U-value
A measure of heat transfer through a material. Lower U-values mean better insulation. Modern double glazing achieves around 1.2 W/m2K.
FENSA
Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. A government-authorised body that certifies window installers meet building regulations.
Low-E glass
Low-emissivity glass with a microscopic metallic coating that reflects heat back into the room while letting light through.
Argon fill
Argon gas injected between panes of double or triple glazing. Being denser than air, it reduces heat transfer by up to 30%.
Warm edge spacer
The bar that separates panes of glass. Warm edge spacers reduce heat loss at the edge of the sealed unit compared to aluminium spacers.
WER
Window Energy Rating. An A++ to E scale showing overall window energy performance, considering U-value, solar gain, and air leakage.
Trickle vent
A small opening in a window frame that allows controlled ventilation. Required by building regulations in most new window installations.
Mullion
A vertical bar dividing a window into sections. Can be structural or decorative (applied to the glass surface).