The Value of U-Values - January 2011 January 2011
2011 may well be the year when we can get u-values as low as 0.25W/m2/K, thanks to Heat Mirror Film and Nanogel technology. But what does this mean in real terms?
The 'u-value' is a measure of the rate of heat loss through a material. When building a new extension, building regulations now state that the u-value of the glass used must be below 1.6 W/m2/K. Cantifix has been offering glass with a u-value of 1.1W/m2/K as standard for some years now. This means that in simple terms, by using standard Cantifix glazing within your house or a new extension, the energy required to keep warm could be reduced by over 30%.
Heat Mirror film technology uses nanoscale coatings of metal, which reflect heat back to its source. This means heat introduced to the room will be reflected back in when it hits the film, which is suspended with the glass unit (represented in the diagram). The film also prevents over-heating during summer months through solar control and offers 99.5% UV protection against fading and degradation. It will also reduce noise transmitted through the glass by up to 20% creating a quieter environment. Unlike standard double-glazed units, those incorporating Heat Mirror Film work just as well when horizontal as when vertical. That means less energy required and less chance of condensation building up on either side of the glass whether it is on the roof, the floor or the walls. By using this film, Cantifix can achieve centre pane u-values of 0.7W/m2/K with a single layer (or 0.3 with two layers) meaning the cost of heating a new extension could be over 50% less than with standard glazing.
Nanogel is a free-flowing, translucent granular material, which contains hydrophobic silica-based particles. It is injected into the cavities between glazing, and provides a tremendous thermal insulator. It also diffuses light evenly which reduces glare. By using Nanogel Cantifix is able to achieve u-values of 0.25W/m2/K, which means that when used within a new extension, heating costs could be reduced by a massive 80% compared to standard glazing. Nanogel also has added acoustic benefits and is not affected by the inclination of the glass.
Cantifix Director William Sharman adds "Both options are considerably better than traditional triple-glazing because they have only the smallest effect on the panel weight - a huge bonus when installing the glass and in the longer term, when operating doors and windows."
