Facts About Double Glazing

Here are 25 facts about double glazing some that you will recognise and some that you might not have heard before!

1. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass to make a sealed unit.
2. The gap between two panes of glass provides insulation against the cold.
3. Energy efficient double glazing keeps your home warmer, quieter and reduces your energy bills.
4. Double glazing makes your home more comfortable by reducing draughts and cold spots.
5. Standard double glazing saves £120 to £160 each year when compared with single glazing. Better versions of double glazing will save even more!
6. Double glazing can reduce condensation on your Windows.
7. The most energy efficient type of glass is low emissive (low E).
8. Efficient Windows use Argon gas to fill the gap between the two panes of glass.
9. Pane spacers are set around the edges to keep the panes part. Spacers that contain little or no metal are best; this is called ‘Warm Edge’ technology.
10. uPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride.
11. uPVC frames last a long time and can be recycled.
12. Wooden frames require maintenance whereas uPVC is maintenance free.
13. Windows can be given an energy rating A-G just like household appliances in your home.
14. The whole window (glass and frame) is assessed on its efficiency at retaining heat.
15. Double glazing can cause condensation to build up in your home this is because replacement windows are probably more airtight than the original frames.
16. If you see condensation between the panes of glass in double glazed units then it is likely the seal is broken and they will need to be replaced.
17. If you live in a conservation area this does not mean you cannot install double glazing, you might just need to get windows that compliment the character of the building and area.
18. You can keep period features such as sash windows and have double glazing.
19. FENSA stands for Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme, Finesse Windows is a FENSA approved company and membership allows us to give a 10 year guarantee.
20. Double glazing window installers are required to have gained their MTC (Minimum Technical Competency) qualification since May 2014. All installers at Finesse Windows have their qualification.
21. Double glazing is thought to have emerged in Scotland around 1870. Early double glazing consisted of a second sheet puttied onto an existing window.
22. Two layers bonded to create a single unit was invented in USA around 1930.
23. Haven created Thermopane which epitomised luxury and sophistication in the 40’s and 50’s and was the first proper type of double glazing.
24. In the 70’s double became popular as there was an energy crisis (oil embargo) and home owners became much more aware of trying to make their homes more energy efficient.
25. This led to the creation of many double glazing companies – Finesse Windows has been in business since April 1981.

Double glazing will continue to rise in popularity as new innovations enter the world of windows in a quest to make our homes more energy efficient.

Please do not hesitate to contact Finesse Windows if you have any questions about double glazing or any of products.