Windows are more than something to look out of, they play a significant part in the eco-system of your house. Therefore, your choice of window can play a big role in the comfort level of your home. In this article, we’re doubling down on double-glazed window benefits including cutting down on energy costs, improving home comfort and reducing noise.
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What is double glazing?
You’ve no doubt heard the term before, but what exactly makes a double-glazed window? Basically, double-glazed windows and doors have two panes of glass bonded together. The gap is hermetically sealed with argon gas and then filled to create insulation. Compared to normal windows (or single-pane glass windows), double-glazed windows are more energy efficient.
What are the benefits of double-glazed windows?
Let’s talk about all the benefits offered that come with double-glazed windows.
Lower power bills
With energy bills rising and taking up to 5-10% of total living costs, everyone is looking for ways to cut down on energy costs. Double-glazed windows help insulate your home, creating a more stable temperature more of the time. This will require less need to use air conditioning and heating. When you do need to use air conditioning the effects will last longer once you turn it off due to the improved insulation. Well-placed windows will allow more natural light cutting down your energy costs even more.
Increased insulation
Double glazing helps with thermal insulation due to the thicker glass. It’s also due to the staggering fact 40% of heat loss and 87% of heat gain come through the windows. Insulated windows help keep warmth in your home in the winter and keep it cool during the summer. A house with a more consistent and comfortable temperature will require you to use air conditioning and heating less frequently, saving you a bundle in energy costs.
Suitable for all climates
Quality double glazing has benefits for both the cold winters and those hot, sprawling summer days. Once installed, your double-glazed windows will reduce heat loss during winter while keeping your home cooler in the summer. So, whether you’re moving to the sweltering heat of northern Queensland or the freezing winters of Canberra, you’ll still benefit from double-glazing.
Noise reduction
The thicker layer created by double glazing will significantly reduce noise pollution both from the inside of the house and out. In fact, compared to a single-glazed window, double-glazing will cut down noise pollution by up to 60%. This means you won’t hear as much of the outside world and your neighbours will won’t hear you belting out your favourite tunes.
Improved home security
Your home is your castle and the safety of your family is paramount. A double-glazed window system is much harder to break than a single-pane window, which may be the difference between someone getting into your home or not.
Boost the value of your property
Due to the other factors on this list (reduced heat loss, lower energy bills, home security, etc), double-glazed windows are looked on favourably by home buyers and can add to the property value of your home. You’ll be surprised how what may seem like a small choice can actually up the value of your home.
Reduced condensation
Condensation can be a real issue in some homes, especially in older designs. The reason for this comes as a result of warm air (from cooking, heating, etc) on the relatively cold surface or single-glazed windows. Warm humid air condensing on windows is usually just annoying but can lead to issues like mould and can fog up your windows. Double-glazed windows are warmer than single-glass panes which will reduce the likelihood of condensation and therefore help prevent mould forming indoors.
How much does double glazing cost vs single glazing?
Initially, double-glazed windows will cost more than single-glazed windows. What you need to determine is whether will they pay for themselves in the long run by making your home more energy efficient. Consider where your building is and what the climate is like. Areas with extreme temperatures will benefit more from double-glazing, whereas you may be able to get away with single-glazed windows in more comfortable areas.
There are a few factors that will influence the price of your double glazing will include:
- How thick and tinted your windows are
- The colour of your window frame
- The materials used for and around the material.
- Location of the window
- Size of the window
- Opening type of the window (bi-fold windows, awning windows, etc.)
Are there any drawbacks to double-glazed windows?
Like anything, there are some potential downsides to installing double-glazed windows. While we wouldn’t consider any of the below deal-breakers, it’s always worth knowing potential issues before purchasing a product.
Sometime can’t be repaired:
Certain types of damage to double-glazed windows can’t be repaired. Specifically, this includes if the sealing loses its air tightness and condensation builds up between the panels. Once the panels have been sealed together, they cannot be pulled apart again, meaning any significant damage will require you to replace your entire window.
Doesn’t work with older homes:
Double-glazing windows have an inherently modern look that could clash with an older home’s aesthetics. This could particularly be a problem if your home is heritage listed or if you’re only planning to replace some windows with double-glazed windows.
Traps heat:
This is only a disadvantage in specific situations. During the cold winter months, trapping the heat is exactly what you’ll want from your double-glazed products. However, during the summer months, this could lead to a very hot household. If you live somewhere noisy, you’ll end up having to choose between the outside noise or turning the air-conditioner on.
Get free advice on window selection for your new home.
Whether you need advice on energy-efficient windows or what to look for in a builder, we’re here to help. As client advocates, we’re on your side for the entire building process, helping you discuss your project with your builder. Our range of services has saved our clients much time, frustration and money, so why not get in touch to find out how we can help you?
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