixon Interiors.

Shockingly, around one third of waste from construction sites is packaging , comprised of recyclable materials such as timber, cardboard and plastic. Sadly much of this packaging is unnecessary and is sent to landfill, where it could be completely avoided.

The UK construction industry annually consumes more than 420 million tonnes of natural resources, of which an eye watering 60 million tonnes is wasted. According to the WWF :

“Of the resources used, more than 350 million tonnes are primary materials, 43 million tonnes are recycled materials, 22 million tonnes are secondary materials (e.g. industrial by-products) and 3 million tonnes are reclaimed for reuse. To produce 360 million tonnes of construction products, the industry requires 7.8 million tonnes of fuel (oil equivalent).”

As winners of the VIBES Award for Environmental Product , polycarbonate product InvisiTherm ™ seems like an unlikely environmental hero. However, we have demonstrated that plastic products can be green. We recycle over 95% of the waste that is produced by our installs and have achieved this from a very early stage in our inception. The plastic packaging we recycle is recycled by local processing units: there’s no shipping off the China for our plastic.

However, we also work to stop plastic waste at other points in the supply chain. We champion the retention of original windows as a means to halting the cycle of window replacement that we have become used to since the introduction of cheap UPVC windows. We see this as an unnecessary source of plastic waste.

The state of the UPVC window industry is such that the WWF UK commissioned a report in 2005 warning of the issues with UPVC windows in the environment :

"-a product that uses a non-renewable resource cannot be sustainable: oil makes up 43 per cent of the raw material required to make PVC;

-PVC windows generate 43 per cent more waste than timber windows: 82 per cent of total PVC waste goes to landfill, 15 per cent is incinerated. Only 3 per cent is recycled.

-PVC waste will rise to 6.4 million tonnes by 2020, when the capacity to recycle it will be a fifth of what will be required;

-it takes eight times more energy to manufacture a PVC window than an equivalent timber frame;

-throughout the use and disposal of the product, the overall environmental burden is significantly less for timber windows than for PVC windows; and

-hazardous chemicals are released into the environment during the incineration process of PVC."

The expected life span of a UPVC window is twenty years, although it is worth noting that many manufacturers will only offer a ten or fifteen year guarantee. The WWF reported that the average

UPVC window was disposed of after just 18 years. Compared with the lifespan of an original wood framed window (100 years plus) then it is easy to see just how much waste can be produced over the lifespan of each home that chooses to replace original windows with UPVC windows.

The WWF report also charted the difficulty some local councils have had with attempting to repair or maintain UPVC windows, explaining,

“The London Borough of Camden Council’s experience with PVC windows shows that they are “extremely difficult to repair when components are worn or damaged and often have to be replaced as a result of vandalism”. This experience is also shared by Manchester City Council and Guildford Borough Council. The material is also turned yellow and brittle by sunlight and can even develop hairline cracks. Once degraded in this way, PVC frames are impossible to repair.”

As fossil fuels become increasingly scarce, and recycling resources become increasingly stretched, it is important that we start to take a zero waste attitude towards our windows. Retaining and investing in original windows, while taking the time to maintain them properly can help lift some of the burden of plastic waste and plastic pollution from the UK.

Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm ™ the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey.

What you Need to Know About Secondary Glazing | Glaze & Save

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Secondary glazing can still be something of an unknown quantity, after all, so many traditional systems are bulky, unsafe and inefficient: it really gives secondary glazing a bad name! But it really is the best options for many properties, especially if you live in a listed building or in a conservation area. So that’s why we decided to put together this blog answering all of your secondary glazing questions.

Do I need planning permission?

InvisiTherm is completely demountable and removable, and is completely invisible from the outside and virtually invisible from the inside. This is usually enough to satisfy local conservation or planning departments; however we would always recommend checking with your local department first.

Okay, so how will it look on my windows?

InvisiTherm is virtually invisible: both through the glaze and within the frame. We colour match our systems to fit your window frames exactly, to make them even more discrete. If you are concerned we are always happy to introduce customers to our existing happy customers so they can view a nearby installation. We are called the invisible system: our customers are very happy with the discrete look, with over 70% of our customers reporting that their windows look better with InvisiTherm than before, giving the windows are shine like they have never seen before.

Great, so how much warmer will it make my property?

InvisiTherm reduces heat loss through single glazed windows by 63%. In unheated rooms this translates as an increase in temperature of five degrees centigrade.

Wow, and will it save me money on my energy bills?

Yup, InvisiTherm reduces energy bills by a minimum of 22.5% where the previous temperature is maintained.

And does it reduce noise pollution?

It does. InvisiTherm reduces noise by a minimum of 48%, with many customers reporting a reduction of 70-80%.

Will it reduce condensation on my windows?

Yes, in two ways. Firstly, InvisiTherm is a warm product that elevates the temperature of the glazed area, meaning that it is no longer a cold spot to attract condensation. Secondly, InvisiTherm holds half its weight in water, allowing it to absorb existing condensation and moisture in the surrounding area. This means that InvisiTherm effectively eradicates condensation, although properties with particularly bad condensation problems may take several weeks to see an improvement.

I’m worried about UV rays fading my home furnishings. Can you do anything about that?

Absolutely. InvisiTherm completely blocks ultraviolet rays through the glaze, eliminating fading of artwork, furniture, wallpaper, curtains and photographs. It also makes us the perfect choice for nursery windows, office windows and for use in shop fronts, museums, art galleries and anywhere else that requires UV protection.

I have working shutters, will I still be able to use them?

Yes you will. Our system is fully compatible with working shutters allowing you to benefit from the thermal capabilities of both. When our system is used with working shutters it will give a u-value of just 1.1: better performance than brand new replacement window units.

My windows are an odd shape/ curved at the top can you install on these?

Yes, our highly skilled team of installers love a challenge and will produce templates to allow the system to be cut into any shape. They can also form bespoke framing on site to precisely follow any curves.

What is the largest window you can install one system on?

The largest window that we can cover with one system would be 6100 x 2050mm. Should your window be larger than this, we aim to follow the original form of the window, lining up any framework to match the windows and colour matching to ensure that it blends into the background.

Where can I store the system, should I wish to remove it during warmer days?

Firstly our system stops 27% of the sun’s heat from coming into your home so if you do remove the system it is likely that you will be warmer.

However, should you wish to remove it, as standard we provide you with a cling film wrap that can be wrapped around the system to ensure it is protected, we can also provide bespoke storage bags and parking docks, depending on what best suits your needs.

Okay, this all sound great. When can you install in my property?

Lead time is currently 6 weeks for installation and a minimum of 12 weeks in the winter, so don’t delay if you want to feel the benefits asap!

Government Funding for Energy Efficient Windows | Glaze & Save

Thu, 24 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There are many funding options available from the Scottish Government to assist homeowners, private landlords and SMEs with the costs of making energy efficient improvements to their properties. We often get asked about these, and are always happy to help our customers navigate the maze of funding options and application process. So without further ado, here is our 2018 round up of Scottish Government funding available for energy efficiency measures, including secondary glazing.

H omeowners

Home Energy Scotland Loan

The Home Energy Scotland Loan is an interest free loan administered by the Energy Saving Trust that helps homeowners make energy and money saving improvements to their home.

All homeowners are eligible to apply, subject to a credit check. Funding is available for a range of energy efficiency improvements, including up to £4,500 for glazing and £500 for draught proofing.

To request an application form please speak to Home Energy Scotland free on 0808 808 2282.

HEEPS Equity Loan Scheme

Homeowners living in Perth & Kinross, Glasgow or Argyll & Bute council areas may be eligible for the HEEPS Equity Loan Scheme which is currently operating as a pilot scheme in these areas.

The HEEPS Equity Loan Scheme lets you borrow money against the value of your property with no ongoing repayments: you pay back what you’ve borrowed when you sell the property or when the last applicant dies.

You can use the loan for energy efficiency, renewable and repairs work. At least 55% of the costs of the work must be for energy efficiency improvements, and can include things like secondary glazing.

The most you can borrow is £40,000 - but you can't borrow more than 50% of your property's market value. You must also retain a minimum of 30% equity in your property.

To request an application form please speak to Home Energy Scotland free on 0808 808 2282.

Landlords

Home Energy Scotland Loan

The Home Energy Scotland Loan is also available to landlords, with some conditions. Landlords are able to apply for up to 3 properties which must be currently occupied by one or more tenants or have one or more tenants in place within 30 days of the loan having been paid.

The loan is only available to landlords who operate as “natural persons”. Businesses that own and rent domestic properties such as limited companies, charities, sole traders and partnerships are not eligible for funding under this scheme.

HEEPS Equity Loan Scheme

Certain private landlords are also eligible for the HEEPS Equity Loan Scheme pilot.

Private landlords with no more than two properties to rent that are in Council Tax bands A - C, or whose tenants receive qualifying benefits are eligible for the scheme. A landlord must be classed as a 'natural person' and cannot own more than two properties.

SMEs

Resource Efficient Scotland SME Loan

The SME Loan provides unsecured, interest free loans from £1,000 up to £100,000 for the installation of energy efficient measures such as lighting and heating upgrades, secondary glazing, insulation and more.

There is also a cashback element of 30% (up to a value of £10,000) for applicants.

Businesses, non-profit organisations and charities are all eligible for the fund. However, private landlords are not eligible.

Contact Resource Efficient Scotland on 0808 808 2268 for more information.

Information correct as of May 2018

4 Surprising Products to Protect you from the Sun | Glaze & Save

Mon, 14 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

While global warming may seem like a cruel joke during the average Scottish summer, it has certainly turned the world’s collective attention to the dangers of the sun. And while we all should know the basics of sun protection: large hats, tightly-woven clothing in dark colours, arms and legs covered, and plenty of sunscreen, in honour of Sun Awareness Week we thought we’d look at four surprising products that protect you from the sun.

1. Sun protective clothing

While most dark coloured and tightly woven clothing carries natural sun protection, it doesn’t always add up to the type of garment that pairs well with a hot sunny day. And while the jury is still out on the effectiveness of the UV bikini some element of UV protective clothing have shown to work, especially when applied to more sensible apparel items such as lightweight long-sleeved shirts and shorts. Many sun-protective clothing manufacturers infuse their fabric with the same physical sun blockers that we expect from sunscreen, such as titanium dioxide. While the sun-protective additives in this clothing definitely does not mean you can bin the sunscreen , for those who enjoy outdoor sports, or just want an added layer of protection, it may be a worthy option.

2. Sun protective laundry additives

If you’d rather stick to your current fashion choices but still fancy adding a little extra protective punch to your current wardrobe, could sun-protective laundry additives be the answer? UV protective laundry detergents such as Rit Sun Guard work by adding tiny white crystals to your clothing after one wash. The thinking here is that the crystals decrease the amount of light that penetrates the fabric of your clothing, hitting your skin. The additive can boost the UPF protection of a white cotton T-shirt from UPF 5 to UPF 30, blocking up to 96% of the sun’s rays .

3. UVP Parasols

Long the preserve of Victorian ladies and goths, the parasol is a fairly common sun-protection product that has a long and varied tradition. However, this is 2018 so the humble parasol has been given a tech upgrade. Combining the parasol with a sun blocking protective layer makes parasols even more effective at keeping you free from the sun. However, health professionals have warned that parasols alone will not protect you from the sun, particularly if you are very light skinned or live in a sunny climate. Experimental research conducted in Spain involved placing a UV sensor beneath a large beach umbrella. Although the umbrella absorbed most of the direct UV radiation from the sun (only 4% passed through), about 34% of the ‘diffuse’ radiation (reflected off surfaces or scattered by air molecules) from around the umbrella reached the area beneath it.

4. Secondary Glazing

Windows can admit a large amount of UV rays , particular older single glazed windows and double glazing from pre-2003. The UV rays can cause fading and aging damage to furnishings, artworks and artifacts, but it can also cause damage to your skin. While many traditional glass secondary glazing options offer UV protection, this often comes at the expense of other features such as fire-proofing or additional thermal qualities. Glaze & Save’s InvisiTherm™ is a bespoke magnetic secondary glazing system fabricated from Grade 1 polycarbonate with a UV protective filter built in as standard. This ultraviolet filter blocks over 99.9% of the sun’s harmful rays, eradicating fading, and minimizing exposure to the potentially harmful effects of the sun. This UV protection comes in addition to exception thermal benefits, noise reduction and even solar gain reduction of 27%, making InvisiTherm™ a great product for any weather.

Ten Hot Hacks to Save Energy this Sumer | Glaze & Save

Wed, 09 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

We may have turned the heating off for the year (or are we just being optimistic?) but that’s no reason not to continue reducing your energy consumption and laying down some groundwork for lower bills throughout the year. And with the money you’ll save on your energy bills, perhaps you can buy a few extra ice creams this summer, and who doesn’t love that?

So without further ado we bring you our 10 hot hacks to save energy this summer.

1. Use your windows to release heat and gain cooler air indoors.

Opening your windows at night and closing them first thing in the morning allows you to trap cooler air inside your home, meaning relying on fans and air conditioning units less.

2. Have a barbeque!

Utilisng alternative methods of cooking, such as outdoor barbeques, microwaves and convection ovens allow you to reduce the heat of cooking to a minimum, keeping your home cooler and avoiding the need for air conditioning or fans.

3. Use a ceiling fan instead of air conditioning.

Ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioners, and work to create a wind chill effect perfect for cooing down people rather than whole rooms. Use a combination of ceiling and oscillation fans, and make sure you turn your fan off when leaving a room, since it will not give any general room cooling benefit.

4. Take colder and shorter showers.

Not only are cool showers refreshing on hot summer days, but the lower temperatures save energy and the shorter amount of time spent under the jets saves water.

5. Spend more time outdoors!

Enjoying time in the garden, the park or if you’re really lucky, the beach all reduce the amount of time you spend indoors using energy. What better excuse that for a lazy afternoon in the sun!

6. Try not to overfill your fridge and freezer.

It’s tempting to pack your fridge and freezer with cold drinks and ice lollies for those hot summer days; however if your appliances don’t have room to allow cold air to circulate, they need to work harder to keep your food cold. Make sure your fridge has plenty of empty space and keep your freezer about three quarters full for maximum savings.

7. Turn off your tumble dryer.

Take advantage of the blue skies and dry weather by dumping the dryer and air drying your laundry instead. Not only can it save you loads on your energy bills, but it will make you laundry smell like fresh air without fabric softeners or other fragranced products. Double savings!

8. Consider getting secondary glazing.

Not just for winter, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing has amazing UV properties, completely eradicating fading from the sun while having heat rejection properties of 26%, meaning you can enjoy your home without it feeling like a greenhouse!

9. Close your curtains!

Yes it might seem counter intuitive to close your curtains on a lovely sunny day, but if you want to reduce the heat inside your home, closing curtains, shutters or blinds will block the sun’s rays leading to a cooler home.

10. Consider going solar.

Summer is the best time to get the most out of solar panels. Longer days and stronger sunshine means more energy generated and more time to actually utiitise the energy produced.

There you have it, ten hot hacks that will keep you cool as the temperature rises, all while saving you energy and money! Now get out there and enjoy the sunshine!

18 Quick Ways to Save Energy | Glaze & Save

Tue, 08 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Energy saving isn’t just a winter past time, it’s something to undertake all year round. So with that in mind we have 18 quick ways to save energy; some unusual, some bizarre, and some a gentle reminder of things you know you should already be doing. So without further ado let’s jump into 18 quick ways to save energy.

In the Bathroom

1. Get A-head while Showering: Power showers can be as energy inefficient as taking a bath. Now imagine that every day for every member of your family! Save water by investing in an energy efficient shower head to reduce the amount of water used in your shower by half.

2. Speedy Showers: As well as using an energy efficient shower head, spending one minute less in the shower each day will save up to £7 off your energy bills each year, per person . With a water meter this could save a further £12 off annual water and sewerage bills. If everyone in a four person family did this it would lead to a total saving of £80 a year.

3. (Don’t) Keep on Running: Don’t leave the tap running while you’re cleaning your teeth, shaving or washing. A running tap wastes more than six litres of water a minute.

4. Don’t Be a Drip: Get dripping taps repaired. A dripping tap can waste more than 5,500 litres of water a year.

In the Kitchen

5. Slow cooking: Utilise your microwave or slow cooker instead of using a conventional oven. Both are vastly more efficient than a conventional oven, with a microwave using about half as much energy as a normal oven, and a slow cooker can be up to 75% more efficient.

6. Say “hallo” to a new oven: Halogen ovens use 75% less electricity than conventional electric ovens . They also have up to a 50% faster cooking time than regular ovens so big savings are hot hot hot.

7. Put a Lid on It: Put lids on pots and pans to reduce cooking times.

8. Bowled Over: Use a bowl to wash up rather than a running tap and save £25 a year in energy bills .

9. Tea for Two: Only fill the kettle with the amount of water that you need to save water and energy .

10. Lighten the Load: Cutback your washing machine use by just one cycle per week to save money on your energy bills.

Radiators

11. Reflect, Reflect, Reflect: Install radiator reflectors behind the radiators in your home, particularly on external wall radiators, to help the radiator heat the room more effectively.

12. Take Down the Heat: Make even greater savings by turning down the radiators in rarely used rooms, and programming your heating controls to turn off the heating when you’re not at home.

13. Wait and Bleed: Bleed your radiators regularly to ensure they are working at maximum efficiency.

Windows

14. It’s Curtains for Energy Inefficiency: Make the most of the heat of the sun by keeping your curtains and blinds open during the day, but be sure the close them an hour before sunset to keep he heat trapped in the room.

15. Say it with Secondary: Installing InvisiTherm™ bespoke magnetic secondary glazing in your home could save you 22.5% on your energy bills while retaining your original windows.

Lighting

16. Love LED: Energy-saving light bulbs can help you cut your energy bills with LED light bulb costing around £1.71 to run per year. They could reduce your energy bills by an amazing £180 per year.

17. Lights Out: Switch off lights when not in use (basic but are you actually doing it?) and make sure you are using the right size and power bulb for the space .

Around the Home

18. Never Stop Learning: Grab a copy of our Home Energy Hacks guide for loads more hints, tips and tricks to reduce your energy consumption while keeping your home comfortable.

The Hidden Side of Fuel Poverty | Glaze & Save

Fri, 04 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Near the close of 2017, the University of Glasgow’s Dr Keith Baker remarked that current definitions of fuel poverty meant that even the Queen would find herself in fuel poverty such was the cost of heating her many empty castles. “A small number of householders who are not otherwise classified as poor are counted as being fuel poor because of the size of the properties they need to heat – technically, the Queen would be fuel poor in Scotland,” he explained in The Herald.

While his assertions caused some outcry, particularly given Her Majesty’s attempt to access funds from the State Poverty Fund which was brought to light in 2010 and refused on the grounds of it being “a PR disaster” , Dr Baker’s implication that stately home dwellers shivering in their mansions are somehow less worthy of the fuel poverty label is not something that is necessarily reconciled in the work that we do at Glaze & Save .

As Scotland’s largest independent magnetic secondary glazing company, we have the opportunity to work in some of the grandest and most awe inspiring buildings in Scotland. They also happen to be some of the coldest buildings in Scotland! It is from operating in these locales that we have frequently come across what we call the “hidden side of fuel poverty”: owners of historic buildings of some local or national interest who are living in fuel poverty due to many factors. Sometimes this is the size of the building; however equally as frequently it is down to the state of disrepair of the building or inefficient construction throughout.

“It’s a real risk to our built heritage”, states Dr Tanya Ewing, CEO of Glaze & Save. “Financially it’s crippling for the owners. Many of these people inherit the properties, and are often cash poor. They easily spend over 10% of their income on heating their properties. In fact, several of our customers reduce the number of rooms they live in over the winter to just two or three in an effort to minimise costs”.

There is, however, significant risk in allowing these properties to remain cold. Not only does the cold pose problems on its own, the lack of heat means that moisture is not adequately drawn out of these buildings. Over time this leads to degradation of the fabric of the building: crumbling walls, leaking roofs and rotten timber work. Furthermore, collections, artifacts or listed internal features become at risk.

At Glaze & Save we work to turn this process around. We install our VIBES Award-winning product InvisiTherm™ in heritage properties across Scotland, primarily to reduce heat loss and draughts and making the properties more energy efficient. In the past four years we have seen historic buildings that have been virtually uninhabitable be transformed into conformable, efficient and sometimes even profitable places, as stately homes and places of interest are able to stay open well into the winter, and previously unused rooms are open to the public. We have been lifting the burden of fuel costs and the cycle of degradation that occurs when these properties remain cold and damp.

“It goes without saying that fuel poverty is a greater issue in low income households and among vulnerable people, and naturally attention must be drawn to where the need is greatest. However, built heritage becomes a liability when the owners of historic properties experience such high fuel bills and repair costs”, explains Dr Ewing. “The landscape we love is at risk if we don’t treat the fuel poor in these buildings seriously”.

Ways to Make your Sash Windows Energy Efficient | Glaze & Save

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Sash windows are often an integral part of the historic character of your home. However, original windows can be extremely energy inefficient.

Sash windows have been designed in such a way that they can be dismantled for repair or the replacement of broken sash cords with relative ease. Unfortunately, many people do not realise this, and often think that replacement of the whole window is the only option when they run into difficulties with maintenance or enhancing energy efficiency. This is simply not the case.

Why retain sash windows?

Replacing sash windows not only affects the look and character of your building, it is also extremely expensive and potentially damaging to the structural integrity of the building itself.

On top of this, replacing original sash windows can be incredibly wasteful. The high-quality wood that forms the basis of original timer windows is extremely hard to come by these days, meaning that the replacement and eventual discarding of these frames would be an unnecessary waste.

Not only that, but plastic double glazing tends to only have a useful life of around twenty years or so. After this they often end up as landfill, consuming vast amounts of energy in their production to become waste. As we enter an era of ever-scarcer resources and climate uncertainty, reducing waste and energy consumption is of paramount importance.

So without further ado, let’s look at four simple things that you can do to make your sash windows for energy efficient.

1. Maintenance

Keeping your sash windows in a good state of repair not only ensures that they will last for years to come, but it will also make them more efficient. Ensuring that windows are well painted will reduce cold and damp in the window area, and attending to cracks will reduce draughts. Inspect your windows annually and be prepared to seek out the most common of problems:

· Cracked and flaky paintwork: counteract this by repainting every 5-8 years.

· Windows sticking: this can be due to the poor refitting of the staff bead about report or recording, which can easily be fixed. Alternatively, it may be due to a build-up of paint, which is easily removable.

· Look out for failing putty and broken or cracked panes of glass: these can be easily repaired.

· Broken cords

· Timber decay: minor repairs can be carried out by painting, more substantial repairs can be carried out by a qualified joiner.

2. Draught-Proofing

Did you know that the gaps around your sash windows can be the equivalent of an opening measuring a minimum of ten inches? Draughtproofing your sash windows is one of the most beneficial and cost effective ways to make your home more energy efficient, saving you from exorbitant heating bills and draughty, rattling windows.

Depending on the type of draughtproofing you choose, your payback is usually anything between five and twenty-five years. Luckily, Glaze & Save has InvisiSeal™ a unique liquid silicone draught-proofing product that dries like rubber and is virtually invisible. The payback can also be as low as three years, meaning you start to reap the rewards of energy efficiency much more quickly. Just to compare: it can take between 60 and 100 years for your double glazing to start saving you money! It really does pay to restore your beautiful windows and take advantage of new draught-proofing technologies.

3. Secondary Glazing

Heat can also be lost through the glass of your windows themselves, leading to cold spots and condensation. You can immediately tackle this with a pair of heavy curtains, which can cut heat loss by up to one third. Or go for Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™: our innovative bespoke magnetic glazing can be used in listed and historic buildings and cuts heat loss by 63%

Double glazing, on the other hand, ultimately means the loss of your original windows. This can be have serious repercussions for the character and charm of your home, particularly if you live in a historic or listed building and cannot obtain double glazing that adequately follows the original window pattern.

4. Shutters

Shutters are perhaps the most traditional of means to keep in heat at night, and making your sash windows more energy efficient. Sash windows were often made with accompanying shutters to retain heat and provide privacy in the evenings. Not only do original shutters look good, well-fitting shutters can perform as well as double glazing. However, the main issue with shutters is that they block out the light and are unsuitable for daytime use.

Helpful Hints when Buying a Listed Building | Glaze & Save

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Owning a listed building can be a privilege and a joy, but if you’re considering entering this sought-after area of property ownership, there are a few pitfalls and issues to avoid. That’s why we have put together these helpful hints to consider when buying a listed building. After all, no one wants to end up like the property developer who was fined £300,000 by the court for renovating his listed 16th century Welsh home. Ouch.

1. Consider your renovation plans

A ccording to House Simple one of the most important things you can do when considering a listed property is to take note of any major works that need to be carried out on the building and weigh up your chances of actually getting them done. Making any kind of change, even repairs, to a listed property is considerably more difficult that with a non-listed property. “You’ll need to seek permission from your local authority’s conservation officer before doing things like replacing windows and doors, removing internal walls and changing fireplaces.” That being said, minor like-for-like repairs don’t usually require consent.

You should also consider looking into why the building is listed in the first place: getting an understanding of what makes your building so special will help you avoid specific pitfalls when it comes to making plans for renovations. In Scotland you can find out the listing details for all listed buildings by using the Historic Environment Scotland portal .

2. Review the planning history

The next step would be to check that any works carried out by the current or previous owners have been carried out with the appropriate listed building consents. The Buying Solution has a stark warning for new would-be listed buildings owners;

“If the property on site does not correspond exactly with the plans on the Consents you, as the new owner, may be the one who has to reinstate any previous works. Beware of Enforcement action…You need to be aware that there is no time limit to when a local planning authority can require unauthorised alterations to be reversed. Consequently new owners can be required to remedy alterations made by previous owners. It goes without saying that you need to be very cautious if you suspect alterations have been made without consent.”

3. Get specialist insurance

Insurance is an oft-forgotten aspect of listed building home ownership, but due to the specific nature of repairs often required for listed buildings (and the generally higher cost) putting adequate specialist insurance in place is a must. ‘Expert advice at the start of the project is essential,’ says Alec Moore of specialist insurance brokers Weatherbys Hamilton . ‘Insurers can provide advice for the protection and security of existing buildings and possessions.’

4. Seek out a specialist

Before you purchase the property, seek out the advice of a surveyor who specializes in listed buildings, traditional buildings or conservation properties. “The wrong surveyor can give poor, inappropriate, and very costly advice,” warns Moneywise , “So have a survey by a building surveyor who specialises in historic buildings before buying”.

5. Extending a listed home

If you have particular aspirations for an extension on a listed property, it pays to speak to your local conservation officer beforehand, along with an architect who specializes in this type of work. If extending the building is a prerequisite for purchase, then the sooner you investigate your options the better. Real Homes points out that it is something of a myth that planning officer and conservation officers always prefer additions to listed buildings to blend seamlessly. Approved extensions may indeed be seamless, but designs that show a clear distinction between old and new – such as a minimalist glazed addition – are often preferred.

Bear in mind that it is usually easier to make additions to listed buildings than it is to demolish or change anything that already exists. As The Buying Solution points out “if you want to add an extension or indoor pool which doesn’t alter the main property it is likely to be easier than removing an original feature, however small, even if it’s a fireplace or internal wall.”

6. Consider the Maintenance

One of the main issues that often occurs with listed buildings is not so much an issue with the building fabric or construction itself, rather than the building owner’s poor understanding of how to maintain and care for the building. Be sure to take into consideration the maintenance of the building, and be aware of the time and cost that this may accrue. Homeward Legal points out that common issues , such as treating wooden features with inappropriate chemicals, or using cement to repair traditional brickwork can cause huge issues down the line for your property. It’s therefor imperative to understand the maintenance requirements of a listed property before you take the plunge with a purchase.

7. Be Prepared for the Cold

Most house sales take place in the summer, and purchasing a listed building is not different. However, listed buildings can be cold, damp and draughty in the winter so make sure you are going to be warm enough to survive the cold! As noted by The Buying Solution, a big issue with listed buildings is windows. “ Old windows can often leak like sieves and gaining consent for double glazing is usually not possible”. The only option for listed building owners is secondary glazing, and even that may require planning permission. A solution like InvisiTherm™ is suitable for listed buildings and does not require planning permission, so you can experience a warm home, without compromising the aesthetics of your property.

The Best Secondary Glazing System? | Glaze & Save

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you live in a listed building or conservation area, need to reduce noise pollution, or simply don’t want to purchase yet another set of new windows, the chances are you’re thinking about secondary glazing. And you’re definitely in the right place! But should you go for a fully installed secondary glazing option, or are you considering doing it yourself? Let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.

DIY

Many companies now offer DIY secondary glazing kits and you can find plenty of help online to take you through how to install it. The kits offered by companies are custom-made and contain instructions as well as a measuring guide.

The main benefit of these kits are how cheap they are: if cost is seriously a consideration, or you are looking for a quick stop-gap solution, then DIY kits can be great in a pinch. In fact, we have several customers who previously trialed DIY secondary glazing products to test the concept before coming to Glaze & Save for something more professional!

Most DIY secondary glazing kits are made of acrylic or Perspex, making them easy to cut and install. However, this comes at a cost: acrylic and Perspex secondary glazing is not fire retardant, which should be a major consideration for anyone relying on windows as a fire escape (for example, in upstairs bedroom).

The DIY nature of this type of secondary glazing also tends to mean that there is are no guarantees on the installation of the work. While this is not an issue for day to day living (unless it falls down!), it does mean that the work will not have any beneficial impact on your EPC rating or the value of your property.

Installed

Installed secondary glazing solutions tend to be more expensive that their DIY counterparts, for obvious reasons. You might also have a longer lead time to receiving your installation over purchasing a DIY secondary glazing kit directly and fitting it yourself. However, as the saying goes “good things come to those who wait”.

Installed secondary glazing solutions tend to have a guarantee on the installation as well as the systems themselves. This means that you have peace of mind that your systems will not fail you. InvisiTherm systems are guaranteed for 10 years, one of the longest guarantees on the market, and we also offer a one year installation guarantee. This means that installing InvisiTherm systems can increase your EPC rating to the same standard as double glazing.

InvisiTherm is also fire proof, meaning that it wont immediately go up in flames in the event of a fire. This means you can experience all of the convenience and benefits of magnetic secondary glazing without needing to sacrifice safety.

So there you have it: if you are looking for a cheap and quick fix solution, DIY secondary glazing could be right for you. However if you are looking for a fire safe and guaranteed product that will add value to your property, an installed solution is the way to go.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is not just for winter! Spruce up your windows this spring with our bespoke magnetic secondary glazing. Reduce noise, eradicate draughts and eliminate condensation this spring and enjoy a warmer, more energy efficient home in the winter. Contact us here to arrange your FREE no obligation survey today.

10 Things you can do to Reduce Condensation | Glaze & Save

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Condensation can be a real hassle, especially for those living in traditional buildings where air flow can become a problem. Condensation is moisture that forms on cold surfaces and where there is not much air movement. It shows up as damp walls, water streaming down windows and, in some cases, a musty smell. Dealing with it should be a priority, as condensation can cause rotten window frames and peeling wallpaper. You might also see patches of black mould near windows, in the corners of rooms, in or behind wardrobes: even on bedding and furniture. It often forms on cold or north facing walls which get less sun, and tends to be worse in winter.

We have written about condensation here and our successes in curing condensation in an Edinburgh listed flat , but what can you do to begin to tackle condensation today? Luckily we have nine tips for you to tackle the wet stuff, and set you on the path to a drier, warmer and healthier home.

1. Dry clothes outdoors

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a garden, but if you possibly can, dry your laundry outside. The moisture that comes from wet clothes needs to go somewhere, and over time this can accumulate on cold spots, creating damp patches or watery windows. If you cant dry your clothes outside, leave a window open, or use a dehumidifier.

2. Keep lids on pots and pans when cooking

This is something that many of us are guilty of, but leaving your pots and pans lidless while you cook not only wastes energy, it also contributes to condensation. Just like your wet clothes, the moisture from cooking needs to go somewhere! Keep the lids on your pots and pans when cooking and not only will you saving yourself some money on your energy bills, you’ll reduce the risk of condensation.

3. Close bathroom and kitchen doors when boiling kettles, taking showers, etc

Where moisture is inevitable, it’s important to trap it in a controlled manner. Boiling the kettle, or taking a bath or shower all create moisture that we can’t quite so easily put a lid on. So, wherever possible in these situations close the kitchen or bathroom door to contain the moisture and make it easier to deal with, rather than allowing it to travel throughout your home.

4. Use your extractor fans

It’s an easily forgotten bathroom or kitchen feature, but using extractor fans is key to wicking away the moisture create in situations like showering or boiling the kettle. This is particularly so where the room doesn’t have a window or any other means of ventilation.

5. Make sure furniture is at least 50mm away from walls to ensure air flow

Condensation occurs when moisture in the air finds a cold spot in a room. This is normally the windows, particularly single glazed windows; however, you can inadvertently create cold spots and stifle air flow by having your furniture pushed up again the walls. This stops air from being able to move freely, as well as creating cold areas behind pieces of furniture, making it the perfect place for condensation and subsequent mould. Ensure your furniture is at least 50mm from the walls to ensure the air flows freely around the room.

6. Use a dehumidifier

For properties housing large families, multiple pets, or simply hard to treat cold spots throughout the property, using a dehumidifier can take the moisture out of the air, leading to a drier home that is easier to heat. We often give dehumidifiers on loan to our customers who are shocked at the amount of moisture that comes from the air!

7. Ventilate your home

Using a dehumidifier is a great quick fix solution but it is no substitute for ensuring that your home has adequate ventilation. For those living in traditional buildings, ventilation was supposed to occur naturally through the building fabric and through chimneys. However with many chimneys being blocked for draught proofing and the wetter weather impacting on the breathability of traditional building materials, it may not be enough. That’s why it is worth investing in mechanical ventilation, particularly if you living in a large traditional home that is hard to treat and has multiple cold spots. Opening the windows will do in a pinch for smaller properties but it is not a long term solution!

8. Ensure your home is a stable temperature

A cold spot is air moisture’s best friend, and for that reason you need to eradicate them. Moisture is drawn to cold spots, which is why your windows are so often the place where condensation gathers: they're often the coldest spots in the house! Invest in temperature stabilizing secondary glazing, insulation, or for quicker fix solutions look to thermal wallpaper and paint additive to tackle your home’s cold spots.

9. Air Out Cupboards and Wardrobes

Airing out cupboards and wardrobes ensures that stale, moist air is regularly removed. For extra efficiency, dont overfill your wardrobes, as this will although the air to flow more freely.

10. Invest in secondary glazing to stop windows from being a cold spot

As we already mentioned, oftentimes in traditional buildings, the windows can be the coldest spot. This is especially true where the original single glazed windows are still intact. With an average U-Value of 5.5, a single glazed window is freezing! It’s no wonder that so many are streaky with water. Using InvisiTherm™ bespoke magnetic secondary glazing eradicates condensation by elevating the window area to a U-Value of 1.7: similar to your walls and on par with double glazing. This improvement in U-Value stops your windows from being quite so cold, making them an unattractive resting place for condensation.

Unlike other secondary or double glazing options, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm ™ can actually eradicate condensation from your windows. Call now on 01738 562068 to arrange your free no obligation survey, or email info@glazeandsave.co.uk for more information.

Exhibiting at Scotland Innovates | Glaze & Save

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Glaze & Save are pleased to announce that we will be exhibiting at Scotland Innovates tomorrow at the Glasgow Science Centre, with our CEO Dr. Tanya Ewing delivering breakout talks on low cost, high impact approaches to energy efficiency and our bespoke magnetic secondary glazing InvisiTherm™ throughout the day.

The Energy Saving Trust through the Scottish Government -funded sustainable energy supply chain programme has organised this event to generate interest in innovations in energy efficiency and renewables among Scottish buyers and suppliers in order to support the Scottish Government’s aim to decarbonize the country’s energy supply and reduce fuel poverty. These are obviously matters close to our hearts here at Glaze & Save, so we’re honoured to have been asked to exhibit and talk about our own innovations in energy efficiency.

6 Super Scottish Innovations to Watch Out For | Glaze & Save

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

British Science Week celebrates science, technology, engineering and maths, and all of the discoveries and innovations that arise from them. In Scotland, we have a vibrant science and innovation community, including Glaze & Save’s own CEO Tanya Ewing, who was formerly a British Female Inventor of the Year and holds an honorary PhD in Technology from Edinburgh Napier University for her innovative contributions to energy monitoring technology.

With that in mind, we thought what better way to celebrate British Science Week 2018 than to take a look at some of the most exciting innovations developing in Scotland now. From plastic-free packaging to solar-powered salt manufacturers to online developments, Scotland is teeming with innovative thinkers that are at the forefront of science and technology.

MindMate

MindMate is an online platform borne from co-founder Roger Arellano caring for his grandfather for seven years and experiencing the difficulties his grandfather faced while living with dementia. Teaming up with Patrick Renner and Susanne Mitschke, the graduates set up shop at the Enterprise Campus, and in 2016 won a place on the Techstars accelerator programme in New York .

MindMate already has over 500,000 users and has won twelve international awards for its innovation in supporting the older population with cognitive decline.

Isle of Skye Sea Salt Company

The Isle of Sky Sea Salt Company doesn’t let a thing like location get in the way of business. Isle of Sky Sea Salt is a multi-award winning product made entirely from the waters of Loch Snizort on the Isle of Skye. The salt is the first to be made on the Isle of Skye for 300 years, is the only sea salt made in the UK using just the sun and wind.

Using a combinations of poly-tunnels and humidity control, the Isle of Sky Sea Salt Company managed to dry out the waters of Loch Snizort on a site that is entirely devoid of power . The entirety of the drying process is accomplished using solar power.

pure LiFi

pure LiFi wants us to imagine a world where every light connects us with unprecedented data and bandwidth. A LiFi enabled device converts the beam of light into an electrical signal with the signal then being converted back into data. Incredibly, the device sends back data using invisible light. pureLiFi seeks to resolve the issue of diminishing wireless capacity occurring across the globe.

Professor Harald Haas demonstrated LiFi– or “light fidelity” – during a TED talk in 2011 , showing how LiFi can turn any LED into an access point for seonding and receiving data. He then went on to co-found pureLiFi as a spin-out from the University of Edinburgh. In 2016, the company launched their first LliFi-integrated light fitting.

sensewhere

sensewhere’s adwhere service develops indoor positioning software to overcome GPS blackspots , allowing venue owners and marketers to deliver relevant marketing and promotions to customers using precise location data combined with stored customer information. It is set to revolutionise digital marketing, particularly venue specific marketing.

ZoneFox

Starting off as a doctorate project at Edinburgh Napier University, ZoneFox has developed into a full cybersecurity company using augmented intelligence to help businesses protect their data. The augmented intelligence monitors who is accessing data in real time and indentifying patterns , removing the need for cybersecurity staff to manually go through log files and speeding up the time it takes to detect and deal with threats. ZoneFox looks to help businesses look at data protection and information security in a different way , that would make life easier for everyone, and be available to all businesses who need it.

CuanTec

CuanTec are a Scottish based blue biotech company making compostable, antimicrobial bioplastic from waste of the fisheries industry, providing an environmentally responsible alternative to polluting packaging.

The company started in January 2017 and based on its outstanding scientific knowledge and expertise it made the fantastic achievement of producing a food packaging film which is compostable and biodegradable – meaning that it will convert naturally into compost and will break down into natural by-products. This provides a real solution to the issue of the environmental impact of traditional petroleum-based plastics. It is antimicrobial, which means that it kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms – and the company has shown that this increases the shelf life of salmon steaks, thereby reducing waste. The company have currently embarked on a crowdfunding campaign to raise the money required to scale the product up commercially . And who knows, with several leading food manufacturers currently waiting to trial CuanTec’s packaging, we could see it hitting our supermarket shelves soon.

Inspiring Entrepreneurs - International Women's Day | Glaze & Save

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

International Women’s Day will always have a special place at Glaze & Save, given that we are headed up by former British Female Inventor of the Year and Top Scot for the Environment Dr Tanya Ewing. In that spirit, we wanted to take a look at just a few of the inspiring female entrepreneurs from the social enterprise sector, who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place.

1. Susan Aktemel

Susan Aktemel is a pioneering Scottish social entrepreneurs, launching Impact Arts in 1994 when the concept of social entrepreneurship was in its infancy. She continued to operate as the Chief Executive of Impact Arts for 18 years , taking it from sole trader to national charity. In 2014 Susan launched Homes4Good , Scotland’s first social enterprise letting agent.

2. Angela Ireland & Gabrielle Cluness

Angela Ireland and Gabrielle Cluness are the founders of MILK cafe in Glasgow’s vibrant and multicultural Govanhill. MILK café is at the centre of a social enterprise providing support, skills and training to female migrant, refugee and asylum seekers. As well as offering employability training and help with English language, the café also offers a range of classes and workshops for any woman to drop in and enjoy.

3. Sylvia Douglas

Sylvia Douglas is the founder and director of MsMissMrs a social engterprise that helps empower women and girls to move on from tough backgrounds. Having spent much of her teenage years in residential care and becoming a mum at just 15 , Sylvia has experienced first-hand the challenges that women can face finding opportunity in education and work. Since MsMissMrs was established in 2013, they have provided fully funded places for more than 200 girls and women on self-esteem and empowerment workshops. To support these activities, sells fun, quirky empowerment pants, with 3227 pairs sold and counting!

4. Deborah Whyte

Deborah Whyte is the community interest events management company Big Bright Star . Renowned for her experience in the in the social, public and charitable sectors and housing industry across the UK, Deborah operated Big Bright Star for many year before becoming Scotland’s first Social Enterprise, Event Management Company, focused exclusively on running events with a social purpose and creating positive social change. As well as running events that promote social change, Deborah creates opportunities by enabling individuals from underprivileged backgrounds and those with disabilities to operate and run events, gaining confidence, skills and experience.

5. Ashley Scotland

Ashley Scotland is the founder of Thriving Survivors , a unique training and support organisation that aims to empower, integrate and help to re-employ people who face barriers and social exclusion as a result of a traumatic event. Ashley’s own experience as a survivor of sexual and domestic abuse led her to realise that the resources and support she required for her own journey to recovery was not readily available. Thriving Survivors has gone on to secured three years’ core funding from the Scottish Government for its innovative programmes.

6. Debra Riddle

Debra Riddle founded Breadshare in 2011 to open up access to quality locally produced bread to her community. Breadshare champions using simple ingredients to create organic breads, including flour milled by RMR Milling in the Scottish Borders. Breadshare undertakes a number of activities including workshops for children and adults at its community hub in Portobello, and several sandwich shops in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

7. Hermine Makangu

Hermine Makangu is the founder of Mbikudi a social enterprise that supports children from low income backgrounds and ethnic minority women battling isolation, low self-esteem and depression through the sale of their natural organic range of hair and skin care products. They use hands-on group bonding activities bringing women together to produce natural organic body care products, recycled jewellery and also for social activities.

In addition, the main ingredients sourced from the African Farmers Corporative in Ghana which supports women’s empowerment and assists farmers in providing food and education for their families. https://mbikudi.co.uk/

8. Katrina McNab

Katrina McNab is the Chief Executive at the Pulteneytown People’s Project (PPP) since its establishment in 2003, where operations started with 1.5 staff members and a £10,000 budget. Today it employs 55 staff and has a turnover of over £750,000. The PPP delivers a variety of services across Caithness from housing support, to learning centres to a community centre. Katrina uncovered a passion for social policy on undertaking an Open University course at the age of 23, while raising two children. She also stood as an independent local councillor from 2004 to 2011.

9. Dana MacPhee

Dana MacPhee is the founder of the Uist Wool Mill , a social enterprise that spins local fleece into unusual yarns to supply weavers and craftspeople with the aim to revitalise the traditional island industry through creating employment , training and workspace using readily available local wool. Uist Wool has recently constructed the Wool Centre where skills, ideas, design and inspiration are shared by young and old, novices and experts, islanders and visitors alike, through training programmes, workshops and education.

6 Simple Ways to get your Home Ready for Spring | Glaze & Save

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

There’s still a bit of a chill in the air, but the days are definitely getting longer and the sun is peeking out just a little bit more, which means that spring is round the corner. Spring often signifies new beginnings and fresh starts, so there’s no better time to make sure your property is in tip top shape and ready the face the changing season. So without further ado, read on to find out our six simple ways to get your home ready for spring.

1. Clean Gutters

Gutters are an integral part of your home, and need to be tended to just as you would your garden! Controlling the flow of rainwater protects your roof, walls and landscape: especially since climate change is causing the Scottish weather to become even wetter! To effectively clean your gutters, remove as much debris as you can with your hands. Then use your garden hose to remove leftover mulch and dirt. The DIY Network also recommend that you "shove the hose into the downspout to power out of goose neck bends, making sure your downspouts channel water at least five feet from foundation walls".

2. Examine Roof Shingles & Tiles

Extreme weather over the winter can damage your roof, so now is the time to examine the roof for missing shingles or tiles. Summer sun can also be hazardous to roofs, so according to HGTV “Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys need to be checked and repaired by a qualified roofer.”

3. Check Your HVAC Systems

Spring is one of the most important times to review your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Freshhome.com advises that you ensure air filters have been replaced or cleaned and stock up on new air filters if you use disposable one. Check your air conditioner before the summer to ensure it is in good working order.

4. Check Outside Taps

A harsh winter can wreak havoc on outside taps, with freezing damage high on the list of possible issues. To test whether your outdoor tap is in working condition turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced.

5. Get Round to Repairing

Take the cue from a new season to get to work carrying out all of the niggling repair work that you have put off over the winter. Whether it’s rehanging pictures , painting a scuffed wall, repairing furniture or fixing an askew curtain rail, there are a myriad of miniature jobs that we always put off. The spring time is the perfect time to get them up to scratch.

6. Inspect Your Windows

As the sun starts to shine, attention will no doubt turn to your windows. While many people automatically think that the time to address issues of thermal efficiency is the winter, installing, restoring and repairing in the spring time makes much more sense as the longer days and more stable conditions allow for an easier time of it. Examine your windows for damage over the winter: damp, draughts, stuck sashes, etc. Check out our blogs on caring for and restoring your windows for more tips on window maintenance. Draught proofing is better done in the warmer months too, and can help keep your home cooler!

Effects of Climate Change on Traditional Buildings | Glaze & Save

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Scotland has always experienced extreme weather, and many historic buildings were built to withstand it. However, as the effects of climate change are beginning to be felt more prevalently in Scotland, many issues are arising that put this built heritage at risk. In a recent report from Historic Environment Scotland it was found that many of the 360 buildings owned by HES at risk from the effects of climate change, including landmark Scottish castles and chapels amongst 28 sites listed as at “very high risk” from flooding, coastal erosion and slope instability, with a further 160 sites at “high risk .

HES undertook the study as the first step in an ongoing and wide reaching exercise to “understand, monitor and manage environmental risk to our Estate. This study is part of ongoing work to develop best practice and integrate climate change actions into our operations, in line with the Public Bodies Duties under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 and Climate Ready Scotland: Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme."

As climate change continues to make Scotland a wetter place, rainfall has a critical impact on the rate of decay of sandstone in traditional buildings. Greater levels of rainfall lead to saturate the stone, since there are fewer dry periods where the stonework could be dried out, but may also, according to the University of Glasgow “accelerate the decay process by affecting the growth and loss of biological and pollutant crusts on building stonework. This leads to sandstone discolouration, spalling (i.e., flaking), and exposure of the underlying face, with further weakening to the structural integrity.”

It is an issue that has gained increasing prominence over the last several years, with previous warnings that increased rain fall of 20% over the last 50 years has damaged the fabric of historic buildings. A 2016 survey found that nearly three quarters of buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town thoroughfares were in need of repair alone.

A HES Short Guide on Climate Change Adaptation for Traditional Buildings gives an even more detailed look at the potential effects of climate change on traditional buildings from warmer winters causing increased moss growth and insect infestations, to high winds causing collapse of unstable masonry, to rising ground water levels causing dampness and mould growth. As noted in the guide, “traditional buildings, in general those of solid wall construction built before 1919, are generally resilient, but can be vulnerable to greater stress if they have been altered or neglected. Where older structures have not been well maintained, extremes of wind and rain will accelerate the decay of worn or weakened elements resulting in gradual or sometimes catastrophic failure. Continued neglect can lead to structural movement and eventual failure; this is seen occasionally in the collapse of chimney stacks or the failure of large sections of masonry such as gable ends”.

So what can the owners and managers of traditional buildings do to ensure the continued longevity of their properties? One of the most important things traditional building owners can do is to invest in breathable construction materials in order to allow for the continued permeability of water through the building structure. As stated in the guide “The principles of breathable construction, using natural materials such as stone, lime and timber, have proved to be enduring and effective in traditional construction, provided the building is maintained. The ability of traditional buildings to allow water vapour transfer through the building envelope helps ensure the structure remains in a dry and stable condition and the internal environment is healthy for both the fabric and occupants…The use of incompatible materials such as cement renders and impervious paints, used externally or internally, can disrupt the necessary movement of moisture and further impede the drying process.”

The investment in breathable contrstruction materials can be complemented by ensuring that all avenues of passive ventilation are utilized. “Where possible, consideration should be given to the re-instatement of passive measures in traditional buildings. This includes ensuring that ventilation grilles are not blocked, chimney flues are kept open and chimney balloons removed or deflated during the summer months. In many cases passive ventilation features were common in domestic buildings such as tenement stairwells, where modest ventilation through small vents in the apex of the lightwell kept condensation down and ensured a degree of fresh air to otherwise unventilated areas”.

However, where passive ventilation is not adequate or possible, investment should be made in mechanical ventilation.

Ensuring that properties are adequately draught proofed can also help defend again driving rain and condensation issues. Although often carried out for energy efficiency purposes, the benefit of draught proofing in keeping water out of traditional buildings cannot be understated.

It is also important to keep original windows in good condition, and ensure that draughty, thermally inefficient and damp windows are attended to, and possibly enhanced with secondary glazing. By taking proactive steps to reduce the effects of climate change, we can retain our traditional buildings and built heritage for years to come.

Falling in Love with your Traditional Property | Glaze & Save

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Love is in the air today; but for us, we feel the love every day. After all our motto is “making you fall in love with your windows again”! So since its Valentine’s Day, we decided to tell you fourteen fabulous ways to fall in love with your traditional property again. Don’t be tempted away from the home you’ve loved for years: putting into practice a few tips and tricks will have you head over heels all over again.

1. Connect with your surroundings

Are you in your first property? Or perhaps you are downsizing. Whatever the situation, if you are not in your self-described “dream home”, it can be difficult to make a connection with your surroundings. However, as Houzz states, “having a "forever home" just isn't practical for many of us. But even if you're not sure how long you'll stay in one place, you can still have a forever connection with your house by incorporating smaller-scale dreams, embracing childhood memories and even welcoming pets into your home.”

2. Declutter and organize

Stacks of paperwork, jam-packed cupboards and barely an inch of clear floorspace to be seen: we’ve all been there, especially if we have been in our homes for some time. After all, there is a reason Marie Kondo’s Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up was a bestseller around the globe! Clutter and disorganization can feel oppressive and overwhelming, and you may well just want to take it out on your home! Clearing out your space will not only make it feel bigger, add value to your home (yes really!) and create a general sense of calm, but an article from The Guardian also posits that embracing a more minimalist way of living may well change your life!

3. Tackle draughts

Nothing makes a house feel less like a home than unwelcome draughts. Draught proofing is one of the most instantly effective and cheapest ways of making your home more energy efficient while increasing your comfort level.

4. Spruce up your exterior

Last week we talked about ways to increase the value of your listed property where we told you that you could make a staggering £55,000 on the value of the average UK home just by embracing the concept of kerb appeal. But not only does kerb appeal make financial sense, it will also make you feel happier with your smartened up home.

5. Embrace your own style

Apartment Therapy says a sure fire way to fall in love with your home is to embrace your own style. Regardless of conventional wisdom, traditional properties lend themselves well to a variety of different interior styles. So no matter if it’s a little bit wacky, colours clashing or an unusual focal point, if it makes you happy, it’s something to love and belongs in your home.

6. Learn about your home’s history

One of the best things about living in a traditional property is knowing that it comes with potentially hundreds of years of history; a fascinating resource and perfect way to appreciate the unique properties of your historic home. So whether you have a l isted building that is inhabited by ghosts , frequented by colourful or famous characters, or you unearth a site of historical importance, digging up your property’s past is a great way to appreciate just how special a place it really is. And it’s yours!

7. Attend to cold spots for a cosier home

Tackling cold spots in your home can resolve a multitude of issues, from damp and condensation to generally feeling cold. Curb the cold spots and prepare to fall in love with your home again! One of the biggest cold areas in the home is your windows, especially if you have original single glazed windows. Investing in a secondary glazing solution such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can reduce heat loss through windows by 63% while completely eradicating condensation. And best of all, your original windows remain completely in tact. That’s why we make people fall in love with their homes again!

So there you have it, seven ways to put the spark back into your relationship with your home, perfect advice for this Valentine’s Day. Remember, if you need any assistance in feeling the love for your home right now, then contact Glaze & Save for a free survey for our innovative bespoke magnetic secondary glazing: thermally efficient, noise reducing and not too shabby to look at either. It must be love! www.glazeandsave.co.uk/contact

Increasing the Value of your Listed Building | Glaze & Save

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Although it’s true that listed properties often fetch more on the market than their new build counterparts, there are still works you can undertake to increase the value of your listed building without falling foul of your local planning department or conservation office. We have put together seven simple ways to increase the value of your listed building, adding thousands onto it’s worth whether you intend on selling or just want the satisfaction of knowing you’re making your listed property work for you.

1. Fix Structural Problems

Before commencing with any other works, the most basic way to increase the value of your listed building is to address and remedy any structural problems. This should be first on your list before even considering any cosmetic or aesthetic changes. There are a variety of different structural issues that could have a negative effect on the value of your property, all of which should be addressed before commencing further building work, as solid building work (and the value of it) is dependent on having a stable foundation . According to Homebuilding.co.uk examples of structural defects include:

· a sagging or leaking roof ;

· rising damp ;

· structural cracks to walls;

· bowing walls;

· rotten joists or roof timbers;

· insect infestation;

· missing or broken roof tiles;

· an unstable chimney stack ;

· a collapsed floor/slab.

Almost all structural defects (and certainly the ones listed above) can be repaired, but it is likely to come in as the most expensive, time consuming and likely stressful renovations required for your home: especially where you have planning and conservation considerations.

As noted in Homebuilding.co.uk “as repairing any of these problems can be very disruptive, it is essential to identify them and get the work completed in the early phases of a project, ideally before you move in.”

2. Add Energy Efficient Innovations throughout the Property

Research released by the UK Government in 2014 showed that making energy saving improvements to your property could increase its value by 14 per cent on average and in some cases could increase your property value by up to a whopping 38%. Making upgrades to cavity wall insulation, installing solar panels, and investing in energy efficient glazing solutions Insulating cavity walls, upgrading double glazing, are all improvements that were said to improve a property’s energy efficiency rating, adding more than £16,000 on average to the sale price of a property. It really does pay to go green!

3. Declutter and Clean!

We all like our own personal nik naks, and a highly decorated, traditional finish can look great in some listed properties, but for the majority of homes a more minimal approach is the way forward. In an article in the Express , most estate agents said a minimalist approach to decor leads to homes selling for more – and 38 per cent insist it increases the price every time. Property expert Kate Faulkner said: “Freeing up space and de-personalising a home helps create a blank canvas and buyers can better imagine themselves living there. A cluttered property will look smaller and so buyers are less likely to offer the full price.” Another reason for a bit of spring cleaning!

4. Invest in adequate draught proofing

There’s little worse than a draughty home, and listed buildings have something of a bad rep for being particularly breezy. While a certain amount of air movement in your listed building is desirable (and even necessary), uncontrolled draughts can really impact on the value of your home. It also doesn’t need to be expensive or require any planning permission. Try simple decorator’s caulk on cracks and small gaps in walls and skirting boards, and invest in a non-invasive draught proofing solution like InvisiSeal™ to tackle windows and exit doors without routering out any original wood and causing potential future damage. As Never Paint Again states , “If selling your house, it’s not just about how big or small the place is, or what it looks like, it’s what it FEELS like.”

5. Add Central Heating

Following on from the above, increasing the value of your listed building is not just about how it looks, but how it feels. One of the best ways you can make your home feel warmer, and therefore more inviting is to invest in your central heating system. Adding or updating central heating will cost several thousand pounds, but the return on increased value always outweighs this. In fact, it’s considered essential for most buyers and mortgage valuers.

According to Homebuilder.co.uk you should also consider your existing boiler in your central heating upgrade. “If the existing boiler is in reasonable working order and has adequate output for the heat requirement of the building, always try to make use of it with the exception of boilers that draw their air intake from inside the house. If the boiler has sufficient capacity, you could add new radiators and a heated towel rail, or underfloor heating to the existing system.”

6. Increase Your Kerb Appeal

Did you know that nearly a third of Brits are prepared to pay up to 25% more for a house, up to a whopping £55,000 based on the average house British house price as of June 2017, for a fresh lick of paint and a well-kept garden? According to House Beautiful savvy homeowners can drastically increase the value of their home all thanks to the kerb appeal phenomenon.

According to House Beautiful , the top 5 exterior must haves are:

· A well-kept garden

· Well-kept clean windows and frames

· Fresh paintwork in neutral colours

· Front porch

· Stylish lighting

7. Retain your original windows

While double glazing may have a positive effect on unlisted properties at the lower end of the market, in higher value properties and listed properties in particular, aesthetics become more important and play an integral part in raising the value of your listed home. According to Homebuilding.co.uk “a premium can be placed on a property that still has its original period windows, providing they are intact and functioning well.” Instead of running the risk of the planning department by replacing the existing windows, consider using a bespoke and discrete secondary glazing system like InvisiTherm™ , which turns your single glazed windows into double glazing without compromising your existing windows, allowing you to enjoy the aesthetics and heritage of your original windows while experiencing the thermal comfort and energy efficiency benefits of double glazing. Check out our blog on 5 Top Tips for Installing Secondary Glazing in Listed Buildings for more information.

At Glaze & Save we’re happy to give you the advice you need to install the best magnetic secondary glazing and draught proofing in your home or business. Visit our website at www.glazeandsave.co.uk or give us a call on 01738 562068 to arrange a free survey.

Window Restoration in Listed Buildings | Glaze & Save

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Living in a listed building can be both a privilege and a joy to the occupants; whether it be for a passion for preserving built heritage or simply the enjoyment of living in beautiful surroundings. However, ownership and management of listed buildings comes with responsibilities, some of which can feel unnecessarily constraining as evermore hi tech solutions and additions are developed for our homes but may not necessarily be appropriate for listed buildings.

In no area of the home is this more true than with windows. The windows in listed buildings can be something of a mine field, where frustrated home owners may feel they are forced to choose between the building conservation and efficiency. That’s why we’ve decided to put together this short guide to renovation and replacement of windows in listed buildings, along with looking at other window options for the listed building owner to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about your windows.

Listing & Legislation

While 1882 saw the first legislation protecting historic buildings come into play in the UK, Scotland did not begin listing buildings in earnest until after 1945 , with a vast number of listed buildings being listed by the 1970s. A listed building in the United Kingdom is a building which has been placed on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. There are just under 500,000 buildings in the UK to which this applies. The relevant Scottish legislation is the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997 .

Although every council area will have different guidelines and rules regarding the specific treatment of listed buildings in their council area, generally listed building status means that the building may not be demolished, extended or altered without special permission from the local planning authority (who typically consult the relevant central government agency, particularly for significant alterations to the more notable listed buildings). Exemption is provided for some church buildings in current use for worship, although in such cases the church organisation operates its own permissions procedure.

In Scotland, there are three categories of listing :

· Category A: Buildings of national or international importance, either architectural or historic, or fine little-altered examples of some particular period, style or building type;

· Category B: Buildings of regional or more than local importance, or major examples of some particular period, style or building type which may have been altered;

· Category C: Buildings of local importance, lesser examples of any period, style, or building type, as originally constructed or moderately altered; and simple traditional buildings which group well with others in categories A and B.

The extent to which you can amend or alter your listed building will depend on your local planning department and/or conservation office guidelines, as well as the category of listing that your building falls into.

Restoration

According to Historic England , historic windows of interest should be retained wherever possible using careful matching repair, with complete replacement being a rare last resort.

Generally, in relation to Category B listed buildings , the following restoration work can be carried out. However it is important to always check with your local authority planning department before proceeding with any work on a listed building.

· Existing windows can ordinarily be draught proofed, however be aware of draught proofing that involves invasive treatments such as routering out the frame to install brushes;

· Existing window frames can usually be repaired, depending on the nature and extent of the repair;

· Replacement single glazing is often permitted, where glazing is of a similar thickness to the existing glass.

· Installation of internal ironmongery for security is usually permitted.

Replacement

Replacement of original windows should really be seen as a last resort, and naturally, conservation bodies are often keen to avoid the unnecessary replacement of original widows at all costs. This is due to a number of factors:

· Replacement complete new windows will require planning permission;

· If planning permission is granted, the replacement windows will usually need to be on a like for like basis, which is extremely expensive and utilises slim profile double glazing units, which have been called into question by prominent figures in the fenestration industry for being mis-sold and failing to meet European Union safety standards;

· Opting for replacement windows creates waste and destroys built heritage;

· Replacement windows may cause structural issues to the property.

Replacing original windows in a listed building will usually always require listed building consent, and will require to be “like for like”.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is a great option for those who want to, or have no choice but to, keep their original windows. Historic England defines secondary glazing as thus :

Secondary glazing is a fully independent window system installed to the room side of existing windows. The original windows remain in position in their original unaltered form…Fixed forms of secondary glazing are designed to be removed in warmer months when the thermal benefits are not required.

Our blog post “ 5 Top Tips for Installing Secondary Glazing in Listed Buildings ” gives some great information and advice in greater detail, but perhaps the most important aspect of installing secondary glazing in a listed building (aside from clarifying with your local planning department whether you require planning permission) is to ensure that your secondary glazing choice works with your existing aesthetics and surroundings while solving all of the problems that you experience with the windows in your home.

Living in a listed building can mean that the interior of the building is also protected, and therefore any secondary glazing option you choose not only needs to be discrete, but also works with any original shutters and ironmongery. These aesthetic considerations need to be balanced with performance.

Living or working in a listed building often comes with a barrage of unique problems relating to the windows: freezing cold in the winter, roasting hot in the summer, uncomfortable draughts and even the concern that the sun’s glare will fade furnishings, artworks and artifacts in your property. The initial low cost of glass secondary glazing can be quickly negated if you have several issues that you want to address: add safety glass, UV protection and enhanced thermal efficiency to a basic glass secondary glazing product and all of a sudden it looks much less cost effective.

So if you have multiple issues, make sure you consider secondary glazing that addresses all of those issues. We like to call InvisiTherm™ the “all in one window solution” because the unique polycarbonate tackles noise, thermal efficiency, UV protection, fading, draughts and condensation, all as standard and while being completely fire retardant.

Further Advice

Further advice on the restoration, repair and replacement of original windows in listed buildings and conservation can be found at Historic Environment Scotland.

Scottish Charities for Listed Building Lovers | Glaze & Save

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

It’s Burns’ Night so what better time to celebrate all things Scottish than the annual haggis-fest that commemorates the writings of our premiere bard? But you know us at Glaze & Save, it is always all about our passion for listed buildings, so we thought we’d give Rabbie the night off and celebrate the souls who pour their passion into keeping Scotland’s built heritage alive. Since Burns’ himself was always keen to shine a light on those less well known than himself, we’re sure he’ll be perfectly fine with this slight deviation.

So without further ado, here is just a few of the bodies working to preserve listed buildings and the charm, character and heritage of the cities and town of Scotland.

1. Glasgow City Heritage Trust

http://www.glasgowheritage.org.uk/

Glasgow City Heritage Trust (GCHT) is an independent charitable organisation established in 2007, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Glasgow’s unique architecture and built environment. Curious Weegies can visit the Trust’s Merchant City headquarters where you can obtain information and advice about building history, maintenance and repair, as well as take in some interesting displays. The Trust also runs regular member talks and events, and CPDs. A must for anyone living in Scotland’s biggest city.

2. Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) Scotland

https://www.spab.org.uk/about-us/spab-scotland

SPAB Scotland is a semi-autonomous group from the main SPAB body, and is dedicated to educating, advising and campaigning for building conservation. SPAB was founded in 1877 by William Morris, with the Scottish enclave forming in 1995. SPAB Scotland draws on Scotland’s own unique architecture, building traditions and property laws to form an active organisation for anyone passionate about preserving the built environment.

3. Scottish Historic Buildings Trust

http://www.shbt.org.uk/

Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is a charity that secures the future of under-used historic buildings across Scotland by expertly restoring them for the nation and finding new uses that can regenerate local communities and the historic environment. Over the past thirty years the SHBT have restored twenty buildings to community use, including 16th century work spaces, Georgian country piles and Greek-revival town halls. The SHBT offer out their skills and advice to other organisations and individuals such as trusts, community groups or building owners to help them to develop their own historic building projects.

4. PAS

https://www.pas.org.uk/about-us/

Pas, formerly Planning Advice Scotland, is a charity operating across the whole of Scotland and offering a wide range of services, from planning advice and mentoring, to engagement with local planning authorities, to tailored training and events for a wide variety of people all joined by an interest in the planning environment in their local communities.

5. Edinburgh World Heritage

http://www.ewht.org.uk/

Edinburgh World Heritage has the aim of aim ensuring that Edinburgh’s World Heritage status is of benefit to all residents of Edinburgh and Scotland as a whole. EWHT carries out a multitude of activities, including the conservation of historic buildings, delivering improvements and engaging directly with the residents of Edinburgh. Perhaps most uniquely, the EWHT uses the Old and New Towns of the Edinburgh World Heritage site to provide a unique learning environment, providing information and lesson plans to teach the importance of our built heritage to the next generation.

Make Energy Efficiency your New Year's Resolution | Glaze & Save

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Today is Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day ; that’s right, the 17th of January is officially the day where most of us pack in our promises of being perfect people in 2018 and go back to our old ways. While we’re not here to tell you to go to the gym or start cooking gourmet meals seven nights a week, we would like to encourage you to keep your New Year’s resolution to be more energy efficient. After all, we spend 80-90% of our time indoors and 100% of our time here on planet earth, so focusing your resolution on energy efficiency will give you the most bang for your willpower buck.

1. Increase the value of your home

What if there was a way to increase the value of your home that didn’t involve shelling out tens of thousands of pounds on a new conservatory or a loft conversion? Save yourself the headache of building or extending your property to increase its value, and invest some of the cash and time into energy efficiency measures. This Is Money reports that the energy efficiency measures could add 16% onto the value of your home, and could even help you sell your home in the first place. Ed Mead, at Douglas & Gordon estate agency, says: ‘Green measures are starting to have an effect, especially if buyers are torn between two similar houses.’

2. Improve the quality of the air in your home

There’s a good chance that your indoor air quality is contributing to allergies , asthma, and even the spread of the cold and flu. Consider the moisture that is expelled into a room by its inhabitants, along with appliances such as kettles and irons. Add to that the pollutants that are expelled by everything from microwaves to carpets to air freshener and you have a potentially unhealthy mix. Investing in energy efficient mechanical ventilation not only reduces your energy consumption, but it also ensures that your home experiences the correct number of air changes to keep the air fresh without becoming draughty. Plus fresh air takes less energy to heat than air which is saturated with moisture and pollutants!

3. Save money

It’s surely on everyone’s New Year’s Resolution list to save a little bit of money. And it goes without saying that if you use less energy, it will cost you less money! The BBC reported back in 2011 that the average home could save £280 per year, or around 20% of their annual energy bills through employing some basic energy efficiency measures. Fancy saving a bit more? Several households shared their stories in The Guardian in 2016 about slashing their energy bills, with the energy bills for one family’s three bedroom house costing just £530 per year, all through adopting stringent energy efficiency measures. How much could you save?

4. Improve the comfort of your home

Home comfort and energy efficiency are two peas in a pod. Whether you find yourself shivering over your morning coffee in a house that takes two hours to heat up; toss and turn at night in a hot bedroom while the thermostat is turned up high; or can’t enjoy your favourite telly programme because of a draught that insists on catching the back of your neck: energy inefficient behaviours cause us to be uncomfortable in our homes while paying through the nose for the privilege! Improving the comfort out your home by adopting some energy efficient measures could be as simple as carrying out a few DIY jobs around the house. RESNET, the Residential Energy Services Network have some great tips on the types of tasks you can get to work on to improve the thermal comfort of your home.

5. Contribute to a greener society

Fossil fuels provide 66% of the world’s electricity output and 95% of the world’s overall energy demands . Burning these fuels leads to an accumulation of carbon dioxide in the air, which is a driving force behind climate change. These resources are also finite, with scarcity looming and increased destabilisation of many oil producing areas. This situation cannot continue. By making a commitment to become more energy efficient, your actions reduce the demand for fossil fuels and decrease emissions, slowing climate change and creating a better environment for future generations. While your actions as an individual may seem insignificant, they are part of an overall trend to become more resource efficient and greener.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm ™ reduces heat loss through windows by 63%, slashing heating bills by 22.5%, all without harming your original windows. Find out more about our award winning, virtually invisible secondary glazing systems by calling us on 01738 562 068 or email us here.

15 Ways to Save Money at Home this New Year | Glaze & Save

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Christmas and the New Year has been and gone, and while we love the festivities, it certainly leaves us all with emptier pockets for the rest of January. That’s why we decided to put together a handy list of 15 savvy ways to keep a few more pennies in your pocket by making some simple swaps and changes in your own home. Try out these tips and you could save hundreds of pounds for the year ahead, which is a perfect way to kick off 2018.

1. Switch Energy Suppliers

A new year calls for a new energy supplier! Did you know in 2016 research carried out by the UK government it was found that over half of all households could save at least £200 per year by simply switching their energy supplier?

If you need some advice on finding an ethical energy supplier then check out our blog post on finding an ethical energy supplier here .

2. Seek Out Second Hand

It’s common to want to spruce up your surroundings at the beginning of the year, but instead of shelling out for new furniture and fixtures, it’s worth checking out your local Freecycle and Freegle before you hit the January sales. Not only will you be saving yourself some cash, you will also be creating less waste and operating in a more resource efficient and sustainable manner. What a great way to start the year!

3. Recycle old DVDs, CDs and electronic goods

Whether your musical collection has been completely digitized, or you’ve just seen that bad movie too many times, we all have piles of DVDs, CDs and even electronic goods such as old mobile phones cluttering up our homes. Don’t chuck them out! Reduce waste while making yourself a bit of spare cash by sending your DVDs and CDs to a service such as Music Magpie or drop your electronics into your local CEX .

4. Draughtproof thoroughly

It’s easy to overlook the basics, such as draught proofing, but government research has shown that around 25% of all heat lost from homes is due to draughts. So whether you are investing in state of the art draught proofing products such as Glaze & Save InvisiSeal™, or simply taking the time to apply decorators caulk to any cracks in walls and around electrical sockets, it pays to invest in draught proofing.

5. Shop Around for the Cheapest Household Insurance

Taking some time to switch your home insurance could save you hundreds of pounds, while ensuring that you have the right level of cover for your valuables. Get the best advice for the right insurance for you from the Money Advice Service.

6. Use a Timer with Your Thermostat

Martin Lewis of Money Saving Expert recently changed his tune regarding the most cost effective way for us to keep our homes warm, now recommending that we use a timer in conjunction with our thermostat in order to keep our homes toasty. In a recent article in The Sun , one woman claimed that Martin’s advice helped her save £400 per year!

7. Invest in Secondary Glazing

Did you know that you can lose us to 30% of the heat of your home through your windows? If you live in listed building or in a conservation area, double glazing or other replacement windows are often not an option. But there is no need to suffer in the cold. Secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can reduce heat loss through your windows by 63%, without the need for planning permissions: a perfect 2018 upgrade for your inefficient windows.

8. Get Your Boiler Serviced

A boiler service is an often-overlooked winter essential: but investing £100-£150 for a full service now could save you hundreds, if no thousands of pounds later. A routine service will treat small problems before they become bigger and more expensive problems and save you from a painful and uncomfortable mod-winter boiler failure.

9. Use Radiator Reflector Panels

Radiators are notoriously inefficient, with a vast amount of their generated heat being absorbed by the wall behind them (which is often an external wall) instead of going into the room you are trying to heat. Investing in radiator reflectors is a cheap and easy way of reflecting up to 95% of otherwise lost heat back into the room, all for a reasonable price.

10. Use Heavy Curtains, and Know When to Close Them

Sometimes the best advice is the most simple. Investing in heavy curtains can increase the efficiency of your window area as much as double glazing: but ensure you close your curtains one hour before it gets dark in order to capture the heat of the sun in your room.

11. Stamp Out Standby

Can you believe that back in 2014, the Energy Saving Trust reported that us Brits could save a whopping £1.7 billion by turning appliances off of stand by mode? Televisions and games consoles can cost up to £80 per year each when left on standby mode, leading Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive of Energy Saving Trust, to say: “We are a nation on standby. Whatever your age, gender or the size of your household: our research has found that millions of us are unintentionally wasting electricity when we leave our gadgets on standby. It’s an easy mistake to make yet it costs us a fortune. And as we become more tech-savvy it’s hardly surprising our home appliances don’t come with an energy-cost warning label on them.”

12. Shorten Your Showers

Did you know that the average Brit enjoys a nine minute long daily shower? Shortening your shower time to a still-long seven minutes could save the average household £20 per year .

13. Protect Your Pipes

Insulating your hot water pipes costs less than £20, and raises the temperature of your hot water , allowing you to turn the thermostat down. Another handy tip to keep you warm while saving money.

14. Bleed Your Radiators

Bleeding radiators is where you let out air that has become trapped inside, leading to a more efficient radiator, a warmer home and cheaper energy bills. You can find a step by step guide to bleeding your radiators at U Switch .

15. Switch to LEDs

With the being a most grim and grey January, using artificial lights in something we just cant get away from. However you can save some money and some energy by investing in LED lights. According to this article in the Telegraph , you could save up to £240 per year by switching to LED lights.

You can find much more savvy tips and helpful home hacks when you claim your free copy of our Home Energy Hacks guide here .

8 Excellent Energy Saving Tips for Christmas | Glaze & Save

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and the most expensive! Christmas is definitely the season for festive fun and family frolics, but with the cost of presents, parties, minces pies and mistletoe it would be nice to save a few pennies over the season. That’s why we’re bringing to you our eight excellent energy saving tips for Christmas, combed from across the internet, so you can roast your chestnuts by the fire without worrying that your Christmas bonus is going up in smoke.

1. Get Gadget Wise

The number of devices in our homes has grown exponentially in recent years, and there’s no day quite so gadget-crazy as Christmas day! Don’t stand for the standby option, which continues to use energy; switch appliances off at the wall and unplug completely if possible. You’ll save a ton! Top tip for techies? Use tablets on the big day over laptops, they use 70% less power !

2. Light Up with LEDs

Trade in your old incandescent Christmas lights for LEDs and brighten your tree while using 90% less energy! The Energy Saving Trust says that is we all swapped a string of incandesant lights for LEDs we could collectively save £13 million during the 12 days of Christmas alone. That’s over £1.1 million per day! Replacing all standard bulbs and halogen spotlights in your home with energy saving light bulbs could save you £35 a year.

3. Say Goodbye to Standby

While we’re talking about standby, did you know that turning your gadgets and appliances off instead of using standby mode could save you £30 per year? According to the Energy Saving Trust “more than three quarters (78 per cent) of us admit to regularly leaving at least two devices on standby. An advanced set-top box left on standby for 20 hours a day could cost around £20 a year alone just in standby mode”.

4. Festive Fibre Optics

Fibre optic trees and decorations can be a real energy saving solution for your festive décor. Fibre optic decorations tend to utilise a single bulb to light the whole decoration, which saves bags of cash on traditional Christmas lights and decorations.

5. Tree-t Yourself

Get the full benefit of your Christmas tree and enjoy that extra special festival glow by waiting until its dark before turning on your Christmas tree lights, and any other Christmas lights you may have. You absolutely do not want to leave them running 24/7: not only will it cost a fortune and waste loads of energy, but it can also be a fire hazard. If you are likely to forget to turn your lights on and off then get a timer, set it and forget it.

6. It’s Getting Hot in Here

Extra bodies mean extra hea t , so when the gang arrives for Christmas dinner be sure to turn the thermostat down to keep everyone comfortable while saving some pennies.

7. Candles for Christmas

Go old school with your Christmas décor, and save on energy to boot by using candles to create some fantastical festive lighting. Just be fire safe! Even better, use LED candles for a flickering festive finish without the fire hazard.

8. Be a Clever Cook

After the presents and the decorations, the next big thing on the Christmas hit list is the food! And with all of oven-time needed for Christmas dinner, it’s worth looking into energy saving options. Improvements Catalog recommends utilising your microwave for small tasks like melting chocolate, while keeping you oven reserved for bigger items like cooking the turkey. Save time and energy by keeping the pots on your lids, which will cook your Christmas dinner in record time.

How Energy Efficiency Can Reduce Fuel Poverty | Glaze & Save

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Scottish House Condition Survey 2016 report was published yesterday (5 December 2017) and found that 26.5% (or around 649,000) households in Scotland were fuel poor and 7.5% (or 183,000 households) were living in extreme fuel poverty in 2016.

This demonstrated a decline of around 4 percentage points; equivalent to around 99,000 fewer households living in fuel poverty compared to 2015. This is the lowest rate recorded by the Scottish House Condition Survey since 2005/6 and the same level as 2007.

While almost two thirds of the reduction in fuel poverty has come from a drop in the price of domestic fuel rates over the period of 2015 and 2016, a third of the drop can be attributed to improvements in energy efficiency.

In 2016, 39% of Scottish homes were rated as EPC band C or better and half had an energy efficiency rating of 66 or higher (SAP 2012). This is similar to 2015 but an increase from 35% in 2014, the first year in which data based on SAP 2012 is available.

This study demonstrates that energy efficiency can have a massive effect on a household’s ability to get out of fuel poverty. The steps that households can take do not need to be expensive or impractical.

As we have previously discussed in our blog on fuel poverty, there are several things that individuals can do to to tackle fuel poverty in their own households.

While the main causes of fuel poverty, rising fuel costs and lower wages, isn’t necessarily something we can do much about individually, there are still several steps you can take to tackle fuel poverty:

Contact Home Energy Scotland for a Home Energy Check During the Home Energy Check, the staff at Home Energy Scotland will make you aware of energy efficiency measures that you can carry out, changes in behaviour that could save you money, and link you up with potential funding options to help make your home more energy efficient.
Adopt more energy efficient behaviours For example, making simple behavioural changes such as turning off appliances and closing curtains before dusk can save you £130 per year.
Consider retrofitting energy efficient technologies in your home For example, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm reduces heating bills by 22.5% in rooms with treated windows.
Maximise your income Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau to find out which benefits you may be entitled to.
Switch you energy supplier Using a comparison site makes it easy to find the best energy deal

For a handy guide containing dozens of home energy improvements that cost very little (or are completely free) you can check out Glaze & Save’s free Home Energy Hacks Guide , where you can get the details of a plethora of tips, tricks and products to reduce energy consumption in your home.

Case Studies: Transforming Listed Edinburgh Homes | Glaze & Save

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

This week we look at two Edinburgh customers whose single glazed windows were causing them nothing but trouble! Both customers lived in listed or conservation area buildings where replacement double glazing would have been time consuming, costly and wasteful: Glaze & Save to the rescue then!

Customer 1

The first customer lived in a listed flat with 9 original single glazed windows, some with working shutters. The windows were draughty and massively inefficient, leaking heat and leaving the property feeling cold. As is common in many Edinburgh flats, noise from street and surrounding areas was also an issue.

What results did we achieve?

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ has enhanced the thermal efficiency of the window area; taking it from a U-value of 5.5 to a U-value of 1.7- the same as standard double glazing. This dramatically lowers the thermal conductivity due to the proportion of the wall area thus increasing the thermal insulation. Where working shutters are in place, we have taken the U-value down to just 1.1.
Noise reduction is well over 60%, having a dramatic improvement on the ambiance of their home.
Aesthetically very pleasing; the virtually invisible finish means having to tell friends it has been installed.
Eradication of all draughts: you can occasionally hear the wind in between the InvisiTherm™ systems and the existing windows, but it does not come through.
Split systems installed in the lounge and bedroom to allow easy access to opening window.

All Glaze & Save installs allowed for complete use of the shutters: were the only secondary glazing on the market that allows for full use of your original shutters!

Customer 2

This Edinburgh maisonette was situated in a conservation area, and like so many of our customers, still had all of its original single glazed windows. Some still had working shutters too. These windows were exceptionally large for a domestic dwelling with the windows at the rear over 2.4 metres high. With the windows losing heat, draughty and with terrible condensation, the homeowners had installed 3 different kinds of secondary glazing fitted with varying degrees of success.

What results did we achieve?

Unobtrusive and reversible: perfect for this conservation area home.
As well as replacing the inefficient secondary glazing, we restored the window frame area to a true match.
We used bespoke painted sustainable hardwood bead to create frame within the windows, allowing shutters to continue to work to their full capacity.
Our systems were made bespoke on site to each window’s exact size and shape.
The install was completed in just 2 days with no fuss or mess. No need for any re-decoration or tidying up after the install.
We supplied a free Glaze & Save aftercare kit to enable easy removal and cleaning in the future.

This customer was particularly impressed with our results, stating “I’ve got my home back: no more ugly secondary glazing, no condensation, no noise and a lovely warm draught free home. Thank you Glaze & Save.”

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can transform your single glazing into double glazing (or double into triple glazing!) without replacement of your existing windows, with no redecoration or planning permissions required. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey.

Top Ten Sustainability Ideas for Small Businesses | Glaze & Save

Thu, 23 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

As climate change and our over-consumption of resources becomes bigger news and a more prevalent concern with every passing year, many businesses are asking themselves how they can become carbon neutral, or at least reduce their carbon footprint, in order to become more environmentally responsible while creating a more sustainable and profitable business.

Indeed, the big players have been working on becoming carbon neutral for years now , with Microsoft announcing in 2012 its intentions to become carbon neutral at its data centres, software development labs and office buildings, and Google being carbon neutral since 2007; an astonishing ten years.

But what if you don’t have the resources of Microsoft or Google? In fact what is you are a small business…is it possible to become carbon neutral, or at least reduce your impact on the environment to a more sustainable level? Luckily, there are many things that you can do to reduce your carbon footprint. The added advantage, particularly for smaller businesses, is that they can save you money.

Now really is the time to start kicking your carbon reduction strategies into gear. According to The Carbon Trust, SMEs could collectively save nearly £400 million per year in energy costs , and over 2.5 million tonnes of C02, by reducing their carbon footprints, but a YouGov and Scottish Power survey of 1,000 small businesses showed that more than 60% of those surveyed did not regard energy efficiency in the workplace as a key priority.

What does carbon neutral mean?

Carbon neutrality , or having a net zero carbon footprint, refers to achieving net zero carbon emissions by balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount sequestered or offset, or buying enough carbon credits to make up the difference. It is used in the context of carbon dioxide releasing processes associated with transportation, energy production, and industrial processes such as production of carbon neutral fuel .

Why reduce your carbon footprint?

The need to reduce our carbon footprints and become a more sustainable and environmentally friendly society is not a new concept and we are no doubt all aware of the eco-conscious reasons for turning our business focus to carbon neutrality. But in these economically difficult times, we also need to consider wider reasons for adopting a carbon neutral stance.

Co2Balance.com gives a list of six reasons why companies need to reduce their carbon footprint: for legislation and policy reasons; to reduce operational costs; to provide ever-more climate savvy customers with environmental data; to create a point of distinction against competition; to enhance the green image and brand of a company, and to increase investor potential. When taking all of these factors into consideration, aiming for carbon neutrality provides much greater potential benefits to businesses beyond the obvious environmental imperative.

So now that we have the preamble out of the way, let’s look at ways in which you can reduce your carbon footprint in your small business.

Behavioural Changes

Changing the behavior of yourself and your employees is the cheapest and easiest way to start implementing carbon conscious practices into your business. For example, lighting a typical office overnight can waste enough energy to make 1,000 cups of tea . You can check out our blog on 6 Simple Behaviour Changes to Save Energy and Money for more great ideas that you apply to your business.

Recycling

Introducing a robust recycling policy into your business is a sure fire way to reduce waste sent to landfill and reduce your carbon footprint. Getting your employees involved in activities such as Recycle Week can really help them make the connection. You can find out more about how much we love Recycle Week here .

Go Paper Free

Making a commitment to going paper free can make a huge difference to your carbon foot print. By reducing dependence on paper products and converting to a web-based communications such as email or cloud sharing, you can reduce your reliance on resources. We wrote a blog on creating a zero waste office that has loads of information on going paper free.

Reduce Commuting Emissions

The majority of people drive to work in their own cars, causing frustrating traffic jams, but also creating a vast amount of carbon emissions. Encouraging staff to car share or use public transport is a fundamental aspect of any strategy to reduce carbon emissions. Where practical, walking and cycling should also be encouraged. Staff can be encouraged to bike to work by implementing the Cycle to Work Scheme in your workplace.

Ethical Supply Chains

Although potentially costly to set up, an ethical supply chain can save you a huge amount of carbon emissions while becoming less expensive in the long run. Glaze & Save has made it a priority to operate an ethical supply chain since the inception of the company. Check out Acre’s blog on the benefits of an ethical supply chain .

Draught proofing

Draught proofing your workplace can save around 15% on energy costs, while increasing productivity and employee satisfaction. It’s also one of the quickest energy efficiency improvements you can add to your premises, and is a requirement of the Scottish Government under the Climate Change (Scotland) Act. You can read more about the benefits of draught proofing your office in our blog, where we list five benefits of draught proofing your workplace .

Energy Efficiency

Ensuring that you and your employees are energy conscious can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint, as well as saving your business money. Check out our 8 Tips to Make Your Employees More Energy Aware as well as our 12 Quick Tips to Save Your Business Energy and start reducing your energy consumption today.

Ethical Energy

Choosing an ethical energy supplier will ensure that the energy you do use comes from sustainable sources. You can find out more about choosing an ethical energy supplier in our blog .

Offsetting

Sometimes producing carbon emissions in the course of your business is unavoidable. However, you can reduce the environmental impact by offsetting your carbon emissions. This is most frequently done through tree planting projects and forest creation or by purchasing carbon dioxide credits and not using them. For a more thorough guide to carbon offsetting check out the guide at Duport .

Glaze & Save’s bespoke magnetic secondary glazing and innovative liquid draught proofing products are easily applicable yet powerful ways to increase the energy efficiency of your commercial premises, helping reduce energy bills, increase employee productivity and tackle your carbon output. Contact us here for your free no obligation survey or call on 01738 562 068.

How to Maintain Crittall and Metal-Framed Windows | Glaze & Save

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Properly maintained Crittall or metal-framed windows can last for decades if not centuries and have the potential to create a stunning façade in historic buildings. However, to ensure that your metal-framed windows stand the test of time it is important to understand the best way to maintain and care for them. Luckily, we have some handy tips to help you maintain your metal windows to keep them efficient, in-tact and looking good for years to come.

Background

Metal-framed windows date from the mid-16th century and were popular until the 18th century until they experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Victorian age. Prior to the 18th century, metal-framed windows were individually crafted, usually in wrought iron, cast iron or mild steel, and required an intense amount of skill on the part of the craftsman to create each window.

However it was with the pioneering technology of Sir Henry Bessemer , who innovated a process for producing cheap mild steel in the 1850s, that metal windows became a commercially viable product to produce en masse in a factory setting.

The market for steel windows came to be dominated by the main manufacturer of the time: Crittall Windows Ltd . The origins of Crittal Windows Ltd go back to 1849; however, it was not until 1884 that the company began to manufacture metal windows, they’re name becoming synonymous with metal framed windows whether produced by Crittall or not!

Common Problems

With proper maintenance and care, metal windows can last for centuries and often remain as the most prominent sign of a buildings history and original fabrication. However, when protective coatings are not tended to corrosion of the fabric of the window can occur. This is particularly true in the case of pre-1950s ungalvanised steel windows, where corrosion and rusting can be seen mostly frequently, although wrought iron and cast iron frames can also be affected. The Society for the Prevention of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) details the effects that this corrosion can have on the integrity of the windows:

“Corrosion leads to the loss of original material, staining on adjacent surfaces and, as the metal expands, cracked glass and split masonry at fixing points (the latter being termed ‘rust jacking’).Other potential problems include the fracturing of cast iron because of impact or casting flaws, and the distortion of wrought iron or mild steel following forcible closure of casements where there is paint build-up.”

Routine Maintenance

Corrosion and degradation of metal-framed windows can be avoided by engaging in regular routine maintenance of your windows. The following work should be carried out on a regular basis :

· Opening Casements should be regularly checked to ensure they are free of grit, dirt, insects and paint flakes;

· Hinges and pivots should be lightly lubricated on an annual basis to ensure their smooth operation, although it is worth bearing in mind that lubrication is not recommended for friction-type hinges which may swing too freely if lubricated;

· Weatherseals should be inspected to ensure unfettered operation, and any traces of paint removed as this is the most common cause of failing weatherseals;

· Putty, mastic, etc should be inspected on an annual basis and removed and replaced if required.

Dealing with Rust

Homebuilding.co.uk provides a handy step by step process to dealing with remedial rust issues, where full restoration is not required. Where the rust only affects the surface of the window this can be removed with a wire brush; however it is important to take precautions where it is suspected that red lead may have been used as a primer. If the rust is superficial and easily removed with a brush then it is important to apply a good quality zinc primer to the frame. Stripping multiple layers of old paint from your metal windows may also help increase their functionality, but again, caution is advised where there is a possibility that lead paint may have been applied to the window in the past.

In the event that rusted sections are corroded through, wrought iron window sections can be cut out by a professional and welded back in. However, cast iron is almost impossible to weld and may require cold-metal stitching.

Dealing with Draughts

With corrosion, warping and generally inefficiency of older glass technologies, metal-framed windows can be extremely draughty. SPAB recommends that in draught proofing metal framed windows the opening casements require to be eased and adjusted to ensure that the window is optimally positioned for draught proofing. If draughts are still an issue this can be remedied by applying a silicone draught proofing product in the gap. This is where a product such as Glaze & Save’s InvisiSeal™ comes into its own, as its non-invasive liquid silicone fabrication means that it can fill any gap in the frame, creating an air tight seal while remaining virtually invisible.

Crittall windows are also especially well served by secondary glazing, as the application of a supplementary glazing system can tackle the draughts, energy inefficiency and noise issues that are characteristic of older metal-framed windows. While traditional secondary glazing would require a clunky frame to be constructed around the outside of metal frame, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is a discrete design that can be installed inside the window frame, or when in conjunction with InvisiSeal™ draught proofing, can be applied directly to the glaze, keeping your metal-framed window entirely in-tact and colour matched so as to be virtually invisible.

Improving Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Living in a historic building can be loaded with challenges, but energy efficiency needn’t be one of them. In fact, whether your building is listed, in a conservsation area or built prior to 1919, retrofitting energy efficiency improvements can be done without disturbing the historic character or aesthetic of your property, and in some cases may not require planning consent.

A key component of historic building construction is the use of breathable materials which absorb atmospheric and environmental moisture into the fabric of the building and release it again without detriment to the building.

Historic England states that :

Maintaining the building's ability to control moisture levels in this way is fundamental to its effective thermal performance. When looking after or making changes to your home you therefore need to use materials that are compatible with it.

It is therefore important to bear in mind that the additions and changes you make to your historic building will be quite different to those that you make with a modern building where the building construction and materials are usually designed to keep moisture out.

Assessing You Historic Property

It is important to take a holistic view of your historic building in order ensure that the energy efficiency measures carried out are adequate and thorough.

The first step is to ascertain how you use energy in the property . A family home will have a quite different energy useage to a commercial premises and this must be considered before making energy efficiencies. Examine how rooms are heated, and when they are heated; look at the use of appliances, the energy awareness of the people using the building, etc. Once you have an understanding of how energy is used in the property you can then move assessing its performance.

It’s also worth looking at the construction and condition of you historic building, fixing any issues that may cause energy inefficiency prior to investing in additions. For example damp walls, exposed roofing, and ill-fitting windows are all structural issues that can affect the thermal efficiency of you historic property. Now is also the time to track down sources of draughts, condensation and cold spots.

Insulation

One of the main things you can do to increase the energy efficiency of your historic building is to invest insulation, as around 35% of heat can be lost through a building’s roof and a further 25% lost through the walls.

However there may be access issues in insulating older buildings; for example loft space may be restricted and underfloor insulation may not be possible. Added it this is the importance of ensuring that air flow and breathability is preserved to reduce the likeliehood of condensation and rot.

It is therefore important to choose natural and breathable materials when insulating your historic property. For example, sheep’s wool is a great choice for loft insulation, and wood fibre and cork are suitable for wall insulation.

Draught proofing

Historic properties have a reputation for being draughty, and draughts in themselves can be a huge source of discomfort and thermal inefficiency. For example, older buildings can lose around 15-20% of their heat via draughts alone. Added to this is the need to ensure adequate ventilation to avoid damp and condensation; therefore draught proofing an older property is something which requires a degree of consideration.

Draught proofing is certainly one of the least expensive way, save for behavioural change, to improve the energy efficiency of a property, and usually has a compelling payback time. Simply caulking obvious gaps, electrical outlets and cracks can reduce draughts for virtually nothing, and an old fashioned draught excluder by the door can do much to improve thermal comfort.

However some improvements require a professional solution, particularly with windows. From Historic England:

“About one fifth of a home's heating is lost through windows. Most of that escapes through air gaps rather than through the glass. Research has shown that air infiltration through a sash window in good condition can be reduced by as much as 86% by adding draught-proofing. And it has the added advantage of reducing noise and dust.”

Glaze & Save invisiSeal is a liquid draught proofing product that effectively creates an air tight seal around windows and external doors, giving exceptional energy savings with a great payback time. Perhaps best of all, unlike draught proofing brushes, it is completely non-invasive leaving your original windows entirely intact.

Improvements to your Windows

Heat loss through windows can represent anything from 19% to 30% of the heat loss from you property, particularly in the case of original sash and case windows. Their high U-Value and single glazing make their construction particularly inefficient. Using heavy curtains, closed an hour before sunset, utilising shutters and investing in insulating blinds are all temporary measures to increase the thermal efficiency of your window area.

Secondary Glazing

For a more lasting solution to inefficient windows, without resorting to wastefully replacing your windows (and going through planning permission hell!) it’s worth considering secondary glazing, particularly one as discrete and effective as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm.

Secondary glazing traditionally gave great noise and draught reduction benefits, with some effect on thermal comfort. However, for a long time the only secondary glazing products on the market where those that threatened to compromise the aesthetics of traditional window aspects. It tended to consist of bulky metal frames with heavy glass units which were difficult to move and clean, as well as posing safety issues. It’s no wonder secondary glazing had such a bad name!

InvisiTherm™ from Glaze & Save is a unique polycarbonate magnetic secondary glazing product that is discrete and almost completely invisible both inside and out. This innovative polycarbonate magnetic secondary glazing turns your single glaze windows into double glazing without replacement or redecoration; saving energy, reducing noise, and saving you money with a compelling payback time. Our invisible magnetic secondary glazing system has many benefits over traditional secondary and double glazing, including reduction in heat loss, reduction in noise pollution and no need for any permissions.

Have you signed up to receive our FREE Home Energy Hacks guide? Get it here and experience a warmer, more energy efficient home today!

Five Top Tips to Create a Zero Waste Office | Glaze & Save

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re kitting out a new office, or simply looking to become more environmentally friendly, looking for ways to create a zero waste office not only boosts your green credentials, but also is a great way to save money. So without further ado, here are our five top tips to create a zero waste office that is as professional as it is eco-friendly.

1. Unplug the printer

These days, documents can be shared instantaneously and numerously with email, cloud sharing, and easily read on phones, laptops, tablets amongst other devices. So why are you still printing things out? Make it policy to simply stop printing documents. If it’s necessary, then use recycled paper, and print on both sides. Also be sure to purchase refillable ink cartridges to save money and resources even if you do need to use your printer. At Glaze & Save, we only print out our guarantees and recycling letter for customers: everything else is stored electronically. The little we do print uses recycled FSC approved paper, using ink from refillable ink cartridges. Not only does it save resources, it saves a fortune!

2. Say goodbye to sticky notes

Those ubiquitous brightly coloured sticky notes might be good for catching your eye with must-remember details, but they can’t be recycled on account of the glue that is used to make them oh-so sticky. Use an app on your computer, invest in a corkboard to pin recyclable notes, or even a blackboard for the ultimate in reusability. If you usually use sticky notes to remember one specific thing, save it in the notes section of your phone or set labelled alarms.

3. Make a mug of yourself

No we don’t mean making a fool of yourself! Provide reusable ceramic crockery, cutlery and mugs for your employees and encourage using them over disposable alternatives. Encourage your employees and colleagues to give up their wasteful on-the-go coffee habit by providing good quality coffee at the office, but be wary of coffee pods. Not only are they extremely expensive, but they usually cannot be recycled. Stick to products in reusable or recyclable packaging, and provide a composting bin for used tea bags and coffee grounds.

4. Make do and mend

Instead of purchasing box fresh furniture, repair, repurpose or upcycle what you already have. Or if you need to buy new furniture, then check out listings for second hand furniture and office clearouts online or in your local listings. And don’t forget to donate or sell on your own furniture once it’s no longer needed!

5. Down with disposables

When purchasing supplies for the office, think reuse and recycle. Buy binders made from recyclable materials that are also sturdy enough to be reused over and over again. Use refillable pens rather than disposable and utilise paper clips rather than staples. You can also obtain good quality solar powered calculators, rechargeable batteries and a host of waste-free bits and bobs.

Glaze & Save are finalists in the 2017 VIBES Scottish Environmental Business Awards in the Environmental Product or Service Category. We are committed to reducing the waste in our installation process, where we recycle over 95% of the waste produced from our installation process. Reduce you’re the energy consumption of your office while dealing with an ethical small business by contacting Glaze & Save today for your free no obligation survey today .

A Guide to Damp in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Damp can be a real problem in historic and older buildings and can render otherwise beautiful spaces virtually uninhabitable and creating misery for homeowners and tenants. While much is made of rising damp in historic buildings, it is often misdiagnosed and ineffectively treated, causing further issues in the building. As stated in Timber and Lime :

“Buildings don’t spontaneously erupt into a case of rising damp. Damp is a symptom (albeit an unpleasant one) of other problems. Quite often it is actually due to far simpler issues, such as interior or exterior modifications to a building.”

Symptoms of Damp

There are a variety of different ways that damp can present itself in older buildings, and this in itself can make the identification and treatment of damp in older properties more difficult. As the water moves through the building fabric, damp presents itself in different ways including but not limited to:

· Blistering of paint

· Salts forming on masonry

· Tidemarks

· Discolouration of paintwork

· Peeling wallpaper

· Mould, fungus and rot

· Wood boring insect infestation

· Increased levels of condensation on cold surfaces

· Musty odour and/or humid atmosphere.

Wherever damp is suspected, it is important to enlist the expertise of a professional who is familiar with historic buildings, who may utilise damp meters and thermal imaging to confirm the presence of damp.

Some of the most common weak points are succinctly summed up by Period Living:

“ Common weak points include:

Windowsills: check for cracks where rain can seep into the wall below, causing damp patches, loose plaster or rot in the skirting. Sills should project sufficiently away from the wall and have a small groove underneath; otherwise the rain will run back and soak into the wall.
Doors and windows: rain runs down and seeks out joints between the frames and the walls.
Blocked, overflowing gutters, cracked downpipes and leaking overflow pipes cause water to splash on hard ground surfaces next to the house.
Decorative protruding ledges on walls (known as ‘string courses’) should slope outwards to prevent puddles forming and water soaking in.
Joints to roofs and chimneystacks should have watertight flashings.
Chimneys: rain can pour down unprotected flues, soaking into old soot behind fireplaces.”

Causes

There are a variety of different causes of damp in historic buildings including leaks in the roof, defects in walls and masonry, moisture from the ground and inadequate ventilation.

Plumbing

Perhaps the most common cause of damp in historic buildings is the failure of plumbing throughout the property. Even the tiniest drips from pluming can be the cause of intense and serious damp, particularly if it has gone unnoticed for several years. Hairline cracks in tiles when combined with high pressure showers can also create damp problems. Homebuilding.co.uk suggests to check for corroded water pipes concealed in the walls; new plumbing for central heating, kitchens and bathrooms which drips when first used; failing waste pipes in older bathrooms, and damaged seals around baths and showers as possible sources of plumbing leaks.

Leaking Gutters

Homebuilding.co.uk advises that when gutters at the eaves leak, the outside wall will come into contact with water for a short distance. However leaks in other gutters can leak directly into the roof space which can be difficult to track down. Common signs include splattering from gutters which then splash water onto the walls, or tracks of water in the roof which may follow roof timbers.

Condensation

Condensation is simply moisture that collects on a cold surface in a home, ordinarily the windows but sometimes on the walls as well. The air cannot hold the water and therefore droplets or a fine mist is deposited on the cold surface. The damp caused by condensation often ends up developing into a spotted black mould, but is usually easy to spot as it will be in a cold spot and will display surface moisture.

The worst offenders for condensation is the moisture we produce in our homes through day to day living . Cooking, boiling kettles, air drying laundry, baths and living with pets all produce excess moisture that can manifest as condensation.

Salt Contamination

Rooms that’s have been heated after lying empty for some time can experience damp on the surface of the plaster. This is due to previously damp plasterwork retaining salt residue from earth and masonry which then reabsorbs fresh moisture in the air causing patches of damp on the plaster. According to Period Living:

“Salt can normally be brushed or vacuumed off, but shouldn’t be washed as it can seep back into the wall. Where plasterwork is heavily contaminated, the only remedy may be to hack off the affected area and replace it with new lime plaster. But first rectify the source of damp and give the wall time to dry out.”

Solutions

Breathability

One of the most important things you can do to stop damp from being an issue in historic buildings is to ensure that the breathability of the walls is not compromised. Old buildings were built to allow the building to “breathe”, that is to say they allow water to pass through them with the assistance of temperature and air pressure. As explained in Heritage House:

“The ‘breathing’ analogy is a convenient way of understanding frequent exchanges of air from masonry to atmosphere and back again. If air drawn into the wall is humid, and the wall cools below dew point then water vapour in the humid air condenses as water droplets in the pores of the masonry, though the wall will still appear ‘dry’. During warmer and drier times, some of this water will evaporate and leaves the wall as it breathes out. Even walls which seem dry will contain water, the amount varying with changes in the season and climate. If there are salts or other hygroscopic (moisture-attracting) materials in the masonry, the amount of water drawn into (and retained in) the wall can be sufficient to make the wall visibly damp, even in dry weather.”

Ensuring that old walls are treated with breathable materials both internally and externally will allow the natural cycle of water ingress and expulsion to continue, thus reducing the chances of damp forming.

Balance Insulation and Ventilation

While it is important to have a well-insulated home to stay warm and protect against the elements, historic buildings require insulation to be balanced with ventilation. In past times, our chimneys would have provided a fair bit of ventilation, but with the advent of central heating and the tendancy to over insulate homes, ventilation can be a real issue in older properties.

According to Permagard:

“Try opening windows across opposite sides of rooms to allow cross ventilation. The other issue is with insulation - with high fuel costs we are keen to use lots of insulation to keep heat locked in and reduce our energy bills. Unfortunately, by doing this, we hinder the required ventilation, which leads to condensation issues. Installing extractor fans, drimaster eco systems or heat recovery units will help increase much needed ventilation and reduce condensation. Install extra air bricks to allow ventilation.”

Tackle Condensation

Changing you behavior is one of the best things you can do reduce condensation. You can read more about condensation in our blog post here . But consider small changes such as producing less moisture by drying washing outdoors; avoid using paraffin or bottle gas heaters which produce a lot of moisture; cover your pans when cooking and close internal kitchen and bathroom doors when steam is being produced to stop moisture spreading to the rest of the house; and using trickle vents properly.

You can also consider InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing as a means to reducing condensation on your windows. You can read about how we cured condensation in an Edinburgh listed flat here.

Why Aren't Consumers Interested in Triple Glazing? | Glaze & Save

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Technology changes, evolves and improves, and it almost goes without saying that the savvy consumer looks to keep abreast of the latest in advances in order to increase thermal comfort, energy efficiency and hopefully even property value. So one cannot fail to notice that little by little, the glass and glazing industry has been compelling consumers to trade in their double glazing for triple glazing, often under the guise of improving energy performance.

And yet, the uptake of triple glazing has been slow to say the least. This is a technology in its adolescence; lauded in developments such as Passivhaus, and the building standard in Scandinavia.

But, as observed by the Double Glazing Blogger:

“Yet, years down the line from that, from what I can see, we are nowhere near triple glazing taking off in any meaningful way. And when I mean triple glazing, I mean the stuff with units that make a tangible difference i.e. TGUs that are 44mm or wider. Anything less and there’s no point.”

Carrying out a simple Google search, the Double Glazing Blogger was able to show that searches for double glazing still outstrip tripe glazing searches at a vast rate:

The results of that search term query are fairly conclusive. Search traffic for “Double Glazing” continues to far outstrip that of it’s triple glazed counterpart. There isn’t even a slight rise in that red line throughout the last 12 months. Most new products in our industry that I have done previous Google Trends searches on have shown at least some slight improvement since their introduction. Aluminium windows, timber doors, composite door, bi-folding doors have all shown good upward growth on Google Trends charts when I have featured them in previous posts. Triple glazing must be the worst performing one by far.

So why aren’t people going for triple glazing?

Consumers are becoming savvier all the time, and with triple glazing costing on average 30-50% more than double glazing , we expect to see results to match the price tag.

The Telegraph’s resident building expert had some scathing words about triple glazing marketing in response to a confused reader’s question on heat loss, saying:

“This firm appears to be using “technobabble” to confuse its customers – that is language which sounds scientific, but is meaningless.

As with most “double glazing” or “triple glazing” adverts, what is actually being sold here is replacement PVC-U windows, so a true comparison would need to include figures for the heat lost by conduction through the frames, compared with through existing timber window frames (if that’s what you currently have). Customers are often surprised to find that PVC-U is a worse insulator than timber.

If you look at glass on its own (without the frames), triple glazing is around 30 per cent better than double glazing. Even quadruple glazing is only 48 per cent better. And don’t forget that the more panes of glass you have, the less daylight will be able to enter your rooms. ” (Emphasis mine)

So triple glazing is around 30% better than double glazing? That must make it worth the money then, right? Erm, not necessarily. As referenced by the Double Glazing Blogger above, the triple glazing units that make the most tangible difference are of 44mm or above. Standard triple glazing units tend to be supplied between 28mm-44mm. As pointed out by Glass On Web:

“A 28mm unit with 1 low-e coating will achieve a centre pane u-value of 1.3, in this configuration, triple glazing would not be more energy efficient than a double glazed unit.”

In fact, Glass on Web states that the minimum standard for triple glazing ought to consist of a minimum overall unit thickness of 36mm (4-12-4-12-4) with 2 Low e coatings, Argon cavity gas and warm edge spaces used to join the glass panes together.

It would seem that, in order to get the best benefits of triple glazing, full window replacement with 44mm thick, Low E coatings and wood units is the only way to guarantee tangible results above modern double glazing, or even secondary glazing products like InvisiTherm. With potentially massive costs and long payback times to look forward to, it’s no wonder that consumers are looking towards alternatives to triple glazing.

So is there a way to get the benefits of triple glazing without buying into expensive and potentially ineffective triple glazing units?

If you have older double glazing and want to experience a lower u-value, greater thermal comfort and a reduction in noise pollution without the hassle, waste or expense of replacing your existing windows with triple glazed units, then InvisiTherm’s bespoke magnet secondary glazing is a great option.

InvisiTherm’s innovative polycarbonate secondary glazing can be installed on top of existing double glazing to achieve a lower u value and better noise insulation, while eradication condensation and increasing thermal comfort, all without the need to replace your existing windows.

Top 6 Haunted Listed Buildings in Scotland | Glaze & Save

Tue, 31 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s Halloween and it’s time to revel in all things spooky! So that means our love of all buildings listed and historic takes a darker turn as we look at Scotland’s top six haunted listed buildings.

Dare you spend a night in any of them?

Glamis Castle, Angus

Glamis Castle in Angus is a category A listed building , with ground that are included on the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland . It is also widely known as one of the most haunted places, not just in Scotland, but in the whole of the United Kingdom. Glamis Castle has numerous spectres and ghouls stalking it rooms and corridors.

The family chapel is said to be haunted by a Grey Lady. This sad apparition is said to be the spirit of Lady Janet Douglas, burned at the stake as a witch on fabricated charges of plotting to poison the King. Her ghost has been seen in the chapel on multiple ocassions. She is also said to appear above the Clock Tower.

The mutilated spectre of a women with no tongue is also said to haunt to castle, where she has been seen running around the park or staring out of a barred castle window, pointing to her tongueless face. A stone seat by the door of the Queen’s bedroom is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a young boy; a servant said to have been treated badly two hundred years prior.

Perhaps the most infamous ghost to haunt to grounds of Glamis Castle is Alexander, Earl of Crawford, better known as Earl Beardie. By all accounts, the Earl was a cruel and wicked man, and one night stalked the halls of the castle shouting and cursing for a partner to play cards with. Upon finding a partner, he excused himself from the game to poke out the eye of a servant peeping through the door. On his return to the game, he found his partner had been the Devil himself, and that the Earl had inadvertently sold his soul to the Devil as he cursed in the castle halls.

His spirit is said to wander the castle, and there have been reports of children waking to find the figure leaning over their beds. He is also said to be gambling for all eternity in a secret room with the Devil, people have reported loud swearing and the rattling of dice.

Edinburgh Vaults

The Edinburgh Vaults is a category B listed structure consisting of a series of chambers in the nineteen arches of the South Bridge in Edinburgh. The Vaults were completed in 1788 and were initially intended to house taverns and tradesmen, but quickly degenerated into a place of ill repute housing brothels, illicit materials, and even said to be where notorious serial killers Burke and Hare hunted for their victims.

Conditions in the Vaults deteriorated rapidly, and the businesses left, leaving the Vaults to become slum housing for the very poorest of Edinburgh’s citizens. Their lives were wretched, living in damp, dark conditions with poor air quality and no sanitation. Many people died in the squalor of the Vaults.

According the paranormal investigators, the Vaults is one of the most haunted locations in the world. The most famous ghost is “Mr. Boots,” an evil spirit who is said have been a murder in life, and kept the body of one of his victims in his vaulted home. This malevolent spirit attacks those who dare sit in the spot where he kept the dead woman, and can commonly be heard stomping the vaults in his thick, heavy boots.

The vaults are also plagued with the ghost of a child who tugs on the clothes of women and children visitors, and that of a well to do gentleman with a sinister presence.

Airth Castle, Falkirk

Airth Castle is a category A listed buildin g , largely of medieval construction, overlooking the village of Airth and the River Forth . The castle currently operates as a hotel and spa, but is said by many to be haunted: it even has Tripadvisor reviews complaining of how haunted it is!

Many ghosts and apparitions are said to haunt the castle and its grounds. These have included sightings of a nanny with two young children who are said to have died in a fire at the castle. It has also been widely reported that children can be heard playing in several of the rooms. Heavy footsteps can also be heard, along with the screams and cries believed to be those of a maid who was attacked by her master and left to die.

Not only that, but there is said to be the ghost of an ankle biting dog roaming the hallways! Quite the array of ghouls.

Ackergill Tower, Caithness

Ackergill Tower is located north of Wick , Caithness . It was built in the early 16th century, and is a category A listed building .

One sad ghost is sad to haunt Ackergill Tower, that of a beautiful young woman named Helen Gunn. Kidnapped to be the wife of the castle lord John Keith, she flung herself from the highest tower of the castle to escape the advances of her captor. Her spirit is said to still be seen on in and around the castle grounds.

Queensberry House, Edinburgh

Queensberry House is a 17th-century Category A listed building in the Canongate , Edinburgh , and now part of the Scottish Parliament. It has a somewhat macabre past, being the home of the apparently unpopular 2nd Duke of Queensberry.

The Duke’s son, James Douglas, was said to have been kept a secret for years and was chained up in the ground floor rooms as a “wild madman” . Legend has it that on returning from a night of canvassing, the Duke found to his horror that James had escaped his chains, and sat in the kitchen devouring the flesh of a young kitchen boy, the body still turning on a spit.

Unsurprisingly, given the gruesome nature of this story, the building is said to be haunted by the ghost of the poor kitchen boy, and James Douglas is better known as the Mad Earl of Drumlanrig .

Birkwood Castle, Lesmahagow

Birkwood House, affectionately known as Birkwood Castle to local residents, is a category B listed building an former psychiatric hospital in South Lanarkshire. It was built around 1860, making it the youngest building on our list. But that does not make it any less attractive for ghosts. Indeed the building has been designed with many hidden rooms that can only be accessed from the castle tower.

Apparitions include the smell of cigar smoke throughout the building, and footsteps heard in empty corridors. The former hospital is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a small boy riding a bicycle while clinging to a teddy bear. A sobbing girl can also be heard throughout the building.

How We Brought Warmth to an 18th Century Church | Glaze & Save

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Bristo Baptist Church is the second oldest Baptist Church in Scotland, founded in 1765. However, this long established church has a lively congregation who move with the times: a perfect match for Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ .

The church is a B Listed church in a conservation area in Queensferry Road, Edinburgh, with nine 6.8m high windows. The church was suffering from a serious cold problem, resulting in serious under-use of the church halls and discomfort and chilly fingers for the congregation! Something had to give.

We installed our bespoke magnetic secondary glazing on all nine of the lead glass windows, splitting the systems at 3.4m to allow for easier handling and removal. At 6.8m high, these were easily the biggest windows we have installed on to date.

We achieved some great results for the parishioners:

· An average of 5 degree internal increase in temperature was recorded over a period of one month.

· The InvisiTherm™ install has taken the glaze area from 5.5 U-Value to 1.7 U-Value approx, the same as standard double glazing.

· Dramatically lowering the thermal conductivity due to the proportion to the wall area thus increasing the thermal insulation.

· Noise reduction is well over 60%, having a dramatic improvement on the ambiance of the sanctuary.

· Aesthetically very pleasing with parishioners having to be told about the install as it is virtually invisible.

Not only is the church experiencing fantastic thermal and noise reduction properties, it’s also had a knock on effect on the use of the hall. Previously, the hall was so cold that it was only used for services and one choir practice per week. Now, there are multiple clubs, activities and meetings in the hall every day of the week; giving this beautiful building a new lease of life and providing some extra revenue for the church.

All in all, a complete success! We have now installed in multiple churches across Scotland, remaining sympathetic to stained glass, leaded windows and crittal windows while providing an energy efficient near invisible finish. Contact us here to arrange a free no obligation survey of your church today.

Get Your Stately Home Ready for Winter | Glaze & Save

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s never too early to ensure your stately home or historic property is ready for winter: and October is certainly not too early! Stately and historic homes are part of our built heritage and deserve to be kept in the best of conditions for now and for future generations. A little bit of care and attention now can ensure that these beautiful buildings stay in picture perfect and energy efficient condition for years to come.

Maintenance

Speaking in Country Life magazine , former Chief Executive of the World Monuments Fund, Dr. Jonathan Foyle, drives home the importance of maintenance in stately homes. He explains: “Our culture of throw-away convenience has made maintenance a dirty word. It shouldn’t be! Maintenance enables us to take our own preventative and remedial action. Repair encourages owners to make a gentle, hands-on contribution to their buildings with the glow of satisfaction at having added a complementary layer to their history. I repair and repaint my own windows, and enjoy the feeling of having understood better, and properly looked after, the house that shelters my family.”

According the Historic England, regular ongoing and small-scale maintenance can be the key to ensuring your historic building is kept in shape. By keeping on top of smaller maintenance tasks, much larger repair bills can be avoided.

There are a number of organisations, such as the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings , that give practical advice for the upkeep and maintenance of historic buildings, and also offer face to face training and have developed a number of useful guides and prompts to help remind you to do maintenance safely.

The Architectural Trust also gives full details of developing a maintenance plan advising that “developing a maintenance plan—and committing to stick with it—is an effective way to manage the routine maintenance tasks that are essential to extending the life of your historic property. Not only does maintenance preserve the integrity of your property’s original historic and character-defining features, but it also prevents major building system failures and provides a safe environment for the occupants.”

Measures to increase energy efficiency

Not only is it important to develop a maintenance plan for the coming winter months, equally it is important to looks at energy efficiency measures that can be implemented before the temperature really drops. Perhaps the most obvious measure that would benefit stately homes in their pursuit of greater energy efficiency is properly insulation of the walls and roofs. Due to the age and vast size of many of these buildings, proper insulation throughout stately homes is usually lacking, particularly where the buildings have uninhabited wings.

Beyond the obvious, however, it has been found that most stately homes would benefit from having a combination of two or more energy saving measures installed, along with alternate fuel sources. This may seem like a vast undertaking, and it is, but it is not impossible.

There are other measures that have been employed by the National Trust for Scotland , who have installed InvisiTherm secondary glazing in several of their properties, most notably in Drum Castle and Castle Fraser. The installation of polycarbonate secondary glazing can make a five degree difference in unheated rooms; but even in rooms that are heated, a reduction in energy costs of 22.5% minimum can be expected.

The National Trust for Scotland have also tackled the issue of draughty old buildings, and their associated energy inefficiency, by installing InvisiSeal liquid draught proofing in Drum Castle. Draught proofing alone can reduce energy bills significantly, for a relatively small outlay, meaning that it has a compelling payback time. The difference it has made to the National Trust for Scotland shows that stately homes, however grand and imposing, can be made to be more energy efficient, cheaper to run and will be around for much longer for us all to enjoy.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm is installed in National Trust for Scotland properties across Scotland and is installed in many stately homes. Our unique bespoke magnetic secondary glazing is perfect for stately and historic homes. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey.

How to Make your Traditional Home Fire Safe | Glaze & Save

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We’d like to thank Historic Environment Scotland for providing such detailed and relevant information for free as part of their Inform: Information for Historic Building Owners series of leaflets and factsheets. For more information on their full range of Inform titles go to the Historic Environment Scotland Publications Page.

Fire is the single biggest threat to the occupants, building fabric and contents of any building, but traditional buildings are particularly at risk. According to Historic Environment Scotland , between 2007 and 2009 there were over 900 recorded fire incidents in Scotland’s listed buildings. With listed buildings making up only a small fraction of traditional (classed as pre-1919) building stock, these numbers give a small insight into the scale of fire damage to traditional properties.

Traditional Building Construction

While fire safety is nothing new, traditional buildings tended to be built without any deliberate fire protection measures. As a result of this, traditional buildings tend to be particularly vulnerable to fire and its effects. This is due to a number of factors, including the heavy use of timber in construction of traditional properties; combustible linings; hidden voids; open roof spaces and previous uncontrolled building alterations.

Fire Prevention

Luckily, good housekeeping and placing fire prevention at the forefront of your mind can ensure that most fires are prevented. As long as one works to keep the three key “ingredients” of a fire from meeting (oxygen, heat, fuel) then maintaining a hazard free environment will become second nature. The main focus of any fire prevention plan should be to maintain a hazard free environment; keep fuel sources and potential heat sources separate from each other; and being vigilant of hazards and removing or controlling them.

Identifying potential heat sources

There are many potential heat sources that could potentially ignite a fire. These include, but are by no means limited to, faulty wiring, overloaded sockets and extension leads, defective electrical equipment, misused portable heaters, smoking, candles, cooking, open fires, and unswept chimneys.

Identifying Potential Fuel Sources

In a domestic setting, the potential fuel sources for a fire are numerous and can include furniture, textiles, paintings, carpets and rugs. Attics and roof spaces can be of particular concern since they tend to store an array of loosely stored household items that may include a mixture of ignition and fuel sources. It is therefore important to ensure that attics and roofspaces are kept well organised.

Furthermore, depending on the age and construction of the building, many of the building elements may also add to the overall available fire fuel sources, such as wall and ceiling linings, timber flooring and the supporting roof structure.

Identifying Oxygen Sources

Open windows and doors can often provide enough oxygen to feed a fire. That is why it is important to ensure that good compartmentation is practiced in buildings to create fire tight cells, redicing the amount of oxygen available to a fire. Within one’s own home, closing doors, particularly at night, can assist in cutting off oxygen supply to a fire.

Fire Protection

While prevention is always the preferred course of action, once a fire is in effect fire protection measures are essential to ensuring the protection of building occupants in the event of a fire.

Creating Fire Compartments

As mentioned above, compartmentation contains the outbreak of a fire within the area of origin. Vast continuous spaces and voids typical of traditional buildings are the antithesis of compartmentation. It is therefore important to consider upgrades such as the application of fire retardant paints or varnish on timber elements such as doors, particularly internal doors; subdivision of roof spaces by inserting flexible or solid cavity barriers; inserting fire resistant materials into the void under floorboards.

Detection and Alarms

Fire detection is essential to life safety and should include standard battery smoke alarms, but also mains wired smoke alarms. Having both types will ensure you are protected in any eventuality. Heat detectors in kitchens can also be more beneficial over the issue of false alarms.

First Aid Fire Fighting

Including various extinguishers for relevant and likely types of fires, as well as ensuring building occupants are aware of fire extinguishing, protection and evacuation procedures can make all the difference. However, where fixing a fire extinguisher to a wall may be damaging to architecturally protected walls, free standing options are also available.

Fire in any kind of building poses a serious threat to life and to property. Wherever possible, a robust fire prevention plan should always be in place.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing is completely fire retardant to Fire Class YB54 76 Part 7 . Don’t take a chance with cheap alternatives: InvisiTherm’s fire proof rating means that it wont go up in flames, shatter or blow out, reducing the available fuel and oxygen sources for a fire. Contact us today to arrange your FREE no obligation survey.

How We Cured Condensation in a Listed Flat | Glaze & Save

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Living in the heart of Edinburgh is certainly where the action is, but with a young family in a basement flat in a busy location, Eleanor was finding the noise a problem. On top of that, the flat had a terrible condensation problem, with water regular pouring down her son’s bedroom window.

Living in a listed building, Eleanor at first went with expensive replacement slimline double glazing. “It was such a hassle, it took months to complete!”

Her experience led her to seek out other options for the family home. After finding that traditional secondary glazing would not accommodate the working shutters, Eleanor turned to Glaze & Save.

“The huge advantage,” explains Eleanor, “was the cost. We were only going to get one window done, but because of the great value combined with the HEEPS interest free loan , we decided to get the whole house done”.

Compared to her encounter with the double glazing installers, Eleanor was in for a pleasant surprise. “I couldn’t believe how quickly the installation was carried out! The team couldn’t have been here for much more than half a day”.

Since the installation of InvisiTherm into her home, the condensation has completely disappeared from her windows. “It might have taken two or three weeks,” says Eleanor, “but the condensation is completely gone”.

Not only that, but she finally has some quiet in the house. “There is a noticeable difference in the noise. The flat is so much more peaceful now”.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing eradicates condensation without compromising your original windows. Contact us here to book your free no obligation survey today.

Industry Response: Time for Employed Installers | Glaze & Save

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We start off a new series here on our regular business blog, responding to commentary and advances in the secondary glazing, glass and construction industries. We hope you find these new pieces interesting: feel free to let us know in the comments!

A blog post back in September from The Double Glazing Blogger asked the question of why the pool of talent in the glass and glazing industry appeared to be shrinking:

"A chat with an industry friend of mine inspired this post. It was about fitters and where to find them. Turns out it’s not the easiest job in the world to find a fitter these days. Who knew?

We agreed that the talent pool of available fitters in our industry is actually more like a talent bath, soon to become a talent bowl. There seems to be less and less skilled workers out there available to installers who are wishing to grow and push on…

We all know that our industry has a severe shortage of skilled people that is only getting worse. In fact I don’t think we’re that far away from full blown break down. The country has been promised a swathe of three million new apprentices, but even if that does happen, how likely is it that a big enough proportion are going to come the window industry’s way?"

It seems that one of the issues underpinning the shortage of skilled, enthusiastic and ambitious talent in the glass and glazing industry may be the fact that a huge proportion of fitters engaged in the industry are not employed. Self-employment of fitters in the glazing industry I rife and some might say it is a massive turn off to attracting new blood to the industry.

It’s something that we’ve been aware of and keen to do differently at Glaze & Save. Our team of installers are employed by the company, and fully trained and equipped at the company’s expense. Why? Well, in the first instance it guarantees the quality of our installations and conformity of customer experience. We can be assured of the level of knowledge, training and experience each of our installers has, because they have been employed for their previous skills before being trained to our high standards.

We offer pay that exceeds the Living Wage, and are Living Wage Approved employers, as well as paid annual leave and flexible working hours. Offering such pay, conditions and training allows us to attract the best calibre of staff.

As the gig economy continues to grow and freelance, contracted and self-employed work becomes more commonplace, we will always strive to ensure that our workers have the security of employment. It’s not only good for our staff: it’s good for our customers, good for the company and good for business.

Glaze & Save offers bespoke magnetic secondary glazing and draught proofing across Scotland. We specialise in historic buildings, domestic and commercial, but our innovative system can be installed over any type of glass. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey today.

How to Care for Stained Glass | Glaze & Save

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Whether a decorative glass door panel in a domestic dwelling, or grand collection of historic fragile glass in a cathedral: it can all be called stained glass. Comprising of multiple elements, coloured glass, enamel, metalwork and binders, stained glass is delicate and requires careful to ensure that it endures for years to come.

Every component of a stained glass window is crucial in ensuring its longevity. Well-made and maintained stained glass can last for hundreds of years, but the failure of one component or another can cause irreparable damage to the entire window. This is why proper maintenance and care is vital to keeping your stained glass at its best.

Potential Damage

It’s important to frequently check your stained glass windows for signs of potential damage such as:

· Drops of water on the glass

· Discolouration or pitting of the surface of the glass

· Loose glass panels

· Bowing or bulging

· Loss of colour or degradation of paint

· Green algae growing on the glass

· Rusting iron framework or cracked lead dividers

· Structural damage around the window

Causes of Damage

The most common causes of damage to stained glass windows, particularly historic stained glass, are excessively damp conditions and condensation. Causes of damp and condensation in stained glass are much the same as those in regular glass: external issues like ineffective gutter and drains, or internal issues such as problems with ventilation and heating. Stained glass can benefits from the condensation eliminating properties of InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing to completely eradicate condensation on the glass.

Although condensation and damp are the most likely causes of damage to stained glass, there are other issues that may arise. Windows can crack or bulge if there are structural defects in the window such as inadequate support and failure or lead or copper ties. Paint-on stained glass can flake or degrade if they have not been adequately fired.

Maintenance

Cleaning

The most simple way in which to clean stained glass is to use a dry cloth of soft brush to remove dust and debris. However, if a deeper clean is required, it is important to ensure that the solution you use to clean the window is pH neutral and mixed with water. This is because acidic solutions such as vinegar or lemon juice, can break down the metal bindings that support the glass panels, weakening it over time. Equally, it is important to use a soft cloth in the cleaning of stained glass as rough cloths or scourers may scratch the glass. Use cotton buds to clean hard to read or narrow corners.

Regular Checks

Scheduling monthly checks to looks for loose panes, caulk, findings or any other aspect of your windows will ensure that any issues are caught and dealt with early. If your budget allows it, have your stained glass windows inspected every couple of years by specialists, where they will inspect the paintwork, caulking, metalwork and putty for any issues.

Replacing Loose Putty

Contrary to popular belief it is perfectly possibly to replace loose putty yourself: particularly where the damage is minimal. Wherever you see flaking or loosening putty be sure to quickly replace it to ensure the continued good health of your window.

Time, effort and a small financial outlay will ensure that your stained glass lasts for as long as possible. It will also delay, if not stop completely, the need for expensive and often invasive restorative work. With a good cleaning routine, regular maintenance and observing for potential issues, your stained glass can be expected to last for generations.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm is an excellent solution for stained glass windows. Our patented bespoke magnetic secondary glazing systems completely eradicate condensation, reduce heat loss by 63% and reduce noise by a minimum of 48%: all while leaving your stained glass windows completely intact. Contact us here to book your free no obligation survey.

6 Tips to Keep Warm in the Office this Winter | Glaze & Save

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Winter is coming.

The chill is in the air and for those of us who work in an office environment, the upcoming multi-month Big Freeze just makes our days less productive and less pleasant!

Being cold at work causes more than a little discomfort. It has been shown that the cold can actively cause productivity to decrease , especially for women. A study from Cornell University found that when office temperatures were raised from 68 to 77 degrees, typing errors decreased by 44 percent and typing output increased by 150 percent.

We’ve looked at twelve ways in which you can make your office warmer this winter: no more wearing coats during conference calls, or lacking heating in your meetings!

1. Get Moving!

Walk when you’re on a call, walk to your colleague’s desk to speak to them rather than sending an email, invest in standing desks…whatever you do, move! This will raise your core temperature and make you feel warm inside.

2. Deal with draughts.

A draughty office is a cold office, and it could be adding to higher levels of noise and pollution to boot. Invest in draught proofing for the upcoming winter, and not only could you save around 10% on your heating bills, but it will also be quieter, cleaner, and even cooler in the summer!

3. Heat Yourself

There are all manner of heated gadgets to warm even the most discerning of extremities. A quick Amazon search shows USB heated treats for every conceivable body part, so there’s no excuse to be left out in the cold. Try USB Fingerless Gloves for frosty fingers, or heated slippers for chilly feet.

4. Get your Radiators Ready

If your office is heated with radiators, then investing in some clever technologies can help your have your warmest winter yet. Radiator foils reflect up to 95% of heat back into the room and saves it from being absorbed by the wall. You can also add a liquid additive to the inside of the radiator: this works by breaking down any sludge or debris in the radiator, allowing the water inside to be adequately heated.

5. Work on your Windows

Did you know that around one third of the heat from a building can be lost through inefficient windows? That’s a lot of cold mornings in the office! Retain 63% of heat, while instantly draught proofing and eliminating condensation by installing an intelligent secondary glazing system like InvisiTherm .

6. Get Thermostat Smart

Make sure the office thermostat is set to go off a little before everyone leaves for the day, and stays off (or for extreme cold, maintains a low temperature) until an hour before everyone arrives for work the next day. By saving energy when you don’t need it, you can be smarter about using it when you do need it. No more freezing cold office for you.

Glaze & Save can get your office winter ready: our bespoke magnetic secondary glazing systems and innovative, non-invasive draught proofing are the perfect solution to reducing heat loss and draughts, while offering a quick installation time and minimal disruption. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey today.

How to Secure Sash & Case Windows | Glaze & Save

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

October is National Home Security Month: a month long awareness raising programme to help you keep your home safe and secure. National Home Security Month (NHSM) is here to raise awareness around the importance of home security so you can be safe in the knowledge that your home, family and belongings are protected.

National Home Security Month launched with a bang on Monday the 2nd of October, hosting competitions, offers and incentives for homeowners to get the latest home security products. Throughout the month you can find information, advice and guidance here .

We’ve decided to have a look at ways in which you can keep your traditional windows safe and secure without sacrificing aesthetics or heritage.

According to The Crime Prevention Website , if well maintained and properly locked, a traditional sliding box sash window will provide a reasonable level of security.

However, with the exception of smashing the glass, an unlocked traditional sash and case window can be opened in two different ways:

1. Attacking the centre catch

There are two different types of centre catches which are relatively easy to open. A simple pivot catch can be knocked open using a knife between two sashes. A finger screw catch can be knocked clean off of a sash using a screwdriver of slim line chisel. The half moon catch is is more sturdy and less liable to failing the event of a deliberate attack; however it is worth baring in mind that this type of catch is not a lock as it does not have a key operation.

2. Levering the bottom sash

Levering the bottom sash of your window involves using a crow bar or spade to create a vast amount of pressure to lever the window open. Many of the windows that succumb to being forced open with a crow bar tend to be overpainted to the point where the sashes will not close properly. However, well maintained sashes can also be overcome with the use of a spade, which creates an enormous amount of pressure on the sash. This is why it is so important to ensure that wherever you keep your gardening tools (such as a shed or outhouse), is firmly and properly secured to prevent thieves gaining access to the tools that will make their lives easier!

Ensuring you have lockable sash windows is therefore vital for home security. In fact, your insurance likely depends on it, with Page Security noting that 90 percent of all insurers require key-operated window locks on all windows accessible from the floor or a flat roof.

Installing a key-operated lock is a relatively simple job for a locksmith to carry out , and there is also a good selection of key operated locks on the market to suit your taste and budget. Most key-operated locks can allow the window to be locked while fully closed, or locked with an open gap of around four inches to allow for extra air circulation without compromising security. Commonly known as sash stops or sash restrictors, these are the best on the market for ensuring window security, particularly since even if the glass of your window is broken, and intruder cannot then manipulate the lock to slide the sash, a common issue with catches.

There are a couple of different key-operated locks available. They may either be auto locking, or manually locking, but both types require a key to open them.

1. Sash Stops

Sash stops prevent the inside lower sash from moving past the outer sash. You also have the option of fitting a sash stop on top of the inner frame to prevent the window from moving entirely, which is a great option for windows you never open. Sash stops can also be fitted higher on the frame to allow air flow. For windows over 600mm Page Security advise fitting locks to both sides of the window.

2. Sash Bolts

Sash bolts have a brass casing that is drilled into to lower sash. A bolt is then screwed through the inside lower sash into the outer sash and locked into place with a key. This effectively affixes both sashes together, meaning that they cannot be opened without a key to remove the bolt.

8 Energy Saving Tips for Tenants | Glaze & Save

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Living in rented accommodation needn’t stop you from creating an energy efficient home. While landlords will have a legal obligation from April 2018 to meet a minimum standard for energy efficiency , it’s highly likely that you’ll want to make some changes yourself. Luckily there are plenty of energy efficiency measures you can install in your home that are entirely removable and demountable, and leave no impact on the fabric of the building.

Whether your lease is long or short term, there are plenty of inexpensive and easy things you can do to save energy while slashing your utility bills. So without for ado, let’s look at eight energy saving tips that you can carry out today to increase your comfort while reducing your energy bills in your rented home.

1. Switch off unused appliances

Switching off unused appliances can save hundreds of pounds per year! While your microwave costs a modest £10.24 a year to run, and electric shower can cost a whopping £245.70 per year. Perhaps most shocking is the cost of running an electric fire for a moderate amount of time (for four hours a day): you could be looking at a heart stopping £873.60 per year for one fire. It pays to get wise to your appliances: you can splash out on a home display monitor, or just be sure to turn off any appliance that you are not currently using. You could save yourself hundreds of pounds, and without a deposit-risking measure in sight.

2. Adjust your thermostat.

It is estimated that around 40-48% of home energy goes towards heating and cooling , so it’s not difficult to see how making little changed to your own habits can have a major effect on your energy consumption. We have written about this here. Some further tips can include ensuring that your thermostat is set to 18-20 degrees Celsius. Or if you home is already well insulated and draught proofed, then try putting your thermostat down by a degree or two. You’ll be surprised how comfortable your home remains.

3. Draught proof your home

Draught proofing your home is one of the best things you can do to keep your home energy efficient while increasing your thermal comfort. By draught proofing your home you could cut your energy bills by up to 25% . If you have the flexibility in your tenancy, then consider a liquid silicone draught proofing product such as InvisiSeal. However, if you are limited in what you can do in the property, consider draught snakes up against doors, stuffing holes and gaps old socks, or investing in a chimney balloon or chimney sheep . Make sure you are tackling every door, window, skirting board, gap and crevice.

4. Install secondary glazing

While it is your landlord’s responsibility to ensure that your property meets a minimum standard for energy efficiency , you may require a little bit more, particularly where your windows are involved. Consider installing removable and demountable secondary glazing like InvisiTherm , although always check with your landlord before going ahead. If secondary glazing is out of the question, then consider insulating window films such as InvisiFilm .

5. Energy efficient light bulbs

One of the simplest things that you can do to increase the energy efficiency of your property is by replacing old-style incandescent globes with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs). CFLs use around 20% of the energy of an incandescent light globe and can last between 4 and 10 times longer.

6. Hot Water

Hot water accounts for about a 25% of household energy use . The recommended setting for thermostats is above 60°C on storage hot water systems; or 50°C on instantaneous systems. If you're away for more than a few days, turn off your storage hot water system. When you return, allow plenty of time for the water to heat back up to above 60°C and remain at that temperature for a minimum of 35 minutes to kill any bacteria that may have grown. It could take several hours for the water to heat before you can safely use it. Don't overheat the water as this wastes energy.

7. Adjust your fridge

The idea temperature for your fridge is between 3-5 degrees Celsius; the ideal temperature is between -15 and -18 degrees Celsius for your freezer. Every degree lower requires a whopping 5% more energy to process!

8. Flushing toilets.

If you have a single flush toilet that your landlord is not considering replacing, using a water displacement device or using a plastic bottle filled with water could save you 51L of water per person per day.

Why we Love Recycle Week | Glaze & Save

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Did you know that around 60% of aerosols are made from tin-plated steel and approximately 40% are made from aluminium? Or that 60% of items in the average waste bin could actually be recycled? These are just some of the stats that Recycle Week wants to highlight this year.

This year’s theme is ‘Recycling – It’s Worth It’ , which aims to demonstrate the wonderful things that can happen to your waste when you choose to recycle.

While a whopping 80% of you in the UK believe that recycling does make a difference, 25% of people cant see a direct benefit in recycling.

Scotland’s recycling rate has increased from just 5% in 2005 to 44% in 2014, but we can all still do better, and indeed we need to in order to meet the Government’s recycling target of 70% by 2025. By signing up for Recycle Week, we can all help to boost recycling rates and contribute to our zero waste targets.

At Glaze & Save we are passionate and absolutely committed to recycling: so much so that we’ve made it a fundamental part of our business!

Reduce Reuse Recycle

All aspects of the manufacture and installation of InvisiTherm™ are done with sustainability in mind:

Any offcuts that can be recycled into other installations are then used to reduce waste. Smaller offcuts that cannot be used in other installations are recycled into Grade 2 polycarbonate.

All polycarbonate shavings from the cutting and planning process during installation are also recycled into Grade 2 polycarbonate.

Even the polycarbonate shavings which are produced from cutting the polycarbonate are collected using a vacuum cleaner, the contents of which are then recycled into Grade 3 polycarbonate.

We separate all our waste on site using clear recycle sacks, allowing no contamination to our waste. Our recycling is then uplifted by a local company for processing. We even have a list of people who will come to the warehouse to uplift our bubble wrap for reuse and our business cards are made from recycled paper!

Not Just Recycling

Wherever possible, we purchase IT and office equipment second hand to reduce demand for new goods and to support reuse and recycle efforts.

We have robust recycling practices in place for all office and general waste in our premises. With all Eco products used in washroom, no paper towels, compost collection for food waste.

We limit printing only to absolutely necessary documents, preferring to send receipts, invoices, quotes and other information by email. When we do print, we use climate controlled paper which is FSE certified.

Our marketing is mostly based online, however the little direct flyering we do is printed on recycle paper and limited to the neighbourhood of our installations, in appropriate properties and carried out by our own team on foot.

How You Can Take Part in Recycle Week

There are many ways you can participate in Recycle Week. For businesses, Zero Waste Scotland is recruiting an army of ambassadors to in a bid to get Scotland recycling even more.

There is still time for organisations to take part to take part, from hosting events and introducing new recycling services, to sharing Zero Waste Scotland’s messages on social media.

To sign up to Recycle Week and play your part go to www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/recycleweek2017

Why InvisiTherm™ is Best for Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Historic buildings, and the glaze that comes with them, have often been seen as problematic properties requiring excessive utilities and invasive solutions to bring them up to speed with modern innovations in energy efficiency and thermal comfort. It’s a sad fact that this attitude has led to the degradation and destruction of much of our built heritage. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

For historic buildings, where the retention of original features and fabric is paramount, secondary glazing allows the original windows to be retained in their unaltered state; reducing air leakages and heat losses while retaining the historic fabric of the building. Heat loss by conduction and radiation through windows can be reduced by over 60% by using secondary glazing. The innovative polycarbonate material that makes InvisiTherm™ boasts reduction in heat loss of up to 63%.

But thermal efficiency without compromising the integrity of your original windows is not the only reason to choose a secondary glazing product like InvisiTherm™. Unlike double glazing, InvisiTherm™ can offer numerous other benefits to the historic building.

What is Secondary Glazing?

Secondary glazing is an entirely independent glazing system affixed to the interior of existing windows. The original window remains in its original position, and can be left untreated, or restored with draught-proofing treatments such as Glaze & Save InvisiSeal™.

Secondary glazing has suffered from something of a bad reputation in the past. Bulky aluminium frames, heavy glass panels, and ugly intrusive fixtures and fittings rendered secondary glazing the poor relation to double glazing. Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ changes all of that. Our demountable polycarbonate panels are lightweight and easy to remove, and our innovative magnetic strip ensures that there are no bulky frames and unsightly fittings. Our bespoke systems are virtually invisible once affixed to your window, making them perfect for retaining the charm and beauty of your historic building.

So let’s get to those reasons as to why Invisitherm™ bespoke magnetic secondary glazing is the best choice for historic buildings.

1. Noise insulation

Due to their lightweight construction, windows are often the most vulnerable part of a building when it comes to noise transmission. The noise reduction of the typical single glazed window, depending on the openings and seals, may be as little as 18-25dBA.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can guarantee a noise reduction of at least 48%. These amazing noise reduction properties can make all of the difference in historic buildings.

2. Protection from ultra violet light

As well as first rate heat retention and noise cancelling properties, InvisiTherm™ can help protect against the damaging effects of ultra violet (UV) light. This is particularly important in historic buildings where precious paintings and artifacts, and delicate furnishings and fabrics may be found. InvisiTherm™ will absorb the UV light, protecting the contents of your historic building from fading.

3. Solar gain

Keeping you warm in the winter and cooler in the summer is another excellent advantage of Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™. Ordinary secondary glazing can assist in admitting large amounts of solar energy through the windows, leading to solar heating, i.e. the “greenhouse effect”. InvisiTherm™ reflects around 27% of the heat from the sun, keeping your historic building temperate for residents, staff and visitors.

Our fully demountable systems can even be removed in the warmer summer months for maximum flexibility.

4. Security

We all like the feeling of an extra layer of security. Secondary glazing provides an additional barrier to entry, keeping your historic property safe and secure. This is particularly useful when the use of a historic building is being changed and extra security is required. The secondary glazing can provide that additional security whilst retaining the existing windows.

The innovative polycarbonate of Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is thirty times stronger than the acetate or Perspex used by our competitors. It’s virtually unbreakable, leaving you and your property safe and secure.

5. Visual impact

Traditionally, secondary glazing could be visually intrusive and badly designed. InvisiTherm™ is different. Our bespoke panels are cut to size on site to fit your existing windows perfectly. We have a huge range of cover strips available in multiple colours and wood finishes to ensure the finish of your system matches the windows perfectly. We’ll even paint our wooden beading to match your window frames exactly: even if it takes ten coats of paint!

You’ll find the visual impact of InvisiTherm™ to be so minimal, you’ll think it’s virtually invisible. That’s why we’re approved for installations in listed buildings across Scotland, and have installed our systems in properties operated by the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland .

6. Maintenance

In historic buildings, it is of vital importance that secondary glazing systems should not prevent access to the original windows for maintenance and cleaning. Traditional secondary glazing can be heavy and unwieldly, making access to the original window difficult.

Luckily, the innovative polycarbonate of Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is lightweight and easily removed, for cleaning, maintenance or storage.

It is safe, lightweight at 4.8kg per m2 (half the weight of glass of same thickness) and easy to handle, shatterproof and virtually unbreakable. It makes removal and cleaning a breeze.

We’ll also provide you with an aftercare pack in order to clean and care for your InvisiTherm™ system. Along with antistatic spray and microfiber cloths for hassle free cleaning, we’ll also provide suckers and/or pull tabs for easy removal of your systems.

If removing the systems yourself still seems daunting, then there’s no need to worry. We can arrange for our team to visit your property to remove the systems for you.

InvisiTherm™ is bespoke magnetic secondary glazing available exclusively from Glaze & Save . Installed in some of the most prestigious historic buildings in the UK, InvisiTherm™ is the perfect solution for your listed or conservation property. Contact us here to arrange a free no obligation survey.

How to Tackle Fuel Poverty | Glaze & Save

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Fuel Poverty is a serious problem in Scotland. As energy tariffs get higher and wages stagnate, more and more households find themselves struggling to cope with the monthly or quarterly utility bills and can end up in fuel debt, ill health, or living in homes which are just too cold. Inspired by some great training and advice from Home Energy Scotland Strathclyde and Central , today’s blog takes a look at what Fuel Poverty is, what causes it, what its effects and impact is across the country, and what we can do to stop it.

The U.K as a whole is the “cold man of Europe” , where we rank 14th out of 16 for fuel poverty in Western Europe, and a worrying 16th out of 16 for the proportion of people who cannot afford to adequately heat their homes.

What is Fuel Poverty?

It’s easy to talk about “fuel poverty” but what do we actually mean by the term? Energy Action Scotland , which Glaze & Save is a member of, uses the Scottish Government’s definition:

A household is in fuel poverty if, in order to maintain a satisfactory heating regime, it would be required to spend more than 10% of its income on all household fuel use.

A household is also said to be in extreme fuel poverty if it is required to spend more than 20% of household income on all household fuel use.

As of 2015, there were 748,000 households in fuel poverty with 203,000 households identified as being in extreme fuel poverty.

What is a “Satisfactory Heating Regime”?

To maintain a satisfactory heating regime, the Scottish Government states that the following conditions must be met :

The currently accepted, satisfactory heating regime means achieving for elderly and infirm households a temperature of 23°C in the living room and 18°C in other rooms, for 16 hours in every 24. For other households a temperature of 21°C in the living room and 18°C in other rooms should be achieved, for a period of 9 hours in every 24 (or 16 in 24 over the weekend) - with 2 hours being in the morning and 7 hours in the evening.

Does your household meet the satisfactory heating regime?

Of course, the actual heat of the household, real and perceived, will depend on many different factors such as the preferred thermal comfort of the home; the make-up of the household (babies, the elderly, working adults, etc.); the type of heating available in the household; the weather; the number of occupants of the household; the energy efficiency of the property and the affordability of the available heating methods.

Although official figures are lower, the End Fuel Poverty Coalition puts the number of ‘fuel poor’ households in the UK at 4.5 million. Many people are spending more than they can afford, or going without what most consider a basic human need .

Fuel Poverty is about more than just feeling the cold. Ongoing fuel poverty can lead to a host of negatives issues arising, such as householders need to make the choice between heating and eating; the accumulation of fuel debt; physical and mental health issues; disrepair of properties and householders and their families being forced to make other sacrifices (such as going without holidays, new clothes, etc.). In all, an existence in fuel poverty is not a happy or healthy one. In fact, there is a proven link between fuel poverty and cardiovascular, circulatory and respiratory diseases .

What causes Fuel Poverty?

While many people would automatically blame ever-rising fuel prices as the main cause of fuel poverty, there are actually several other factors that contribute to the incidence of fuel poverty. These other factors are arguably more easily tackled than rising fuel costs!

Other factors that influence fuel poverty include:

· Lower incomes

· Poor energy efficiency of properties

· Under occupancy of homes

· Aging population who generally require warmer household temperatures.

· Fuel Poverty and Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency and fuel poverty are inextricably linked. According to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition , 96% of fuel poor homes in the U.K are poorly insulated, and there are 21 million homes in the U.K with poor energy efficiency (defined as being below a Band C on an Energy Performance Certificate. You can find out more about Energy Performance Certificates here ) .

The Energy Saving Trust estimates the percentage of heat lost from various areas of a house as follows:

· Walls 33%

· Roof 26%

· Windows 18%

· Doors 3%

· Floors 8%

· Draughts 12%

Of course, these figures depend on the type of property you live in and the type of energy efficiency measures you already have installed, but it is easy to see how important retrofitting energy efficient measures to your home can be for tackling fuel poverty in the home.

The Government’s Role in Tackling Fuel Poverty

According to the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 , the Scottish Government is was required to eradicate fuel poverty as far as reasonably practicable by November 2016. That target has not been met and a new target is to be announced in autumn 2017. http://www.eas.org.uk/en/target-to-eradicate-fuel-poverty-in-scotland_50553/

Local authorities also have a duty to tackle fuel poverty through their Local Housing Strategies .

What can Individuals do to Tackle Fuel Poverty?

· Contact Home Energy Scotland for a Home Energy Check During the Home Energy Check, the staff at Home Energy Scotland will make you aware of energy efficiency measures that you can carry out, changes in behaviour that could save you money, and link you up with potential funding options to help make your home more energy efficient.

· Adopt more energy efficient behaviours For example, making simple behavioural changes such as turning off appliances and closing curtains before dusk can save you £130 per year.

· Consider retrofitting energy efficient technologies in your home For example, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm reduces heating bills by 22.5% in rooms with treated windows.

· Maximise your income Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau to find out which benefits you may be entitled to.

· Switch you energy supplier Using a comparison site makes it easy to find the best energy deal.

How to Maintain Traditional Wood Windows | Glaze & Save

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Traditional windows can last you a life time, but only if you know how to maintain and look after them correctly. Decay and deterioration is inevitable with traditional windows because of the climate, wear and tear, etc., but this does not mean that you need to give up your original windows, or that maintaining your windows needs to be a difficult endeavor.

Problems to look out for

The most common problems associated with the degradation of traditional wood sash and case windows often ultimately comes down to poor maintenance. These problems can include stuck sashes, degradation of the joints, and rotting of the timber. Left long enough, these issues can develop into the requirement for a full window restoration.

Things to look out for:

· Cracked or flaking paintwork

· Stuck sashes

· Deteriorated putty

· Broken cords

· Rotting wood

It’s also worth bearing in mind that the location of your property and climate will affect the level of maintenance and sometimes even the specific types of maintenance required. Windows in a north facing position tend to be much better sheltered from wind and rain that their south facing counterparts and there deteriorate at a much slower pace.

Steps to maintaining your windows

Cleaning

No one wants to add to their cleaning routine, but taking regular time to clean the timber surfaces and glass of your traditional window will not only approve the appearance and functionality of the window, it will also give you the opportunity to look for emerging issues like rotting wood or fraying sashes.

Inspecting the sash cord and pulley wheels, as well and looking over any draught proofing or weather sealing will ensure that you are making the most of your cleaning time.

Cleaning your wooden windows doesn’t require any specialist equipment, just some time and TLC. Removing any larger pieces of dirt or debris with a vacuum cleaner will ensure that you do not scratch of damage your frames and makes for an easier clean.

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a couple of drops of washing up liquid, or better yet, use a specific wood cleaner and use a well-wrung clean sponge to remove the bulk of the grime. It is important to make sure that the sponge is not soaking wet as this can damage the wood. Clean details with a toothbrush and buff dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid standing on chairs when cleaning windows, especially if there are water spillages!

Painting

Of course, cleaning and regularly inspecting your wood windows is just one aspect of maintaining your wood windows. In order to protect the wood and the window putty, the paintwork is just as important. In fact, using quality paints and having your windows professionally painted can extend the lifespan of your windows significantly.

If you’re a handy type and prefer to paint your wood windows yourself, there are a few things you should bear in mind before getting started. Firstly, it is important to remove all of the window ironmongery and sash furniture. Then prepare the area by rubbing down with a pumice stone or sandpaper before brushing away all dirt to ensure a smooth finish.

If your windows were painted with lead-based paint it is important to wear an air respirator to avoid inhaling toxic fumes, and use a wet process to avoid toxic lead dust being released into the air.

Be sure to spot prime areas of exposed wood to ensure the best results for paint adhesion.

Maintaining and caring for your traditional windows doesn’t need to be a tough job, and you will be rewarded with beautiful, functional windows that will last for years to come!

A Guide to Living in a Listed Building | Glaze & Save

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Listed buildings are integral to the built heritage of Scotland, and enrich our villages, towns and cities with their historic significance. This is because, in order for a building to become listed, it must be of special architectural or historic interest.

Legal Framework

Listing is carried out under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997, under which a dedicated team researches all designation applications.

Is My Building Listed?

If the building in question is in Scotland you can find out if your building is listed by carrying out a search at Historic Environment Scotland here .

For buildings listed in England and Wales you can search via Historic England .

For buildings is Northern Ireland, you can search via the Department of Communities website .

What does it mean when a building is listed?

To be “listed” a building must be of special architectural, historic or cultural interest. This can include everything from castles to cottages, to the inclusion of Edinburgh’s social housing construction the “Banana Flats” as special architectural interest.

It’s worth bearing in mind that if your building is listed, the whole thing is listed! That means that you’ll need listed building consent to make changes to the building that the local planning authority deems to affect its character.

Changes that local authorities deem to affect a listed building’s character include (but are not limited to ):

· Exterior walls, including decorative work;

· Windows and doors;

· Roof;

· External plumbing;

· Basements and cellars;

· Railings, gates and fences;

· Stairways and balconies;

· Interior changes such as chimney breasts, plasterwork, cornicing and flooring;

· In some circumstances it can also include alternations or additions to any gardens or grounds;

· Changes to the fabric and construction of the building in any way.

The extensive restrictions to listed building development are really not there to hinder progress in any way. Rather, it is simply to signify the special interest of the building that should be taken in to consideration as part of the planning process. You will not be asked to undo any work that has taken place prior to the listing of the building.

The Planning Process

Assessment

Your planning authority will consider a planning application on the basis of its own guidelines, national policies and policies set out by Historic Environment Scotland .

Consultation

The planning authority must consult Historic Environment Scotland on certain types of listed building consent applications.

Historic Environment Scotland will provide advice, which the planning authority may or may not choose to take into consideration. However, where a planning authority chooses to grant planning permission in contravention of Historic Environment Scotland’s advice, the Scottish Ministers must be notified of this.

Call In

Scottish Ministers may choose to determine to outcome of a planning application themselves, known as “calling in” a case. This would only be likely to happen where an application raises significant or controversial issues. In these cases, a reporter is appointed and may make the decision to arrange a local public inquiry.

Appeal

You have the right to appeal if:

your application for listed building consent is refused by the planning authority
you feel the conditions are unreasonable

Retrofitting Energy Efficiency Measures

Listed and historic buildings need some extra attention when it comes to adding energy efficient improvements, but we could all do with enhancing the efficiency of our homes. By adding improvements to the existing structure and fittings, you can save yourself money as well as saving the planet.

Listed buildings are generally deemed to be hard to treat, and planning controls associated with listed buildings generally create issues in obtaining funding for upgrading schemes. As such, it is important to look into retrofitting measures that work within the planning constraints of your building. Demountable or removable improvements can often be more beneficial and easier to approve in these situations.

Glaze & Save in Listed Buildings

InvisiTherm™

For historic buildings, where the retention of original features and fabric is paramount, secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can allow the original windows to be repaired and retained in their unaltered state; reducing air leakages and heat losses while retaining the historic fabric of the building. With a fully demountable system such as InvisiTherm™, installation is easily reversible and leaves no lasting effects on the original window.

It has been shown through stringent research that heat loss by conduction and radiation through windows can be reduced by over 60% by using secondary glazing. The innovative polycarbonate material that makes InvisiTherm™ boasts reduction in heat loss of up to 63%.

InvisiSeal™

Original sash windows helped a home to breathe, but they were not meant to be draughty. As time passes the wood of the sash window becomes warped, leading to gaps of up to a combined ten inches squared! Draught-proofing is therefore one of the easiest and most efficient ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home.

This can involve the use of brush strips fitted to parting beads, baton rods and meeting rails, and can also involve routing out new units or brand new beading. Glaze & Save InvisiSeal™ is another option: an innovative homogenous silicone that seals the draughty areas of your windows and doors before discretely drying like rubber.

Draught-proofing wont decrease the U value of your windows; however it will seal off some of the air flow in your home, allowing you to reduce your energy consumption and enjoy a less draughty house.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ and InvisiSeal™ are both approved for installation in listed buildings in Scotland. InvisiTherm™ is completely demountable, reversible and virtually invisible bespoke magnetic secondary glazing that will not affect the aesthetics of your home. InvisiSeal™ is innovative liquid silicone draught proofing that is completely non-invasive and virtually invisible. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey (domestic surveys only available in Scotland).

5 Weird Ways to Warm your Home | Glaze & Save

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

There’s no doubt about it; we’re definitely in the throes of autumn now. There was barley a transition from the brisk summer, and with plummeting temperatures and icy cold rain it looks like we might be hurtling towards winter much sooner than expected.

When the temperature drops, it’s easy to crank up the central heating or to pop on an extra layer. But we’ve scoured the internet to find some weirds ways to keep your home warm this autumn that might just save you some money and energy as well.

1. Use tin foil. One sure fire way to prevent heat loss from radiators is to bung a bit of foil behind them, particularly those situated on external walls. Aluminium foil reflects heat back into the room, preventing it from disappearing through walls. You can buy special radiator foils for around £10, but if the budget doesn’t stretch that far, a decent quality tin foil will do a fine job on its own.

2. Cover your key hole. There’s nothing quite as frosty as cold air whistling through a naked key hole. Invest in a key-hole cover, or if the budget won’t stretch to it simply nail some thick but flexible fabric over the offending hole. While you’re at it, tackle the rest of the gaps in your home to make it extra toasty. Areas with pipes and cables, under the kitchen cupboards, sinks etc can all be secretly gappy spots, so block them up with caulk, expanding foam, or even plastic bags.

3. Double your drapes. Why have one pair of curtains when you can have two? Think about it as an extra jumper for your windows, helping to keep your rooms snug. This adds another layer of insulation which will help with winter chills.

4. Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise. Okay now this one is weird. You may not consider keeping your ceiling fan running in winter, but by setting it to run clockwise and lowering the speed you can effectively drive warm air back down in to the room, saving it from escaping through the ceiling and keeping you cosy instead.

5. Make the most of your oven. If you’ve just finished cooking up a nice roast or casserole, make the most of all of that residual heat by keeping your oven open once you’ve turned it off. The heat will dissipate throughout the house, making good use of usually wasted heat. But make sure that your oven is turned off the take advantage safely, and ensure no pets or children can get access to the oven.

Glaze & Save offers a variety of products to help keep your home or business warm, from our bespoke magnetic secondary glazing InvisiTherm to our innovative liquid silicone draught proofing InvisiSeal. Don’t suffer while shivering this autumn! Contact us here to arrange you free no obligation survey.

Are Your Windows Energy Efficient? | Glaze & Save

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Window Energy Efficiency Explained

Window energy efficiency ratings are set down by the British Council of Fenestration and the Glass and Glazing Federation, using a rainbow label that is similar to the rainbow system that we see on white goods, making it easy to interpret and understand the level of thermal performance of new windows.

However, older windows will not have an energy efficiency rating, so how can you decipher how energy efficient your original windows. It is often helpful to take into consideration standard U Values: for example, a single glazed sash and case window will have a U Value of around 5.5; older double glazing can also have much higher U Values than you might expect.

The lower the U Value the more thermally efficient your windows will be; this is one of the main aims of making your windows more energy efficient (particularly if you live in a chilly climate like Scotland). It is therefore beneficial to invest in products that will lower the U Value of your windows.

Making Your Windows Energy Efficient

Restoration

One of the first things you can do to original windows to make them more energy efficient is to invest in window restoration. This is not always required, but where the sills are rotting, sashes are loose and draughty, etc this can provide area where warm air can escape, making your property less energy efficient overall.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is a great option for lowering the U Value and increasing the overall energy efficiency of original windows, older double glazing or simply for those who do not want to replace their existing windows. As well as providing complete draught proofing, secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm can reduce the U Value of your windows from 5.5 to 1.7, making your windows as efficient as double glazing.

Even the Energy Saving Trust is a fan of secondary glazing advising that it is an ‘ideal solution if you are unable to replace your existing windows with double glazing’

Films

For hard to treat windows, or for those that require more frequent access to windows, energy efficiency can be achieved through the use of window films. InvisiFilm is professionally installed and comes with various formats: choose from films to retain heat, reject solar glare or a variety of other measures which enhance the energy efficiency of your windows.

Draught proofing

Although draught proofing in itself does not affect the energy efficiency of the window glaze itself, having effectively draught proofed windows will make an overall difference to the energy efficiency of your home. This is because draught proofing helps to capture warm air inside of your home rather than allowing it to escape outside and be replaced with cold air, increasing the warm-up times of your rooms and reducing the amount of energy required to keep them at a stable temperature. Glaze & Save InvisiSeal eliminates draughts and in the process helps reduce heating bills by 15%.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm is an innovative bespoke magnetic secondary glazing solution that reduces noise, increases thermal efficiency and can actually eradicate condensation from your windows. Call now on 01738 562068 to arrange your free no obligation survey, or email info@glazeandsave.co.uk for more information.

6 Home Hacks to Get Ready for Autumn | Glaze & Save

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Our optimism over the potential for a Scottish summer is sadly waning, so we set our sights towards the autumn and consider the various things that we need to do to get our houses in order. Making preparations now can often be cheaper and less hassle than waiting until deepest darkest winter, so be the early bird who catches the worm and check out our tips to get your home ready for autumn.

1. Check for draughts. Draughts often feel like less of an issue in the summer months when winders are calmers and warmers. But you’ll soon remember them come the autumn! Feel for draughts around windows, doors, pipes, electrical sockets and any other area that could be a source of unwanted air flow. Try using a lit candle in front of the source of potential draughts: if it flickers, you could well have a draught. Treat your draught problems with an innovative bespoke solution such as Glaze & Save InvisiSeal: a completely non-invasive draught proofing solution that you’ll barely be able to see.

2. Check you thermostat. It’s a fact of life that we want our homes to be warmer in the autumn and winter, but that doesn’t mean that we need to have it heating blazing 24/7. Ensure that your thermostat is programmed to a lower temperature at night (trust us, you will sleep better for it) and at a lower temperature still for when you’re not home (or better still, programme it to be off while you’re out of the house and to turn on one hour before you get home). This ensures that you will always have a warm and cosy house, but you are not wasting energy and money by heating an empty house.

3. Stock up on firewood. For those with wood burning stoves and biomass boilers, now is the time to stock up on the firewood that you’ll need for autumn and winter. Why? Because you’ll likely need much more than you think (especially for those with biomass boilers) and in many cases your wood will need to be dried out. Gather it up now while it’s drier and keep stored in a covered area, away from your home for safety reasons.

4. Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Our desire to be cosy on cold fall days means fires (both gas and wood) will be blazing. It’s therefore worth checking out your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are in working order, making any adjustments and replacing batteries as required.

5. Get your dehumidifiers up to scratch. Spending more time indoors, drying laundry indoors, basically just hibernating for several months will create much more moisture than normal in your home, which can lead to damp and condensation. Clean the inside of your dehumidifier, replace old filters if necessary, and make sure that they are in perfect working order to prepare for increased home time in the coming months.

6. Get your glazing in order. If you are living with single glazed windows, you might be dreading the coming autumn (and worse yet, the winter). Consider a secondary glazing solution such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm : our polycarbonate systems reduce heat loss through your windows by 63%, instantly draughtproofs windows and can increase the temperature of your rooms by five degrees.

Tips to Cool your Home without Wasting Energy | Glaze & Save

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When we think of energy efficiency, the first thing that comes to mind is how we can reduce our heating bills and keep our homes toasty in a more resource efficient and environmentally friendly; however, keeping your home cool can take just as much of a toll on your energy consumption…even in a climate like Scotland! So while we may not be sweltering in the summer sun just yet, here are ten top tips to keep your home cool without wasting energy that you can put into practice today.

1. Put the “wind” in window Take your window opening to the next level by creating a refreshing cool pressure current. Open your upstairs windows on the side of your house that is downwind and open downstairs windows on to side of your house which is upwind. Lower the temperature even more by hanging a cold wet sheet in front of the downwind window to create an even cooler breeze.

2. Switch up your lights We’ve said it before and we will again: changing your lightbulbs from the energy inefficient bulbs of old to low energy bills such as LED lighting not only saves you energy, it keeps you cooler. Old-style incandescent bulbs waste around 90% of their energy by producing heat. Not only does switching reduce your energy bills, it also keeps lit rooms cooler. And it goes without saying; never leave lights on in an empty room.

3. In fact, switch off completely Electronic equipment and appliances generate heat when they are left plugged in; just think about how hot your computer gets! Make sure that all electronic equipment is unplugged when not in use to get an overall cooling effect, while saving energy and money!

4. Turn a blind eye It may seem counter intuitive, after all we often associated drawing curtains or blinds with wrapping up against chilly nights, but closing your blinds or curtains can help reduce the unwanted heat that comes through your windows. According to Family Handyman, s simple as this tip may seem, closing curtains and blinds can save you up to 7% on your energy bills all while lowering the temperature.

5. Better yet, invest in InvisiTherm
While InvisiTherm is great at retaining the heat that you want, it also rejects around 27% of external sun rays, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

6. Show rising temperatures the door Don’t cool your whole house if you’re only using one or two rooms. Closing the doors to unused rooms will prevent cold air from being wasted in these rooms.

7. Cool yourself, not your house So far all of our tips have focused on changes that will cool your surroundings. But the most effective way to cool down is by cooling yourself! Consume iced drinks, wear light clothing made from natural fabrics, and make good use of wet cloths (or even ice cubes) placed on necks, wrists and foreheads.

8. Signed, sealed, delivered Just as leaky doors and windows create problems in the winter, uncontrolled air flow can also cause problems in the warmers months. Using a draught proofing product such as InvisiSeal around doors and windows, caulking any other cracks, and plugging up spaces around pipes and power outlets with foam all works to stop hot air from entering and cool air leaving your home. Bonus: your home will be winter-ready with no extra effort.

9. Windows on the world Heat enters your home through its windows, and if those windows are single-glazed, low quality double glazing, or even if you have old glass secondary glazing, the intensity of heat magnified by glass can be unbearable. If InvisiTherm secondary glazing isn’t for you, perhaps consider solar-control window film. This works by creating a barrier that rejects the sun’s rays, in varying different strengths. Glaze & Save offers a fully installed window film service with InvisiFilm.

10. Be a fan of fans It may come to it that natural air flow just isn’t enough for you, and for that you’ll need a fan. Remember: fans cool people not rooms, so don’t be so quick to jump on an electric option. Hand fans can be exceptionally effective at cooling, creating air motion that helps evaporate sweat on our skin and reduce body heat. But if it simply must be electric, be sure to set fans up in the direction of the occupants in the room to get maximum benefit from it.

Glaze & Save isn’t just for winter! InvisiTherm , InvisiSeal and InvisiFilm have exceptional solar, air flow control and heat rejection qualities that are just as valuable in the summer. Contact us here to arrange your free no obligation survey!

4 Reasons why Planners Prefer Secondary Glazing | Glaze & Save

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It can be tempting to tear out your original windows, who doesn’t love shiny new things? But for many reasons that we have explained here , here and here , it’s best to retain them. But for those of us who live in listed buildings, tearing out windows just isn’t an option…and that can make you want to tear out your hair.

The planning consent for double glazing and other replacement windows is usually refused unless you intend to replace your windows with exact like for like replacements. That can be extremely cost-prohibitive, with replica windows running into the thousands of pounds per window.

Luckily for listed building lovers, planning departments tend to take a much softer view towards secondary glazing. In fact, with secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm , you don’t even require planning permission at all in most cases. So let’s take a look at four reasons why planners love secondary glazing.

1. Non Invasive

Secondary glazing is a non-invasive option that leaves your original windows intact. That means no damaging removal of original windows. This is particularly important in older buildings as, in many cases, the windows were set into the actual structure of the building, leading to extensive damage and future structural issues upon removing them. Secondary glazing upholds the structural integrity of older buildings, which means they’ll continue to be with us for years to come. And with InvisiTherm, you don’t even need to worry about any damage to your internal walls with the addition of bulky frames. InvisiTherm requires no additional frame to be constructed outside of the window frame itself; it’s the most non-invasive secondary glazing solution on the market.

2. Protects Heritage

The windows that sit in your listed building may well be hundreds of years old. They are pieces of history in themselves. The types of glass, the working of the glass, the exceptional quality of the wood frames and the craftsmanship that has lasted many years are not exemplar of excellent quality, which is not the norm in today’s windows. They are also pieces of heritage and history themselves. Retaining your original windows and opting for a secondary glazing product like InvisiTherm retains quality and craftsmanship that may have lasted hundreds of years, making your listed building even more special.

3. Environmentally Friendly

It’s no secret that we live in a disposable, throwaway culture. At the rate we consume the planet’s resources, we need three planets to sustain the human race . That in itself is unsustainable. Retaining original windows and opting for secondary glazing over replacement windows stops the cycle of waste and replace: your historic windows will stand the test of time for far longer than new windows, which may only have a 15-20 year lifespan (and sometimes even less). Glaze & Save is committed to reducing waste, recycling over 95% of the waste produced from our installations. We even remove unneeded systems when a building changes ownership or use, and recycle the systems into fuel poor households.

4. Virtually invisible

One of the main requirements of planning departments and conservation officers is that, in the instance of listed buildings and conservation areas, any amendment or addition must be completely invisible from the outside of the property. In some listed buildings the criteria is even more restrictive, with amendments required to be aesthetically discrete even on the inside of the building. This is where InvisiTherm is especially helpful in listed and conservation properties. Not only are our discrete and slim line systems completely invisible from outside your property, they are also virtually invisible inside the property too! Our bespoke colour matching service and sympathetic installations means you would be hard pushed to know it was there, and that’s something that takes conservation officers over the moon. Check out our gallery for some stunning examples.

So there you have it, four reasons why planners prefer secondary glazing over replacement windows and other window amendments. It really all boils down to respecting the heritage of the building, maintaining its structural integrity and being aesthetically pleasing, all of which InvisiTherm delivers.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm is bespoke magnetic secondary glazing, approved for installation in listed buildings and conservation areas. Contact us here to book your free no obligation survey today.

Surprising Benefits of Secondary Glazing | Glaze & Save

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We spend a lot of time here telling you all about the benefits of secondary glazing, and it’s fair to say that we’re well aware of the two main benefits of secondary glazing: increased thermal efficiency and noise reduction. For example, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ reduces heat loss through your windows by 63%, while reducing noise by a minimum of 48%, and those are two benefits we do like to shout about.

However the benefits of secondary glazing, and the discrete systems of InvisiTherm™ in particular, have quite a few benefits that surprise you.

1. Enhanced Security

It’s a sad fact that many of us are required to be more security conscious these days, and this is a rare instance where original windows just aren’t necessarily up to the job. Adding secondary glazing creates an extra barrier, which can assist with low security original windows or properties on ground or sub ground floors.

2. No more faded furniture, pictures and curtains

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ completely blocks UV rays, eliminating fading. This is great for those of us who have light sensitive furniture of artefacts (such as in stately homes), but is also great for preserving the life of your soft furnishings, artworks, curtains or wallpaper: in fact, anything that may ordinarily become faded by the sun.

3. No redecoration required

Replacing your original windows is a messy business. Even the installation of traditional secondary glazing tends to mean that redecoration is inevitable. Luckily, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is a completely non-invasive secondary glazing solution that does not require the construction of any frame or support outwith the window frame area itself. This means that no redecoration is required to the surrounding area, saving you money and hassle!

4. Reduces dirt, dust and outdoor pollution

Secondary glazing is an effective way of reducing the ingress of dirt, dust and pollution from outdoors into your home. Original single glazed windows often have multiple gaps and cracks where particles of dirt and dust can make their way in. This is why window sills of old windows are very often dirty and need regular cleaning! By sealing over the cracks with a secondary glazing system such as InvisiTherm™, dirt and dust ingress is virtually eliminated, leading to a cleaner home and better air quality.

5. Extends the life of your original window

InvisiTherm™ is exceptional at reducing, and oftentimes completely eliminating, condensation. This has the added benefit of drying out damp window frames, reducing instances of mould and drying out the general area. This in turn extends the life of both internal and external paintwork, keeping your windows pristine, dry and in excellent condition.

Cost-Effective Energy Efficiency Measures | Glaze & Save

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home more energy efficient. Low cost soft options can often give you an idea of what the baseline energy consumption of your property is, and therefore better inform what more long term and high value measures you should install. But don’t forget, one of the best ways to save energy is to change your behavior! You can easily save 20% off your utility bills and stay warm by becoming intimate with your home, understanding your appliances, heating controls and what impact usage has on costs. Our CEO Tanya is passionate about informing and educating consumers on low cost energy efficient home improvements that we can all enjoy.

1. LED Lightbulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs have been phased out under EU regulations, and energy saving light bulbs are now used in homes throughout Europe. For a slightly higher initial outlay, you’ll see the benefit of reduced energy costs and lightbulbs that can last up to ten years! It’s important to think lumens, not watts. The higher the lumens the brighter the bulb: a good rule of thumb is that for a 100 watt incandescent bulb should be replaced with a bulb of 1600 lumens.

2. Energy Monitors

Energy monitors and in-home displays can give you a real time understanding of how much energy you are using, and sometimes even where that energy is being used. This can help you get to grips with how much each of your appliances is actually costing you, and help you to make more detailed savings. Tanya started her energy efficiency journey by inventing the Ewgeco (now Netthings) monitor, and know the importance of accurate energy monitoring. As she often says “you wouldn’t go shopping in a supermarket without knowing how much the eggs, cheese, bread etc costs you: so why don’t we know how much our toasters, laptops and kettles cost us!”

3. Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats allow you to programme your heating remotely using your smartphone or PC. Not only does this allow you to monitor your energy usage but it also give you complete control over your eating. Going to be an hour late from work? You can set your heating to come on later. Day turned out sunnier than you thought? Turn your heating timer off from the comfort of your car.

4. Chimney Sheep

A chimney sheep is a wooly draught excluder that can easily be inserted into your chimney to block out those annoying gusts of air. They are environmentally friendly and suitable for most chimneys.

5. Chimney Balloons

Similar to chimney sheep is a chimney balloon, used for eradicating draughts that come from chimneys. Chimney balloons are equally easy to install and remove and allow for some ventilation while keeping draughts at bay.

6. Radiator Foils

Cheap, cheerful and simple to apply, radiator foils are a simple addition to your workplace that can travel with you to subsequent premises. Using radiator foils can reflect up to 95% of heat that would otherwise absorbed by the wall.

7. Thermal wallpaper

Thermal wallpaper is a thick insulating wallcovering that ensures that more of the startup heat is trapped inside a room rather than being sucked out through cold walls or ceilings, reducing warm up times significantly.

8. Wooden Floor Fillers

Precious heat can easily escape through gaps between floorboards, leading to chilly rooms and higher heating costs. Even in rooms with carpet and underlay, gaps between the skirting board and the floorboard can allow significant heat to be lost. Filling the gaps between floorboards and skirting boards with specialist products, draught proofing strips, or even papier - mâché can reduce cold draughts coming up thought the floorboards and improve the comfort and thermal efficiency of your home.

Simple Behaviour Changes to Save Energy and Money | Glaze & Save

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

So often when we think about saving energy, installing expensive top of the line systems such as solar PV panels, biomass boilers and ground source heat pumps pop into mind. These are all great investments, and should absolutely be considered at future energy improvement and generation projects for your home ; however, there is little to no point spending thousands on the latest tech if you have some very bad habits that could be costing you a fortune each year.

Our CEO Tanya Ewing is a great believer in changing your behaviour around energy usage as the first vital step towards creating a more energy efficient lifestyle. Having taken part in BBC2’s The Great Big Energy Saving Challenge , former VIBES award winner Tanya is passionate about getting us to re-examine our relationship with energy, stating we can all save around 20% on our energy bills just by changing our behaviours.

So what small changes could you be making to your behaviour right now that could be saving you energy and money from today? We have six of the most effective.

1. Closing shutters, curtains and blinds approximately one hour before the sun sets will help store the heat generated from the sun inside your room. If you wait until it gets dark, all of the heat will have already escaped! Closing your curtains, blinds and shutters one hour before sunset can increase the heat of a room by as much as 5 degrees Celsius!

2. Similarly, make sure that you move all large and bulky objects away from your windows. During the day warmth comes in through your windows. This heat helps to warm your home, even into the evening: but if you have bulky furniture, televisions, or even heavy blinds obscuring the window throughout the day, the sun’s warmth will not penetrate the room. Rearrange the furniture and opt for lighter window treatments for during the day and see the difference.

3. Ensure that you are switching all electrical appliances off at the socket instead of utilising the “standby” function. You can sometimes hear a slight hum or buzz from your electrical sockets: that means it’s definitely pulling power from the grid. Switching off at the socket could save you an average of £33 per year on energy bills. Tanya herself saved over £200 per year just by switching four appliances off at the socket!

4. Get to know your heating controls. Most of us have heating controls that we don’t understand or can’t work easily. You can improve your thermal comfort and save money at same time by getting to know your controls and how best to use them. Alternatively, consider installing smart controls such as NEST or HIVE to your existing heating controls. Changing this can save an average of 15% without compromising your warmth.

5. Did you know that many home owners find the temperature of 19 degrees Celsius the optimum temperature to live comfortably? What are the chances that your thermostat is currently set to 20, 21 degree, or maybe even higher? Reducing your room temperature by 1 degrees Celsius could reduce your heating bill by 10%.

6. Sometimes the simplest methods are most effective, like putting a lid on your saucepans while cooking. Putting a lid on it used up to an astonishing 90% less energy than leaving the lid off, and it speeds up your cooking time! You can save even more energy by ensuring that your saucepan is similar to your hob ring size to stop unnecessary heat loss.

So there you have it, six simple behavioural changes that you can put into practice today to begin to save money on your energy bills. Once you are fully in control and aware of your behavior, then you can start to see where you need to spend some cash to make even great savings.

Can You Make Stately Homes Energy Efficient? | Glaze & Save

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Making a regular-sized house energy efficient can often be a really tricky task (although luckily we have plenty of blogs to help you on your way). But spare a thought for the owners of stately homes: these large, historic buildings can be extremely difficult to keep heated and weatherproof, let along energy efficient, and that’s before we even take into consideration their potential listed building status. But is there anything that owners and managers of stately homes can do to their beautiful buildings to reduce their carbon footprint?

Many owners and managers of stately home shave found themselves forced to consider this, particularly as pressure for us all to become greener and more energy efficient continues to mount. One of the biggest management organisations for stately homes and other historic properties is the National Trus t. The National Trust have tasked themselves with the aim of reducing the emissions from stately homes as well as cutting their overall reliance on fossil fuels.

The National Trust

In 2010, the National Trust announced a new ten year in 2010, outlining plans to make serious progress in the energy efficiency and fuel consumption of fifty stately homes. This strategic plan is the first step in a suite of measures that will dramatically increase the energy efficiency of the 140 stately homes that the National Trust is responsible for.

The National Trust’s main aim is to reduce carbon emissions from stately homes by 45%, exceeding the target given to them by the government (34%).

Measures to increase energy efficiency

Perhaps the most obvious measure that would benefit stately homes in their pursuit of greater energy efficiency is properly insulation of the walls and roofs. Due to the age and vast size of many of these buildings, proper insulation throughout stately homes is usually lacking, particularly where the buildings have uninhabited wings.

In the instance of Belvoir Castle , the private residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, an old oil-based heating system coupled with energy-guzzling old fashioned light bulbs made finding extra money for repairs and maintenance extremely difficult.

By employing energy saving light bulbs in all 356 rooms of the castle and installing a biomass boiler, the Duke and Duchess were able to make considerable energy savings. They are now even in the process of placing hydroelectric turbines into each of the three lakes that are found on the estate.

Glaze & Save exclusively installs InvisiTherm bespoke magnetic secondary glazing and InvisiSeal innovative liquid draught proofing. We specialise in historic buildings, stately homes and listed buildings. We count the National Trust for Scotland among our customers. Contact us today for your free no obligation survey.

7 Steps to Soundproof your Home | Glaze & Save

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Noisy neighbours, shift working, loud hobbies, old houses…there are many reasons why people may look to soundproof their homes. Sometimes eradicating the noise from a busy road can mean the difference between staying or leaving your home! So in order to create the most comfortable living environment, free of unnecessary distractions, noise reduction and sound proofing measures may be required.

Exterior Noise

Exterior noise can be the most annoying and intrusive for householders to contend with, since it comes from someone else. Whether it is the roar of a noisy road, or the wailing of car alarms, insulating your home against exterior noise can be the most effective way to achieving a more pleasant and comfortable living environment.

There is a specific order to carrying out external noiseproofing to your property: taking the following measures step by step will ensure that you avoid wasting time and expense by carrying out less effective methods first. The added benefit of carrying out many of these external noiseproofing measures is that they will make you home more energy efficient, saving you money on your heating bills in addition to creating a quieter home.

1. One of the first things you should do in order to reduce exterior noise is to seal up any holes or cracks in your external walls. Noise can permeate through the smallest gaps left in the external wall, so it is important to be thorough. Use a specialist product such as Glaze & Save’s InvisiSeal™ to effectively seal cracks around windows and doors. You can also use expandable foam around open pipes and wires. Remember, any gaps can let noise in!

2. Similarly, ensure that your windows and doors are fully draught proofed. Not only is draught proofing good for improving thermal comfort, but it is great for noise reduction. InvisiSeal™ reduces noise, as well as reducing draughts!

3. Invest in secondary glazing. Secondary glazing is one of the most effective ways to soundproof the glazed areas of your home. Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ guarantees a minimum noise reduction of 48%, with many of our customers experiencing much greater reductions in noise.

4. Add fiberglass or blown in insulation to your attic and walls.

Interior Noise

The level of annoyance you’ll experience from interior noise really depends on your living situation, and the type of noise created. For those living in self-contained properties, internal noise may be less of an issue; but living in flats or converted buildings and mean that noise from other residents invades your space, causing irritating and even stressful situations.

5. To soften the sound of footsteps and other noises travelling through floors, invest in thick carpeting in the upper levels of your property to soften the blow. Bare hardwood flooring may be trendy, but it provides little in the way of noise insulation. In the lower levels of your property, a suspended ceiling with ceiling tiles may be an option, although for those living in listed buildings, planning permission may be a consideration.

6. Caulking power outlets, switches and any holes or gaps between rooms can help reduce noise transfer between adjacent rooms. Installing draught proofing around interior doors can also reduce noise between rooms.

7. For budding musicians, or to just to create a truly silent area in your home (for example, a silent bedroom for night workers), consider adding a specialist soundproofing drywall product to your home to block out the noises from adjacent rooms. A single layer of soundproofing drywall can be the equivalent of eight layers of conventional drywall, and its combination of gypsum, viscoelastic and ceramic works together to create a barrier that stops noises from passing through rooms.

Glaze & Save's InvisiTherm™ secondary glazing and InvisiSeal™ draught proofing can help create a warmer, quieter and more energy efficient home. Contact us here to arrange for your free no obligation survey.

Energy Efficiency for Commercial Leaseholders | Glaze & Save

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Leasing commercial premises has many advantages, from giving you better control over your monthly outgoings, to allowing you the freedom to move premises as your business grows. However, obtaining the energy efficiency measures you need may require the approval of your landlord, so we’ve taken a look at the sort of measures your landlord is required to provide, along with demountable, removable and transferable energy efficiency measures that you can take with you wherever you go.

What does my landlord need to do?

The UK Government introduced a variety of energy efficiency responsibilities for commercial landlords, namely the introduction of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for landlords of commercial privately rented property.

There is some time to get buildings up to scratch. From 1 April 2018, a landlord of a commercial private rented property will not be able to grant a new tenancy of their property if the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has a rating below E. The government has estimated that almost 20% of office premises do not meet these minimum requirements. a landlord of a commercial private rented property will not lawfully be able to grant a new tenancy of a property with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of below E (unless an exemption applies). The Government estimates that at present, nearly 20% of office premises do not achieve an E rating. Existing leases must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards by the 1st of April 2023. Landlords who fail to comply will be subject to a fine.

Landlords will therefore be most likely to invest in new energy efficiency measures prior to the commencement of a new tenancy. In order to make the biggest impact, and potentially access funding, the likelihood is that the recommended measures suggested in the EPC would be those most likely to be carried out. This includes measures such as roof and wall insulation, draught proofing, the installation of central time heating and lighting controls, and boiler replacement.

Temporary, removable and demountable measures

Of course, it may be so that in the interim period you want to make your tenancy as energy efficient as possible, particularly if you are responsible for the utilities as a commercial tenant. So what temporary or removable measures can you add to your rented commercial premises?

1. Insulating Blinds

Insulating blinds and shades can save you money on your electric bill. Cellular (honeycomb) shades are your best bet for efficient window treatments, with triple-cell shades being the ultimate in insulated shades. Drapes, shutters, and exterior shades also make for great insulated window treatments.

2. Magnetic Secondary Glazing

A magnetic secondary glazing system such as InvisiTherm is completely removable in the event that you want to leave your current premises for pastures new. This innovative and unique bespoke secondary glazing system is applied either directly to your window frame using TESA adhesive, or on top of a hardwood bead which is installed using tiny pins which leave virtually no mark when removed and are easily concealed with wood filler or a coat of paint. InvisiTherm can reduce energy costs by 22.5% and has a compelling payback time for commercial premises.

3. Radiator Foils

4. Energy Efficient Computers and Office Equipment

Power management is important in any energy saving plan, particularly given that computers are in use for many hours and day, often by multiple people. Make sure that you purchase energy efficient computing products rated A+ and above with low power sleep modes which are activated after a designed period of inactivity. You can also invest in “smart chargers” which turn themselves off after a designated time.

5. Window Films

Window films such as Glaze & Save InvisiFilm are easily applied to windows, and easily removed, and can provide a variety of different benefits such as heat rejection, solar glare properties and privacy, providing a great way to save money on heating or cooling your workplace, especially if the windows are large.

Glaze & Save are bespoke magnetic secondary glazing, draught proofing and window film experts based in Perth, UK. We provide energy efficient, innovative products to domestic and commercial customers. Call now on 01783 562 068 to book your free no obligation survey, or email info@glazeandsave.co.uk for more information.

Is the UK heading for an Energy Crisis? | Glaze & Save

Tue, 25 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A few of us may be old enough to remember the Energy Crisis of the 1970s , where the 1973 Arab-Israeli war prompted an oil embargo by Opec that led to a fuel shortage and resulted in global recession, and the world suddenly realised just how dependent it was on the Middle East and OPEC for its oil.

The BBC recounts , in 1974, stories of vast queues around petrol stations, rationed four star and the difficulties people had in heating their homes due to the vast cost of crude oil.

"[My] main recollection is trying to keep the VW Beetle laden with self, colleagues, luggage and audit files down to 50 going from London to Peterborough, saying "s-d it" and pootling along at a bit over 50, getting dirty looks from the drivers I overtook.

And having to beg for fuel to make the journey, the standard ration being two gallons per vehicle.
Peter T, England"

But are we heading for another energy crisis in the UK? A recent report by the Guardian disclosed that nearly a third of the UK’s gas imports come from Qatar, the world’s largest producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Qatar’s recent diplomatic crisis, which saw the tiny Gulf state’s transport links severed by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and several other countries in June over Doha’s alleged funding of extremist groups, has highlighted just how reliant the United Kingdom is on energy imports as reserves in the North Sea begin to wane.

Up until 2004, the U.K was self sufficient in gas from the North Sea. However, a decline in domestic production means that 60% of our gas is now imported, namely from Norway and Qatar. The National Grid believes that the reliance on imports could reach 93% by 2040. The increased reliance on imports makes the U.K vulnerable to international shortages, embargoes and diplomatic disputes.

Back in January, the cross-party British Infrastructure Group (BIG) of MPs has published: ‘Electric Shock: Will the Christmas Lights Go out Next Winter?’ in which it claims that Government targets for closing coal power stations and expanding renewable sources to hit climate change goals have rapidly reduced the UK’s generating output.

The report claimed that, in recent winters, the United Kingdom’s spare electricity margin fell from 17% in 2011-12 to 1% in 2016-17. However, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said taking into account emergency measures, the surplus margin is actually 6.6%.

The report also claims “there is a sustained danger of intermittent blackouts for the foreseeable future”, and that this is down to “dwindling base capacity and freak weather events”. In order to meet the base capacity, the report advises that household bills may rise by £30 per year by 2020, double the Government estimate.

So what can we do to reduce the likelihood of a future energy crisis and any effects it may have on us?

The best things we as individuals can do is move towards renewable resources: we have written about choosing an ethical energy supplier here . Focusing on a future powered by renewables will reduce the United Kingdom’s reliance on fossil fuel imports, creating a cleaner and more stable energy industry.

Not only that, but we can help reduce the likelihood of a future energy crisis by being more energy efficient, both in our behaviours and in the products that we buy. You can read more about energy saving hacks for your home and office here and here .

You can also purchase energy saving products, such as replacing traditional lightbulbs with CFLs and LEDs; investing in draught proofing products; covering glazed areas with intelligent secondary glazing or heat rejection window films; buying A Rated energy appliances and much more.

You can also find out the best ways to make your home as energy efficient as possible by carrying out an energy audit . An energy audit is a process, usually carried out by a professional, whereby they can identify areas of your home or business that you can increase energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint. For businesses, contact Resource Efficient Scotland about their energy audit services, and for those looking for an energy audit of their own homes you can contact the Energy Saving Trust .

Finally, you could consider investing in renewable technologies yourself: solar PV panels, for example, not only help meet your own energy needs, they also feed energy back into the National Grid.

Energy Performance Certificates Explained | Glaze & Save

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

If you rent out a property to tenants, plan on selling your property, or simply want to access government funding such as the Home Energy Scotland Loan, you must be able to provide a valid energy performance certificate.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a guide to prospective buyers or tenants of your property, showing how energy efficient your home is, along with recommendations as to how to improve it, and the energy costs for the property.

EPCs have been required by law since 2009 in Scotland, and remain valid for ten years. There is a national register of EPCs , so you can look at any previous EPCs that have been carried out on your property, as well as similar properties in your neighbourhood.

The Housing Act 2011 introduces several obligations upon Landlords relating to the EPC; namely that it will have to achieve a minimum rating before a property can be let. All private rented properties in Scotland will be expected to be at least a level 'E' on the Energy Performance Certificate scale by the 1st of April 2019.

If you are buying or renting a property, the EPC should be provided for you. You should never be required to purchase an EPC when buying or renting a property. The provision of an EPC is the responsibility of sellers and landlords.

However, if you want to access government funding for home improvements such as the Home Energy Scotland Loan, you will need to purchase an EPC.

An important to note for those living in listed buildings or conservation areas (particularly those looking to apply for funding and requiring an EPC to do so): prior to the EPC survey being carried out, the property owner needs to provide evidence that the property is a listed building or in a conservation area. This is particularly important for those looking for funding for secondary glazing for a listed building, as the EPC default position is to recommend double glazing.

How much does an EPC cost?

EPCs do not attract a fixed fee, and can therefore vary in price. The fee is affected by the size of your property and the area you live; however prices start from around £40.

Energy Efficiency

One of the main purposes of the EPC is to indicate the energy efficiency of a property, and how it can be improved. The property rating will be between A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G being the least. There will also be a number from 1-100 alongside the letter rating; the higher the number, the more energy efficient your home. There will be a rating for how your property actually is at the moment, and what it could potentially be improved to.

Estimated Costs

There will also be a section that shows you the estimated costs of running the property and the potential savings you can make over a three year period.

Summary of Energy Performance Related Features

This box will rate features such heating and your windows with a star system. This can be a handy guide to advising which area of your home you should initially concentrate on to increase energy efficiency.

EPCs and Glaze & Save

We have carried out EPC tests to find out what difference Glaze & Save InvisiTherm install would make to your single glazing, and therefore your EPC rating. For example in a pre-1919 detached sandstone cottage, an installation of Glaze and Save InvisiTherm over single glazing took the EPC rating from E39 to E43, an improvement level of four points.

Contact Glaze & Save today on 01738562068 or through the website to arrange your free no obligation survey, and see what difference we can make to your properties EPC rating.

How to Choose an Ethical Energy Provider | Glaze & Save

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

More and more people and businesses are looking to switch their energy supply to a greener and more ethical alternative. Indeed, as sustainable and renewable energy resources become more prevalent and therefore more affordable, people have been taking it up in their droves.

The main driver behind switching to a more ethical and green energy supplier is to reduce CO2 emissions while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Renewable energy is a rapidly expanding area, and the greater demand is in turn driving greater pressure on government to create the infrastructure to support it, and power companies to provide it.

It’s a sad fact that electricity production is the single biggest contributor to the emissions that cause climate change. The burning of oil, coal and gas in traditional power stations produces a considerable amount of carbon dioxide, the prime gas responsible for global warming and the greenhouse effect our planet is experiencing.

Green Energy

Green energy is power derived from renewable resources, most commonly from wind, solar and wave power as well as from tidal, biomass and hydroelectric power. This is instead of traditional sources of energy which comes from burning fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas.

Its important to note, however, that all electricity is supplied through the national grid. This means that there is no way of knowing whether the ethical renewable energy that you are paying for actually comes into your home. However, you will be increasing the overall amount of renewable energy in the grid, and in turn increasing demand for renewables.

There are a number of exclusively green energy suppliers in the United Kingdom, such as Ovo, Good Energy and Ecotricity. However it’s worth bearing in mind that green energy suppliers, as well as mainstream suppliers who offer green energy tariffs, source a greater proportion of their power from renewable sources but it’s not always 100% of the energy supplied.

It should be relatively simple to ascertain how much renewable energy any supplier is using to produce electricity by looking at the “fuel mix” information, which Ofgem requires energy providers to publish annually. You can find this information on your energy provider’s website, and it will details how much of the power that they sell comes from coal, gas, nuclear, renewable and other sources.

Choosing the Best Supplier

Since 2002 in England and Scotland (2005 in Northern Ireland), energy suppliers have been required to demonstrate that an ever increasing proportion of their energy mix is derived from green energy sources. The target was just 3% when the Renewables Obligation was introduced, but this target has increased annually, and is currently set at 34.8% for 2016/2017.

Energy companies receive a certificate for each unit of renewable energy that they provide. For companies that do not meet the requisite percentage, there is the option of purchasing certificates from other companies that exceed their minimum required amount.

Unfortunately, the practice of trading certificates can lead to no extra demand in the renewable energy market. It is therefore worth considering whether your chosen provider chooses to “retire” some of their certificates (i.e. refuses to sell them on) in order to create more demand for renewable energy in the market. This can be an important consideration when deciding on which tariff to take up with each supplier.

Therefore ensuring that your chosen provider utilises green renewable resources, exceeds the statutory criteria for green energy production, and chooses to retire their certificates to increase demand for green energy are some sure fire steps to choosing the best ethical energy supplier.

5 Benefits of Draught Proofing in the Summer | Glaze & Save

Tue, 11 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Draughts can be one of the biggest problems for householders, threatening thermal comfort and energy all while being completely invisible. In many homes, particularly older properties with single glazing, up to fifty percent of heating and cooling energy is lost due to uncontrolled draughts. This can make it extremely difficult to heat your home and cause energy bills to skyrocket.

Eradicating uncontrolled air leakage with draught proofing products will make a big impact on your energy usage, saving you money on energy bills while improving the comfort of your home. While it’s most common to consider draught proofing in the winter, draught proofing your home in the summer can also have its benefits. So don’t let the July weather put you off making your home air tight and thermally comfortable.

1. Prepare your home for the winter ahead.

Draught proofing can involve keeping you windows and door open while the products are applied, leading to a very chilly day or two in your home! You can avoid this by having draught proofing installed in the summer. Of course, there’s no guaranteeing mild weather in the British summertime, but avoiding a winter installation should mean a more comfortable experience for you.

2. Avoid the winter rush

We know that it makes sense to have draught proofing in the winter. Just taking away a chilly draught can improve the thermal comfort of a room by several degrees. But the problem is we all know this in the winter, and waiting until the seasons change can leave you at the mercy of lead times. Think outside the box and install your draught proofing in the summer instead and enjoy a quicker turnaround.

3. Quicker drying times for liquid draught proofing products

Making the switch from traditional and invasive draught proofing products like window brushes, to an innovative non-invasive treatment like Glaze & Save InvisiSeal™ has a host of benefits for your windows, not least keeping them entirely intact. A summer installation means more stable and warmer temperatures which help InvisiSeal™ dry out more quickly and evenly, which means a more efficient installation for you!

4. Prevent the loss of cool air

Draught proofing doesn’t just keep unwanted air flow outside. It also keeps temperate air inside. In the winter this means keeping your warm air where it belongs; but equally, in the summer, you draught proofing will keep the cool air inside. Keeping your home cooler on days where it’s too hot outside is just another great benefit of installing draught proofing in the summer.

5. Reduced energy bills all year round

Adequate draught proofing can save you money all year round, yes even in the summer! A draught proofing product such as InvisiSeal™ can significantly reduce your heating bills. That means lower heating bills in the winter (and our particularly cold summers!) as well as a reduction in the cost of air conditioning or using electric fans to cool your home in the summer. Enjoy the benefits of reduced energy bills all year round with a summertime draught proofing installation.

Protecting your home against draughts while saving energy has never been more important. Glaze & Save’s InvisiSeal™ is an innovative liquid draught excluder for windows and doors that helps retain the heat while repelling the cold, all while being virtually invisible.

You can expect your windows to function exactly as they did before, only this time with all the benefits of double glazing: without the hefty price tag. InvisiSeal™ is perfect for the treatment of listed and historical buildings, as well as domestic and commercial properties.

Contact us today on 01738562068 to book your free no obligation survey, or email info@glazeandsave.co.uk to receive your free brochure.

How to Stop Condensation on Windows | Glaze & Save

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

What is Condensation?

Condensation is moisture that forms on cold surfaces and where there is not much air movement. It shows up as damp walls, water streaming down windows and, in some cases, a musty smell. Dealing with it should be a priority, as condensation can cause rotten window frames and peeling wallpaper. You might also see patches of black mould near windows, in the corners of rooms, in or behind wardrobes: even on bedding and furniture. It often forms on cold or north facing walls which get less sun, and tends to be worse in winter.

What causes Condensation?

Condensation can be caused by 4 main things:

1. Producing a lot of moisture in the home.

A family home can produce around 100 pints of water a week. This comes from steam caused by cooking, showering, drying laundry, ironing and even breathing.

2. Inadequate ventilation meaning the moist air cannot escape the home, which creates high humidity.

3. Not enough heating which causes water vapour to be held the cold air.

4. Insufficient insulation, meaning that the building can’t retain heat and has cold walls.

How can I reduce Condensation in my home?

To reduce condensation in your home, try the following tips:

- Produce less moisture by drying washing outdoors. If you use a tumble dryer, vent it to the outside.

- Avoid using paraffin or bottle gas heaters which produce a lot of moisture.

- Cover your pans when cooking and close internal kitchen and bathroom doors when steam is being produced to stop moisture spreading to the rest of the house.

- Let the moisture out by leaving trickle vents open whenever someone is in the room. These are small vents in the frames of modern windows. If you do not want to leave vents open you can air rooms by briefly opening windows on opposite sides of the property for 5 minutes two to three times per day. This is especially useful for bedrooms as a lot of moisture is produced by people whilst they are asleep.

- Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens, particularly when showering, cooking or drying laundry, and open windows when they steam up.

-Air cupboards and wardrobes and avoid putting too much in them as this stops air circulating and leave a gap between furniture and walls.

- Keep the temperature of your home above 15°C. This will reduce the risk of condensation forming on walls and fabrics, although water droplets may still form on windows.

- Insulate your home by installing wall and loft insulation, making your outside walls and ceiling warmer.

- Use a dehumidifier to capture some of the water in the air; however, this must be used in conjunction with the above tips.

How Effective is Secondary Glazing? | Glaze & Save

Tue, 04 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Secondary glazing is a fantastic option for those who live in listed buildings or conservation areas, or simply do not want to replace their existing windows. Secondary glazing involves adding another slimline glazed panel to your exiting windows. This can be glass, acrylic, or exclusively in the case of Glaze & Save InvisiTherm, polycarbonate.

It is an extremely cost effective method of insulating and sound proofing your windows, while reducing waste and resource consumption. In fact, even the Energy Saving Trust loves secondary glazing, stating that is in an ‘ideal solution if you are unable to replace your existing windows with double glazing’.

Because secondary glazing leaves your original windows intact, it is particularly beneficial for properties in conservation areas or in listed buildings, where altering or replacing the original windows is often prohibitively expensive, if not downright impossible. But even for properties that already have double glazing installed, the addition of secondary can further improve noise reduction and heat reduction.

Traditional Glass Secondary Glazing or Magnetic Secondary Glazing?

For a long time, the only secondary glazing option available was made of glass. While glass secondary glazing is effective in reducing noise pollution, being constructed of glass limits the features and benefits that it can convey. For example, householders may be required to choose between draught proofing properties and heat retention properties, or toughened safety features and fire retardation.

Traditional glass secondary glazing can also be a relatively expensive option, especially if one requires a multitude of issues to be resolved. On top of this there can be redecoration costs: it uses screws and there is a requirement to redecorate after installation. Ugly, plastic frames go yellow over time and are not always compatible with listed buildings or conservation areas. It can also be potentially hazardous, as the plastic frame become brittle over time, placing the glass in a precarious position. It also ultimately damages the window frame and surrounding area, making it bulky and unsightly. Aluminium-framed secondary glazing is more sturdy and less likely to become brittle, but again, it can be bulky and unwieldly, and is limited in the range of features it can provide.

Magnetic Secondary Glazing

Magnetic secondary glazing is a huge step up in the secondary glazing market: but not all magnetic secondary glazing is created equal. Most magnetic secondary glazing is made of acrylic. This brittle and inflexible material is not fire-retardant, and there are currently no installation options covering the Scotland area.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™

Glaze & Save’s bespoke magnetic secondary glazing, InvisiTherm™, is a cut above traditional secondary glazing as well as other magnetic glazing products on the market. Our innovative and unique polycarbonate has a host of extraordinary benefits.

While other secondary glazing products exist, InvisiTherm™ is truly innovative. Traditional glass secondary glazing offers a limited range of benefits, due to the limited nature of glass as the primary material. For example, glass secondary glazing cannot have fire retardant, UV protective and heat retentive properties all in one product. Customers with multiple drivers would then be forced to choose. Equally, with acrylic options, they often have no intelligence built into them, can shatter easily if dropped and are not fire retardant.

Compare this to InvisiTherm™: in one product InvisiTherm™ reduces heat loss from glazed areas by around 63%; reduces noise by a minimum of 48%; eliminates draughts; greatly reduces condensation; completely eliminates all sun and light fading; block all UV rays; repels around 26% of the sun’s heat keeping hot rooms cooler; is virtually unbreakable and completely fire retardant, with a 25 year plus lifespan.

Energy Saving Ideas for your Home | Glaze & Save

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Energy saving doesn’t have to be costly or inconvenient. There are many “soft options” that save you money with the minimum of hassle and fuss. In fact, we’d highly recommend that you tackle your energy efficiency woes with these simple solutions before investing in expensive energy saving measures. Sometimes a little really does go a long way!

At Glaze & Save, we’re passionate about helping households and businesses save money on their energy bills. Our CEO Tanya Ewing has worked tirelessly over the last ten years, sharing her knowledge of energy efficiency with as many people as possible.

Draughts

Tackling draughty areas of your home is a sure fire way to make it more energy efficient, and more comfortable to live in too! Undertake these simple steps and you’ll be saving money and feeling the heat in no time at all.

External Doors

Draught-proofing your external doors is a no-brainer: and using superior products that last not only saves you money in the long run, but are better for the environment. Glaze & Save’s draught-proofing product InvisiSeal™ goes on like liquid but dries like rubber: patented technology that is as discrete as it is effective.

A good quality door bar with brush or rubber surround and letterbox cover will also lock in the warm air without breaking the bank.

Pipes

An effective and speedy fix for any pipe coming up from the subfloor is to put some removable draught-proofing down these holes. This five minute hack is great for kitchens and bathrooms and holes, and can creature a five degree temperature rise!

Invest in high quality insulation underlay under any carpets on the ground floor of your property. You can now buy extremely effective underlays that promote the U-Value.

And don’t forget your chimney! During the summer, or for chimneys that are rarely used, invest in a chimney pillow to eradicate draughts and stop all of your lovely heat going straight up the flue! Chimney pillows are cost effective and easy to install: they can also be easily removed when you want to use your chimney.

Windows

This area really should be one of your main priorities in tackling the energy efficiency of your home. If you’re dead against curtains and shutters then Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can significantly reduce heat loss through your glaze by up to 63% without compromising the look of your windows.

Insulating walls, floors and ceilings

Did you know that you could insulate your walls by introducing a paint additive to your paint? Use the additive in your first coat, before smoothing things out with a second coat of additive-free paint. If you prefer paper to paint, then insulating wallpaper has you covered too. You can also stop heat escaping through your walls with products designed for underneath your décor; insulating plasterboard comes in a variety of thicknesses, helping to retain the heat in a room while being completely invisible.

Heating system

Get to know your heating system intimately by installing heating controls with remote access from smart devices, such as Hive www.hivehome.com or Nest www.nest.com . Our CEO Tanya knows this area inside and out, and highly recommends monitoring your energy usage for maximum efficiency.

The most well-monitored heating system can still be let down by inefficient heaters. Over time, our central heating systems can become clogged with dirt and debris, making them less efficient. A power flush of your central heating system can unclog with gunk and make your system work more efficiently.

Radiators

Using radiator reflectors or radiator foils will help stop radiator heat from being soaked up by your walls. There are many options on the market; however, Tanya’s favourite is www.warmroom.co.uk/how-to-fit-it/ . Start with all of your radiators on external walls and feel the difference almost immediately.

Radiator boosters are an excellent innovation which stops heat rising from your radiator to the roof, instead pushing the heat out at waist level and towards your sofa!

Other Areas

As well as the main energy guzzlers listed above, there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure the optimal energy efficiency of your home. Adding one, two, or even a few of these extra innovations will really give your energy saving steps some extra oomph.

Wood-Burning Stove

An Eco-Fan will make a huge difference in circulating the heat of your wood-burning stove to the areas of the room where you need it most.

Fans

Energy saving fans help improves the efficiency of your heaters and radiators by keeping warm air down at working level, reducing the heat losses through ceilings and roofs.

LED Lighting

An average of 18% of a buildings energy usage can come from lighting. Using energy efficient LED lighting combined with occupancy sensors can save you over 30% on the cost of you lighting. By replacing all halogen downlighters in your home with LED alternatives, you could save about £35 a year on your electricity bills.

Grants & Government Funding

There are schemes available from the Scottish Government to give your energy tips and advice, as well as help with energy efficiency measures.

You could get help to cut your bills and make your home warmer. You could even qualify for extra income, discounted energy rates, free or subsidised insulation or a new boiler. You can obtain information about available support and eligibility from the Energy Saving Trust.

Secondary Glazing vs Double Glazing | Glaze & Save

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

For too long now, double-glazing has been seen as the obvious choice for home and property owners seeking to enhance the thermal efficiency of their windows. However, the “obvious option” has often been expensive, unsightly, and sometimes impossible to install.

Secondary glazing has often been seen as the poor cousin to double glazing, and traditional secondary glazing products, made from bulky, heavy and sometimes unsafe glasss, did little to alleviate this status. With its innovative bespoke magnetic secondary glazing, Glaze & Save have sought to eradicate the image of clumsy, unsightly and inefficient secondary glazing.

Double glazing tends to consist of a sealed glazing unit consisting of two panes of glass separated by an air gap of 10-20mm. The air gap assists with the thermal insulation of the unit, particularly when the glass is coated and the air gap is filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton.

Double glazing is practically compulsory in new build properties, due to Building Regulations. In historic or period buildings however, double glazing can create an unsightly change which diminishes the original character and charm of the property. Indeed, in many conservation areas and listed properties, double glazing is not permitted on account of the radical change that they entail in the façade of the property.

In order to retain the original features and aesthetic of a period property, the renovation and repair of original windows alongside the addition of secondary glazing is often the preferable method. The original windows are retained, the structural integrity of the property is not put at risk and the original fabric of your period property remains intact.

Not only does secondary glazing provide a solution for hard to treat historic and listed properties, it is often the greener and more environmentally conscious method of increasing the thermal efficiency of your home. Removing original windows (or, indeed, double glazed windows which have failed to stand the test of time as so many often do), and disposing of them in order to install bulky double glazing can use more than three times the material and resources of a secondary glazing system. Not only that, but secondary glazing requires no redecoration, making it overall a greener and more sustainable option.

Many of the benefits of secondary glazing have been overlooked in the rush to overstate the benefits of double glazing. While both provide comparable levels of thermal efficiency, secondary glazing also provides significant draught reduction and exceptional noise reduction: benefits which escape the reach of conventional double glazing.

5 Benefits of Draught Proofing your Workplace | Glaze & Save

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Back in 1988, Peter Morrison, Minister of State for Energy said: "In future, the most profitable developments will be those that have been designed with energy efficiency in mind. Building energy efficiency into a new building need not increase its cost, but it can increase its profitability."

Mr Morrison was not wrong and it goes virtually without saying that one of the easiest ways to make you business more profitable is to carry out energy efficiency measures such as draught proofing. We're pretty daft about draught proofing here , so without further ado, we look at five benefits of draught proofing your workplace.

1. Save money on energy bills

The biggest benefit of draught proofing for the canny business owner is without a doubt the savings one can achieve on energy bills. Adequately draught proofing a building can reduce energy bills by around 15%: a major saving in these economically challenging times. Draught free properties are even warmer at colder temperatures: allowing you to turn down the thermostat and potentially save even more money on your energy bills.

2. Improve sound insulation

We’ve written extensively about how noise pollution can be hazardous to your health and your bottom line, but did you know certain draught proofing measures such as InvisiSeal can reduce noise by around 10dB? Draught proofing is often overlooked as a measure of reducing noise, however it can be extremely effective given its ease of installation and discreteness.

3. Create greater comfort for employees

You and your employees could be spending as much as three quarters of your waking hours at work. It is therefore vital that the working environment is comfortable and safe. We have written about some easy office upgrades to increase employee comfort here , but it goes almost without saying that creating a draught free office creates a greater degree of thermal comfort and fewer distracting draughts is a simple way of creating a better workplace for your employees. And happy employees means greater productivity and loyalty.

4. Short payback times compared to other measures

Some of the great and the good in energy efficiency measures have exceptionally long payback times. While making those long term investments is always a good call if you have a long lease or own your own commercial premises, those without long leases or who simply want to start seeing energy savings quickly would benefit from the short payback times provided by draught proofing. Glaze & Save InvisiSeal has a payback time of around 3-5 years, which is extraordinarily low in the grand scheme of things. And remember, the quicker the payback time, the quicker your profit margins increase.

5. Cleaner, less polluted workplace

One of draught proofing’s lesser known qualities is its ability to reduce weather borne moisture, dirt and pollution from making its way into your work place. The physical barrier provided by an innovative draught proofing product such as InvisiSeal means that dirt and pollution stay outside where they belong, giving you a cleaner and healthier work place.

Contact us on 01738 562068 or email info@glazeandsave.co.uk to find out more bout how we can help your business save money with our innovative and unique energy efficient products.

How Much Does Secondary Glazing Cost? | Glaze & Save

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Secondary glazing is almost always cheaper than replacing your original windows, which is good news for the environment as well as your pocket. It’s also a generally much easier process to install, meaning reduced hassle and decoration time! However, not all secondary glazing is created equal: what you’ll pay is very much dependent on the issues that you have in the home and the quality of materials you use to create the secondary glazing.

Key factors in determining the cost of secondary glazing for your home include the number of windows you require secondary glazing for and the type of windows that you have. It also depends on the particular issue that you have which makes you want secondary glazing. Almost all secondary glazing provides a level of draught proofing; however, if you want noise reduction, heat retention, UV protection and a host of other properties, traditional glass secondary glazing can become very expensive.

The reason that traditional glass secondary glazing can become very expensive if you have multiple issues you need the secondary glazing to resolve is because, at the cheapest level, the glass used in traditional glass secondary glazing rarely has any intelligence or extra features added. In order to obtain extra features such as UV protection, fire retardation, or heat retention, specialist types of glasses need to be used, which are often significantly more expensive. Add this to the fact that it is often impossible to combine features in traditional glass secondary glazing, then you may be looking at an expensive compromise.

Luckily there is an alternative. Glaze & Save InvisiTherm is not glass secondary glazing: it is made from polycarbonate. This fantastic material combines many of the features of several types of enhanced glass, but at half the weight and a fraction of the price. InvisiTherm offers reduction of heat loss by approximately 63%; noise reduction by a minimum of 48%; instant draught proofing; complete elimination of UV rays; anti-fading properties and dramatically improves condensation. This suite of benefits is not something you could ever hope to find in traditional glass secondary glazing: it’s simply not possible.

Not only is secondary glazing cheaper than replacement double glazing, but with an advanced technology like InvisiTherm, you can also expect to feel the benefits of lower heating bills, which in turn makes the payback of an InvisiTherm system extremely attractive. Rooms with windows treated with InvisiTherm can expect a minimum reduction of energy bills by 22.5%.

The cost of installing secondary glazing becomes an even more obvious choice if you live in a listed building or conservation area. Whether you live in a Grade I or II building and are simply not allowed to install double glazing, or you live in a conservation area where like-for-like replacement windows can run into tens of thousands of pounds, secondary glazing such as InvisiTherm provides an inexpensive and discrete solution. Compared to the cost of installing replica slim line double glazed windows, InvisiTherm comes out around 75% cheaper.

Whether you are on a budget, seeking to avoid expensive replacement windows, or looking for multiple problems solving technologies in one product: secondary glazing is a cost effective solution that doesn’t need to sacrifice performance, aesthetics or safety for value.

Office Upgrades to Increase Employee Productivity | Glaze & Save

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Making small changes to your office space and business practices can make a huge difference in the productivity and wellbeing of your employees. And as it continues to be proven time and again, one of the best ways in which to improve the profitability of your company is to have employees work more effectively and efficiently, rather than expecting working hours to increase. So here are a few things that you can do in the workplace that will improve employee productivity and lead to greater profitability for you.

1. Embrace natural lighting

Not only is fluorescent lighting a major cause of headaches and eye strain, it has also been shown to cause depression! No one enjoys working under fluorescent lights, so wherever possible, stick to natural daylight and watch you employee productivity soar. If you can’t go all the way with day light, then consider encouraging employees to take regular breaks outside, and consider installing energy efficient (and healthier) LED lighting for a softer and less detrimental artificial light.

2. Get into Goal Setting

Nothing focuses people like knowing why they are working for something and what the ultimate outcome is going to be. Make sure that you give your teams goals and objectives to meet, with a robust system of measurement in place in order to ensure that your employees know how to continue to move forward. Making your office goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable, Time-limited) will ensure the best outcomes for you and your colleagues.

3. Reduce noise pollution

We have already blogged about the ways in which noise pollution can affect your employee productivity, but it really does bear repeating! Overcome the niggles, and often more serious health concerns, associated with noise pollution by investing in quality secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm to reduce noise pollution by a minimum of 48%.

4. Ensure good air quality

It’s equally important that you ensure the air quality of the office is good. Ill-fitting windows can increase the influx of pollution from outside to inside, so it is important to invest in a secondary glazing product that effectively seals the area such as InvisiTherm. Then, in order to improve indoor air quality, invest in pollution catchers to clear pollutants from the air.

5. Reward a job well done

Making sure that your employees are well paid with good incentives is just the tip of the iceberg. Reward teams for good performance; invest in company nights out and events to reward staff and boost morale; consider other perks of the job that will make your employees healthier, happier and ultimately more productive. Healthcare, childcare, gym memberships and cycle to work schemes are just some of the extra rewards that will encourage employee loyalty.

6. Keep your office comfy

Well not too comfy! But having a comfortable work station with ergonomically designed desks, chairs and computer stations will make your employee’s day more comfortable, and greater comfort means greater productivity.

7. Or offer home working instead!

Allowing remote working is not only cheaper and more energy efficient for your business, but it can also boost staff morale; allowing for more time with family or pets. It also allows your employees to avoid the dreaded rush hour commute, meaning that as soon as your employee clocks on, they are fresh, raring and ready to go- instead of dealing with the stress of an hour on the train or a walk in the rain! Home workers might even be more willing to convert some of those saved commuting hours into some extra working hours for the business. However…

8. Set out clear and defined working hours

Everyone needs to pull a few extra hours out of the bag at the office from time to time. However, it is important to establish a culture of defined working hours: the old adage of “first in, last out” is really an example of presenteeism (i.e. being at work but not necessarily doing anything useful!) and most studies show that staying late at work is subject to the law of diminishing returns. Set clear hours and get the most out of your employees between those times.

9. Invest in draught proofing

There can be few things more off putting in the workplace than dealing with a cold draught on the back of your neck! Not only that, but draughty workplaces can lead to staff illness and discomfort. It can even be a source of noise pollution! A well draught proofed office will ensure comfortable, predictable air flow and a higher level of comfort for staff. If you have metal windows, rent your office space or simply want a non-invasive draught proofing solution, consider Glaze & Save InvisiSeal; rubberised liquid silicone draught proofing that creates a complete seal around windows and doors without causing any damage to your original windows.

How to Reduce Draughts in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Draught proofing is one of the most instantly effective and cheapest ways of making your home more energy efficient while increasing your comfort level.

This is a particularly major issue in historic properties, where wear and tear of the general fabric of the building can lead to uncontrolled air flow and multiple air changes and hour.

Where will I find draughts in my historic home?

Draughts happen wherever there are unwanted gaps in the fabric of the buildings that have been left uncovered. Given that many historic properties experience gaps in window frames, walls and floors, it’s easy to see how draughts can become such a huge problem for historic homeowners.

Draughts can occur at any accidental gap in the building fabric that leads to outside, including:

· windows, particularly in older single glazed sash and case windows;

· around doors – including keyholes and letterboxes

· loft hatches

· electrical fittings on ceiling and walls

· between floorboards

· around pipework leading outside

· at ceiling-to-wall joints

How can I stop draughts in my historic home?

Windows

Original windows are often a key part of the character of older properties and therefore every attempt should be made to retain them. This will often mean retrofitting draught proofing improvements to original windows instead of removing and replacing the original windows.

Draught proofing is without a doubt one of the cheapest and most effective ways of tackling heat loss through windows and doors: because of its low cost and effectiveness, payback times are often relatively short.

Older windows are susceptible to warping, and window sills can be particularly susceptible to wet rot. It is therefore important to ascertain whether repairs require to be carried out, as these may also assist in reducing the draughts from your windows.

According to Historic England:

About one fifth of a home's heating is lost through windows. Most of that escapes through air gaps rather than through the glass. Research has shown that air infiltration through a sash window in good condition can be reduced by as much as 86% by adding draught-proofing. And it has the added advantage of reducing noise and dust.

It is therefore of vital importance to draught proof your historic windows.

Creating a complete seal around the frames and on the sash is naturally the most effective way of combating air changes and therefore heat loss. Previously this would have been carried out by routering out channels into the frame and adding draught proofing brushes. However this can make frames extremely weak. Glaze & Save InvisiSeal creates a completely seal around your window frames while completely non-invasive, so you don’t need to worry about weakening the wood of your original window frames.

Another effective method of reducing draughts through your windows is to install secondary glazing, such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm . This will allow you to keep your original windows in tact while increasing overall energy efficiency. InvisiTherm is discrete, reversible and doesn’t require any planning permission so it is perfect for historic buildings.

Another word from Historic England on replacement windows:

Installing double-glazing rather than draught-proofing invariably results in the historic windows and glass being lost, and there is usually a poor visual match between the original windows and those that replace them.

Doors

Draught outside doors can be the bane of the historic homeowners life! However, once again Glaze & Save InvisiSeal provides fantastic draughtproofing properties without the need to channel our any wood from your doors, or by adding unsightly brushes.

Chimneys

Chimneys can be at the heart of many draughts in historic properties, and should be tackled along with windows, doors and floors in order to ensure and air tight home.

Dampers can be utilized to reduce draughts when the flues are not in use, although they need to be of a loose fit in order to allow air flow through the flue. Other cheap and effective methods include chimney balloons and chimney sheep.

Floors

Suspended timber floors are notorious for being draughty, especially if they are left bare. The quickest way to tackle these draughts is to lay down some heavy carpet or a rug. However, if you prefer the exposed floorboard look, you can also fill the gaps in by using draught proofing strips, timber or even papier mâché.

12 Quick Tips to Save your Business Energy | Glaze & Save

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

1. Make sure you have an energy policy. An energy policy will help you stay the course with your energy usage, as well as informing any behaviours that your employees need to address.

2. Get and energy audit: An energy audit can help you identify areas that you need to improve in your workplace. If you’re in Scotland, Resource Efficient Scotland can carry out a free energy audit in your workplace, with plenty of helpful tips to save you money.

3. Reduce paper waste: Encourage staff not to print out documents or files unless absolutely necessary. When printing use both sides of the paper. Use recycled paper and recycle the paper you use in turn.

4 . Hold virtual meetings and work from home: Reducing your in-person meetings can reduce your energy consumption in the office and your transportation costs. Using apps such as Skype can provide a cheap and convenient way of keeping in touch. Equally, allowing employees to work from home can further reduce lighting and heating costs in the office.

5. Turn off the lights!: Discourage the use of lights where daylight would suffice. Install motion sensor lights to ensure that lights are only being used where needed to ensure maximum energy efficiency.

6. Switch off equipment: It’s easy to walk away with equipment still left on, or using the dreaded standby function. Make sure that you switch off all equipment, unplugging if possible, to stop them from drawing power.

7. Switch over to LED lighting: LED lighting uses significantly less energy than conventional bulbs.

8. Invest in draught proofing: Small draughts can cause big problems in the office. Make sure you track down unwanted sources of air flow and stop them with a flexible invisible draught proofing product such as InvisiSeal.

9. Keep control of your heating and cooling: Keeping control of your office temperatures during the seasons, by using your thermostat or smart meter, can save you energy as well as keeping your staff more comfortable.

10. Replace old equipment with energy star appliances: If older appliances and heaters are not the most efficient available, then you should speculate accumulate by investing in A rated energy star appliances to save you money for years to come.

11. Encourage you employees to become more energy aware: We already blogged about this here , but encouraging your employees to take up your energy saving policies is the key to ensuring success in reducing your energy bills.

12. Take advantage of funding options available for energy efficient measures: There are plenty of funding options available for business who want to make their processes and operations more energy efficient. Resource Efficient Scotland offer an interest from loan to SMEs and the Carbon Trust offer a 30% capital grant .

Why Secondary Glazing will Save the World | Glaze & Save

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s no secret that we’re pretty crazy about secondary glazing at Glaze & Save. We produce InvisiTherm, a bespoke polycarbonate magnetic secondary glazing system that might just be the best in the world (I know, we’re so modest!).

In celebration of yesterday’s World Environment Day 2017 , we’re going to look at how secondary glazing really could save the planet…yes really!

Increased Energy Efficiency

It’s no secret that we’re facing an energy crisis; in recent years energy efficiency has become a necessary buzzword as gas and electricity bills skyrocket and fossil fuels become a less stable source of energy. One of the main ways we can increase the energy efficiency of our homes is by making our windows and any other glazed areas as thermally efficient as possible.

Secondary glazing, and InvisiTherm in particular, is exceptional at reducing heat loss from windows. InvisiTherm can achieve heat loss reduction through single glazed windows of around 63%, representing around a 22.5% saving on your energy bills.

With the right installation, this method will keep your house warm during cold seasons and can go a long way in reducing your energy bill and adding value to your home for potential buyers.

Secondary Glazing is More Environmentally Friendly than other Options

Not only does secondary glazing help reduce your energy consumption, it also encourages resource efficiency by supporting you to keep your original windows instead of the more wasteful process of replacement. Your original windows will almost always be comprised of better quality and more durable materials than replacement windows: no matter how expensive they may be! The sad fact is, many people tear out their original 100 or 200 year old windows and replace them with windows that may only last 10 or 15 years, thus ensuring the cycle of wasteful replacement. Choosing a greener solution like InvisiTherm secondary glazing not only stops this cycle, but InvisiTherm itself is made from a highly sought after recyclable material. If you ever decide you no longer need your systems, Glaze & Save will collect your systems and recycle them into fuel poor households.

Secondary glazing reduces construction waste

Not only does secondary glazing encourage the retention of original windows, but systems such as InvisiTherm are perfect for the retrofitting of historic and hard to treat buildings, saving them from disrepair and demolition, saving resources and energy.

It’s no secret that historic buildings are often left to ruin because of expensive maintenance bills, difficulty in treat windows and doors, and the expense to heat. Because InvisiTherm ordinary requires no planning permission, and can be fitted discretely over any type of glaze, it makes for a great option for listed and historic buildings. Then, once the system is fitted, even in unheated rooms a temperature increase of five degrees Celsius can be achieved, regulating temperatures and allowing the buildings to benefit for a warmer, drier environment.

So there you have it, just a few reasons why secondary glazing might just save the planet. If you’re interested in finding out more about World Environment Day check it out here, and if you’d like more information about Glaze & Save InvisiTherm you can email our office at info@glazeandsave.co.uk

Why World Environment Day is Good for Business | Glaze & Save

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Having a green presence is increasingly important in the world of business. Indeed, we wrote about it in our blog “Why Going Green is Good for Business”, touching on the various social and economic reasons why taking a firm environmental stance can have a great impact on your bottom line.

With World Environment Day approaching us on the 5th of June 2017, it’s time to narrow the focus and ask why World Environment Day itself it great for business. And it really is!

Since it’s establishment by the UN in 1974, World Environment Day has been a catalyst for raising awareness and encouraging action on a host of increasingly relevant issues such as climate change, poaching, fresh water access and ocean pollution. This has motivated millions of people to take part across the world in making greener changes to their lives, communities and businesses, in over one hundred countries.

There is a new host country and theme every year. 2017 sees Canada hosting the day, with the chosen theme being “Connecting People to Nature”.

So what does this mean for your business?

By actively engaging with green events such as World Environment day, you can turn your company and your workplace into a place of real positive change. And as we mentioned previously, the public in turn respond extremely positively to businesses with green credentials. Where businesses undertake green initiatives, profits increase. However, it’s probably not advisable to go green purely for the positive public affirmation.

By participating in this year’s theme and getting people reconnected with nature, you can continue to see business benefits. Spending time in nature has been shown to improve bot mental and physical health, leading to healthier and happier staff. Which all adds up to greater productivity.

You’ll also benefit from running a more energy efficient and lower-cost operation, leading to greater profitability. When you become a leader in green business, your customers and your competitors take notice.

Retrofitting Original Windows in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Mon, 29 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Listed and historic buildings need some extra attention when it comes to adding energy efficient improvements to their windows, but we could all do with enhancing the efficiency of our homes. By adding improvements to the existing windows, you can save yourself money as well as saving the planet.

What is Retrofitting?

Retrofitting is the addition of improvements to a property to reduce energy consumption. Retrofitting energy efficient improvements to your original windows will extend the life of historic and traditional buildings while making them consume less energy, therefore being more environmentally friendly.

Why do we need to retrofit older buildings?

Scotland had many traditional buildings, with buildings built prior to 1919 making up roughly 19% of total building stock. As well as this, many inter war properties have solid walling, meaning that over half of all of Scotland’s houses are energy inefficient. Over 40% of our CO2 emissions comes from current building stock.

Listed and traditional buildings are generally deemed to be hard to treat, and planning controls associated with listed buildings generally create issues in obtaining funding for upgrading schemes. As such, it is important to look into retrofitting measures that work within the planning constraints of your building. Demountable or removable improvements such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ can often be more beneficial and easier to approve in these situations.

Windows often account for large areas of walling in traditional houses and tenement flats. It’s a feature that we love; however they can be massively inefficient. Despite this ineffiency, keeping your original windows in tact is almost always the best way to ensure the look, feel and character if your property, while reducing the construction waste associated with installing replacement windows. Original windows are almost always made of superior quality materials as well, ensuring that they will stand the test of time better than their modern equivalents.

We use U values to measure how effective a material is as an insulator: the lower the number, the better an insulator the material is. Single glazed windows are a very poor insulator with a U value 5.5. Adding heavy lined curtains to your windows can bring this down to 3.3. Shutters can bring this down to 2.2. (Insulated shutters 1.6)

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing sometimes has a bit of a bad reputation. Metal-framed glass windows, or musty acetate, affixed with ugly hinges do little to counter this. Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ changes that by using innovative polycarbonate and a discrete, demountable magnetic strip to hang from. Because InvisiTherm™ is completely removable with no damage to your existing windows, in many cases you do not need to obtain planning permission to install it. Not only that but InvisiTherm™ can also be fitted to allow shutters to work and involves no loss of the original fabric of your windows. You can retain original your sash windows with historic glass, and avoid altering or removing them to receive double glazing.

Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™ is the most energy efficient secondary glazing on the market and can bring the U value to 1.7.

Draught-proofing

This can involve the use of brush strips fitted to parting beads, baton rods and meeting rails, and can also involve routering out new units or brand new beading. This can cause problems to your original windows, as such invasive procedures inevitably weaken the wood of the window and can lead to further warping, or dropped sashes. Glaze & Save InvisiSeal™ is another option: an innovative homogenous silicone that seals the draughty areas of your windows and doors before discretely drying like rubber. Best of all, InvisiSeal™ is completely non-invasive, meaning that your windows remain completely intact, all while being almost completely invisible.

Draught-proofing wont decrease the U value of your windows; however it will seal off some of the air flow in your home, allowing you to reduce your energy consumption and enjoy a less draughty house.

Window Films

One of the quickest ways to treat tricky original windows, or to add some extra privacy, glare reduction of cooling functions is by the addition of window films. Gone are the days a limited options and bubbly films. Glaze & Save InvisiFilm™ is professionally installed film with a range of different functions and aesthetic appeal. In conjunction with draught proofing measures such as InvisiSeal, this is a great option for fragile older frames that may not cope with the added weight of secondary glazing, or for those who would simply like a privacy solution that doesn’t include net curtains (which is particularly beneficial if you want to use your working shutters for example).

So there you have a few ways in which you can go about retrofitting the original windows of your historic buildings. Remember: retrofitting original windows is almost always more cost effective and generates better payback times than installing replacement windows. So preserve these integral parts of your building’s history and character, while saving yourself some money at the same time.

You can find details of all of Glaze & Save’s retrofitting solutions on our website .

Succeeding as a Eco-Conscious Entrepreneur | Glaze & Save

Thu, 25 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It’s never been more important for entrepreneurs to consider the environmental impact of their business operations. As well as adding value to your product by imbuing it with green sensibilities, becoming a more eco conscious entrepreneur can also lead to increased staff productivity, lower energy and resource costs, a better public image and, ultimately, increased sales.

Encourage you employees

Getting you employees on board with your eco policies is fundamental to ensuring success across you business. After all, all of the policies and procedures you can muster will not have an impact if your employees are not also truly invested in your green vision. You can read more about making your employees greener in our blog 8 Tips to Make Your Employees for Energy Aware.

In a nut shell: make your policies public and easy to access, incentivise your employees for participating in and exceeding targets, and ultimately make your employees feel invested in you green policies and see the benefit for themselves.

Take a look at transport

A company’s transportation fleet can be one of the biggest environmental impacts that an organisation can have. Ensure that you are utilising government funding to upgrade to the lowest emission vehicles possible for your business, as well as encouraging good driving practices by using limiters. If your business supports it, you could even consider using electrical vehicles. There is even funding available to have electric charging points installed at your place of work.

Even if transport isn’t part of your day to day operations, considering how your employees get to work will boost your eco credentials. Implement car pooling schemes, participate in the Cycle to Work Scheme or consider letting your employees work part of the week from home.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Stopping the wasteful consumption of energy in your business is arguable the most important factor in making your company more environmentally friendly. We have written extensively on this subject , but fundamentally what reducing energy consumption comes down to is being mindful of how you use your appliances and technology and look for obvious behavior changes that you can implement in yourself and your staff to cut down energy use.

Once you have implemented a company-wide system of behavioural change, you can begin to look at installing technologies with a low pay back time to start actively reducing your energy bills. Draught proofing and secondary glazing are prime examples of technologies that can have great pay back times. For example, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm reduces energy bills by a minimum of 22.5%, giving a payback time of around 3-5 years. Its also a great option for leased premises as it can be easily removed.

Encourage recycling

Recycling is a great way of getting your employees to actively participate in your environmental strategy, and makes for a great tangible example of your green credentials which you can then use in your marketing communications.

The key to success is to ensure that your recycling options are easily accessible. Make sure there are plenty of recycling bins, all clearly labelled and easy to access for all of your employees. WRAP UK and Zero Waste Scotland are both great resources for information on reducing waste and increasing recycling in your business.

Use environmentally friendly suppliers

Creating a sustainable and environmentally friendly chain of suppliers throughout your business process shows a real commitment to your green credentials. Find out what your suppliers are doing to reduce their carbon footprints, reduce emissions and save energy. If they don’t meet your standards, work with them to create a more environmentally friendly outlook, or vote with your cheque book and find a new supplier.

Improving Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings | Glaze & Save

Mon, 22 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Historic buildings are part of our heritage, telling stories of times past while often displaying impressive and awe-inspiring architecture and design. However, years of wear and tear, unsympathetic retrofitting or simply advances in modern house buildings technologies can often render historic buildings incredibly energy inefficient, leading to high fuel and running costs, maintenance and preservation issues, and an otherwise poor public perception as resource inefficient and wasteful.

However, modern building practices and energy efficiency measures are often inappropriate. Indeed, in a Guardian article from 2014, John Vidal writes :

“But [the National Trust] were unanimous that when it came to energy efficiency, Britain’s 5m historic houses – defined by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings as anything built before 1919 – should not be treated like new ones, and that green deal-style modern technologies were often inappropriate.”

Luckily, there are many possibilities for ideas and inspiration for the energy conscientious historic homeowner or caretaker. So with that in mind, we’re going to run through several ways in which you can improve the energy efficiency in your historic building.

1. Use appropriate insulation

Historic buildings were built to breathe. It is therefore important to ensure that any insulation you add to your property is breathable and therefore compatible with the building. The construction of older properties is such that water should be able to pass through the structure. It is therefore critical to take this into account when insulating the roof, floor or walls of your historic building. Ensuring that breathable materials such as wood fibre board for walls and sheep’s wool for roofs ensures that the breathable capacity of the building will not be blocked. Interfering with the breathable capability of your historic building can cause structural decay or poor air quality.

2. Keep your chimney in check

Chimneys were first introduced into buildings as not just as a means of ventilation, but as a way of displaying wealth. However, unused or infrequently used chimneys in your historic building may be doing some damage to your own wallet by causing expensive and discomforting draughts. While open chimneys can be a useful source of ventilation, the issue comes when they let too much warm air out and cold air in.

It is a balancing act between maintaining good levels of ventilation and stopping uncomfortable draughts. Guidance from conservation officers is that flues should not be closed off in order to allow for the chimney to draw new air into the room from under the floor and behind plastered surfaces. However, temporary measures to reduce draughts, such as chimney balloons or chimney sheep, can and should be used to great effect at reducing draughts.

3. Ensure your glazing is performing well

Older windows can often become exceptionally draugty over time, particularly if they are sash and case single glazed windows. They distort over time and gaps open up as the joints become weakened. However, although excessive air leakage through older windows can lead to exceptionally uncomfortable draughts, it is nevertheless important to ensure that the original windows are retained wherever possible. Not only is this almost always a conservation consideration in listed buildings, but original windows are often constructed of superior materials that will outlast any modern replacement windows. This is where secondary glazing such as Glaze & Save InvisiTherm comes in. Research has shown heat losses by conduction and radiation through a window as a whole can be reduced by over 60% by using secondary glazing with a low emissivity (Low-E) hard coating facing the outside, and Glaze & Save InvisiTherm reduces heat loss by an average of 63%. The research has also shown that further savings can be made if the secondary glazing uses insulating frames such as our foamed back magnet . Besides increasing the thermal performance of windows, secondary glazing unlike double glazing can have a number of other benefits including being highly effective at reducing noise, for example Glaze & Save InvisiTherm reduces noise by a minimum of 48%.

4. Check out the STBA interactive guidance wheel for sustainable retrofitting in historic buildings

The wheel depicts more than 50 measures that can be used for the retrofitting or refurbishing of traditional buildings. It encourages exploration of the measures’ advantages, concerns about their performance and possible interactions between them.

Each measure has a number of advantages and concerns (categorised into technical, heritage and energy). The concerns are colour coded and their summary is shown in the wheel 'rings' for technical, heritage and energy concerns.

8 Tips to make your Employees more Energy Aware | Glaze & Save

Thu, 18 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A more energy efficient and resource aware business starts with energy aware employees. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best tips from around the web to help you make your employees more energy aware!

Projectlower.co.uk gives us five ways to increase employee awareness on energy efficiency that will make your employee your biggest energy champions!

1. Outline the benefits to your employees.

While some of your employees will already be aware and may even have adopted energy efficient practices, you’re more likely to see departmental compliance if your staff know exactly how a more energy aware outlook will affect them. Reason such as a healthier workplace, improved productivity and a better public image could all be great benefits to persuade your staff.

2. Make sure your change in policy is well publicised.

Using marketing materials across a variety of platforms: print, email, events, etc will all help raise awareness among your employees as to your new energy policies.

3. Set realistic goals.

Acheivable goals that your workforce can attain without drastic changes will be much easier for everyone to get on board with rather than drastic changes.

4. Have some healthy competition.

Run project or team challenges and competitions across departments with prizes or incentives for compliance.

5. Have a written energy policy.

Make sure your goals, aims and reasons for adopting a new energy aware workplace are written down and easily accessed by your employees. This will help current staff and form guidelines for new employees when they enter the business.

Gazprom Energy also have three ways to motivate your employees to reduce energy bills:

6. Avoid Bribery

While incentivizing teams and projects could be a great idea, financial incentives for individuals may not works as well. Research suggests that while incentivising staff to achieve certain things may encourage them to strive for success initially, their motivation won’t necessarily be long-lasting.

Furthermore, if rewards are only given to those who achieve the best results, those who have little confidence in their abilities, or those that believe they have no chance of winning, are unlikely to show an interest and may not even try to meet the targets set.

7. Harness the power of feelings and emotions.

Make it clear that your employees’ actions directly contribute to the success or failure of your new energy efficiency policy.

After analysing thousands of employee work diaries, researchers and authors of The Progress Principle found that contrary to popular belief, the most positive workplace motivator wasn’t money, instead it was the feeling of making progress everyday towards a meaningful goal.

8. Address Progress

In “The 100 Simple Secrets of Successful People”, David Niven writes: “Researchers find that persistent people spend twice as much time thinking, not about what has to be done, but about what they have already accomplished, the fact that the task is doable, and that they are capable of it.” Reinforcing this amongst your employees will have a positive effect on their outlook towards energy saving.

Finally we have some words of wisdom from the Carbon Trust , where you can help your organisation's employees play a part in achieving your low-carbon ambitions with the Carbon Trust Empower programme, and free carbon saving advice specific to your business sector , including energy walk around checklists.

Five Tips to Take Care of Victorian Sash Windows | Glaze & Save

Mon, 15 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The character and period charm of a property can often hinge on the appearance of its windows, and this is no more true that in the case of period properties with Victorian sash windows. While the temptation to replace original windows can be overwhelming, the resulting decrease in the aesthetic and historical significance of your property can render replacement a false economy, as well as having implications for the environment, the structure of the building, and even the property value.

With that in mind, here are our five top tips for taking care of Victorian sash windows; ensuring your original windows are in tip top shape and bringing you joy and comfort for years to come.

1. Find out if you need planning permission.

Repairing your windows will ordinarily not require planning permission as long as they are being repaired on a like for like basis and more than 50% of the original wood of your windows is preserved. Replacement windows, however, will often require planning permission, particularly in listed or conservation buildings. However, if there are any local conservation areas situated near your property, the likelihood is that they will recommend keeping your original windows. If you live in a listed building, it's worth checking whether you need planning permission for any works which might remove some of the original features.

2. Retrofit your windows with draught proofing

One of the main problems that people experience with Victorian sash windows is draughtiness and rattling windows. While period sash windows would have been fairly draught-free in their heyday, a century or two of sliding the slashes can leave gaps. Traditional draught proofing techniques often involve routering out channels of wood in the frame in order to fit brushes. This invasive and damaging process and lead to lasting damage to the frame. We offer a completely non-invasive liquid draught proofing product InvisiSeal which involves no damage to the frame, and has a ten year guarantee.

3. Find a reputable window restorer

With resource efficiency coming to the forefront of consumer minds, window restoration has grown in popularity over the last ten years, as homeowners slowly come to realise that replacement windows offer up as many problems as the solve. Unfortunately, as window restoration grows as an industry, so too do less reputable firms offering substandard restorations. Always look for a firm or tradesman who is a member of a qualifying organisation such as the Guild of Master Craftsmen or the Which? Trusted Trader Scheme .

4. Use long lasting paint

Coming in at the end of the restoration process is the painting process. Not just cosmetic, a good paint job can help preserve your windows for years to come, avoiding future problems such as dirt, mould and water ingress. Use a long lasting guaranteed paint such as Jotun paints, which are guaranteed to last for 25 years.

5. Increase the energy efficiency

One of the biggest drawbacks of period Victorian sash windows is that they are single-glazed. In our energy conscious and resource efficient age, single glazed windows present a massive loss of energy; costing us money, wasting fuel and keeping us cold!

InvisiTherm is Glaze & Save’s unique bespoke polycarbonate secondary glazing system , which discretely and elegantly blends into your current window frames for a near-invisible look. Taking the U-Value of a single-glazed sash and case window from 5.5 to 1.7, InvisiTherm will give your Victorian sash windows all of the energy performance of double glazing while retaining your original windows.

How to Build a Sustainable Start Up | Glaze & Save

Thu, 04 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When starting a business, sustainability and an environmental ethos are often the furthest thing from the budding entrepreneur’s mind. Conventional wisdom often dictates that a business must be profitable before it can become ethical, but we at Glaze & Save have striven to build sustainability and environmental accountability from the very foundations of the company.

It’s perhaps unsurprising that we would seek to create a company that leaves a minimal impact on the earth. Glaze & Save’s owner, Dr Tanya Ewing, was awarded Top Scot for the Environment in 2008 for her groundbreaking inventions in smart meter technology. With Glaze & Save, as with Tanya, sustainability is a passion that permeates everything that we do. So without further ado, we present our four ways to build sustainability into your business from it’s very inception.

1. Commit to the Circular Economy

At the heart of the Glaze & Save business ethos is a firm commitment to the circular economy, and by aligning your own start up with the circular economy, a more sustainable outcome is virtually inevitable.

The circular economy is an alternative to model our ‘make, use, dispose’ culture which means re-using products and materials continually. At the moment we tend to make goods, use them and then throw them away. We live in a society where it is normal to regularly upgrade our gadgets to the latest model but we don’t design them to be re-used or repurposed.

In the circular economy your phone would have been designed so it could be easily repaired, and upgraded to prolong its use. At the end of its useful life, the phone would be easy to disassemble so that the components and raw materials could be re-used in another phone, made into a different product, or returned safely to nature.

By recycling over 95% of the materials used in our production and installation process ,we hope to create a company that is as sustainable as it is innovative.

2. Invest in Sustainable Materials

While it may be more expensive at the outset, investing in sustainable materials shows true commitment to your environmental ethos. At Glaze & Save, all of the wood used in our wooden beading has chain of custody certification, meaning your wooden beading is from entirely sustainable sources.

Chain of Custody certification proves that any timber being used originates from sustainable managed forests. This is a voluntary process which ensures that wood or wood products are from certified forests on account of stringent tracking requirements.

3. Reduce Waste in Delivery of You Product

It’s not enough to use sustainable products if you don’t have a commitment to reducing waste while using them! At Glaze & Save we reduce waste in the delivery of our magnetic secondary glazing InvisiTherm™ by ensuring that we accurately measure the areas where the InvisiTherm™ will be installed, making sure that waste is kept to a minimum. What little waste is produced by our installation process is then repurposed into Grade 2 polycarbonate. We also sharpen our cutting blades instead of repurchasing new ones: saving money and resources!

4. Support the Local Economy

One of the easiest ways to build sustainability into your business is to support the local economy. It might cost nominally more to purchase your supplies from local businesses, but the impact on the local economy is vast- plus you are maximising your opportunity to interact with your local community. At Glaze & Save we purchase our safety equipment from a locally-owned company; our uniforms are embroidered by a local company: even the polycarbonate we use in our InvisiTherm™ magnetic secondary glazing is sourced from a supplier in Scotland. Not only that, but when our installation team travels across Scotland and the UK to install our InvisiTherm™ systems, they only stay in local hotels and B&Bs, and eat in locally-owned restaurants. It’s an easy and effective way to build sustainability into your business.

Join us for Stirling Business Month | Glaze & Save

Mon, 01 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow marks the beginning of Stirling Business Month , sponsored by French Duncan LLP , which opens with a fantastic conference Investing in our Future which takes place at Stirling Enterprise Park Ltd. We’re delighted to announce that our CEO Dr Tanya Ewing will be speaking at the event, which includes many illustrious figures from the public sector and business world.

As an Award-winning tech entrepreneur, Tanya is passionate about helping households and businesses to reduce their energy consumption. For those of your new to the blog and unfamiliar with Tanya’s work, she is the inventor of Ewgeco (now NetThings) and is partly responsible for creating a concept that will be installed in all UK homes by 2020. The former Top Scot for the Environment and British Female Inventor of the Year is over the moon to be speaking at the opening event of Stirling Business Month, and will be her successful career, which includes receiving an honorary degree from Edinburgh Napier University in 2015 for her contribution to innovation and entrepreneurship.

A further highlight, however, is sure to be hearing former Scottish rugby international Iain Milne, also known as ‘The Bear’ speaking at the conference. The sports legend will be talking about his career and, importantly, his battle with depression. We understand and appreciate the importance of striking a sustainable work/life balance and how the pressure to succeed in our chosen fields can negatively affect mental health, so this is sure to be a talk worth hearing.

We’re naturally also looking forward to hearing all of the speakers from the business world, including Alan Mahon from social enterprise Brewgooder (improving the world through the power of beer!); Juliette Cassidy from HEAT Fitness (one of this year’s Business Insider’ s Top 20 Women to Watch); and Steven Drost of Codebase , the UK’s largest technology incubator. An impressive line-up, I think we can all agree!

We’ll also be hearing from Stirling Council’s Chief Executive Stewart Carruth who will be talking about the new Stirling: Alive with Scotland branding that the city has undergone, and why this particular branding exercise truly encapsulates the spirit of local people in Stirling.

Managing director of French Duncan LLP Graeme Finnie will also be discussing the changing world of work and the impact and opportunities of modern advances in technology that face business today.

All in all it’s sure to be an exceptionally great event, full of interesting and useful insight as well as some great opportunities to network (and it’s always nice to get out of the office). Tickets are still available from Eventbrite.

See you there!

Noise Pollution Affects Employee Productivity | Glaze & Save

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

For some, noise pollution may be little more than a trivial annoyance. However, for the astute business owner, noise pollution can be a serious source of employee ill health, both physical and mental, as well as a real productivity killer.

Noise pollution occurs when there is an unwanted or disturbing sound that interferes with normal activities or diminishes quality of life.

The 2011 World Health Organisation report “Burden of Disease from environmental noise” looks at the relationship between environmental noise and health. The calculated that the financial cost of lost work days, healthcare treatment, impaired learning and decreased productivity came to $30.8 billion a year in Europe alone. How much is noise pollution costing your business?

Here are six ways in which noise pollution could affect your employee’s health, productivity and wellbeing in the office:

1. Disruptions from ambient office noise

Ringing telephones, loud co-workers and the hum of general office life can cause frequent minor disruptions which can amount to a significant loss in man hours.

2. Increased Blood Pressure

Constant interruptions from sources of noise have been shown to cause long term health risks that you might not otherwise associate with noise. The University of Michigan’s Occupational Health Nursing Programme conducted a study which found that chronic noise in the workplace can cause increased blood pressure and even heart disease.

3. Mental health problems

Perhaps unsurprisingly, dealing with incessant noise pollution can take a toll on your employees’ mental health. Excessive or repetitive noises can cause moodiness, anxiety and even depression in workers.

4. Increased workplace accidents

Excessive noise can cause workplace accidents and injuries in a variety of different ways. For example, workers may not hear warning signals, or may not be able to think clearly due to the noise of their environment. This is particularly true of industries such as construction.

5. Hearing Loss

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that one of the foremost occupational concerns is hearing loss caused by excessive noise in the working environment. A vast proportion of this hearing loss is preventable through ensuring safety measures such as wearing earplugs or reducing noise volume are adhered to.

6. Increased Errors

The likelihood of mistakes and general error is vastly increased in a noisy environment and can be a material issue in causing staff burnout. Consistent distracting noises and high levels of burnout can also lead to high blood pressure and stress.

You can tackle some sources of noise pollution by insulating your windows. Our polycarbonate secondary glazing reduces noise pollution by a minimum of 48% .

Grants for Energy Efficient Windows | Glaze & Save

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Funding your energy efficiency improvements can be costly. Luckily, there are funding options available to homeowners and tenants to help take some of the cost out installing green measures in your home.

For our Scottish readers your first port of call to find out what grants and loans you could benefit from should be Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282 for free and impartial advice.

Another great resource is the Energy Saving Trust Grants and Discounts Tool where you can find out what funding might be available to you.

Home Energy Efficiency Programme Scotland (HEEPS)

Through the Home Energy Efficiency Programme Scotland (HEEPS) you can now access loans of up to £15,000 to install a variety of measures such as solid wall insulation, double glazing or a new boiler. For a limited time and subject to available funding you can also receive 25% cashback on all measures, making this a great opportunity to save money as well as energy in your home.

Warm Deal Programme

Homeowners in Scotland who receive some form of income or housing benefits, or alternatively are over sixty years old, can access a £500 grant from central funds to spend on insulation or to keep their homes warm or more energy efficienct through the Warm Deal Programme.

Local Home Improvement Agencies (HIA)

If you’re elderly disabled or on a low income, your local HIA could help you repair or improve you home. They can provide a list of reliable local builders and contractors, or check if you can get financial help, or even assist you in making your home more energy efficient. You can search for your nearest HIA on the Foundations website (or Care and Repair Cymru in Wales).

Local council or housing association grants

Other grants for your home (including for landlords) are available from your local council, such as the Home Improvement Renovation Grant, or Housing Association (if you are a tenant of one). Anyone can apply but as councils can offer different funding, search for details on its website or contact them to ask for more information.

To find your local council's details enter your postcode in the Gov.uk website. Be careful to check if there are any restrictions on council grants, as some need you to have lived in the property for a number of years or require you to repay part of the grant if you move within a certain timeframe.

Top Ten Sustainability Ideas for Small Businesses | Glaze & Save

Thu, 20 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Sustainable business is more than a buzzword. Practicing sustainability is key in reducing costs, satisfying evermore environmentally conscious customers, and meeting rigorous demands set by local and national governments for green business. But building sustainability into your business need not be a headache. Here are ten ideas for you to make your business more sustainable.

1. Understand your energy bills

Take the time to really go through your utilities bills and become intimate with the details. It’s only then that you can begin to take decisive action to reduce them. Once you truly understand your energy bills you can then look to implementing a system of behavioural changes in your staff to see some real changes. You could also then consider moving to a greener energy supplier.

2. Start recycling

Recycling is one of the cheapest and most effective means of building a more sustainable business; and one which has the biggest impact in terms of positive effect with customers. As well as taking advantage of municipal recycling of day to day waste, the sustainable business should also consider recycling ink cartridges, computer equipment, mobile phones and office furniture. Encouraging your customers to do the same could also drive positive associations between your business and environmental responsibility.

3. Reduce consumption of wasteful products in the office

Practicing greener habits when using day to day office supplies can make for a much more sustainable business overall. For example; printing on both sides of your office paper (or going paperless wherever possible), reusing postal and packaging envelopes and doing away with paper or plastic cups all make a huge difference to the amount of waste your office produces on a day to day basis.

4. Encourage sustainable best practice with your employees

Whether its by labeling the electrical switches to ensure only the relevant ones are used, or by providing training in sustainability to your staff, ensuring that your employees are behind you in your move to a more green business model is essential. Encourage your staff to take up the sustainable business model by providing adequate training, information and encouragement for making the change with you.

5. Retrofit your building with energy saving improvements

Whether it’s installing cavity wall insulation, draughtproofing or secondary glazing , there are a host of retrofit improvements that you can add to your premises that will reduce your energy bills, oftentimes while creating a healthier and more productive working environment for your employees. You can usually find grant funding available for these measures, which you can read about here.

6. Use second hand or upcycled office furniture

You might feel the need for a sleek office space to receive clients in, but with some clever thinking you can often achieve the look with second hand or upcycled office supplies. Not only is this a greener way of kitting out the office, but it will also be significantly cheaper. Source pre-owned office furniture by sourcing them at architectural salvage companies, liquidation sales and auctioneers. Or use old favourites like Gumtree , Ebay or Freecycle to source what you need.

7. Work with other local businesses

This might be a global world, but it really pays to think locally. Working with other local businesses, whether its as suppliers, clients, customers or in partnership, can not only boost the local economy (a major tenet of any sustainability practice) but it also ensures that your supplies have a lower carbon footprint and environmental impact than importing nationally or even internationally.

8. Allow working from home

If you have members of staff who can perform their jobs remotely, then now is the time to let them do that! Working from home on a full or part time basis dramatically reduces the travel carbon footprint of your employees, while saving you energy and money at your business premises. If you don’t feel ready to allow working from home full time, then consider part time or flexible home working.

9. Get your transport up to scratch

Making sure that your transportation fleet has A Graded tyres can save you around 20-30% on your fuel bill. Put car-pooling or car sharing programmes into place amongst your employees to reduce their travel carbon footprint. Or make the switch to electrical vehicles!

10. Broadcast your sustainability wins to the world.

While creating a sustainable business entirely for the green halo effect is not something that we’d recommend, shouting about your successes and achievements can help drive interest in your product or service, but more importantly, it continues to spread the message that green business is good business. Your sustainability successes can by the jumping off point for other businesses to follow suit, and that’s something worth shouting about.

Insulating Windows for Energy Efficiency & Comfort | Glaze & Save

Tue, 18 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Insulating your windows is one of the quickest ways to ensure you achieve energy efficiency and comfort throughout your home, particularly if you have draughty sash and case windows, or glazing installed prior to 2003 which has little to no added thermal performance capabilities.

Not only are you likely to achieve a more comfortable home as you reduce heat loss through your windows with fewer draughts and cold spots, you’re also likely to enjoy a greater degree of peace and quiet, as your insulation measures decrease outside noise. Certain measure will also reduce the build-up of condensation inside your windows.

There are several ways that you can effectively insulate your windows which we’ll look at in this blog.

Draught proofing

Draught proofing the gaps and otherwise exposed areas around your windows is an obvious way to improve the insulation of your windows; however, the benefit that you feel from draught proofing is the reduction of air flow, rather than any increase in thermal efficiency or retention of heat. Still, draught proofing is an essential aspect of the window insulation process. There are many ways you can go about this.

There is a vast array of weather-stripping, beading, and draught excluding brush options available that come in a variety of different sizes, styles and compressions. Indeed, these solutions have often been the preferred method for draught proofing windows. However, as you can imagine, they have varying degrees of success in their application and draught proofing abilities. The beads, strips, etc are at risk of coming unstuck if they are poorly glued into place; draught proofing brushes often requires channels to be mitred out of the window frame itself, ultimately weakening the frame. This can very much be a process of trial and error, although we would always urge caution when considering measures that involve irreparable damage to your window frame.

Glaze & Save offer a flexible rubberised silicone liquid draught excluder called InvisiSeal™. InvisiSeal™ is an innovative draught proofing product in that it creates a permanent seal around windows and doors without the need for mitring out frames, or affixing or gluing anything to the windows themselves. It really can make all the difference in insulating your windows while remaining completely non-invasive.

Secondary Glazing

We are passionate about maintaining your original windows and appreciate the beauty and historical value of unique and older buildings; we are therefore approved to install in listed buildings and conservation areas without the need for any planning permissions.

Curtains, Blinds & Shutters

Of course, sometimes some of the best ways to increase the insulation and thermal comfort of your windows is to invest in a set of insulating blinds, thick heavy curtains or shutters. Using shutters can give single glazed windows the same level of thermal efficiency as double glazing. While draught proofing and secondary glazing measures can give permanent and exceptional levels of comfort and insulation, adding a thick, well lined pair of curtains into the mix can only give greater benefit to the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of your home.

How to access Energy Efficiency Funding for SMEs | Glaze & Save

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

As business and other SMEs face growing monetary pressures from various sources, considering energy efficiency or other green improvements to your working environment may seem prohibitively expensive, especially for smaller enterprises. Luckily, there are several options for SMEs to access grants, interest free loans and tax breaks to offset the cost of new energy efficiency measures. At Glaze & Save we're always keen to help SMEs access funding for energy efficient measures: we're passionate about saving you energy and money!

Resource Efficient Scotland SME Interest Free Loan

Available to most SMEs across Scotland, Resource Efficient Scotland offer unsecured and interest free loans of up to £100k for energy efficiency measures, building fabric improvements waste reduction and water saving equipment. Renewable energy measures are also covered, but attract an interest rate. The list of eligible measures are comprehensive.

Resource Efficient Scotland will carry out an audit of your premises and make recommendations based on the particular challenges your SME faces. Their expert advisors will help you every step of the way from planning and funding to implementation.

Energy Saving Trust Administered Loans & Funding

The Energy Saving Trust administer a variety of different loans and grants which are accessible to a variety of SMEs.

If you’re an SME looking to reduce your carbon emissions, save money and increase your competitiveness, fixed rate loans of between £1,000 and £100,000 are available

If you’re looking to make your district heating more affordable, the Energy Saving Trust can help you access a low interest loan of up to £400,000

If you are keen to reduce the carbon output of your SMEs transportation, the Energy Saving Trust administer the Low Carbon Business Loan, which offers Interest free loans up to £100,000

If you’re the owner or operator of a Hackney Cab, then the Energy Saving Trust can assist you in accessing loans up to £100,000 to replace your existing vehicle with a new, fuel efficient model

The Carbon Trust Green Business Fund

The Carbon Trust Green Business Fund is a new energy support service available to SMEs in England, Wales and Scotland. The fund provides direct support through energy assessments, training workshops, equipment procurement support and up to £10,000 in capital contribution towards to the purchase of your energy saving equipment.

Carbon Trust Energy Efficiency Financing

Through their partnership with Siemens, the Carbon Trust have made £550m of Energy Efficiency Financing available to businesses across the UK who wish to introduce energy efficient equipment into their businesses. The Carbon Trust’s Northern Ireland and Wales service also offer 0% interest loans to businesses seeking to invest in energy efficiency and green technology.

Scotland Energy Efficiency Programme (SEEP)

In February 2017 the Scottish government released a further £11 million of funding for homes and businesses to be distributed via local authorities in the second stage of the pilot of Scotland’s Energy Efficiency Programme (SEEP) pathfinder fund.

The funding assists local authorities in testing new energy saving methods with businesses, other SMEs and households which can then be taken forward when SEEP is fully introduced in 2018.

These are just a few of the multitude of funding options that are available for SMEs in Scotland to fund energy efficiency measures. More funding options can also be accessed through your local investment fund or other partners. There’s never been a better time to go green and attract funding for the energy efficiency measures that will save your SME energy and money.

How to Restore Your Original Windows | Glaze & Save

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Replacing sash windows not only affects the look and character of your building, it is also extremely expensive and potentially damaging to the structural integrity of the building itself.

On top of this, replacing original sash windows can be incredibly wasteful. The high-quality wood that forms the basis of original timber windows is extremely hard to come by these days, meaning that the replacement and eventual discarding of these frames would be an unnecessary waste.

There are three different options for original sash and case, and single glaze windows.

3 Steps to Perfect Windows

Restoration

The first option is to restore the windows. This involves 1) the replacement or repair any damaged wood in the windows; 2) ensuring that the windows are fully operational and able to open and close, removing, weighing and cleaning the windows, while allowing for cleaning access; and 3) to replace and restore any ironmongery on the frames. Most restoration companies only restore the windows, they do not paint them.

Draughtproofing

The second option is to draughtproof the windows. This involves removing the windows and mitring out a channel around all surfaces of the window, before putting in a draughtproofing brush; then putting the windows back in place and affixing optional beading around the existing window. This is quite an invasive process. It can weaken the base of the window as it involves putting in dowels, and over a relatively short number of years this can make the lower sill weaken and come away.

The second option is to add InvisiSeal™. InvisiSeal™ is a liquid draughtproofing product that dries like rubber, creating an airtight seal around your windows and doors. It’s a non-invasive process which involves no screws or nails, keeping your window frame fully intact and strengthened. This allows you to fully open and close the windows while enjoying the benefits of draughtproofing.

Thermal Efficiency

The third part is to make your windows thermally efficient; this means that the whole window area becomes thermally efficient and repels heat back into the room in the same way that the other surfaces in the room will. There are many different options. The first option is to remove the single glazing and replace it with double glazing; however this must be used with some form of draughtproofing. The second option would be to retain your original windows and install secondary glazing.

1. Restoration

Paint Removal

Over time, a build-up of paint can just your windows to become stiff, or even make it impossible to open your windows at all. By removing the many layers of paint, your windows can experience a new lease of life. Equally, cracked and flaky paints and finishes can cause the wood of windows to become exposed to the elements. By restoring the paintwork, you windows will have a protective finish that ensures they last for years to come.

Cord Replacement

Sash windows are counter balanced with two pairs of weights which run over a pulley system. Over time, the cord that supports these weights can become weakened, or even snap entirely. A weakened or snapped cord will make it difficult to open and close your windows. Replacement of the cord allows your windows to move freely once more.

Repair/Replacement of Rotten Wood

Original windows are features that add period charm to your property. The downside to this is that the original wood can become rotten or otherwise comprised. A thorough restoration service will delicately and sympathetically repair and replace areas of rotten frame, ensuring your window stands the test of time. From time to time, this may include the replacement of the entire window frame, although this is often a last resort.

Ironmongery

The final element of your window restoration is the installation of elegant yet practical ironmongery in keeping with the look of your windows. Standard finishes tend to be in brass or polished chrome. This step can really enhance the finish of your window restoration. However, be aware that some companies will remove your original ironmongery and replace it with shiny new ironmongery: always inform your window restorers if you wish to retain your original ironmongery.

Window Restoration Specialists

There are many window restoration companies out there, so how do you know who to trust? As bespoke magnetic secondary glazing experts, we often come across the work of window restoration companies. The consistency of work and professionalism across the board can vary wildly. We’d always recommend that you obtain testimonials, or better yet, personal referrals.

2. Draught-proofing

Restoration of your original widows is not just about mending your existing windows. Certain additions can be retrofitted to your original windows in order to increase their efficiency, and your comfort. Draughtproofing is one of the most important aspects of the window enhancement process.

Draught-proofing Brushes

Draught-proofing brush strips can be added during your window restoration in order to fill the gaps that surround your windows. These lasting brushes ensure that your windows are sealed while still allowing for adequate ventilation. Adding draught-proofing to your windows and doors can save up to £50 per year; not surprising when you consider that the gaps around your sash windows can be the equivalent of an opening measuring a minimum of ten inches.

InvisiSeal™

InvisiSeal™ is a patented permanent liquid draught excluder exclusive to Glaze & Save. For doors and windows, made from a tough, flexible silicone, InvisiSeal™ protects like silicone with all of the durability and flexibility of rubber. Typically reduces draughts by over 50%. Reduces energy bills by up to 20%.

3. Thermal Efficiency

While window films and draught-proofing brushes are excellent at reducing draughts from your windows, the overall energy efficiency of your windows will remain unchanged. For example, if you have original single glazing, you can expect the U-values of your windows to remain at around 5.5. This means that you could be losing heat up to 16 times faster through your window than through your walls. To tackle the U-value of your windows, while addressing a host of other issues such as condensation or fading, it pays to look into further glazing options that you can add to your windows.

Window Films

Window film can be the ideal inexpensive solution to temporarily enhance the thermal efficiency of your home. Window films can come in a variety of finishes, many with exceptional thermal properties. InvisiFilm™, our convenient and discrete window film, is a stylish alternative to net curtains or patterned glass. Combating a host of window-related issues, whether you require extra solar protection, to changing up those net curtains, InvisiFilm™ can offer up a solution.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing involves installing supplementary glazing on the inside of an existing single-glazed window.

Unfortunately, traditional secondary glazing is expensive giving a long payback time; it uses screws and there is a requirement to redecorate after installation. Ugly, plastic frames go yellow over time and are not always compatible with listed buildings or conservation areas. It can also be potentially hazardous, as the plastic frame become brittle over time, placing the glass in a precarious position. It also ultimately damages the window frame and surrounding area, making it bulky and unsightly.

You can maintain the look and character of your windows by choosing a secondary glazing option which is virtually invisible whilst given all of the benefits (and more) of double glazing. Bespoke magnetic secondary glazing InvisiTherm from Glaze & Save is an innovative polycarbonate solution that reduces heat loss, noise pollution, eliminates fading, draughts and condensation with a guaranteed payback and energy bill reduction of 22.5%.

Four Reasons Why Going Green is Good for Business | Glaze & Save

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The world is changing. And with it, business needs to change too. The environmental concerns of the planet have naturally filtered to the business world: although it seems that many are still slow on the uptake. But in these economically turbulent times, some of the best business sense enterprises small and large can invest in is their green credentials. We take a look at four reasons why going green is good for business.

Reduced Waste and Decreased Costs

Whether it’s through recycling, energy efficiency or sourcing more sustainable working practices: going green inevitably means reducing wasteful consumption. And that is great for businesses. Making a concerted effort to reduce your resource consumption, or to reduce the waste generated will inevitably lead to decreased costs for you, and ergo increased profits.

Don’t think that reducing your resource consumption and waste production needs to be a headache. Implementing a policy of behavioural changes can really trim the fat from energy bills and office costs: only turning on lights when needed; printing less or not at all if it can be helped; refilling ink cartridges and offering hybrid vehicles are all ways to reduce your energy consumption.

Take energy efficiency: a product like our InvisiTherm secondary glazing can reduce energy bills by 22.5% . Or how about recycling, where you can literally sell on your waste products (we already do this at Glaze & Save, where our waste polycarbonate from our installations is collected and passed onto a third party to be made into other products). Finding ways to reduce your waste and resource consumption can really boost the finances of your company.

Increased Employee Productivity

If you don’t want to go green for the environment, go green for your employees! Providing a healthy atmosphere for your employees, including better air quality, efficient heating and lighting systems, can help you ward off some of the most common of office complaints such as office colds, asthma and headaches. Green cleaning supplies are not only cheaper than their regular counterparts, they also lack chemicals such as sodium hydrochlorite and nitrobenzene which have been shown to be connected to physical problems.

A commercial client of ours saw inadvertent increases in employee productivity after we installed InvisiTherm to reduce heat loss: the accompanying noise reduction made the office so quite that employees could get on with their jobs in peace!

If you’re looking to hire the best and brightest, environmental and ethical credentials are often a key issue for young talent seeking out new opportunities. So get the best people, and keep them healthier while they’re working for you, by going green.

Access to Funding Opportunities

Energy efficiency, renewable energy, recycling, the circular economy…all buzzwords in today’s rapidly changing economy. Governments across the globe have recognized the importance of the commercial sector in reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption and often provide funding for these measures, meaning your business often benefits without being out of pocket. In Scotland Resource Efficient Scotland have an interest free loan available for SMEs to install energy efficient measures to their premises. The Carbon Trust have funding available for businesses participating in low-carbon initiatives through their Green Business Fund . Next week we’ll be going into more detail about how to find funding for energy efficient measures for your business, so be sure to check that out.

Sustainability

Ultimately, going green is about the health of the planet. Undertaking more environmentally conscientious business practices can prevent the waste of natural resources, helping stabilize the rate of our resource consumption in the long run. Businesses can also make the choice to switch to renewable sources of energy such as solar or wind energy, preserving natural resources and ultimately buildings a more sustainable economy.

Public Response to Environmentally Ethical Businesses

At the top of the blog, we mentioned our changing world and how we need to respond to it in business. But the good news is that the public in turn respond extremely positively to businesses with green credentials.

Positive public image arising from green credential is highly likely to increase sales. Studies have been show that where businesses undertake green initiatives, profits increase. However, it’s probably not advisable to go green purely for the positive public affirmation.

Even notoriously controversial companies like Walmart have seen the benefit of incorporating green initiatives into their business practices, where increasing recycling, reducing gas consumption and offering a wider range of eco-friendly products so their sales increase by 20%.

Installing Secondary Glazing in Listed Buildings | Glaze & Save

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

For ambiance, style and architectural elegance, there really can’t be anything nicer than a listed building. It’s just a pity so many of them are freezing cold; whether from inadequate glazing, poor draught proofing or generally poor maintenance and upkeep.

Listed building windows are often the original windows; centuries old wood and glass of a quality you rarely see today. The last thing you want to do it rip out and replace. This is where secondary glazing is an excellent option. Not sure what secondary glazing is? Let Historic England explain:

Secondary glazing is a great option for those who want to, or have no choice but to, keep their original windows. However, with such varying degrees of quality and finish available in the secondary glazing market, where do you even begin to look?

Never fear, we’ve got you covered. Here’s five top tips for you to bear in mind when considering secondary glazing for your listed building.

1. Check if you need planning permission

When it comes to planning permission, not all secondary glazing is created equal, particularly in relation to listed buildings. For the most part, traditional aluminium framed glass secondary glazing required planning permission in listed buildings in much the same way as double glazing. This is because it constitutes a material change in the fabric of the building and also has an impact on the character of the property, particularly if it can be seen from the outside of the building. However, Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™is a completely demountable and reversible system, which makes no such material change to the fabric of your building and is completely invisible from the exterior of the building and virtually invisible on the inside, meaning InvisiTherm™will never alter the character of your building. For this reason, planning permission is not required when installing InvisiTherm™into your listed property in Scotland. This can be a particularly attractive option if you want a quick but lasting solution to thermally inefficient windows and a cold, draughty property.

We would, however, always recommend that you check with your local council’s planning department if you are unsure of the status of your proposed secondary glazing installation. You can find Glasgow City Council’s Guidelines here , Edinburgh City Council’s Guidelines here , and Dundee City Council’s Guidelines here .

2. Make sure your chosen secondary glazing solves all of your problems

Secondary glazing, on the whole, is excellent for soundproofing and noise reduction. The gap created between your original window panel and the secondary panel creates a natural barrier that absorbs sounds waves and reduces noise. That’s great if your main aim is to reduce noise, but what if you want something more?

So if you have multiple issues, make sure you consider secondary glazing that addresses all of those issues. We like to call InvisiTherm™the “all in one window solution” because the unique polycarbonate tackles noise, thermal efficiency, UV protection, fading, draughts and condensation, all as standard and while being completely fire retardant.

3. Ensure your chosen secondary glazing option works with your shutters, ironmongery and blinds

Some of the most unique characteristics of listed building windows are the shutters and ironmongery, which add extra historic charm whilst being practical. Many types of secondary glazing make it difficult to retain the full functionality of your shutters: and given that shutters are a great way to enhance the thermal efficiency of your property, we would always encourage their use.

4. Consider the visual impact

Traditional glass secondary glazing can be extremely visually intrusive, both internally and externally. This is why planning permission is sometimes required. To minimise the visual effect of traditional glass secondary windows externally, try to make sure the secondary glazing is not smaller than the glazed area of the existing window. Try to place any divisions in the glazing behind the window meeting rails or glazing bars. The flat reflections of modern glass within secondary glazing can be minimised by using anti-reflective glass. Or, you could circumvent this by using a modern secondary glazing product that is completely invisible from the outside of your property (and virtually invisible inside) which also has anti-glare capabilities. Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™is virtually invisible in these instances, and has a minimal visual impact, making it a great option for listed buildings.

5. Be mindful of ventilation

Where your secondary glazing option provides a draught proof seal, or is a warm product like Glaze & Save InvisiTherm™meaning that it eradicates condensation from the glazed area, it pays to be mindful of just where that internal moisture can otherwise go. A lack of adequate ventilation inside properties with secondary glazing can mean dampness and even mould on colder areas like internal exterior walls and in the corners of rooms. InvisiTherm™is a breathable product which counteracts at least some of these issues, since it absorbs and releases water, it can also be fitted with ventilation options such as trickle vents, slats or flower vents. If dampness and moisture in the air is of particular concern then a dehumidifier is a great option in the short term. However, a long term solution should always include the provision of an adequate ventilation system to improve the air quality of your home and avoid damp and mould.

So there you have it, five top tips to consider when installing secondary glazing in listed buildings. There are always, of course, many things to take into consideration when making an addition to the windows of your listed, conservation or historic property. At Glaze & Save we’re happy to give you the advice you need to install the best magnetic secondary glazing and draught proofing in your home or business.

Protect your windows and experience a warmer, cozy and more thermally efficient home with InvisiTherm ™ the all-in-one window solution. Reduce heat loss by 63%, Reduce noise by a minimum of 48%, eradicate condensation and draughts, and completely eliminate ultraviolet fading, all without the need for any permissions. Retain your original windows and full working shutters while turning your single glazing into double glazing. Contact today on 01738 562 068 or via our contact form to find out more and arrange your free survey.