You might be surprised to hear that there are an array of choices at your disposal when choosing a particular type of glass for your new double glazed windows.
That’s right, from tempered or self-cleaning, to coated or laminated, there is much to consider, and you’ll want all of the necessary information in order to make an informed decision.
That’s where we come in. Our blog page has been home to some hugely informational subjects of late, such as single glazing vs double glazing explained.
This time, it is the battle of the glasses. Allow us to explain the benefits of each type of glass, and why a particular one may best suit you.
Annealed Glass
As the least expensive option, annealed (or float) glass is a popular choice. It’s been in use for generations, so who are we to knock its quality? Although not as tough as tempered glass, a double glazed annealed pane remains extremely difficult to break. However, when it does, it shatters into large and dangerous shards. This can of course prove to be extremely dangerous.
Tempered Glass
Tempered (or toughened) glass is far stronger than annealed glass, given that it is processed through a thermal treatment. It is designed to safely crumble, as opposed to shattering, making it a much safer option. At around 3 to 4 times tougher than float glass, it is easy to see why tempered has become so popular in recent times. It is more expensive, but you are paying for quality.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is the choice for safety and security. Two or more layers of glass are fused together with cast resin or polyvinyl butyal laminate. If the glass here ever breaks, it remains stuck to the laminate. Laminated glass is very popular in shops, as its toughness can help to prevent theft. They don’t call it ‘safety glass’ for nothing.
Self-cleaning Glass
Invented in 2001, self-cleaning glass is handy because, well it cleans itself. A layer of titanium dioxide on the outside of the pane helps to break down any gathered dirt. When the sun shines on the surface, it reacts with moisture to form hydroxyl radicals. From there, water droplets fall on the glass and spread, washing off the dirt. Brilliant, isn’t it?
Noise Control Glass
Which glass is best for double glazing if you live near an airport, motorway, a busy road or maybe have a recording studio in your house? The answer is pretty self-explanatory. You’re going to want to invest in some noise control glass. Standard double glazing reduces the amount of noise you hear by up to 75%, but even that might not be enough in a particularly noisy environment. The glass has acoustic inner-layers of polyvinyl butyal, that absorbs sound. This means that very little outside noise makes its way into your home. Depending on the severity of the noise surrounding your home, different thickness of noise control glass can be used.
Coated Glass
Also known as low E glass, coated glass is ideal for allowing natural light into your property. This is particularly handy if you live in an open area with potential for plenty of sunlight to reach your rooms. The beauty of coated glass is that it controls the natural light. It contains a metallic or tinted coating that filters the sunlight before allowing it in. Illumination without the blinding glare? It’s the perfect combination. Not only does coated glass reduce the risk of skin cancer, it also protects your furniture and carpets from long-term damage.
Fire Protection Glass
Designed to provide a much greater protection from fire than other types of glass, fire protection glass is able to survive high temperatures and close proximity to flames from between half an hour and two hours. This added time gives you a chance to escape potential fires, as well as allowing the fire service more time to reach you. Standard glass breaks at around 260°C, while fire protection glass is able to withstand temperatures of up to 871°C. That is quite a difference, and one that could save lives.
Decoration Glass
Coming in many different colours, textures and designs, decoration glass is the type of glass you see in homes where metal patterns are attached to the outside of the window pain, or even between two panes. Naturally, such designs look fantastic, and can be altered to suit personal taste. As you would expect, decoration glass comes at a cost. Please take into account that decoration glass isn’t ideal for areas where you would require visibility.
If you are looking into the possibility of replacing your double glazed windows in the near future, please do so with the above in mind.
One thing is for certain, you’ll want to think twice before committing to single glazed windows. Take a look at our blog that explains the difference between single glazing and double glazing.
There may be a number of glass designs that fit your requirements, so how do you choose the perfect one?
Our advice is to create a checklist of what is most important to you about your new double glazed windows. If it is security, laminated or tempered glass is your best bet. If you live in a busy area, you may want to invest in some noise control glass. If affordability is a factor, standard annealed glass has been fit for purpose for years.
Create your checklist of priorities, and then contact the team at Maghull Double Glazing. Our team of experts would be more than happy to answer your questions as you bid to fit the perfect windows for your property.
Get in touch with us today on 0151 526 8200 or email us on info@maghulldoubleglazing.co.uk.