If your windows are draughty, damaged or only have single glazing, replacing them could make your home warmer and more comfortable. But new windows can be expensive, so it makes sense to find out whether any financial help is available first.
If you’re searching for grants for double glazing, there are some schemes that could help. However, there isn’t one double glazing grant that every homeowner can apply for.
The support available will depend on things like where you live, your household circumstances, the energy efficiency of your home and the funding available in your area.
Can you get grants for double glazing?
Yes, double glazing can be funded through some energy efficiency schemes, but you’ll need to meet the rules of the scheme, and your home will usually need to be assessed first.
For example, the Government’s Warm Homes: Local Grant can fund energy-saving improvements for eligible households in England. Government guidance includes double glazing as one of the energy performance measures that can be funded.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) can also include window glazing. Ofgem says this can include changing single glazing to double glazing, or improving existing double glazing. However, energy companies decide which homes and improvements they choose to fund, so support is not guaranteed.
Top tip: it’s worth checking what help is available before arranging or paying for any work.
What support could help pay for new windows?
One place to start is your local council. Councils may have access to government funding or their own local programmes to help people make their homes warmer and more energy efficient.
The Warm Homes: Local Grant, for example, is delivered by local authorities in England. To qualify, homes normally need an EPC rating between D and G. Household income will usually need to be £36,000 a year or less, although some households may also qualify because they receive certain benefits or live in an eligible postcode.
The grant forms part of the Government’s wider Warm Homes Plan, which aims to improve millions of homes and increase support for households to make energy-saving improvements. Read more about the Warm Homes Plan in our blogs.
Because schemes and funding differ by area, your council or energy supplier can tell you what is currently available and whether your home could qualify.
Who could qualify for help with double glazing?
Eligibility depends on the scheme you are applying for.
Some funding is aimed at people on lower incomes or those receiving certain benefits. Other schemes consider the energy efficiency of the home, where you live and the improvements your property needs.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure whether you meet the rules. The Government has an online service that can help you find ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home and direct you towards available grants and support. Start the journey here.
What if I can’t get a grant for double glazing?
Finding out that you don’t qualify for a grant doesn’t mean you need to rush into paying for new windows another way.
First, check whether another local or national funding scheme could help. You might also want to consider whether the windows need replacing straight away or whether repairs, secondary glazing or draught-proofing could be suitable.
Energy Saving Trust recommends looking at the different options available before replacing windows. Depending on your home, these can range from draught-proofing and secondary glazing to full double or triple glazing.
If you do need new windows and are thinking about borrowing to pay for the work, take time to compare your options and understand the total amount you will need to repay.
Could a Lendology loan help with new windows?
If grant funding isn’t available, a council-funded loan from Lendology may be another option, depending on where you live and the funding available through your local council.
Lendology works with councils to provide loans that can help eligible homeowners pay for essential repairs and improvements to their homes. Depending on the loan available in your area, this could include replacement windows or double glazing.
Our team can explain what funding may be available where you live and talk you through the application process. Applications are assessed individually, so you can understand your options before deciding whether a loan is right for you.
All lending is subject to status and eligibility. Missing payments could affect your credit rating.
Is double glazing worth it?
Double glazing can help reduce heat loss through your windows, as well as reducing draughts, cold spots and outside noise. Every property is different, so it can be helpful to look at your home as a whole before deciding which improvements may be suitable for your property, circumstances and budget.
Energy Saving Trust estimates that replacing all the single glazing in a typical semi-detached home with A-rated double glazing could save around £85 a year on energy bills in Great Britain. Your actual savings will depend on your home, your existing windows and how you use your heating.
What should I do before replacing my windows?
Before agreeing to any work, check whether grants or other support are available. If you’re using funding, make sure the work is eligible before you commit to it.
It’s also worth getting several quotes and checking that your chosen installer is suitably qualified. Energy Saving Trust recommends getting quotes from at least three installers and points homeowners towards TrustMark, the government-endorsed quality scheme. Have a look at our contractor and installer guidance for more tips before, during and after your project.
If you live in a listed building or conservation area, check whether you need permission before changing your windows.
Find out what help is available for your home
Whether you’re looking for a grant, local support or another way to pay for new windows, understanding your options first can help you make an informed decision.
You can check the funding available through your council on the Lendology website or speak to our team if you’re not sure where to start. Find your council.
