Double Glazing Versus Single Glazing: What are the Differences?

Leaded Glass Window

Double Glazing Versus Single Glazing: What are the Differences?

June 21, 2022
Windows serve a very real functional purpose within the home. Not only do they allow in ample amounts of light and fresh air, but they contribute to the overall ambience of your property. There are many advancements which have taken place over the years. Some serve purely aesthetic purposes. Others include the use of cutting-edge materials such as uPVC. However, it can be argued that the most important innovation involves the presence of double glazing. First and foremost, how are double-glazed windows different than traditional designs? What benefits can be enjoyed when upgrading your existing windows to a double-glazed variant? Let’s take a look at the science behind double glazing before comparing these two options.

How do Double-Glazed Windows Function?

The name “double glazing” essentially describes the design of this type of window. Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass. A thin layer of air (mostly a vacuum) is trapped in between these two separate layers. The panes themselves are held in place by the frame and naturally, there are a nearly limitless number of styles to choose from. Notwithstanding this unique design feature, double-glazed windows appear nearly identical to their single-glazed counterparts. The main difference lies within the efficiency of each type. So, why are double-glazed windows in such high demand and what are some of the reasons why customers are choosing to make an upgrade?

Double Glazing vs Secondary Glass: What are the Differences?

As you might have already guessed, single-glazed windows contain only one pane of glass. This is important for one main reason. Windows tend to lose a great deal of heat. If you have noticed extremely high energy bills, the chances are high that outdated windows are the culprit. The main reason why double-glazed windows are much more thermally efficient involves a rather surprising substance element.
Leaded Glass Window
Air and vacuums are actually excellent insulators. This is why winter jackets made of down are so warm. The air trapped within the fabric helps to retain body heat while preventing colder temperatures from penetrating within. This is the very same principle associated with double-glazed windows. The small vacuum between the two panes effectively blocks heat from escaping your home. Thus, not as much energy is required to maintain the interior at an agreeable temperature. Let us also point out that insulation goes both ways. While heat will be retained during the winter months, cooler air can be trapped within the home when the temperatures outside begin to rise.
Sometimes you are required to have obscure glass fitted as part of UK planning rules. Windows that overlook a neighbour at tSingle glazing (sometimes referred to as “secondary glass”) is a very poor insulator of heat. This is why you might have noticed a buildup of moisture or condensation on the panes when there is a significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior environments. This is one of the leading causes of high energy consumption and exorbitant monthly statements. So, upgrading is an excellent idea.he side, for example, must have glass that isn’t transparent to protect their privacy. This could apply to upstairs or downstairs windows, each case is different. Even if you don’t need planning permission for the work you’re having done, you must still abide by the rules otherwise you could be forced to change things at an added expense.

The Acoustic Properties Associated with Double Glazed Windows

You might also be surprised to learn that double-glazed windows offer superior acoustic insulation. The very same vacuum which was mentioned above helps to block sound waves from entering (or existing) your home. Not only is this great in terms of privacy, but it can work wonders if you happen to live within a loud urban centre or near a busy motorway. Single-glazed configurations offer essentially no acoustic benefits.

Putting it All Together: Double Glazing vs Secondary Glass

The benefits associated with double-glazed windows should now be quite clear. If you currently own single-glazed models, it is a good idea to consider an upgrade in the near future. You will be able to save a great deal on energy costs and over time, the windows will literally pay for themselves. If you would like to learn more about the styles and designs offered at Generation Windows.
Give us a call today on 020 3962 0211 !

What Causes Condensation on Windows?

Cleaning condensate on a plasic framed window

What Causes Condensation on Windows?

June 21, 2022
Have you noticed a film of moisture on the interior or exterior of your windows from time to time? Not only can this be slightly annoying due to the fact that you might be required to wipe this water away, but the fact of the matter is that condensation on window elements can damage the frame and nearby materials. Furthermore, this level of humidity is the perfect breeding ground for mould; not a nice situation if children are present or if anyone in the home suffers from a respiratory condition. In order to get to the root of the issue, it is important to take a look at some of the most common reasons why this situation is present within certain households. By determining what causes condensation on windows, it will be much easier to encounter the appropriate solution.
Cleaning condensate on a plasic framed window

The Scientific Principle Behind Condensation

What causes condensation on windows? The simplest answer involves a stark difference in the air temperature of two different environments (such as the interior and the exterior). When warmer air that is saturated with moisture comes into contact with a cold surface, this moisture is “pulled” from the environment; causing small drops of water to form on any surface between these two temperature ranges. This is why we often witness condensation on windows during the colder months of the year, as the temperature inside of your home is markedly warmer than the outside. Still, there are other factors which come into play.

Surprising Issues to Address

As we pointed out in the last paragraph, there are two main factors associated with condensation:
  • A temperature variation between two different locations.
  • Humidity within the air.
It, therefore, stands to reason that extremely dry homes will normally not be associated with high levels of window condensation; even if the temperature differences are extreme. However, this is rarely the case. The majority of homes have a relatively high moisture content due to seemingly innocuous activities such as cooking, washing up, showering, and even breathing. This is why it is important to appreciate some of the steps that can be taken in order to deal with condensation before it evolves into a major issue.

Targeted Condensation Solutions: Simple and Highly Effective

One of the most common recommendations is to increase the air circulation throughout your home. This can be accomplished through the use of extractor fans (such as those found within a kitchen), HVAC systems or even opening up a handful of windows for a few minutes at a time. A well-ventilated home is much less likely to suffer from condensation issues. This is particularly useful when performing activities that would otherwise cause the interior humidity levels to rise.
Another extremely effective option is to consider double-glazed windows if your current models consist of only a single layer. Double-glazed windows employ two panes of glass separated by a small vacuum. This vacuum acts as an insulator; effectively nullifying the temperature differences that might otherwise cause condensation to form on the surface. Arctic jackets actually utilise the same principle, as air is a surprisingly effective thermal insulator. If the windows in your home are more than 30 years old, the chances are high that you could benefit from an upgrade.

Keys to Identifying the Root Cause

Diagnosing this problem will also involve understanding where the condensation is forming and why. For instance, condensation that is seen on the inside of the glass signals that the window surface is too low to maintain the water content in the nearby air. Thus, the moisture is pulled out and adheres to the pane. In this case, try to ventilate the area properly and increase the interior temperature (when practical). However, condensation on the exterior of your windows is normally nothing to worry about.
If you notice that condensation has formed between the panes of a double-glazed window, it is probable that the airtight seal has somehow been compromised. This will normally require a professional inspection in order to determine whether the glass needs to be replaced or the seal itself can be repaired. Still, putting such a task off will only exacerbate the problem from a long-term point of view.

Stopping Condensation in its Tracks

If you happen to notice that one or more windows is suffering from condensation on a regular basis, the chances are high that a bit of intervention will be required. Understanding some of the situations which can cause condensation is the first step towards discovering a viable and cost-effective solution.
If you suspect that your windows may need replacing and the installation of double glazing would be beneficial, give us a call today on 020 3962 0211!

Our Guide to Obscure Glazing

obscure-glazing 1

Our Guide to Obscure Glazing

June 20, 2022
Obscure glazing is one of the many options that you can choose when designing your new windows and doors. Obscure glass alters the way a fixture looks from outside and inside, and by using it, you can create a style that’s unique to your property. There’s a wide selection of patterned, textured and etched glass to choose from and they each offer something a little different. We have put together a useful guide to obscure glass, to help you to make the right decision for your needs.

What is Obscure Glass?

Simply put, it’s glass that is not perfectly transparent. There is a certain amount of reduced visibility with obscure glazing. The image on the other side of the glass appears distorted to a degree. Obscure glass is created in a number of ways – one way adds a texture or pattern to the glass, and another way is to etch a design on the glass using an acid or sandblasting method. Frosted glass is another name used for glass that has an etched design.

Can I Choose the Level of Obscurity?

There are different levels of obscurity available, these are numbered 1 to 5. Level 1 glazing is very light and is almost transparent. Some details are lost when viewed through a level 1 pane but you can easily identify what the item is. A level 5 glass pane is not very easy to see through and you would have difficulty making out what an object behind this glass is. Level 4 is perhaps the most commonly used level around but all levels have their uses.
obscure-glazing 1

When is Obscure Glass Used?

Obscure glazing has many uses. It’s commonly used in bathroom, shower room and toilet windows to provide some privacy. If you have a window in the hallway or in the cupboard under the stairs, it’s nice to use obscure glass to keep the area hidden from view. Businesses often install frosted and etched glass to prevent passers-by from seeing straight into their offices or store rooms. Commercial buildings can also make use of bespoke etched glass, created with the business name or address in the design. Front, back and side doors look elegant with textured glass or etched panels. Glass that is not transparent is also a great security feature as would-be burglars can’t see into your property to tell if someone is home.
Sometimes you are required to have obscure glass fitted as part of UK planning rules. Windows that overlook a neighbour at the side, for example, must have glass that isn’t transparent to protect their privacy. This could apply to upstairs or downstairs windows, each case is different. Even if you don’t need planning permission for the work you’re having done, you must still abide by the rules otherwise you could be forced to change things at an added expense.
Obscure glass can also be used to control the amount of light in an area if it’s an issue. With a pattern or texture on the glass, light entering a room is reduced somewhat. This feature can help if you have a space that gets too much sunlight. Perhaps an area where you work all day and the light is dazzling.

Different Obscure Glass Patterns For Double Glazing.

You can choose the style of obscure glass to suit your property and personal style. From traditional patterns to modern obscure glass, there’s a full range to consider. Satin obscure glass has classic good looks and it goes particularly well with a contemporary style home. If you’re a fan of the vintage look, there are obscure glass patterns that have a hint of the 60s in them. To bring a little of the natural world inside there are floral patterns and leaf designs available. For textured glass, pick from dots, lines and swirls in a 3D pattern that’s easy to clean. Etched glass has designs created using frosted and transparent patterns. Choose from geometric shapes for a modern look or antique patterns for period homes. In fact there is so much choice, it’s hard to pick just one style of obscure glazing.

Is Modern Obscure Glass Right For My Home?

If you’re changing your windows, there’s a lot to consider. There’s the style, the openings, the colour and whether to go for uPVC, aluminium or timber to think about. Obscure glass will add a certain look to your home, but to make sure you’re making the right choice, speak to the experts here at Generation Windows. Our team can guide you through the different options to help you make the best choice for your home.
Give us a call today on 020 3962 0211 !