Double glazed windows are basically the ones that are made by using two glass panes. These glass panels are separated from each other by using a layer of gas or air. After separating them, they are sealed. The double glazed windows are designed in such a way that they protect the inhabitants of the room from the outside temperature. In this field, these windows work much better as compared to the ones made by a single glass pane. This is because, in the case of the former, the buffer layer, and also the two glasses layer functions as insulators. The surface of the glass used in double glazed windows is specially coated. This coating helps in re-radiating heat during winters. During the summer season, it prevents entry of the outside heat. Although double glazed windows are made for extreme climate, they are now being used extensively in almost all locations, both as replacement windows as well as for new construction.
Things needed for double glazed glass:
For creating double glazed windows, various types of glass can be utilized. Although decorative glass, as well as regular glass, can be used, the commonly used one is the low emissivity glass. In this glass, the glass pane consists of a metallic layer which is virtually invisible. It also has a special coating that can be chosen in different glazes for accommodating various climates. For areas having extremely cold winters and moderate summers, high solar gain glass is used. This glass helps to reduce loss of heat. In order to permit a smaller quantity of heat without loss of light, moderate solar gain glass is used. It is utilized in areas having mild winters and summers. For preventing ultra violet radiations, low solar gain glass is used. It is used in areas having moderate winters and very hot summers.
Certain double glazed windows have an inert gas between them. The inert gas usually used is argon. It helps in providing better insulation as compared to a sealed air pocket. Argon lessens the escaping of heat and reduces the entry of cold since they have a high density. Due to this, they offer a better buffer as compared to air. Factory created double glazed windows are sealed airtight for further increasing the insulation and for eliminating the possibility of forming of condensation between the glass panes.
Benefits of Double Glazed Windows:
There are many advantages of using double glazed windows. The addition of such windows in a house tends to increase its value. The most important one is that they help in conservation of energy, thereby reducing costly energy bills. This is because these windows help in conserving the heat inside homes in the winter season. They also keep the homes cooler in hot days, thereby reducing the need to use air conditioners in summers and room heaters in winters. Another benefit of these windows is that they do not need much maintenance. They provide insulation against noise pollution. They help to increase security of the house. It is because there is an extra layer of glass barrier against intruders. Since double glazed window coatings prevent the entry of high ultraviolet radiations, it helps in protecting people and prevents photographs, rugs, floors and furniture from damage caused by sun and fading.
Disadvantages of double glazed windows:
The main disadvantage of these windows is that these cannot be repaired. The space present between two glass panes consists of air, thereby forming an insulating layer. If the seal is not in good condition, then there is a possibility of occurrence of condensation. The problem is that glass panels cannot be pulled apart once they are sealed and hence, cannot be repaired. The windows will need to be replaced in this condition.
So, here are some guidelines for you why to choose double glazed windows for your house. Be attentive when selecting the appropriate type of windows to be completely sure in your choice.
