Winter in New Zealand often brings colder temperatures and, for many, a noticeable increase in power bills. A significant portion of heat loss in Kiwi homes, between 35-50%, occurs through windows and doors. Upgrading your joinery can lead to a warmer, healthier home and substantial savings on heating costs.
Why Are New Zealand Homes Cold in Winter?
Historically, New Zealand homes have faced challenges with substandard housing due to poor regulation of the Building Code standards and a lack of maintenance. Even now, approximately one-third of our homes are too cold in winter. This often results in higher energy consumption to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
How Can Efficient Windows and Doors Reduce Power Bills?
Efficient windows and doors reduce heat transfer, keeping warmth inside during winter and heat out during summer, leading to a healthier home environment year-round. This means less reliance on heating and cooling systems, directly translating to lower power bills.
From November 2023, the New Zealand Building Code's H1 energy efficiency standards increased, mandating higher insulation requirements for cooler climate zones. New homes consented since then generally require thermally broken aluminium window frames and Low-E glass coatings. For more details, refer to the guide on H1 compliance.
What Are Your Options for Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors?
DuCo Group offers a range of window and door solutions designed to meet and exceed New Zealand's energy efficiency standards.
1. uPVC Windows & Doors (Klima Series) uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) is a natural insulator with low conductivity. It is widely used in Europe and is gaining popularity in New Zealand due to its ability to reduce the transfer of both hot and cold temperatures.
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Thermal Efficiency: Klima uPVC windows and doors, when paired with high-performance glazing, can achieve a maximum six-star energy rating under the WEERS (Window Energy Efficiency Rating System). In terms of the Homestar scheme, Klima can help a building achieve a 'top of the class' six Homestar rating. The system is also in harmony with Passive House principles, which include the use of well-insulated, high-performance windows and doors. This means your home will be significantly cheaper to heat in winter and cool in summer.
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Durability: uPVC is highly durable and can withstand New Zealand's harsh sunlight without discolouring or degrading.
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Noise Reduction: Beyond thermal benefits, uPVC joinery offers excellent noise reduction.
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Installation: Klima windows and doors are installed using the familiar E2/AS1 method, similar to aluminium joinery, making the process straightforward for Kiwi builders.
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Colour Options: While Klima products are standard in white, the AluClip system allows for various exterior colours through a powder-coated aluminium facing.
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Sustainability: The Klima Latitude Entrance Door has an inner core made from recycled materials by SaveBOARD®, reducing its carbon footprint.
2. Thermally Broken Aluminium Joinery (Residential, Metro, and Architectural ThermalHEART® Series) Thermally broken aluminium joinery incorporates a polyamide insulator within the frame, creating a thermal break that significantly reduces heat transfer.
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Improved Insulation: These suites prevent heat loss or gain, contributing to a more stable indoor temperature.
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Dual Colour Options: You can specify different colours for the interior and exterior of your joinery.
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Strength and Performance: Ideal for larger formats and more exposed locations, offering robust structural integrity.
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Learn more about our Residential, Metro, and Architectural ThermalHEART® series.
Why is High-Performance Glazing Important for Energy Efficiency?
The glass you choose plays a crucial role in the overall thermal performance of your windows and doors. DuCo offers a range of glazing options including:
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Double Glazing: As a minimum standard for new build homes, all windows must be at least double-glazed. Double glazing offers thermal insulation by creating an air gap between two panes of glass, slowing down heat transfer.
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Solux Low-E Glass: This virtually invisible coating reflects heat back into your home in winter and limits overheating in summer, leading to energy savings and reduced fading of furnishings.
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Solux Ultra Low-E Glass: Offers enhanced solar control, preventing overheating in sun-exposed areas while still maximising natural light and retaining heat.
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Argon Gas: An inert gas used as an insulator between glass panes to further reduce heat loss and improve thermal performance.
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Acoustic Glazing: Laminate glass can significantly reduce noise transfer, creating a more peaceful home environment.
Can Renovating Windows and Doors Make Your Home Warmer?
Even if you're not building a new home, you can upgrade your existing windows and doors to improve thermal performance. DuCo offers insert and replacement options that match the appearance of old timber joinery while providing all the benefits of new, energy-efficient windows. This is an affordable investment for a healthier, warmer, and drier home.
By making informed decisions about your window and door configurations, you can ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the New Zealand winter and beyond.
To discuss your specific project requirements, get in touch with the DuCo Group team today.
