What do double glazed windows do?

Using two panels along with the hollow space helps to dramatically increase the insulating power of a window and provides a better barrier against outside temperatures. It reduces heat loss in the winter and decreases unwanted solar gain in the summer.

What are the benefits of double glazed windows?

Double glazed windows have improved insulating value over older, single-pane windows. On an old home with deteriorating, single-pane windows, an upgrade can also reduce drafts through and around the window. An added benefit to double glazed windows is that they increase the safety and security of the home as two glass panels are more challenging to break. Along with the energy efficiency of double glazed windows, they have a reduction in glare and therefore can reduce sun damage to your indoor furniture.

Are double glazed windows soundproof?

The increased insulation of a double glazed window helps to improve the acoustics in a home and decrease outdoor noise. This is an excellent benefit for those that live in busy urban areas.

What causes a window seal to fail?

One of the leading causes for a seal to fail is the lack of proper drainage built into the glazing system. Without adequate drainage, water vapor will start to cloud the space in between the two glass panels, which is a perfect environment for mold to grow. Be sure to pay attention to window condensation, and look for any mold or staining along the edges of the window, as these are signs that the seal may be damaged.

What is the best environmentally friendly window cleaner?

The best environmentally friendly window cleaner is made up of one-part vinegar to four-parts water. Use a microfibre cloth in a circular motion to remove dirt and grime, and you can use an old toothbrush to get those really tough parts. A newspaper works excellent for buffing windows to remove streaks, but you may want to wear gloves to avoid the newspaper print on your hands. Remember to keep furniture away from the walls and remove any moisture from your windows when you see it to prevent mold from building up.

How efficient are double glazed windows?

A windows's heat loss is measured in terms of U-factor. The lower the value the better. A clear double-glazed window will have a U-factor of about 0.5 Btu/hr-sq ft °F. An Energy Star rated window should have a U-factor of 0.27 Btu/hr-sq ft °F or lower for Northern climates. In terms of performance, here is an R-value comparison of the insulating advantage of additional window panes with a .5” air space: Single pane: 0.9 Double pane: 1.78 to 2.04 Triple pane: 2.56 to 3.22 Moving from a single pane window to a double pane window can reduce your heating and cooling bill by 20% to 30%.

What is the best time of day to clean windows?

For a streak-free window, resist the temptation to clean your windows on a sunny day and wait for a cloudy day when the windows won’t dry as fast.

How much does window double glazing cost?

Updating your windows is one of the best upgrades you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your home. The initial cost of double glazing will depend on the number of windows in your home, and the quality of glass and type of frame you choose. The expected energy savings, especially for homeowners upgrading from single-pane windows, can lead to relatively quick payback periods.

In-Depth Product Guide

Double Pane Window

FAQs

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Double pane windows have two pieces of glass separated about 1/3 inch apart by an insulated spacer. The space is usually filled with a gas such as argon that is heavier-than-air and reduces convection between the panes.

When a window is described as being single, double, or triple-pane, it means the window has one, two, or three panes of glass. Another term for double is double-glazed.

Unlike a single pane window, a double window has two panes of glass. The two pieces of glass are separated about 1/3 inch apart by an insulating spacer. Space is usually filled with a gas such as argon that is heavier-than-air and reduces convection between the panes.

Double pane windows have improved insulating value over older, single pane windows. On an old home with deteriorating, single pane windows, an upgrade can also reduce drafts through and around the window.

There is a long-standing myth that says that glass acts like a very slow liquid and flows slowly over the years, evidenced by the fact that the bottoms of window panes in old cathedrals are thicker than the tops. Researchers have proven that this is in fact not true. Glass does not flow. Glass production methods in past centuries made one end thicker than the other, and workers tended to install the heavy ends at the bottom. Modern glass is consistent in thickness, and will stay that way indefinitely.