A U-value is a measurement that can tell customers, manufacturers and building owners the energy efficiency of windows, doors and roofs. By comparing different brands’ U-values, you can then choose the best and most energy-efficient option for a home, business or commercial space. Saving money and improving your sustainability efforts.
How do U-values work?
A U-value is calculated from the rate of energy transfer through a single square meter of the structure and is then divided by the difference in temperature at either side, quoted as watts per square metre. To put it simply, in terms of windows, the lower the U-value, the better the energy efficiency. U-values can also be used to measure other building structures such as a roof, walls, floor and doors.
Why are U-values important?
The industry standard Window Energy Rating was implemented to allow consumers to compare the energy efficiency of different products around a home or business and can be found on a number of household items and appliances. In the UK, the primary need for this value is for energy efficiency and reducing heat loss. There are, however, a number of benefits that U-values provide including:
- Preventing surface mould
- Increased indoor surface temperature
- Reduces heat loss
- Increased comfort
- Less energy consumption
- Decrease in energy bills
- Maintains the health and maintenance of a building
- Improved indoor thermal climates
What is a good U-value?
A good, effective U-value would be anything that meets the Building Regulations or lower which is currently sitting at 1.4. European window manufacturers also add more emphasis on U-values which have the lowest figure of 0.8.
Below, you can find the new building regulations for 2023 U-values which relate to the standards for fabric performance and cover the minimum U-value requirements.
- Roof: 0.15
- Wall: 0.18
- Floor: 0.18
- Window: 1.4
- Door: 1.4
Aluminium window manufacturers
We offer our aluminium windows across Nottingham, Derby, London, Leicester and the rest of the UK! All you need to do is give us a call at 01623 721 172 or use our quote builder and we’ll help you in any way that we can.
With a full range of, round, arched, gothic arches, and portholes. Window frames, we offer high-quality aluminium windows to commercial businesses and customers across the UK.