Comfort is a necessity in the place you’ve chosen to call home. And windows play a big role in helping you get maximum comfort. Choosing the right glass windows also adds to your home’s security. Over the past few decades, residential glass windows— especially insulated glass— have been a better alternative to traditional windows.
If you’re considering installing insulated glass in your home, take a look at this list of pros and cons to make an informed decision:
Pros Of Installing Insulated Glass in Your Home
Imagine a home where you can save money on energy bills, have a controlled indoor climate, and barely hear the noisy world outside. Sounds like a dream? That’s the promise of insulated glass.
Pros #1: Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Insulated glass windows bring security, safety, AND energy efficiency all in one! The double-glazed, two-paned window helps retain the heat and prevents any heat loss in winter. This helps in lowering the electricity consumption and cutting down your bills drastically. At its core, insulated glass works on the principle of thermal insulation. By trapping a layer of air or gas between two panes of glass, the unit reduces the rate at which heat is transferred. This means that during the colder months, the warmth from your heating system is less likely to escape outside. Similarly, in the summertime, the outdoor heat struggles to penetrate the interior of your home.
While the upfront costs of installing insulated glass might be higher, the long-term savings can be substantial. According to various studies, homes that switch to insulated glass windows can save between 10% to 15% on their energy bills annually. Over a decade, this can amount to thousands of dollars saved.
You can also use Low-E glass or apply a reflective coating to further limit any heat transfer.
Pros #2: Reduced Reliance on HVAC Systems
One of the hidden benefits of insulated glass is the reduced wear and tear on your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. Because insulated glass stabilizes the indoor temperature, heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. This not only saves on energy but also reduces maintenance costs and extends the lifespan of these systems.
Pros #3: Versatility
Insulated glass, often lauded for its energy efficiency, offers remarkable versatility that extends beyond temperature regulation. This adaptable material seamlessly fits into a wide array of window designs, from classic casements to contemporary styles. Its customizable nature means that users can opt for specific gas fillings like argon or krypton, or even choose tinted or low-emissivity coatings to tailor thermal properties or control sunlight. Adding to its versatility, insulated glass can be tailored with various materials and treatments. From tinted variations that reduce glare and sunlight to options integrated with blinds sandwiched between panes, its multifaceted nature is evident. Whether it’s adapting to climatic needs or specific aesthetic preferences, insulated glass showcases its dynamic utility in every facet.
Pros #4 Reduces Noise Pollution
If your neighbours are party people or you live next to a sorority/fraternity house, chances are that you’ve had many sleepless nights. Thanks to insulated residential glass, whether you choose double- or triple-paned glass windows, it helps in reducing the outside noise immensely. Insulated glass’s effectiveness in noise reduction can be quantified through a measure known as the Sound Transmission Class (STC). While standard single-pane windows have STC ratings of 26 to 28, standard double-pane insulated windows range between 28 to 35. Specialized versions, incorporating features like acoustic laminates, can achieve ratings up to 40 or even in the mid-40s for those designed specifically for high-noise areas. Essentially, every 10-point increase in STC rating roughly halves the amount of perceived noise, making insulated glass a key solution for noise reduction in urban settings. Insulated glass is also very popular in commercial glass buildings. Office buildings, car dealerships, schools and libraries can all benefit from noise reduction by installing insulated glass.
Cons of Installing Insulated Glass
Cons #1: High Initial Installing Cost
Installing insulated glass windows is more expensive than the regular types of windows, making their installation prices higher as well! For homeowners on a tight budget, this initial expense can be a deterrent.
Cons #2: Weight
Insulated glass is heavier than single-pane glass. This can require sturdier frame materials and could potentially lead to higher costs or difficulties during installation, especially in older homes not designed for such weight.
Cons #3: Irreparable Upon Damage
If the insulated double-glazed glass window is damaged somehow, it can’t be repaired. The broken glass unit must be reinstalled or replaced with a new unit. Don’t worry, though! You can always rely on our 24-hour emergency residential glass services.
Installing insulated glass in Edmonton for your home? You are at the right place!
Our team of experts is trained and experienced in handling any glass service for your office, home, or automobile. In addition to commercial glass repair, we also offer affordable windshield repair and residential glass repair to our clients.
You can learn more about us and the services we offer here on our website, or you can call us now at 780 310-4527. You can also send in your queries via text at (780) 652-1296.
