The Beginners Guide To Double Glazing
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- 06-12-2023
Read our beginners guide to double glazing. Whether you're upgrading your home or just starting to explore the benefits of double glazing, our comprehensive guide provides essential information, expert tips, and key considerations.
How Does Double Glazing Work?
Join us as we embark on a journey through the beginner's guide to double glazing, starting with one crucial question: how does double glazing work? The answer lies within an ingenious, yet straightforward design. In essence, double glazing involves two panes of glass, which are separated by a gap. What's remarkable about this gap is that it often contains either air or a gas called argon. This hollow space serves as an effective insulator, substantially limiting the heat transfer through the window. The outcome? A toasty house during chilly winter months and a fresh, cool haven throughout the sizzling days of summer.
Suppose we dive further into the implications of this design. In that case, we realise that the space sandwiched between the panes has a critical purpose. It functions as a barrier to trap heat or cold air, preventing it from either escaping your cosy interior or infiltrating your cool living space from harsh outdoor weather conditions.
What's more, this practical design impacts your energy consumption in a positive way. It reduces the amount of energy required to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, leading to more efficient usage of energy. Over time, this improved energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. Double glazing is not only a clever design; it's a smart investment for the environmentally conscious homeowner seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money.
Which Double Glazed Window Frames Are Best?
If you are considering new window frames, you might be overwhelmed by the choices available. There are three popular types when it comes to double-glazed window frames: uPVC, timber, and aluminium. So, which one suits your needs better?
The decision largely depends on your personal taste and specific requirements. uPVC window frames are widely chosen due to their longevity, affordability, and minimal maintenance needs.
They are a common choice for double-glazed window frames because they provide outstanding insulation, contributing to a warm and cosy indoor environment. These frames are also weather-resistant, making them perfect for all types of climates. They can withstand harsh weather conditions without losing their appearance or functionality.
Moreover, uPVC window frames come in a variety of designs, ensuring that you can find a perfect match for your home's style and decor. On the other hand, timber window frames evoke a more traditional and natural feel.
These frames are great if you are looking for an environmentally friendly option. They offer excellent insulation and a unique aesthetic appeal, infusing your space with a warm and charming ambience.
However, timber window frames demand more maintenance than uPVC. They occasionally need to be sealed or painted to keep them weatherproof and visually appealing. Lastly, aluminium window frames are a contemporary and stylish choice. These frames are durable, slim-lined, and modern-looking.
The appeal of aluminium-framed double-glazed windows stems from their lightness, strength, and low maintenance requirement. Despite their slender look, they are incredibly robust and long-lasting.
However, it's worth noting when budgeting that these frames tend to be pricier than the other two options. In summary, uPVC, timber, and aluminium window frames each have their unique advantages and are suited to different tastes and needs.
By considering factors such as maintenance, cost, aesthetics, insulation, and durability, you'll be able to make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. With the right window frames, you can enhance both the look and comfort of your home.
How Much Do Double Glazed Windows Cost?
The cost of double-glazed windows can vary greatly based on several factors. Notably, the size, type, and number of windows you require can significantly influence the final cost. The average pricing for these windows typically falls within the financial bracket of £400 and £600 per window in the UK housing market. It's essential to keep in mind that it is merely an estimated range, and the price can go high or low depending on various factors such as customisation, manufacturer's price etc.
At first glance, this might appear as a rather steep expense. However, when we dive into the long-term benefits of double-glazed windows, the initial cost begins to seem more justifiable. First and foremost, these windows are crucial in optimising energy efficiency in your home. They effectively trap the heat inside your house, reducing the need for artificial heating and thereby cutting down on your energy bills. Secondly, double-glazed windows go a long way towards improving the overall value of your property.
They are becoming a staple feature that potential purchasers look for when buying a home due to their role in improving thermal comfort and reducing noise intrusion. These factors contribute towards high residential appeal, thereby increasing the property value. Therefore, despite the seemingly high initial expense, the installation of double-glazed windows can end up being a smart investment rewarding you with considerable long-term benefits.
Advantages of Double-Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows offer an array of benefits, making them well worth considering. One of their key advantages is their ability to vastly improve your home's energy efficiency.
What this means is that, by reducing heat loss, double-glazing can significantly lower the amount of energy you need to heat or cool your home. This can lead to considerable savings on your energy bills over time. Another substantial benefit of double-glazing is sound insulation.
The two layers of glass, along with the gap between them, help to dramatically minimise any noise coming from outside. If you live in a noisy neighbourhood or simply cherish peace and quiet, this could be a game-changer.
Further enhancing the attractiveness of double-glazed windows is their ability to enhance property value. They are often seen as a significant selling point, so if you're looking to move at some point, installing double-glazed windows could be a sensible investment.
What's more, these windows can make your home a more comfortable place to live. They are cleverly designed to keep your home warm in winter by preventing heat from escaping.
Similarly, in the summer, they can block the heat from the sun, keeping your interior cool. Lastly, let's not overlook the increased security these windows offer. Due to their robust design and construction, double-glazed windows are much more difficult to break than their single-glazed counterparts. This added level of security can really put your mind at ease.
Should You Replace Double Glazing Yourself?
While it may be tempting to take the DIY route to install or replace double glazing to save money, it's strongly advised that you employ the services of professionals.
The procedure for installing double glazing can be intricate and necessitates some expertise, an understanding of the process, as well as the usage of particular tools – this is particularly true when handling larger windows. Undertaking this task recklessly or incorrectly could result in potential leakages, drafts, or even inflict harm to your property.
The noteworthy advantages of hiring a professional are multifold. Firstly, you've ensured a high-quality service standard with experts who have substantial experience and familiarity with installing double glazing.
The practical know-how they bring is invaluable as setting up double glazing involves numerous stages - from taking accurate measurements to securing installation. Professionals follow a specific process and have the necessary equipment to correctly set up double glazing, reducing the risk of problems occurring.
Secondly, there is the guarantee aspect to consider. If, in the unlikely situation, something does go wrong following the installation, your double glazing executed by accredited professionals is protected by a guarantee. This means that any subsequent repairs or replacements needed as a result of flaws or glitches in the original installation won't incur additional costs to you. It provides a safeguard for you as a consumer and provides peace of mind knowing that you won't be burdened with unexpected repair costs.
Finally, there is the question of time efficiency. A professional will be able to install your double glazing quickly and competently, reducing the amount of disruption to your home and daily schedule.
Coupled with solid after-sales care offered by professional companies, this further supports the argument in favour of hiring professionals for double-glazing installation over attempting a DIY project. In light of these factors, it's clear that opting for professional help with double-glazing installations is the best route.
Double Glazing Window Frames
Double Glazed Windows & Doors
The Dereham Window Company Ltd provides the best double glazing services in and around Dereham. Whatever you require, our professional team can assist you with everything from small repairs to installing a completely new windows.
