Double glazed windows are those that contain two glass panes to provide higher energy efficiency and insulation from noise. Here’s an overview of what exactly these windows offer.
Every interior space has windows for the purpose of light and ventilation. However, there are a lot of features that can be added to windows to make them function efficiently. While light and ventilation occur through windows, these are also lost through them. For instance, even if you have turned on your heater, some of the heat is lost through windows even if they are closed. However, if you use double glazed windows, you will not face such and many other problems.
An Overview of Double Glazed Windows
Double glazed windows are also termed as uPVC windows, and are highly energy efficient windows, a prime feature of these. These are windows that consist of two sheets of glass which have a gap of 16mm (0.5 – 0.75 inches) in between. This gap functions as a form of insulation against the cold and noise. The gaps in these windows are created by the use of what are known as pane spacers. These are made of various materials, and when choosing these windows, ensure try to avoid purchasing the ones with metal spacers.
There are also gases such as argon and xenon in between the panes for their insulating properties. The glass used for these windows is known as low emissivity or Low-E glass that have a coating of metal oxide on them internally. This coating absorbs heat, but does not allow it to be released easily so that your interior space is kept warmer for longer. These glass panes can be fit into almost any type of window frame, and you do not have to compromise on aesthetics for the purpose of functionality. The most common frame, however, is the uPVC frame that is recyclable.
Double glazed windows with energy efficient glazing offer several benefits to its users. As mentioned earlier, with its ability to trap heat, you are likely to find yourself paying lower energy bills, a result that you will notice in the longer run. You will also contribute toward reducing the effects of global warming by reducing your use of energy and the subsequent emission of carbon dioxide.
While these are the prime benefits, others include lower condensation levels within the windows along with reduced external noise levels. These windows have the ability to soundproof your home to a certain extent. Finally, these windows will also increase the overall value of the property they are used in.
These benefits will of course vary on a lot of factors. For one, the savings on energy will depend on how much you already use to keep your home warm. Secondly, it will depend on the amount of sunlight that enters the home through these windows, thereby affecting the warmth it generates. Some window brands sport an energy efficiency rating logo or label which you should look out for so that you get the best deal. Sporting this logo, however, is not mandatory and you may not be able to find it on all windows that you look through.
Remember, these windows are best for places that are very cold and could benefit from the absorption of warm sunlight in the home. Having these double pane windows installed can be slightly expensive, but the benefits these offer will definitely outdo the fact that you have to shell out more for these. If possible, speak to people who have had these installed and see how they have benefited from it. You can also look for user reviews online, which will tell you about real-life experiences with these. Consider double glazed windows to be a long-term investment that will save you large bills in the future.
