A Guide to Cheap Double Glazing
Double glazing refers to the process of fitting two glass panes into a window frame and then filling the space between them with some type of gas. The type of gas between the windows can be anything from argon to xenon, but can also be regular air. These windows provide numerous benefits to a homeowner who installs them. However, they can be very expensive. There are ways to find cheap double glazing on the market, but you must be aware of what parts of the product matter, and what parts do not.
One of the most costly parts of the manufacturing process is filling the window with a special type of gas. While the three most commonly used gasses (argon, krypton and xenon) do provide an increase in insulation against heat and cold, they are expensive. Regular air will do the job as well. So there is no reason to seek out expensive windows filled with argon.
The material that the actual frame is constructed from contributes to the reduced price of cheap double glazing. Uncoated polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) is commonly used. This material is just as energy efficient as aluminum but costs less. The only drawback being the outside appearance, which can be at odds with the style of some houses.
A small element in the frame, the part known as the spacer can be constructed less expensively in cheap double glazed windows. The spacer is the part that holds the glass panes apart. While optimally a manufacturer would use fiberglass or steel to make this part, aluminum works just as well and costs less.
The glass in a window can also be coated with one of several different types of metals or films. The windows can be treated to filter out UV rays, retain more heat or reflect more sun to keep it cooler inside. In searching for cheap double glazing, avoid these types of coatings. They will increase the price of the windows, sometimes dramatically.
Cheap double glazing can be made even less expensive if you plan to install the windows yourself. This may take some research, and you will need the right tools for the job, but it could save a lot money. The installation process is not much different than installing a regular window. Simple guidelines can be downloaded and followed to make the task even easier.
If buying and installing totally new cheap double glazing does not appeal to you, you may want to look into adding a second layer of glazing to your already existing windows. This process simply places a new window pane into your existing frame. This simple step may give you results similar to having purchased cheap double glazing.
Double glazing has proven to be very effective at helping a home same money. Even cheap double glazing will increase the energy efficiency of a home, making it less expensive to heat and cool the rooms. An added benefit includes some reduction in the amount of noise that passes through the window when it is closed. Double glazing is also a deterrent for criminals who would try and break in through the windows since the two panes make it more difficult.