What even is double glazing?

Double glazing is essentially a window that has two panes of glass that are separated by a layer of air or inert gas (gas that doesn’t react chemically). The space between the glass makes an insulated barrier that gives you more benefits than having just single glazed windows.

What is the science behind double glazing?

The science in double glazing all revolves around the insulation and energy transfer they have. Here are some of the key scientific aspects behind double glazing windows:

• Thermal insulation: double glazing reduces heat transfer through windows by having a layer of air or gas between glass panes, as air is a poor conductor of heat and the layer of trapped air acts as an insulator which stops heat escaping but also entering your home. This also helps to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature for you! 
• Conduction and convection: Heat transfer happens through conduction, which is direct transfer of heat between two objects, and it also happens through convection, which happens when heat is transferred through the movement of fluids. In a double glazed unit heat transfer through conduction is very minimal because of the insulating layer between the two panes of glass. 
• Low-E Coatings: Many double glazing units have low-emissivity otherwise known as low-E coatings. They are thin, transparent layers added to the glass panes to help to improve the energy efficiency of the windows. The coatings are created to reflect a proportion of heat radiation back into your room, preventing it from escaping through the window.
• Insteading of having air filled double glazing, gas filled double glazing has lower thermal conductivity than air which can further reduce heat transfer and enhance the insulating properties for the window.

So what are the benefits of double glazing?

1. Noise reduction. Double glazing can help reduce unwanted outside noise from loud neighbours and traffic. The two layers of glass, as well as the air in between them help to block out any unwanted outside noise resulting in a quieter and more relaxing living/working environment for you
2. Security. By having double glazing installed it also gives a layer of protection and security to the house. As the two panes of glass make it harder for intruders to break in.
3. Condensation. The insulated gas/air gap in between your two glass panes helps to reduce the condensation buildup on the interior of your windows, which then helps to reduce moisture related issues and growing mould in your home. 
4. Energy efficiency. The low-E coatings mentioned earlier are great to have on your double glazed windows as they are highly efficient in improving your homes energy efficiency, by reflecting heat radiation back into the room, stopping you from losing it
5. Low maintenance. Windows with double glazing require less maintenance than single glazed windows. By having double glazing instead of single glazing your windows are less likely to have issues such as condensation, drafts and general window deterioration. This is widely considered as a benefit of double glazed windows as lower maintenance means lower costs and less stress and hassle in the future. 
6. Looks and Style. By installing double glazing into your home it can help to improve the appearance of your home from the inside and the outside! It can give your home a sleek and modern look that will enhance the curb appeal of your house. Upgrading to double glazing can give the effect of a super sleek and modern home without an entire redo of your home. You can choose from many different styles and colours of windows to go with your double glazing units, give us a call to find out more.
7. Increased desirability. In today’s age the property and real estate market is more competitive than ever, and having double glazing windows can bump your house up and give it an edge over other homes. Double glazing can make your home stand out and appeal to a broader range of prospective buyers.

Different types of double glazing. 

There are different types of double glazing and they vary relating to different factors including; type of glass, space materials & extra features. The different types of double glazing include;

• Clear double glazing, this is the standard basic type of double glazing which gives the basic expectation of insulation and noise reduction.
• Low-E glazed windows, this type of double glazing window gives the home the benefits discussed earlier in this article of reducing heat transfer.
• Tinted double glazing, you are able to get tinted double glazing which is when the glass panes have a coloured tint on them which can provide the benefits of reduced sunlight glare and it also gives an element of privacy as well as a small degree of heat reduction.
• Reflective double glazing, this type has a metallic coating on the glass surface which reflects a large amount of sunlight which reduces heat transfer and glare. This kind of glazing is most commonly used in commercial buildings and also in areas that have a high sun exposure.
• Acoustic glazing, a type of glazing that is designed to keep outside noise to a minimum. They have thicker panes of glass or specialist acoustic sheets between the glass panes to help make the unwanted outside noise of neighbours,passersby and noisy traffic stay outside and to create a more quiet, peaceful indoor environment for your home.
• Safety glazing, safety double glazing has laminated glass. Laminated glass has two or more panes of glass that are bonded together with an interlayer, this allows the glass to hold itself together if it is shattered which allows your home to stay safer and more secure.
• Gas filled glazing, like mentioned earlier in this article your double glazed doors or windows can be filled with either gas or air. If the windows are filled with the gases such as Argon or Krypton, as these gases are highly unlikely to have a chemical reaction, the windows become more insulated as these gases have higher thermal insulation properties than just air.

Maintenance for double glazed windows

There are some maintenance requirements for double glazed windows when you have them installed on our home. These maintenance steps are recommended to ensure optimal performance and keep your windows lasting longer. The maintenance tips for double glazed windows incluse:

• Cleaning. The glass on your windows needs cleaning regularly, using a non abrasive glass cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water. You should avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the glass and or any coating you may have opted to put onto your windows. The frames of the windows also need cleaning using a soft cloth or sponge and mild detergent if needed.
• Seals and gaskets. The seals and gaskets around the window frames need inspection for any signs of damage or wear as well as deterioration. These seals need to be replaced if they are damaged or worn out as they are important to keep the windows performing at their best in terms of staying insulated and weatherproof.
• Hardware and inside door mechanisms. The hardware of the doors or windows such as the handles, hinges and locks need checking on a regular basis to ensure they are functioning properly and any loose screws or fittings need to be tightened and lubricated, with a silicone-based lubricant to keep them operating smoothly.
• Ventilation. Maintaining proper ventilation in your home is important to prevent excessive condensation on the inner panels of the glass. Proper airflow helps you to reduce the risk of mould growth which could potentially damage the windows and the surrounding areas inside your home.

Is it worth it?

While the initial cost of having double glazed doors and windows installed in your home may be higher compared to getting only single glazed doors and windows, the long term benefits, including saving on energy and your personal increased comfort will outweigh the initial investment you pay to get your windows. However it is important to consider things like your climate, energy costs and personal style and opinion when considering if double glazing is worth it for your situation.