Buying double glazing is a great way to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. It can help to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and it can also help to reduce noise pollution. If you’re thinking about buying double glazing, there are a few things you need to know.
Benefits of double glazing
There are many benefits to having double glazing in your home. Some of the most notable benefits include:
-
- Reduced energy bills. Double glazing can help to reduce your energy bills by up to 40%. This is because it prevents heat from escaping from your home during the winter and entering your home during the summer.
-
- Increased comfort. Double glazing can help to make your home more comfortable by reducing drafts and noise pollution.
-
- Increased security. Double glazing can help to increase the security of your home by making it more difficult for burglars to break in.
-
- Improved resale value. Double glazing can improve the resale value of your home. This is because it is an energy-efficient upgrade that can make your home more comfortable and secure.
Types of double glazing
Double glazing is a type of window glazing consisting of two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer. The spacer is typically made of plastic or metal, and it helps to keep the air between the panes of glass still. This still air helps to insulate the window and reduce heat loss or gain.
There are many different types of double glazing available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of double glazing include:
-
- Standard double glazing: This is the most basic type of double glazing, and it consists of two panes of glass separated by a 10-12mm spacer. Standard double glazing is a good option for most homes, and it offers a good level of insulation.
-
- Low-E double glazing: Low-E stands for low-emissivity, and it refers to a type of coating that is applied to the glass. This coating helps to reflect heat back into the home, which can help to reduce energy bills. Low-E double glazing is a good option for homes in cold climates.
-
- Triple glazing: Triple glazing is similar to double glazing, but it has three panes of glass instead of two. Triple glazing offers even better insulation than double glazing, making it a good option for homes in very cold climates.
-
- Acoustic double glazing: Acoustic double glazing is designed to reduce noise pollution. It consists of two panes of glass with a thicker spacer between them. The thicker spacer helps to absorb sound waves, which can help to make your home quieter.
-
- Security double glazing: Security double glazing is designed to make your home more secure. It consists of tempered glass, which is more difficult to break than standard glass. Security double glazing can also be fitted with security features such as locks and alarms.
How to choose the right double glazing for your home
There are a number of factors you need to consider when choosing double glazing for your home. These include:
-
- The type of glass: There are two main types of glass used in double glazing: float glass and tempered glass. Float glass is the most common type of glass and is relatively inexpensive. Tempered glass is stronger and more shatter-resistant than float glass, but it is also more expensive.
-
- The type of frame: There are three main types of frames used in double glazing: wood, aluminum, and uPVC. Wood frames are traditional and give your home a classic look. Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable. uPVC frames are energy-efficient and low-maintenance.
-
- The energy efficiency rating: The energy efficiency rating of your double glazing will determine how much energy it saves. The higher the rating, the more energy your windows will save.
-
- The noise reduction rating: The noise reduction rating of your double glazing will determine how much noise it blocks out. The higher the rating, the more noise your windows will block out.
-
- The warranty: Make sure the double glazing you choose comes with a warranty. This will protect you in case there are any problems with your windows in the future.
Getting quotes
Once you’ve decided on the type of double glazing you want, you need to get quotes from different companies. It’s important to get quotes from at least three companies before you make a decision.
Installing double glazing
When you are choosing a double glazing installer, there are a few things you need to consider:
-
- The company’s experience: Make sure the company has experience installing double glazing in your area.
-
- The company’s warranty: The company should offer a warranty on their work.
-
- The company’s price: Make sure you get a few quotes before you make a decision
Maintenance
Double glazing is low-maintenance, but there are a few things you can do to keep it in good condition. You should clean your windows regularly and you should also check the seals around your windows for any signs of damage.
Conclusion
Buying double glazing is a great way to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. If you’re thinking about getting double glazing, be sure to do your research and get quotes from different companies before you make a decision.
