A
type of window having two layers (panes or glazing) of glass separated
by an air space. Each layer of glass and surrounding air space
reradiates and traps some of the heat that passes through thereby
increasing the window's resistance to heat loss (see R-value). In
factory-made double glazing units, the air between the glass sheets is
thoroughly dried and the space is sealed airtight, eliminating possible
condensation and providing superior insulating properties.
Double glazing is the glazing process in which a window
is formed by two panes of glass with a space between the panes. The
space between the glass is usually several millimeters thick. Air is
trapped between the panes of glass and forms a layer of insulation.
Before the unit is sealed, a drying agent is added to ensure that no
moisture is present inside the finished glass unit.
The double glazing unit must be airtight. If condensation appears between the panes, it indicates that the window is not airtight. Double glazing windows cannot be repaired; if condensation appears, the unit must be replaced.
Around 60% of heat loss in the home occurs through standard, single pane windows. Double glazing substantially stops heat loss. The cost of the double glazing will pay for itself very quickly in the money you save from heating bills. Once the double glazing has been installed, your heating costs should decrease by around 10 to 12%.
Double glazing is also very friendly to the environment. Our homes cause around 28% of all carbon dioxide emissions, and replacing single pane windows helps to reduce these emissions and combat energy loss. As well as saving on heating bills, double glazing is very good at cutting down on noise pollution and internal condensation.
Another reason to have double glazing fitted is the security it provides to your home. The main entry point for an intruder is through windows and doors. Double glazed windows provide extra security, as they are very hard to break and have their own locking system.Double glazing also usually enhances the appearance of a property.
There are a number
of styles to choose from in terms of frames for the glass, including plasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC), aluminum and hardwood. UPVC has
better insulating properties than aluminum, but aluminum may be more
aesthetically pleasing in older properties.
Frames come in a wide range
of color options itch double glazing, you also have the option of secondary glazing on your existent windows. You may have sound windows, but wish to have the benefits that double gazing can provide. This can be achieved by fitting an extra glazed window internally against the original window.
This can be a cheaper option than having a whole unit fitted and will
keep the former look of your windows intact, as the secondary glazing is fitted internally. Whatever your reasons, double glazing will boost energy conservation and add to the retail value of your property.
