You might have bought your home years ago, but are you aware that there are many things that have changed in the window industry since then? Double glazing was invented back in the 1930s. The idea behind it is to trap air inside a space so it doesn’t lose heat or cool down too quickly. This article will discuss how double glazing came to be and what benefits it can offer homeowners today. You’ll also learn about some of the features available on modern windows like argon gas insulation and the manufacturing process. It’s never too late for an upgrade!
What are Double Glazed Windows?
When you step into a window showroom, it’s impossible not to notice the ubiquitous stickers that proudly proclaim “double glazed windows.” However, for many, the inner workings of a modern double glazed window remain somewhat of a mystery. Let’s delve deeper into what makes these windows so special.
At its core, the fundamental concept behind double glazed windows is to create a layered structure that sandwiches two panes of glass with an insulating layer in between. This glass sandwich is more formally known as an “Insulated Glass Unit” or IGU. While it may seem like a simple arrangement, the benefits it offers are far-reaching and transformative.
Enhanced Thermal Efficiency:
The primary advantage of double glazed windows over their single glazed counterparts lies in their superior thermal efficiency. The insulating layer between the two glass panes acts as a barrier, significantly reducing the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of your home. This means that during the cold winter months, your home stays warmer as less heat escapes, and in the scorching summer, your indoor space remains cooler as less heat penetrates from the outside.
Legislation and Energy Efficiency:
The adoption of double glazed windows has been so significant that it even led to legislative changes in the United Kingdom. In 2002, UK law mandated that all replacement windows must meet a minimum standard of being double glazed with a C rating in terms of energy efficiency. This regulation was a pivotal step towards improving the energy performance of homes throughout the country.
However, exceptions to this rule exist. Listed buildings and properties located within conservation areas often have stricter regulations in place to preserve their historic or architectural character. In such cases, single glazed windows or specialised glazing solutions might be required to comply with preservation guidelines.
Who Invented Double Glazing?
The Invention of double glazing is still disputed to this day. It is commonly accepted that C.D Haven invented modern double glazing back in 1930. However, there are legitimate claims to the invention of double glazing as far back as Victorian Scotland.
The inverters of double glazing were aimed to solve the heat lost through windows. Back in the 1930s people used fires to warm their homes and the common single panes for glass in windows of the time were drafty and lost a lot of that heat. This was especially dangerous during winter in the close part of the US, where keeping your home warm could determine whether you made it to the spring.
When did Double Glazing Start to Become Popular in the UK?
Double Glazing quickly took off in the US and became widely popular in only a matter of decades. Here in the UK Double Glazing really took off in the 70s and 80s. While windows companies began rolling out so-called ‘second windows’ systems back in the 60s as this involved adding a second entire window and frame. Many people quickly transitioned to similarly priced double glazing once this became widely available.
How are Double-Glazed Windows Made?
The manufacture of double glazed windows has become a fairly refined process over the years. Double glazed windows are produced by sealing two panes of glass together using an aluminium frame to create an air gap between the panes. This glass can then either be filled with air or a thermally insulating gas such as Argon to increase the energy efficiency of the pane.
Why are they so Effective?
While Double glazing performs all the basic functions of a single glazed window, they also make great leaps in energy efficiency. Thanks to the air gap, double glazed windows allow significantly less heat to pass through the glass. All modern windows are now rated on an energy efficiency scale. The rating system goes from A to C with C being the lowest rated.
What does the Future of Double Glazing Look Like?
Over the years you have likely seen Triple Glazing make its way into the industry. These are very similar to double glazing however with three panes of glass instead of two. This addition pane does increase thermal efficiency, however, this makes significantly less of an impact than moving from single to double glazing. Triple Glazing has taken off in colder climates such as Norway, while in the UK the energy-saving does not offset the high price of the more complex manufacturing.
Are Double Glazed Windows Worth It?
Many people have noted the higher price for double glazing compared to old fashioned single glazing. This is an unavoidable part of double glazing due to the incensed complexity of manufacturing and material costs. This extra cost is not meaningless, however, thanks to the significantly better thermal insulation double glazing can have a dramatic impact on your heating costs. Particularly during the winter months. This extra cost of double glazing can quickly be offset by savings on your heating bills.
Are there Different Types of Double Glazed Windows?
When it comes to types of double glazed windows the styles truly are endless. You are almost guaranteed to find a window to match your exact style and home. The more important consideration when choosing your new windows will be the energy efficiency rating. Although the pricing will increase from a grade C window to a grade A, this increase in cost is due to the better thermal insulation of the grade B and then A windows, and so an accordingly greater impact on your heating bill.
Are Double Glazed Windows More Secure?
We all know security is more important than ever before, whether the security is for you and your family or your belongings. While Double glazed windows panes do not offer increased security on their own the more substantial frames they are installed into can make a huge difference. This is primarily thanks to the metal framework commonly used, compared to the wooden construction of old fashioned window frames. In addition, the more sophisticated locks can also help to keep you and your family safe while at home.
Double glazing has revolutionised windows across the world by offering higher thermal efficiency and security. In addition, as the manufacture has become more and more refined the cost has reduced accordingly. So whether you are looking to replace old fashioned single glazed windows or need to replace your existing double glazed windows Trade Windows and Conservatories should be your first choice. Thanks to many years of experience and fantastic customer service you will not be disappointed. Contact us today for your free consultation.