What's double glazed windows and should you install them

You’re curled up on the couch in your living room on a cold day, and suddenly feel a draft that makes the hair on your neck stand up. The window isn’t open, but it’s allowing heat to escape and letting the cool air in.

By simply replacing them with double-glazed windows, you could prevent 50% of that warm or cool air from escaping through the windows. In turn, you could slash your energy bills by up to 20–30% each year. 

But that’s just one potential benefit from switching out a single glazed of glass for double-glazed windows. Let’s take a look at what a double-glazed window is, what makes it a superior option, and how your household could benefit from this change.

What Is a Double-Glazed Window?

The main difference between single- and double-glazed windows is their structure. A single-glazed window only has one layer of glass and is not an efficient insulator during colder seasons.

A double-glazed window, on the other hand, has two layers of glass with air between the sheets for maximum insulation.

Some double-glazed window designs may even have argon between the layers. Argon is an invisible gas that optimizes thermal efficiency and reduces heat transfer. 

Benefits of Upgrading to Double Glazed

Affordability

While many people opt for single-glazed windows for the low initial price point, these types of windows will cause the homeowner to spend much more on utilities in the long term than if double-glazed windows were installed.

Environmentally Friendly

No matter what type of heat source you use to warm your home (i.e. a fireplace, a gas furnace, or an electric central heating system), double-glazed windows limit the need for heating sources to be used as often.

When you don’t use as much heat, you burn fewer fossil fuels and lessen your CO2 greenhouse gas emissions — and therefore, reduce your carbon footprint. Upgrading to double-glazed windows is a way to contribute to helping the planet. 

Improved Security

Unlike single-glazed windows, double-glazed windows feature a more substantial locking mechanism and their tight seal prevents intruders from breaking the structure to get into your house.

Double-glazed windows are also stronger and do not shatter easily when struck. Your home is more secure with double-glazed windows. 

Reduced Noise

Whether you have noisy next-door neighbours or you live on a busy street with lots of traffic, excessive noise can take a toll on your sanity. Ambient noise can only do so much to cover up the sound of the incessant honking, loud music, and heavy-duty vehicles passing by.

Switching to double-glazed windows can help you enjoy a quieter and more peaceful home. The two layers of glass offer insulation from the outside world so that you and your family can relax without the constant ruckus. 

Less Condensation

Window condensation during the cold months might not appear to be a big deal, but a build-up of moisture is indicative of a bigger problem. It shows how inefficient the windows are at preventing heat transfer, and it can lead to problems with mould over time.

With double-glazed windows, you can consider your condensation problem solved. 

Added Home Value

In spending a little up front to upgrade your windows, you add value to your property. If you decide to move in the future, double-glazed windows are a drawcard for potential buyers, and you’ll see a return on your investment once it has sold. 

Newer Style Options

Upgrading to energy-efficient windows has a positive effect on your house’s aesthetics. Window technology has come a long way — and so has window design. Double-glazedd windows come in a variety of styles, including the sliding window, or double-hung window.

Double-glazed windows are worth the expense when you consider that the windows are known as the “eyes of your house.” Updating windows to a newer style has a great impact on your curb appeal.

Choosing the Right Double-Glazed Windows for Your Home

Before choosing double-glazed windows for your home, it’s important to know your options. Double-glazed windows come in all sorts of styles, materials, and designs. And because each house is different, your window selection may be different, too. 

Most window companies have several materials for you to choose from: vinyl, aluminium, wood, clad wood, and fiberglass. All of these materials are available in various styles, including the following: 

Double-hung: Double-hung windows can move both up and down because both window frame sashes are operable.

Single-hung: Single-hung windows are similar to double-hung. The only difference is that one of the sashes is operable, while the other is fixed. 

Casement: Casement windows have a traditional charm. Many are operated with a crank and swing outward for a clear view. 

Awning windows: Awning windows operate on a hinge, allowing them to open at an angle, which provides both ventilation and rain protection. 

Picture windows: These windows are fixed and cannot open. They are ideal for large spaces, and let in lots of natural light. 

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This article via Freshome does not constitute advice; readers should seek independent and personalised counsel from a trusted adviser that specialises in property.