Windows

Nothing to do with Bill Gates.

After a slight delay, due to the manufacturer getting the order wrong, the timber windows have arrived on site. For most of the windows we have opted for softwood frames with hardwood cills to help protect them against the elements. The glazed units are 16mm argon filled double glazing.

The only exceptions to this are the windows and sliding/folding glazing in the kitchen/diner which are aluminium framed units (from Smart systems), also with 16mm argon filled glazing, and the one remaining original sash window. The aluminium windows are not due on site for a few more weeks. As for the sash, we want to retain this but it needs a serious overhaul and also needs to be double glazed to reduce heat loss. This is a problem with conventional 16mm double glazing as it's thickness means it won't fit in the existing frame. Enter Slimlite ultra-thin double glazing. http://www.slimliteglass.co.uk/home.html

Slimlite uses low emmisivity glass along with inert gases such as Krypton (nothing to do with Clark Kent) between the panes to obtain a lower U value than can be obtained for the same thickness of 'conventional' double glazing. This is due to the gases used having much greater insulating properties than argon or air, but they're significantly more expensive as a result.

We've not yet investigated the cost of using Slimlite in the sash but this looks to be the best way to retain the only original window in the house whilst making it far more energy efficient.

Meanwhile there's not a single piece of uPVC in sight.