How does double glazing work?
For anyone starting their double glazing journey, the way it all works can all seem like a big mystery! It’s common for clients to ask us how double glazing works, and we understand it may seem complicated. In response, we are here to help explain the ins and outs of double glazing, and educate everyone on what makes double glazed windows and doors so good! There are many benefits to double glazing you may not be aware of, but by the end of this article, we know you’ll have a better understanding of everything double glazing!
What is Double Glazing?
Double glazing refers to a window or door with two panes of glass, as opposed to the standard single pane. When a window has two panes, it becomes part of an insulated glass unit (IGU). An IGU refers to the two panes of glass, and the layer of air or gas between the panes. For the highest level of insulation, the space between the panes should be at least 10mm. Double glazing windows and doors are most effective when gas is used between the panes. Depending on the gas used, the thermal and noise-cancelling properties are greatly increased.
In short, double glazing refers to a door or window with 2 panes of glass, separated by gas or air!
Inside a Double Glazing Window
Now we understand the basics of a double glazing unit, let’s look a bit deeper inside the design. Double glazing can vary company to company, so we are using a Thermotek Windows & Doors system as our example.
Our IGU’s use standard low e glazing, and are filled with argon gas. At Thermotek, our window frames consist of multiple Fusion Welded air chambers to deliver a superior seal on the frame itself. This also increased insulation. Additionally, we also use dual TPE (thermoplastic elastonomer) seals to further enhance the thermal and acoustic performance of the window.
So, How Does Double Glazing Work?
Once you understand the pieces that make up double glazing, it’s important to understand how they all work to provide insulation, noise reduction and a number of other benefits. The gap between the panes is the main source of insulation, as the gap and any gas slows down the thermal transfer by conduction. Double glazing doesn’t trap the heat, instead slows it down to reduce the amount of heat lost in winter, and gained in summer. A lack of circulation within the panes also helps to reduce heat transfer!
For example, in winter the cold air will hit the IGU. Instead of entering your home directly, as it does with single pane windows, it instead reaches the gas or air between the panes and is sloweed and reduced. This means that by the time it hits the second pane, if it does at all, it is no longer freezing cold and doesn’t affect the temperature within your home! Pretty amazing, don’t you think?
What are the benefits of double glazing?
Now, double glazing doesn’t only provide insulation. Installing double glazed windows and doors into your home will provide noise reduction, reduced energy bills, and increase the energy efficiency of your home!
By lessening the need for cooling in summer and heating in winter, you consume less energy and therefore lower your energy bills. This not only benefits your wallet, but also has a positive effect on the environment. Double glazing is a sustainable, long term solution for your home – and uPVC framing is a low maintenance framing option that only adds to these benefits.
How Does Double Glazing Reduce Noise?
Much like with insulation, double glazing provides noise reduction of up to 40dB by making the most of the extra glass and space between panes. When sound vibrations hit your windows, they are absorbed by the multiple panes, disrupting and reducing the frequency.
Instead of the sound hitting a single pane of glass and barely being disrupted, the sound instead has to make it through two panes of glass and insulating gas, greatly reducing how much noise pollution enters your home.
Australian made double glazed windows
When taking the plunge into double glazing, it is important to understand where your windows and doors are coming from. Supporting locals is always important, but there are crucial benefits to doing so when it comes to double glazing.
The quality of the windows, and the adjoining uPVC framing, plays a direct role in the lifecycle and performance of your windows. Purchasing double glazing windows and doors made overseas may not seem like a big problem, but the environment these windows are made for is very different to the one here in Australia. The UV rays in Australia are harsh, and we face a multitude of extreme weather almost year round. Windows made for a different climate may deteriorate quicker, and lead to increased maintenance or need for replacements.
Australian made uPVC double glazing windows and doors are ideal for those building or renovating in Australia. Not only can you trust the quality, you also benefit from smooth communication and a team of locals who understand your needs and lifestyle.
Double Glazing with Thermotek Windows & Doors
At Thermotek Windows & Doors, we make double glazing units for Australians, by Australians. Our staff are committed to providing the highest quality service, and our IGU’s are made in Melbourne, to Australian standards.
We are here to walk you through your double glazing journey, and ensure it’s the best it can be. At Thermotek, we offer a range of styles and sizes to suit any build. Our uPVC framing comes in a range of modern and classic colours and styles, so no matter if you’re renovating or building from scratch we have windows to perfectly suit your aesthetic.
Interested in starting your double glazing journey, or simply have a few questions? Contact us today to get started on the right foot!
