{"id":3541,"date":"2023-08-23T01:56:06","date_gmt":"2023-08-23T01:56:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.bestworkz.com\/eewindows\/?p=3541"},"modified":"2023-11-29T09:52:12","modified_gmt":"2023-11-29T09:52:12","slug":"australia-isnt-keeping-up-with-energy-efficient-homes-or-buildings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trdemo.com.au\/eewindows\/australia-isnt-keeping-up-with-energy-efficient-homes-or-buildings\/","title":{"rendered":"Australia isn\u2019t keeping up with energy efficient homes or buildings"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

While six-star energy ratings have been the bare minimum for homes in many countries for quite some time, Australia has only recently adopted this standard in a few states.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Considering most countries across Europe made a move to sustainable construction around thirty years ago, it\u2019s safe to say that Australia is, comparatively, very behind the times. So why is Australia so lacking in energy efficient homes? We believe that it may come from a few misconceptions that have unfortunately ingrained themselves in the Australian psyche.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Misconception 1: Double glazed windows are just to keep the heat in.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There seems to be a common misunderstanding amongst Australian homeowners that double glazing<\/a> is a luxury afforded to those living in the world\u2019s coldest climates. However, there is a range of benefits that double glazing can have for homes that experience extremely hot weather, such as those situated in Queensland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A recent article<\/a> written by Sophi MacMillan, drawing information from the Australia Glass and Glazing Association, states that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cStandard glazed windows contribute to 87% of the summer heat gain in a typical Australian insulated home. Using double glazing can result in significant savings of 40% off energy bills for heating and cooling.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Double glazing, while very effective at keeping heat within the home, is also extremely efficient at keeping hot air out. This means much better performing air conditioning inside your house in Summer. The less you have to crank the air con, the better, as we all know from the shock we get every time our energy bill comes through!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Misconception 2: Insulated window frames in Australian homes will just block the breeze.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, UPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) window frames are not standard in Australia. UPVC is a very rigid and durable type of plastic that is commonly used in window frames in the UK, Europe and the US, combined with double glazing, to produce the most energy-efficient windows<\/a> on the market. In Australia, most window frames are made from standard aluminium with single glass panels, which do not insulate the home as effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many homeowners are under the impression that to install windows with superior insulation will result in a lack of airflow throughout the house. We all know that sense of relief when the cool breeze finally stirs, and we can switch off the air con and throw the windows open. This can still be achieved with UPVC window frames and double glazing! Many UPVC window frames now offer a wide range of configurations upon installation, including bi-fold windows, casement and awning windows, sliding windows and tilt \u2018n\u2019 turn windows. All are specifically designed to capture the breeze that flows through your home. With UPVC window frames, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Keep your house cold with the air con on when it\u2019s humid outside (and there isn\u2019t a wisp of wind), but also catch that delicious breeze when it finally stirs. These are just a few of the advantages that can be enjoyed, along with a decrease in your energy bill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Misconception 3: Aluminium window frames are the most durable and effective.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to designing a new home, it can be very tempting to stick with what we know, and install materials that have been used in Australian homes for centuries. But this mentality is what is holding Australians back from enjoying better energy efficiency in their houses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aluminium window frames are one of the most common types of window frames in Australia and can be quite durable. However, when compared to UPVC window frames, they\u2019re significantly lacking. Here are just a few of their faults:<\/p>\n\n\n\n