Up to 60% of heat loss or heat gain in homes occurs through windows. Double glazing windows is a technique that helps to significantly reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through windows. Double glazed windows will allow you to set your heat or air conditioning to a lower setting and to significantly save on energy bills.
How Does Double Glazing Work?
Double glazing is a process through which a window is produced by two panes of glass with a space several millimetres thick between the glass panes. Air becomes trapped in this space and forms a layer of insulation. Before sealing the two panes of glass, an agent is placed inside that prevents moisture from developing in the air space. It is vital to ensure that the double glazed glass is airtight for it to function properly, because condensation on double glazed windows will require that the entire window unit be replaced.
How Does Secondary Glazing Work?
While the aforementioned type of double glazed window requires an entirely new window to be built, there is the option of secondary glazing for those who wish to keep their current window unit, but want to retrofit double glazing on existing windows. In secondary glazing, an extra sheet of glass or plastic is fitted internally on top of the original window, adding thermal insulation. Magnetite is a secondary glazing product that uses magnetic forces to attach the second sheet of glass.
Double Glazing Cost
The cost of double glazing varies with the scope of the project. Frequently, the upfront cost is balanced by the long-term savings in energy costs. Double glaze windows cost is based on the size and number of your windows, and type of windows and frames chosen. Secondary glazing, though not as effective as a double glazed window, is a cheaper option for those who are concerned about price.
Image by roger_mommaerts.
