Double glazed windows have become so popular and standard that manufacturers are making virtually every size, shape, and style with this energy-efficient feature.
Double glazed (or dual-pane) simply means that the window has two panes of glass with a small space between them that traps heat. Your heated or cooled air stays indoors better, so you can save money on utility bills.
Here’s a look at styles and options to consider for double glazed windows:
Double Glazed Windows – The Replacement or Retrofit Choice?
Full replacement windows provide a complete upgrade and update, along with the best chance for maximum energy efficiency. Love your current window frames but want to lower utility bills with double glazed windows? We can also retrofit your windows with dual-pane glass.
Gas-Filled Insulation
Double glazed windows typically use gas-filled insulation that traps thermal energy in the space between the two panes. Why the gas fill? Dense gas moves slowly and conducts heat flow much less than regular air. There are three common types of gas fill:
- Argon provides wonderful insulation at a very attractive price.
- Krypton provides superior insulation and costs a little more.
- Mixtures made of argon, krypton, and other gases provide various performance levels and price points.
Low-Emissivity Coatings
Glass itself tends to let heat flow through it (letting in outside temperatures, and releasing your heating and air conditioning). Double glazed windows can be augmented with low-e coatings. An invisible metallic coat blocks temperature changes without affecting light quality. Low-e coatings and double glazing can work together to significantly reduce energy loss for your heating and cooling needs.
With or Without Grids?
If you prefer the look of muntins (a grid pattern), you can find the styles you love in double glazed windows. We typically see more traditional homes with gridded windows and more modern homes without, but the choice is entirely up to you.
Frosting and Beveling
Double glazed windows can be frosted or beveled (an angled border) in standard or custom styles. These options are especially popular for front doors and their side panels and bathroom windows.
Is Triple Glazed Better?
If you are considering double glazed windows for energy efficiency, you may be wondering if tripled glazed windows are more effective and worth the cost. The simple answer is that it all comes down to R-value ratings for efficiency. Triple glazing can provide even more temperature control, but high-quality double glazed styles can be just as efficient. What matters is how well the insulation traps heat loss.
Sash, Casement, Sliding, Bay Windows and More
Esthetics and opening mechanisms vary, but we can install double glazed windows for every size and shape of window you need. We frequently work with bay and bow windows that are very popular in the Bay Area. We also have options for casement and awning windows that open inward or outward, as well as traditional single-hung and double-hung windows.
We work with double glazed windows from leading manufacturers such as Andersen and Simonton, including custom orders. Just let us know your preferences for style, price, and energy efficiency and our experts will help you find the perfect option!
Ready to upgrade your home with energy-efficient and beautiful new double glazed windows? Contact us today to schedule an appointment for retrofitting or replacement windows in the Santa Rosa area.