Double Glazing: Process and Benefits

Article Written By: Martin Troughton

Installing double glazed windows on your home can be an excellent way to not only save hundreds of dollars per year on your energy bill, but also cut down on the level of outside noise that filters into your home. You can even raise your home?s resale value, since homes with double glazing are in fairly strong demand. Double glazing is becoming very popular and is widely used in the construction of new homes, as well as for replacement windows.

Double glazed windows aren't quite like ordinary single pane windows. These windows basically consist of two panes of glazed glass. These panes are sandwiched against one another, while a gap of only a few millimetres wide is maintained. Air is trapped in this gap in order to act as an insulator, slowing the escape of heat through the window. Some double glazed windows use argon, a gas with a higher density than air that prevents even less heat from passing through.

Homeowners who install double glazed windows can expect to see a 10% to 12% reduction in heating costs, since the amount of heat that is normally lost through windows is dramatically cut down. This can help many households tremendously, since the average home equipped with single pane windows see a 60% heat loss. Double glazing can also cut down on noise pollution, as well as internal condensation.

The only issue with double glazing is that if condensation forms within the gap between the window panes, the entire unit must be replaced. Unlike single pane windows, double glazed windows cannot be repaired, only replaced with another unit. Double glazed windows often come with drying agents added inside the gap in order to prevent moisture from forming within the gap, and it is not common for this gap to be compromised in normal use.

Windows with double glazing can match whatever decor happens to be on your home. These windows come in an array of frame styles and colours to fit any type of home. Window frames are available in aluminium, hardwood or UPVC. The latter provides better insulating properties, while aluminium frames can be more aesthetically attractive on older homes. Double glazed windows are also available with UV coatings that prevent UV rays from coming through, protecting furniture and other valuables from fading and sun damage.

Double glazing can be an expensive proposition. Those on stricter budgets can instead choose to have secondary glazing performed on their existing windows. This consists of simply placing an extra glazed window internally against the existing window. Secondary glazing not only keeps the look of your window intact, but it is also a cheaper alternative to having a double glazed window fitted.

A less expensive alternative to double glazing is secondary glazing. This method involves adding an extra pane of glazed glass internally against the existing window. Secondary glazing leaves the outward appearance of the window intact, ideal for those who don?t want to change the look of their homes. Secondary glazing also costs less than having a double glazed window installed in most cases.

About the Author

Martin Troughton is an expert in home improvement. As the popularity for energy efficiency increases efficient double glazing is an immediate way to save on energy costs and help the environment.

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