Double glazing windows consist of two or more glass window panes that are separated by a vacuum or a gas-filled space, to reduce heat transfer. Also known as insulated glass unit (IGU), the space between the glass panes – often referred to as the ‘spacer’ – is fully sealed using a metal or polymer strip, and filled with a drying agent to prevent moisture from seeping through. Apart from long-term durability and structural performance, double glazing windows come with the following benefits:
- Insulation: Perfect for houses in countries with colder climates (like, the UK), double glazing windows trap heat, resulting in cheaper electricity bills and fewer draughts. In summers, they do the opposite and prevent the unwanted heart from outside to come through.
- Noise-free: If you live on a busy street, these windows help you have a quiet moment to yourself, by blocking the amount of noise that travels from outside. So, next time you’re looking forward to a relaxing evening in your bath, you can conveniently get away from the hustle-bustle of the city.
- Security: Since the glass used in double glazing windows is either laminated or tempered, it is difficult to break as compared to single glazing windows.
- Mould-proof: Since the inside window pane has nearly the same temperature as your room, there is less condensation on the windows, preventing the formation of unhealthy mold.
Since double glazing windows are positioned inside a frame, their insulation properties are largely dependent on the type of material you use. You can go with experts at EcoTech Windows or do your own research. In the 1960s, aluminium was considered the most common choice for the frame, however, that changed with the introduction of uPVC, a comparatively cheaper alternative. Let’s go over a few expert-recommended materials for double glazing windows:
- uPVC: uPVC or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride is the most commonly used, and highly recommended. Available in a wide variety of finishes and colours, uPVC is not only durable, recyclable, easy-to-maintain and energy efficient, but it also happens to be at least three times cheaper than traditional wooden window frames. They are also lead-free and usually come with movable hinges, which means they just need an occasional wipe-down with warm, soapy water to keep them looking great all year round.
- Timber: A greener and environment-friendly alternative to uPVC is timber, which is made from naturally renewable materials. An excellent option for listed buildings, and conservation areas, many people believe that wood carries a certain character and quality. If you’re looking to invest in wooden-frames, you can be assured that they’re made-to-measure for a neater finish, with less tolerance for gaps. However, window frames made of timber tend to rather high maintenance, but are extremely long-lasting, if taken care of on a regular basis. They are also heavier on the pocket.
- Aluminium: Apart from being strong, durable, low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and thermally efficient, Aluminium window frames are less likely to rust, rot, flake or peel. The elegant slim-line ensures more glass and less frame, making them suitable for most contemporary homes that get a lot of sun. Most commonly opted styles in Aluminium include internal Georgian bars, dual colour – white on the inside with black on the outside, coloured glass designs, and edge-trims.