Upgrade to Eco-Friendly Windows
Making your home more energy-efficient is the first step toward a sustainable lifestyle—but it’s not always simple. Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is by upgrading to eco-friendly windows.
Windows are responsible for a large portion of energy loss. In summer, they’re opened to cool down the house, and in winter, they’re closed to keep the warmth in. This constant cycle often results in energy waste and reduced efficiency.
Eco-friendly windows can help solve this problem. Here’s how.
1. Choose Vacuum Double Glazing
Vacuum double glazing is a modern, highly efficient insulation solution. It keeps your home warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and significantly reduces energy consumption.
These units consist of two panes of low-emissivity (low-e) glass separated by a vacuum. Unlike traditional double glazing, which uses air or noble gases like Argon, vacuum glazing has a gap of just 0.6mm. This slim profile means you avoid the bulky look and achieve a clean, single-glazed aesthetic.
Not only does this enhance energy efficiency, but it also reduces noise transmission—making your home quieter and more comfortable. Because of its ultra-thin profile, vacuum glazing is ideal for heritage projects and Listed buildings, where maintaining the original appearance is essential.
Explore why vacuum glazing is perfect for a Passive House window.
2. Use Sustainable Timber for Window Frames
Timber is one of the most environmentally friendly materials available. While growing, trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to offset greenhouse gas emissions. When timber is sourced responsibly and used in manufacturing by eco-conscious companies, your windows can be carbon-neutral at the point of installation.
Gowercroft conducted a comprehensive lifecycle study with Derby University, showing that our timber windows have a much lower environmental impact compared to plastic or aluminium alternatives.
In contrast, uPVC and aluminium frames require energy-intensive manufacturing processes and extractive mining, contributing significantly to pollution and resource depletion.
3. Opt for Modern Treated Timbers
Modern timbers like Accoya® and Red Grandis go through advanced, eco-friendly treatments that improve durability and performance. These treated woods resist water absorption and temperature-related expansion, which helps maintain the integrity of the window frame and protective coatings.
- Accoya® and Red Grandis come with up to 50-year warranties above ground and 25 years below ground.
- Their stability helps paint and varnish last longer, reducing maintenance and environmental impact.
For added protection, Gowercroft applies microporous coatings, allowing moisture to escape while keeping water out, extending the lifespan of your windows.
Learn more about our Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and sustainable timber choices.
4. Ensure Proper Installation
Even the best materials won’t perform well if installed incorrectly. Poor-fitting windows allow heat to escape and reduce efficiency.
We use specialist installation teams trained to ensure a precise fit, creating airtight seals that improve performance and extend the service life of each unit. Proper installation also reduces the chance of remedial work, which helps lower your overall environmental impact.
5. Recycle Your Old Windows
Don’t forget about disposal. Old windows can often be recycled:
- Glass can be reused in new windows or turned into bottles and jars.
- Timber frames can be repurposed or composted if untreated.
- Some recycling services may even pay you for your old windows!
Always check whether your installer offers responsible disposal or recycling options.
In Conclusion
Eco-friendly windows are a simple and effective way to reduce your home’s energy use and carbon footprint. They offer:
- Lower heating and cooling costs
- Improved comfort and sound insulation
- Longer-lasting performance
- Attractive, heritage-compliant designs
At Gowercroft, we’ve made sustainability a core part of our business. We operate a low-emission manufacturing facility and have won multiple honours, including the BWF Sustainability Award for our commitment to responsible design and production.
If you’re ready to upgrade, explore our Frontier Range, engineered for Passive House-level performance.
Get in touch with our team to learn more about choosing the right eco-friendly windows for your project.