We take our windows for granted. They sit there, letting us look out on the world and the only time we give them a second thought is when something goes wrong. They keep us warm and, in many homes around the UK, cut down or even eliminate the outside noise from traffic and neighbours.
Double glazing has contributed a lot to our comfort over the last decade, improving energy efficiency in homes and businesses. If you are considering putting in new aluminium windows, understanding how double glazing works is important.
Here’s our quick guide:
What is Double Glazing?
It essentially uses two panes of glass with a gap in between. This gap is pretty vital because it’s filled with a gas called argon which helps check the heat loss properties of the glass. In recent times, there have been advances in the glass design too, most new products on the market now being what is called low emissivity or simply Low-E. The inside of the glass is coated with a metal oxide which further improves energy efficiency.
Double glazed windows come with different types of rating. A++ windows are the most efficient and can save you as much as £110 on your heating bills each year. Less efficient C rated windows will save you a little less, perhaps £95 but are still pretty good. While windows can be rated between A++ and G, C is the lowest you can now have for new installations. The price of each type of window varies and you will have to balance your budget with the greater energy efficiency if you are having them installed.
What Are The Benefits of Double Glazing?
There are numerous advantages to double glazing. Back in the 1970s, when most homes had single pane windows (and no central heating), keeping warm in the winter was a particular problematic. Double glazing revolutionised not only our home comfort but saved us money as well.
If you check out thermal images of homes with single and double glazing, the contrast is pretty stark with the former leaking heat out into the cold at an alarming rate. You get this same comparison nowadays between older double glazed windows and the newer A++ to C rated ones that are commonly installed.
The other big advantage of double glazing is the sound-proofing. If you live near a main road, you’ll know the amount of noise traffic can make. The mixture of argon gas and window pane, along with the insulated frames you get nowadays makes a huge difference to the amount of outside noise that can get in.
The other thing you find is much better security with double glazing. Single panes of glass are fairly easy to break and for burglars to gain access. Double glazing is made from toughened glass and the latest locking systems keep your home really secure.
Adding new double glazing to your home is also an investment in the future. Most installations are designed to last 25 years or more and routinely come with a 10-year warranty.
Are There Disadvantages?
The biggest problem with double glazing is probably also it’s best asset. It stops the warm air escaping and seals you from the outside. This can cause an issue with condensation, particularly in areas such as the kitchen. Having a vent installed these locations or investing in a dehumidifier, however, should quickly solve the issue.
If you have decided to install new double glazing in your home, contact the team at Bi Fold Doors UK today for a free quote and appraisal.