Not all glass is the same. And despite advancements in technology, it remains less insulating than traditional building materials like brick or concrete, according to the experts from Stacks Property Search.
Modern residential constructions that use large amounts of glass have become increasingly popular; these glass-heavy designs can be striking aesthetically, but while they may have functional advantages, they can also come with some drawbacks.
Ed Jephson of Stacks Property Search says: “Historically, homes were built to protect their occupants from the weather; they were designed to keep out the wind, the rain and the sun, and to keep its residents warm in the winter; windows were required primarily for ventilation. But fashion, technology and status have all played their part in our changing attitudes to windows. They're now designed as much to provide views, light and architectural impact as they are to provide protection from the weather.
“Architects who are working with properties that have spectacular views will often maximise the amount of glass they can incorporate into the design. While this can create a spectacular property, buyers should avoid being seduced by the outlook and the light, and investigate the practicalities.
“Most important is the glass itself; the science is constantly developing and improving. Modern double or triple-glazed windows, along with low-emissivity coatings, can help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss in winter and blocking excessive solar heat gain in summer. In cooler months, large windows can take advantage of the sun's heat, reducing heating requirements.
“But not all glass is the same. Despite advancements in glazing technology, glass is less insulating than traditional building materials like brick or concrete. In winter, large glass surfaces can result in heat loss, leading to higher heating bills.
“Conversely, in summer, excessive heat gain can cause overheating, leading to higher cooling costs.
“And which of the windows actually open? If they do open, can they be opened a crack to let in some air, or is it necessary to open up the entire wall? Heavily glass-clad homes may require a cooling system to keep the temperature ambient during warm spells which could seem counter-intuitive to some homeowners.”
James Law of Stacks Property Search adds: “Privacy and over-heating can both be issues; putting up vast swathes of muslin curtains may mitigate these issues, but it does negate the benefits of the view!
“Glass facades require regular cleaning to maintain the aesthetic appeal, especially in the UK's climate where rain and pollution can leave streaks. This can be costly and time-consuming for large glass surfaces.”
"Clare Coode of Stacks Property Search recently viewed a £4m property on behalf of a client where the double glazing had all blown, allowing air, and subsequently condensation, to get in between the two panes. The cost of replacing and renovating would have been eye-watering.”
James Greenwood of Stacks Property Search said: “Renovations and extensions are increasingly incorporating vast areas of glass, especially when it comes to large kitchen extensions with bi-fold doors leading to a terrace or the garden. They often also include the introduction of glass into the roof. Buyers should look at these spaces with their heads rather than their hearts.
"Is there a small practical window that can be opened to let in some air, and let out the cooking smells when it's lashing with rain and blowing a gale – not a practical or desirable moment to be opening the floor-to-ceiling glazed doors.
“While modern property constructions using large amounts of glass offer several appealing benefits, especially in terms of aesthetics, natural light, and modern design, they also present challenges in energy efficiency, privacy, and cost.
"Proper planning, high-quality materials, and thoughtful design solutions are essential to mitigate these drawbacks, particularly in the UK's variable climate. The aesthetic of a home is of course important, but it shouldn't be at the expense of practical living. Buyers should proceed with caution, check EPCs, and spend time working out how and if windows open, the practicalities of cleaning, and sense-checking privacy issues.”