Double-glazed window installation is becoming one of the most popular ways to save energy, money and reduce outside noise. As a solution for hot and cold climates, architects and designers are recommending double glazing for energy efficient buildings. With double glazing, your windows are thicker and reduce energy consumption. Additionally, the fact that all new homes need to meet the 7-star energy efficiency standards, has seen an increase in double-glazed window installation. We explain everything you need to know about double glazing, its benefits and disadvantages, and how to install double-glazed windows.
What is Double-Glazing?
A window that has two pieces of glass instead of one is known as double glazing. The two layers of glass set in a window frame have a small insulating gap in between them which acts as a divider between the inside and the outside glass. The gap is filled with a low-conductivity gas, which works as an insulating barrier and reduces heat transfer. This means when it is hot outside, the heat does not transfer as easily to the inside of the home. When it is cold outside, the heat inside the home is trapped and less likely to escape.
Double-glazed windows can be installed in various window frames but are best suited to uPVC frames. That is because uPVC provides almost identical benefits to double-glazing. uPVC is unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, a type of hard plastic often used as a substitute for painted windows and the preferred material when installing double-glazed windows. It has a proven increase in insulation performance, directly influencing your window installation’s thermal and sound-reduction properties. This results in a superior alternative to typical metal or timber frames, which instead conduct heat and counteract the efficiency of a double-glazed solution. Furthermore, uPVC remains consistent with the eco-friendly benefits offered by double glazing, allowing homeowners confidence in the sustainability of their window choice.
Benefits of Double-Glazing
Homeowners and builders are finding double-glazing has a plethora of benefits that reach beyond environment and energy savings. Listed below are the many advantages of installing double-glazed windows.
- Energy efficient
- Lower power bills
- Noise reduction
- Increased insulation
- Increased security
- Boost property value
- Prevent mould forming indoors
- Reduces condensation
- Suitable for hot and cold climates
- Reduces fading of furnishings
Disadvantages of Double Glazing
While the benefits far outweigh any negative features, there are still a few disadvantages to be aware of when installing double-glazed windows. Listed below are some cons of double-glazed windows.
- The initial cost is more
- Can trap heat
- Cannot be repaired
- May not match homes with older architectural styles
How to Install Double-Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows can be installed in a new building construction or replaced in an existing home. For a new home, you will likely have a professional builder. However, you can hire a professional or DIY in an existing home where the windows are being replaced. It is important to remember that to work efficiently, double-glazed windows need to be installed the right way. That usually means with professional installation unless you have the skills to install windows yourself. We look at the two options for installing double-glazed windows – professional installation and DIY.
Professional Installation of Double-Glazed Windows
Having double-glazed windows professionally installed is the best way to ensure the job is carried out properly. Professional installers have years of experience installing windows and understand it is not just about putting a window in a wall. It is about thinking ahead and planning to ensure everything fits together perfectly for the ultimate noise reduction and energy efficiency results. Professional installers understand the problems that can occur when installing double-glazed windows and plan accordingly. They take into account local building regulations and codes and make sure that installation complies with every legal requirement.
At Windows For Life, this is our double-glazed window installation process.
Step One: Request a Quote
You can request a quote online via the website, by email, or over the phone. A Windows For Life professional will contact you to discuss your project and how we can assist you. They will inquire whether it’s for a new build, an existing home, or an extension. Additionally, they’ll need to know the type of current windows to be replaced and the surrounding frames. Understanding your motives for installing double glazed windows ensures you receive the best windows for your needs.
Quotes can be provided in two ways:
Site Survey: A Windows For Life professional will visit your site, showcase the product, understand your objectives and goals, and provide advice on the best windows based on this information and the house layout.
Online: With detailed information provided online, including measurements and specifications, Windows For Life can offer quotes remotely.
Step Two: Receive the Quote
After assessing your requirements, Windows For Life will prepare a detailed quote. This quote will include a breakdown of costs, specifying the price for each type of window, installation fees, and any additional services. You will also receive an estimated timeline for the project, outlining key milestones from the initial down payment to the final installation and inspection. This comprehensive quote ensures transparency and helps you understand the full scope of the project.
Step Three: Approval to Proceed
If you are satisfied with the quote and decide to proceed with the window installation, Windows For Life will provide a detailed contract outlining all specifications, drawings with the design, window type, type of opening, and colours.
Step Four: Initial Down Payment
Once the contract is signed, a part payment is required to secure the job and initiate project planning and material ordering. The Windows For Life payment structure is divided into three stages: the first before booking the job, the second before installation, and the third upon project completion.
Step Five: Installation Date
You will receive the date for your window installation. For new builds, Windows For Life will coordinate with the builder to determine the best installation time. For existing homes, the installation date will be arranged with the homeowner.
Step Six: Final Check After Installation
Once your windows are installed, a final check will be conducted. The Windows For Life team is committed to ensuring 100% satisfaction with all their windows, installations, and after-sales service.
By following these steps, Windows For Life ensures a smooth and satisfactory process for your double glazed window installation.
Pros and Cons of Professional Installation
Pros
- Eliminates potential construction problems
- Ensures warranty
- Ensures building codes and regulations are met
- Ensures legal requirements are met
- Ensures correct materials are used
- Ensures maximum noise reduction and energy efficiency
Cons
- Initial cost may be more but will save in the long run
DIY Installation of Double-Glazed Windows
If you are handy with tools and have some building or window replacement expertise, you can install double-glazed windows yourself. If you choose to install your own windows, it is important to have the right quality tools and materials at the start. The basics you will need are a drill, level, sealant, and fasteners. Ensure you have familiarised yourself with local building regulations and codes to comply with all legal requirements and learn how to measure windows, level and secure them properly.
Below is a simple step-by-step simple procedure for installing double-glazed windows yourself. Please contact an accredited window installer if you find any of these tasks difficult.
- Measure the size of the window you need. Our blog, How to Measure a Window covers everything you need to know.
- Remove the original windows. This is a difficult task and requires great skill and patience. Each window is different depending on the age of the window, materials, original installation and stability of the walls around it. Break the seal of the window frame and then remove the window frame from the wall. Be careful not to damage the plaster, brickwork and insulation of the building.
- Prepare the space for the frame. Once the frame is removed, chisel away any leftover debris. Make sure the measurements are still accurate for the new window frame.
- Fit the window into the frame. Carefully position the new window frame into the opening, using a level to ensure it is perfectly vertical and horizontal. Then secure the frame with fasteners.
- Seal the window frame. Apply the sealant around the edges of the window frame. Make sure the seal is even with enough coverage to prevent air and water leaking.
- Finishing touches. Once the window is in place, add final touches like painting or trims to the window frame.
Pros and Cons of DIY Installation
Pros
- Save money
- Personal satisfaction
Cons
- May cost money due to a lack of skill level or correct materials
- May not be as efficient due to amateur installation
- May not adhere to building codes and regulations
- May not adhere to legal requirements
- May not be eligible for warranty
Cost to Install Double-Glazed Windows
It costs, on average, $2,500 to $4,500 plus (per window or door) for double glazed windows in an existing home. This includes supply, delivery, installing the frames and glazing, and disposal of the removed windows. A new build will cost on average $1,500 to $3,500 plus (per window or door), including supply, delivery and new build install.
While these are a rough guide of pricing, each home is different, and costs depend on various factors, including window size and type and the number of windows installed. Below is the list of factors that will impact the cost of installing double-glazed windows.
- Window size. The window size you wish to install will impact the overall cost. A large window requires more glass and drying agents and will be more expensive than a smaller window.
- Window type. Some types of windows are more expensive than others and so impact the cost. A sliding window will be more costly to install than a fixed window.
- Frame material. Double-glazed windows can fit into aluminium, timber or uPVC frames, and this material will determine the cost as well. uPVC is the most cost-effective frame material for a double-glazed window and is becoming a popular choice. Aluminium is popular for commercial buildings but much more pricey than uPVC. Timber is the most expensive frame material to choose from.
- Number of windows. The more windows you need installed, the higher the cost. Some suppliers offer bulk discounts for large numbers of windows.
- Glass thickness. This directly impacts the cost as the glass thickness is one of the more expensive elements of a double-glazed window. The thicker the glass, the more money you will save on energy bills and the less noise you will hear from outside.
- Removal of existing windows (if existing windows need removal and disposal)
Installing double-glazed windows is a great way to save money and the environment. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your existing property, it is well worth looking into the benefits of double-glazing. To help you decide on the right windows, we have explained what double glazing is, examined the pros and cons, how to install double-glazed windows and reiterated the importance of professional installation. The team at Windows For Life are the experts in double-glazed windows and can answer any of your questions on installation.
