FINEO Sets a New Standard: The First Vacuum Insulating Glass with a Third-Party Verified EPD

AGC Glass Europe has announced that FINEO has become the first and only Vacuum Insulating Glass (VIG) in the world to achieve a third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). This independent certification covers both its standard and Low-Carbon configurations, giving architects, specifiers, and developers the assurance of transparent and reliable environmental data.

Why EPDs Matter

Environmental Product Declarations are independent, standardised documents (EN 15804 + A2 and ISO 14025 compliant) that measure the full environmental impact of a product across its life cycle. For construction professionals, EPDs provide objective data to compare products on factors such as Global Warming Potential (GWP) — making them a key decision-making tool for sustainable building projects.

Outstanding Low-Carbon Performance

Among the verified FINEO products, the 8 mm Low-Carbon variant stands out. Manufactured using AGC’s Low-Carbon PLANIBEL glass range, it is produced in high-efficiency furnaces with renewable electricity, a higher share of recycled glass (cullet), and low-carbon soda ash.

This results in an exceptionally low cradle-to-gate GWP of just 18.9 kg CO2 eq./m², outperforming many traditional double and triple-glazing units. It sets a new benchmark for insulating glass, offering both cutting-edge performance and one of the lowest EPD values available today.

A Sustainable Window Choice for Irish Residential Construction

With environmental performance now a decisive factor in building design, FINEO’s verified EPD enables professionals to make clear, evidence-based comparisons. By combining VIG technology with Low-Carbon PLANIBEL glass, FINEO leads the way in sustainable glazing solutions — without compromising on aesthetics or thermal efficiency.

Built to Last

Produced in Belgium for the European market, FINEO is 100% recyclable, designed for a service life of up to 60 years, and backed by a 20-year product guarantee. It is also the only vacuum insulating glass to carry the CE marking, giving further confidence to specifiers.

This milestone reinforces AGC’s wider commitment to sustainability and aligns with the EU’s objectives for energy performance in buildings. For projects prioritising both technical quality and measurable environmental benefits, FINEO is now the proven choice.

To read this article on AGC’s website click here.

For more information on Fineo products, you can contact us below.

The 1 Mistake You’re Making with Your Sash Windows in a Heatwave – And It’s Sending Your Energy Bills Soaring

By Fineo VIG|2025-08-13T10:07:44+00:00August 13th, 2025|News|

The 1 Mistake You’re Making with Your Sash Windows in a Heatwave – And It’s Sending Your Energy Bills Soaring

When a heatwave hits, most of us instinctively fling open our windows and let the air in. It feels refreshing — at least for a while. But here’s the catch: if you leave your sash windows open all day during hot weather, you could be making your home harder to cool, forcing fans and air conditioning to work overtime, and sending your summer energy bills through the roof.

Why Open Windows Can Work Against You in a Heatwave

In hot, still conditions, open windows often do little more than let warm air seep in and cool air escape. By mid-afternoon, your home’s interior can actually be warmer than if the windows were closed, blinds drawn, and ventilation managed strategically.

Traditional double glazing in restored sash windows can help, but in extreme heat, it often struggles to keep internal temperatures stable. The sun’s radiant heat still penetrates through the panes, and older timber frames can leak cool air.

How Vacuum Glazing Keeps You Cool

Fineo vacuum glazing is a breakthrough for heritage windows. By replacing the air (or gas) gap in traditional double glazing with a near-vacuum, heat transfer is drastically reduced. This means:

Up to 8 times better thermal insulation than single glazing — without altering your original sash frames.
Better performance than standard double glazing, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Minimal impact on the appearance of period windows, preserving their character while upgrading comfort.

In a heatwave, Fineo glazing slows down the rate at which external heat seeps indoors, meaning you’ll rely less on fans, portable coolers, or air conditioning — all of which can be costly to run.

Summer Sash Window Prep & Maintenance Tips

Even with high-performance glazing, a little seasonal care goes a long way. Before temperatures spike:

Check seals and draught-proofing – Any gaps in your sash frames will allow hot air in and cool air out.
Inspect cords and pulleys – Smooth operation means you can open and close windows strategically for night-time cooling.
Clean and maintain timber – Well-painted, healthy frames resist swelling or sticking in humid weather.
Use blinds or shutters – Closing them during peak sun hours can block up to 75% of solar heat gain.
Ventilate wisely – Open windows at night or early morning when the outside air is cooler, then close them as temperatures rise.

Why Traditional Double Glazing May Not Be Enough

While standard double glazing offers some protection, it doesn’t match vacuum glazing’s ability to regulate temperature during extreme weather. With rising global temperatures and more frequent heatwaves in the UK and Ireland, investing in a glazing solution that works year-round is becoming essential — not just for comfort, but for controlling household energy costs.

Bottom line: In summer, it’s not about keeping your windows open all day — it’s about keeping the right heat out and the right cool in. Fineo vacuum glazing lets you enjoy your period sash windows without compromising on comfort, efficiency, or heritage charm.