Why Double Glazing
Why replace your single-glazed windows with double glazing
? For most, the precipitating factor for looking into double
glazing is a need for new construction (or renovation) to
conform to modern energy standards. Others decide to replace
their windows as an energy saving measure. The main advantage
that double glazing offers over traditional windows is
insulation. Because nearly 25% of your heat is lost through your
windows, well-made and well-fitted double glazing can reduce
your heating costs by as much as half depending on the amount of
glass in your home.
Some of the things to consider when shopping for double glazing
for your home are safety, energy conservation, style, type of
frame, type of glass, cost and installation. Each of these are
important in your choice. Most will affect the price that you
pay - and all will affect your pleasure and comfort in your home
for years to come.
Safety
Single pane windows are most often made of a single sheet of
regular glass which shatters into long, sharp shards when hit.
When shopping for double glazing, you have a choice of several
different kinds of glass, each of which are safer on breaking
than traditional window panes. If nothing else, the double
thickness reduces the chances that both panes will be broken.
Whether you use security glass, toughened glass or shatterproof
glass, double glazing offers some measure of safety over single
glazing.
Security
There's no doubt that double glazing makes it more difficult for
a thief or intruder to break into your home by the simple
expedient of breaking a window pane and reaching through the
hole - but real security has more to do with the window frames
and locking systems than with the glass itself. Be sure to
choose windows with frames that can be securely locked from the
inside.
Energy Conservation
Double glazing can reduce heat lost through windows by as much
as 50%, thereby reducing your heating bills, keeping your house
warmer and helping you do your bit in the conservation of
natural resources. Especially in rooms with large windows, the
difference in temperature in the room is easily noticeable.
Sitting by a large, double-glazed picture window is far, far
more comfortable on a chill winter night.
Style and Design
Double glazing is available in many different styles and types,
and most people attempt to match the style of their old windows
with the new if at all possible, especially when doing
restoration work. A good, reputable contractor will work with
you to find double glazing windows that suit your architecture
and enhance your home's beauty.
Frames
The three main frame types are PVCu, aluminum and wood, and each
has its unique advantages and disadvantages. In a nutshell - PVCu
frames are best at energy conservation, aluminum frames are
the sturdiest, and woo
den frames are the most attractive - at least in the view of
some. For more detailed information about the advantages of
each, see the related articles.
Type of Glass
Safety glass, tempered glass, low-e glass, Pilkington K glass -
there are many types of glass that are used in double glazing.
Glass with energy coatings - the low-e and Pilkington K among
them - add further insulating properties to your windows, and
can certainly be worth that additional expense.
Installation
Shop for a contractor and supplier as carefully as you do for
glass. Shoddily done work can negate all the advantages gained
in choosing to replace your current windows with double glazing.
Look into the company's history and check for any complaints
against them, even ask for references from others for whom they
have done work. Installing double glazing throughout your house
is an expensive proposition - it only makes sense to know the
people who will be doing the work.