If your home feels draughty in winter or sweltering in summer, your windows could be to blame.
For Newcastle homeowners, energy efficiency isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. With rising energy bills and unpredictable North East weather, upgrading to energy efficient windows can make a huge difference in comfort, cost, and even the value of your property.
At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’ve helped hundreds of local residents upgrade to smarter, more efficient glazing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about energy efficient windows—how they work, what to look for, and how much they can save you.
What makes a window energy efficient?
Energy efficient windows are designed to reduce the amount of heat lost through your glass and frames. They keep warm air in during the winter and help your home stay cooler in the summer.
They typically include:
- Double or triple glazing
- Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass
- Gas-filled units (like argon or krypton)
- Thermally broken or insulated frames
- High-quality weather seals and spacers
Modern energy rated windows combine all of these features to keep your home warmer, quieter, and more efficient.
Why energy efficiency matters in Newcastle
Newcastle’s weather can be unforgiving. Cold winds, heavy rain, and damp winters put a lot of pressure on your home’s insulation.
If your windows are more than 10–15 years old, they may be leaking heat—and money.
Replacing old single-glazed or poorly sealed double-glazed units with modern energy rated windows can lead to:
- Lower energy bills year-round
- Fewer draughts and cold spots
- Better soundproofing from street noise
- A warmer, more comfortable home
- Higher resale value if you plan to move
Many homes we work on across Jesmond, Heaton, and Gosforth see an immediate difference after installing new glazing.
How are energy efficient windows rated?
In the UK, windows are rated using the Window Energy Rating (WER) system.
This rating ranges from A++ to G, similar to the energy labels you see on fridges or washing machines.
- A++ is the most efficient
- C or below may not meet modern building standards
- Most installers aim for A or A+ rated windows as a balance of cost and performance
At Windows and Doors Newcastle, all of our windows meet at least an A rating as standard—and we offer A+ and A++ options for those wanting top-tier efficiency.
What is a U-value?
U-value is another important number to understand.
It measures how much heat passes through a material. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation.
Here’s a rough guide:
- 1.6 W/m²K or higher – Old or single-glazed windows
- 1.4 W/m²K – Typical for older double glazing
- 1.2 W/m²K or lower – Modern energy efficient windows
- 0.8–1.0 W/m²K – High-performance triple glazing
We recommend aiming for 1.2 W/m²K or below in Newcastle for best results, especially if you want to lower heating costs.
Double glazing vs. triple glazing for energy efficiency
Most Newcastle homes use double glazing—but triple glazing is gaining popularity, especially in noisier or colder areas.
Here’s how they compare:
Double glazing:
- Two panes of glass
- Sealed with argon gas
- Good insulation for most homes
- Lower cost and lighter weight
Triple glazing:
- Three panes of glass
- Two gas-filled cavities
- Better U-values and soundproofing
- More expensive and heavier
If you live in a quiet suburb or already have decent insulation, high-quality double glazing is usually enough. But if you’re near a busy road or exposed area like the coast, triple glazing might be worth the upgrade.
Frame material and its impact on energy efficiency
The frame matters just as much as the glass. Here’s how the main options compare:
uPVC frames – Great insulators, low maintenance, widely used in Newcastle homes. Most cost-effective option.
Aluminium frames – Sleek and durable, but must have a thermal break to avoid heat loss.
Timber frames – Naturally insulating but require more upkeep. Best for period homes.
At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we supply all three options—focusing on thermal efficiency and fit to maximise performance in local conditions.
How much can you save with energy efficient windows?
Exact savings depend on your property size, current glazing, and energy rates. But here are some estimates from the Energy Saving Trust:
- Replacing single glazing with A-rated double glazing can save:
- £145–£155 per year in a typical semi-detached home
- Upgrading older double glazing to modern A+ rated units can save around:
- £50–£75 per year
And beyond bills, you’ll enjoy more consistent indoor temperatures and fewer draughts—especially noticeable in rooms with large windows or north-facing walls.
Are energy efficient windows better for the environment?
Absolutely. When your home uses less energy to stay warm, your carbon footprint drops.
Even a modest home in Newcastle could reduce its CO₂ emissions by 375–400kg per year just by switching from old windows to A-rated replacements.
If you’re looking to improve your EPC rating or make your home greener, window upgrades are one of the best places to start.
Do you need planning permission?
In most cases, no.
Replacing windows with like-for-like energy rated alternatives does not require planning permission. The exception is if you live in:
- A listed building
- A conservation area (parts of Jesmond, Tynemouth, Durham city centre)
- A property with Article 4 Direction restrictions
If in doubt, we can advise you before quoting.
What to look for in an installer
To get the full benefits of energy efficient windows, you need proper installation. Even the best-rated window will underperform if it’s poorly fitted.
Look for a company that offers:
- FENSA or CERTASS registration
- A-rated or better window options
- Written guarantees on product and installation
- Transparent, fixed pricing
- Local experience and reviews
At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we tick all of the above. Our team is local, experienced, and focused on doing the job right the first time.
Final thoughts
Energy efficient windows are one of the smartest upgrades you can make as a Newcastle homeowner.
They’ll save you money, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your home warmer and more comfortable year-round.
Whether you choose double or triple glazing, uPVC or aluminium, the key is making sure your windows are properly rated, fitted with care, and suited to your property.
Get your free quote today
At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we install A-rated and A+ rated windows tailored to your home and budget.
Book a free consultation with our expert team, and we’ll help you choose the right energy efficient windows for your property. No pressure. No upselling. Just honest advice and quality work.
Make your home warmer, greener, and more efficient—starting today.
