Windows 101: What is Double Glazing?

Pretty much everyone seems to have double glazing these days, but what exactly is it, why is it the best option and what are your choices? Join us for the lowdown on double glazing…

There are many ways to improve, beautify, and make your home more environmentally friendly.

One available option is double glazing, which is a process used on windows, doors, and conservatories to make sure the glass offers a high level of protection both in terms of temperature and security.

This innovative technology is so effective that it is required for UK buildings where new windows are being installed.

Who Invented Double Glazing?

Although there are some myths about when double glazing was invented, the consensus is that the first double glazed windows were manufactured in 1930 for the commercial building industry.

C.D. Haven was the founder of the product, and it was later referred to as “Thermopane.”

In the 1950s, the method became popular in the residential arena in America.

The UK didn’t join the ranks of double glazing popularity until 1970-1980, but it’s not looked back since!

How Does The Process Work?

A double glazed window contains two pieces of glass enclosed in one unit.

There’s usually a 6-20mm wide air gap between the two sections that consists of regular sealed air or Argon gas.

This slows the thermal transfer, whether it be hot or cold, between the two glass panels, keeping room temperatures controlled.

Double Glazing Benefits

These energy efficient windows are one of the best ways to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter is double-glazed windows.

The gap separating the two pieces of glass prevents heat loss in winter, whilst reducing cool air from leaving your home in the summer.

A double glazed unit is essentially a completely sealed unit which also guards against moisture that could lead to mould.

It also provides extra insulation to keep your electric bill lower or any air conditioning units from working too hard.

Another nice feature of double glazing is that it blocks most outside noise from entering the home and keeps inside noise from escaping to surrounding neighbours.

The added insulation creates a solid barrier while also making for a safer situation as the double pane isn’t easily broken by an intruder.

How Is Double Glazing Made?

Through the use of state-of-the-art machinery, glass sections are constructed of the same size.

Next, each piece of glass is fitted into the spacer bar ends.

These spacer bars are made out of stainless steel and polypropylene to achieve a low heat conduction rate.

Then, the Argon gas is added, and the unit is made airtight with a bitumen-based sealant.

What Can Be Double Glazed?

Windows are the most common product that is double glazed (see also ‘How Does Double Glazing Work?‘).

A double-glazed door will most likely be front or back exterior doors that contain a glass insert.

Conservatories often have double glazed inserts to cut down on extreme heat or cold that can result from an all-glass enclosure.

Regardless of where the product is used, double glazed technology will provide energy-efficiency, insulation, and noise reduction for any area of your home.

Looking for that extra protection from the elements? You might want to look into triple glazed windows instead…