Government Grants for Windows and Doors
The UK government, in an effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote greener living, has introduced various initiatives and incentives to encourage homeowners to make their properties more energy-efficient. One such initiative is the window grants scheme.
Double glazing can save you up to £235 per year by reducing your heating bill. In this guide, we will explain the window grants available in the UK, including their purpose, eligibility criteria, application process, and the benefits of upgrading your windows.
How to Get the Best Window Quotes Online
What Is the Purpose of Window Grants From the UK Government?
Window grants in the UK primarily serve two main purposes:
- Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Replacing old, draughty windows with new, energy-efficient ones can significantly reduce heat loss in homes. This, in turn, helps lower energy consumption and reduces the carbon footprint, contributing to the UK’s overall environmental goals.
- Cost Savings: Energy-efficient windows are designed to better insulate your home, which means you’ll spend less on heating and cooling. Over time, this translates to significant savings on your energy bills.
FAQ About Best Double Glazed Windows
What if I don't qualify for government double glazing grants?
If you don’t meet the criteria for any grants, you can still find ways to save on your replacement windows. Many double glazing companies offer recycling schemes, allowing you to receive payments for your old windows while also minimising your environmental impact through responsible recycling.
What other help is available for double glazing?
- Green Deal Loan: This government-delivered scheme supports energy-saving home improvements, including double glazing, in England, Scotland, and Wales. The loan must be repaid, but the repayment structure is designed to be less than the savings you achieve through improved energy efficiency.
- Barclays Greener Home Reward: If you have a residential mortgage with Barclays and meet specific criteria, you can receive at least £500 towards the cost of various energy-efficient home improvements, including double glazing windows. This scheme is open for registrations until 31 January 2024.
- Green Home Funding Schemes: Energy supplier E.on offers a Green Homes Grant Finder, which helps homeowners in England find loans and grants for double glazing windows, solar panels, loft insulation, and boiler replacements.
Are there grants for double glazing in Scotland?
Yes, in Scotland, you can access an interest-free loan of up to £8,000 to upgrade from single glazing to double glazing through the government-funded Home Energy Scotland. There is also a Private Rented Sector Landlord Loan for eligible landlords.
Are there grants for double glazing in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland’s Affordable Warmth Scheme is designed to help low-income households make energy efficiency improvements, including replacing single glazing with double glazing, insulation, draught proofing, and boiler upgrades. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria, including residency and income requirements.
How much can I save with double glazing?
Double glazing can save you up to £235 per year by reducing your heating bills and improving energy efficiency. By applying for a double glazing grant, your savings on energy bills can increase further.
Double glazing not only retains heat but also minimises condensation, enhances the appearance of your home, adds value to your property, and reduces your carbon footprint by approximately 405kg, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Types of Window
Why Should I Use Warmable For Window Quotes?
At Warmable, we are passionate about helping British households and companies find the best new window prices. Whether you are looking for a new window that can save money or has a high efficiency rating, we compare hundreds of window types and can help find the right one for you.
Satisfaction
10K
Happy customers
Are There Any Double Glazing Grants Available in the UK in 2023?
As of 2023, there are some schemes ending and others emerging. The availability of double glazing grants can vary depending on your location and specific circumstances. In this section, we’ll explore some of the key grants and schemes available to UK residents.
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation Scheme):
ECO4, launched in April 2022 and set to run until March 2026, is part of the UK government’s Energy Company Obligation scheme. It is administered by Ofgem and requires energy suppliers participating in the scheme to fund energy-efficient home upgrades.
This includes measures like double glazing and boiler upgrades. To qualify for this grant, you must be part of the core group under the Warm Home Discount Scheme or receive at least one of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Child Benefit
- Tax Credits (Child Tax Credits and Working Tax Credits)
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Pension credit saving credit
It’s advisable to check with your energy supplier for their specific criteria, or you can verify your eligibility for an Energy Company Obligation grant.
This scheme is available to recipients of means-tested benefits like Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Universal Credit, and Income Support. It provides a valuable opportunity for homeowners to enhance their homes’ energy efficiency.
Home Energy Scotland Grant
The Home Energy Scotland grant is initiated by the Scottish Government and targets low-income, energy-inefficient homes in Scotland. It offers grants of up to £7,500 to make energy efficiency improvements, including double glazing replacements.
While it covers double glazing replacements for homes with single glazed windows, those with existing double glazing units are typically not eligible.
Affordable Warmth Scheme in Northern Ireland
The Affordable Warmth Scheme, operational since 2014, aims to protect low-income homes in Northern Ireland from fuel poverty by providing financial assistance of up to £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements. This can include new double glazing installation.
Homeowners and tenants with a total gross income of less than £23,000 per year can apply for this scheme, with the granted amount subject to approval based on home inspections and individual needs.
Home Upgrade Scheme
Beginning in April 2023, the Home Upgrade Scheme allocates £1.4 billion in funding to local authorities and social housing providers in England. This funding is intended for energy efficiency measures in homes with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D and below.
These measures encompass loft insulation, draught-proofing, new doors, and double glazing. The scheme is expected to benefit over 115,000 homes in England, potentially saving tenants between £220 and £400 annually on their energy bills.
Eligibility Criteria For UK Government Double Glazing Window Grants
To benefit from window grants in the UK, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, which may vary depending on the specific grant or scheme. In general, some things to look out for may be:
- Location: You must be a UK resident to apply for most window grants.
- Age of Property: Grants are typically available for properties that are older than a certain number of years. This is because older homes often have less energy-efficient windows, making them a priority for upgrades.
- Income Level: Some grants are means-tested, meaning they are only available to households with specific income levels. This ensures that assistance is directed to those who need it most.
- Type of Property: Some grants may be restricted to certain types of properties, such as private residences, rented accommodations, or social housing.
- Previous Upgrades: In some cases, grants may be available to homeowners who have not previously received assistance for energy efficiency improvements.
Benefits of Double and Triple Glazed Windows
Investing in double or triple glazed windows, especially with the support of a Green Homes Grant, comes with a multitude of benefits that extend beyond energy savings. Here are some of the advantages of upgrading to these energy-efficient window options:
- Lower Heating Bills: Improved insulation through double or triple glazing means less heat escapes through your windows. This reduces your reliance on heating systems and, consequently, lowers your heating bills.
- All-Season Comfort: Double or triple glazing keeps your home more comfortable year-round. It retains heat during the winter and prevents excessive heat from entering in the summer.
- Enhanced Home Security: These types of windows are more durable and resistant to breakage, making your home more secure. Their added strength acts as a deterrent to potential intruders.
- Reduced Condensation: Double and triple glazed windows create an airtight seal that prevents moisture buildup and the formation of mould.
- Improved Acoustic Comfort: These windows reduce noise pollution, making your home quieter. This is particularly beneficial if you live in a busy area or near noisy roads.
- Lower Carbon Emissions: Reduced heating usage leads to decreased carbon emissions, allowing you to contribute to environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.
- Property Value Boost: Installing double or triple glazing can enhance the attractiveness of your home to potential buyers. It’s considered a valuable energy-efficient feature that can increase the overall value of your property.
Comparing Window Installers for Cost Savings
While window grants are a valuable means of reducing the upfront costs of new windows, there are additional steps you can take to save money on your window replacement project. One effective approach is to compare multiple window installers to ensure you’re not overpaying and that you’re getting the best value for your investment.
Comparing window installers can be a time-consuming and challenging task. To simplify this process and make it more efficient, you can use services like Warmable. This platform connects you with qualified window installers in your area from their trusted network. Here’s how it works:
- Fill Out a Quick Form: Begin by filling out a brief form on the Warmable website, providing essential information about your project and location.
- Receive Quotes: Once you’ve submitted the form, you’ll receive quotes from the window installers in your area. These quotes will detail the costs and scope of the window replacement project.
- Compare and Choose: With multiple quotes in hand, you can objectively compare the offers from different installers to select the best deal that aligns with your preferences and budget.
One significant advantage of using the Warmable service is that it’s completely free and non-binding. This means you can explore your options without any financial commitment or obligation.
By comparing quotes and making an informed decision, you can potentially save money and ensure that your window replacement project is carried out by qualified professionals.
Application Process For Double Glazing Government Grants
The application process for window grants in the UK generally involves the following steps:
- Research: Begin by researching the available grants and their specific requirements. You can find information on government websites, local authority resources, and through energy companies.
- Determine Eligibility: Check whether you meet the eligibility criteria for the grant you wish to apply for.
- Gather Documentation: You will likely need to provide documentation to support your application. This may include proof of income, property ownership, and the age of your property.
- Get Quotes: Before applying, obtain quotes from accredited installers for the window replacement project. These quotes will be required as part of your application. You can do this through Warmable’s quick form, if you want a local engineer to come to your home for free to assess the situation.
- Apply: Follow the specific application process for the grant you’re interested in. This may involve completing an online application, submitting documentation, and providing the quotes.
- Approval and Installation: If your application is approved, you can proceed with the window replacement project. Ensure that the installation is carried out by certified professionals to meet the grant’s requirements.