With utility bills at an all-time high, and set to rise even further by an average of 6.4% from the 1st of April, many property owners are looking for ways they can keep their usage down.
From making the switch to energy-efficient appliances to using a smart meter, there are many things you can do to help cut costs – including incorporating toughened glass into your building’s design.
But how exactly can this help?
The experts at Express Glass Warehouse reveal everything you need to know about toughened glass and why it may be the best choice for energy efficiency in this blog.
How does toughened glass improve energy efficiency?
There are many ways that toughened glass can help improve energy efficiency in both residential and commercial buildings, including:
Superior thermal insulation
When paired with double or triple glazing solutions, toughened glass can effectively reduce heat transfer and help maintain indoor temperatures, which means you won’t need to rely on heating or cooling systems half as much!
Solar control and heat reduction
Air conditioning systems use a significant amount of energy.
To help keep your home or office building cooler in the summer, toughened glass with special coatings, like Low-E or tinted coating, helps block excessive heat from the sun and keep the temperature comfortable – reducing your reliance on all types of cooling systems.
Increased natural light
Toughed glass, particularly large toughened glass windows or patio doors, allows more natural light to flow through your building without increasing the temperature.
With your rooms looking much brighter, there’s no need to turn lights and lamps on, and with less reliance on artificial lighting comes much lower energy bills.
Minimal heat loss in cold weather
In winter, homes and businesses use significantly more gas and electricity than they do in other seasons, and with the frequent sub-zero temperatures, this is to be expected.
Toughened glass works effectively with double or triple glazing to prevent heat loss, allowing you to use heating systems sparingly and maintain a comfortable temperature.
How can I use toughened glass?
There are many different ways you can use toughened glass in residential and commercial buildings, including:
- Windows and doors – Toughened glass can be used for windows and doors in both commercial and residential properties to improve insulation and reduce energy consumption.
- Balustrades – Toughened glass balustrade panels make a stunning addition to commercial and residential properties. Helping to brighten up dark areas, glass panels reduce the need for artificial lighting, improve insulation, and can save you some serious pennies!
- Facades and partition walls – By maximising the amount of natural light flow in your property and reducing the need for artificial light, glass facades and partition walls are a great option to improve energy efficiency and lower your bills.
- Shower screens – Toughened glass shower screens are a popular option in many residential bathrooms, not just for style and durability but for energy efficiency, too. They help to retain heat in the shower area and, again, reduce the need for artificial lighting by making your bathroom much brighter.
Shop bespoke toughened glass products online
Whenever you’re looking for top-quality toughened glass products, the team at EGW have got you covered.
From balustrade panels and shower screens to hearths and Juliet balconies, there are plenty of options that not only look stunning but also help save money on your utility bills.
Browse their options online today, or get in touch with their experts for recommendations!