Double Glazed Glass: What to Consider When Choosing Windows and Doors

Many Australian homes don’t have enough insulation. This means the houses get much colder than they should.

And windows are a part of the problem.

Every time you turn on the heater, some of that warm air escapes outside through your windows. Double-glazed windows and doors keep the air locked inside your home.

But are they the right choice for your house?

Keep reading below to learn what you should consider about double-glazed glass before you buy.

Should You Upgrade to Double-Glazed Windows?

If you don’t already have double-glazed windows in your home, you should consider upgrading as soon as possible.

Why?

Double-glazed windows do a lot more than keep your house warm. They can also save you money in the long run.

Whether you've got Bay Windows or double-hung windows, double-glazing can be a major benefit. We’ve put together a quick list of reasons you should always consider upgrading to double-glazed windows below.

Raise the Value of Your Home

Because double-glazed windows provide your home with better insulation, they also raise the value of your home. When it comes time to sell, you can get more money back than you originally spent.

Save Money on Your Energy Bill

Your home loses about 30% of its heating and cooling energy through the windows. That means you’re spending extra money on energy that flies right out of the house.

By switching to double-glazed windows, you prevent that energy from escaping.

That means your energy costs will go down. In fact, a recent study found you can save over $400 on your energy bill every year when you install double-glazed windows.

While buying new double-glazed windows is an investment, they’ll start paying for themselves right away.

Stay Comfortable All Year Long

Double-glazed windows insulate your home from the outside temperatures. That means the cold air stays inside during summer, and the warm air doesn’t leak out during the winter.

You can enjoy a more comfortable home if you make the switch to double-glazed windows.

Block the Sounds of Noisy Traffic

Double-glazed windows don’t just insulate your home from the weather, they also act as a buffer between your home and loud noises outside.

Do you live next to a busy street?

The extra insulation of double-glazed windows will make the cars sound quieter. This will allow you to relax better during the day and sleep better at night.

What to Consider When Choosing Double-Glazed Glass Windows and Doors

Before you buy double-glazed windows, there are a few things you need to consider. Some double-glazed windows aren’t the same quality as others, and you’ll want to get the best bang for your buck.

So here’s a quick look at the three main factors to think about before you buy.

The Window Frame Material

The warm (or cold) air in your house can escape through the frame as well as the window. So you’ll want to make sure you choose a window frame material that helps insulate your home.

UPVC frames provide a thermal effect that can help cut your energy costs.

Isn’t wood an insulating material as well?

It is, but wood also expands and contracts at different temperatures. This can damage your windows over time unless you choose a high-quality (and expensive) type of wood.

That’s why uPVC frames are a better option.

The Type of Glass

Some double-glazed windows have different types of glass.

For example, you can get windows made of glass that are designed to give your home a higher level of security. If you’re looking for a specific type of glass, make sure you talk to your double-glazed window provider before you pull out your wallet.

The Space Between

Double-glazed windows are made with two panels of glass that sandwich an “empty” space. This “empty” space is what insulates your home, but it’s not really empty. It can either be full of air or argon gas.

When you buy double-glazed windows, make sure you get windows that use argon gas.

Why?

Argon conducts less heat than air, insulating your home better and saving you more money in the long run. Double-glazed windows that use air might be cheaper, but they don’t do their job as well.

How to Buy Doubled Glazed Windows and Doors

You should take your time and do your research when buying double-glazed windows. You have to find a reliable company that’ll provide you with a reliable product.

Otherwise, you’ll end up spending way too much money on low-quality windows.

Here are four tips to keep in mind as you get ready to buy double-glazed windows.

1. Find a Reputable Company

Finding a window company isn’t hard, but making sure they’re reliable and trustworthy can take a bit more work.

So start by asking your friends and family for recommendations. Have they worked with a company that gave them a good experience?

Then make sure you research that company online. Read reviews from past customers or ask the company for references. If a company has bad reviews (or no reviews) and isn’t willing to provide references, you might want to look somewhere else.

2. Get at Least Three Different Quotes

Don’t choose the first company you find. Instead, pick your top three or four and talk to each one.

Have all the companies give you their own quote for the job. This way, you can find the best price and know how much you can expect to pay for the installation.

3. Know Your Legal Rights

Many companies have to design your double-glazed windows and doors custom for your home. If you can’t go through with the order for some reason, the company might not be legally obligated to cancel.

That means you’ll have to pay for the windows anyway.

Always read through the contract they provide carefully before signing. Don’t be afraid to take your time and read all the fine print. This will make sure you know what you’ve agreed to should something go wrong.

4. Only Buy What You Can Afford

Remember, double-glazed windows and doors are an investment. But that doesn’t mean you have to replace all the windows in your home at the same time.

Only buy what you can afford.

If that means you can only replace a few windows at a time, that’s okay. Don’t feel pressured to buy more than you can comfortably afford.

What to Consider Before Buying Double Glazed Glass Windows and Doors

Upgrading to double-glazed windows and doors can save you hundreds of dollars every year on your energy bill. But before you start shopping, you need to make sure the company you choose is reliable and the windows you get are made from the best thermal materials.

Not sure where to start looking?

Get in touch today, and our experts will be happy to help.