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 wooden
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.
