Most people have heard the word “double glazing” at some point in their lives; it is commonly known that double glazing has greater thermal efficiency than single glazing. However, what exactly is it, and how does it work?
In the past, when windows only had a single pane separating you from the elements, they provided little defense from the heat, cold, and noise outside. A typical home loses 10% of its heat via its windows and doors. Since double glazing windows require less energy to keep the heat inside the house, they are prevalent nowadays.
What Exactly Is Double Glazing?
Double glazed windows are made up of two glass panes, which are typically 24 mm wide, with a gap between them. A layer of inert gas, usually argon or krypton, is sealed between this space’s inner and outer panes. Due to the gas’s weak thermal conductivity, heat is transferred through the glass more slowly.
With double glazing, you get a warmer house at a cheaper cost, which is just one of its many advantages. You may use less heating since double-glazed windows increase thermal efficiency and decrease heat loss. Other advantages include minimal condensation, improved noise insulation, and increased security.
How Long Does Double Glazing Last?
The lifespan of a brand-new double-glazed window is approximately 20 years. However, this might vary from 10 to 35 years, depending on the materials’ quality, how well they were installed, and where the windows are located.
The gas in the dual panes may progressively seep out throughout these years. Generally speaking, the windows’ thermal performance will decrease once 25% of the gas has gone. Therefore, it could be an excellent time to think about replacing your windows.
How Does Double Glazing Help to Reduce Heat Loss?
Double glazing reduces heat loss by utilizing the thermal buffer and gas barrier within the closed unit. When cold air strikes the outside of the glass pane, heat is transmitted to the gas layer.
The movement of heat between two levels is slowed down by the gas layer, which also limits thermal transmission. Additionally, the gas reduces the temperature that is conveyed when warm air from within the room contacts an inner pane of glass, aiding in the retention of heat inside the space. The inside and outside glass panes of a double-glazing unit will have different temperatures.
How Can Double Glazing Reduce Noise?
Compared to single glazing, double glazing significantly lessens the amount of noise entering a building and is an effective thermal insulator. Vibrations produce sound and a wave’s energy moves from its origination point through our ears. Thereby, an additional window layer in the area; will interfere with the noise wave and prevent noise from entering the space.
Moreover, the benefits of acoustic insulation increase with the size of the distance between the glass panes. The soundproofing will be improved by increasing the thickness of one glass compared to the others. Unwanted noise may enter the building through trickle vents installed in windows for ventilation.
Conclusion
Double glazing windows are an excellent noise- and energy-saving option. The gap between the two glasses acts as an additional layer of insulation. Its thermal expansion responsiveness prevents heat loss in the colder months and keeps your house at a more pleasant level.
Additionally, double glazing has the reverse effect during the warmer months by preventing extra heat from entering the house. The improved insulation lessens your reliance on artificial heaters and air conditioners, resulting in cheaper energy costs.
