Double glazed windows are an enormous advancement in modern window technology. They offer a number of advantages for homeowners - from making your homes more comfortable and convenient, to saving you a ton of money on heating bills in the long run.
But what about triple, or even quadruple glazed windows? Yes, these exist – though often the layman is unaware of them. Today, we tackle the science behind glazing and discuss the differences of a double, triple, and quadruple glazing, and the reasons why you might consider each kind.
Let’s start off with the most basic option – double glazing. Double glazing in New Zealand is the optimal choice for our general climates, although that can vary from region to region. The way they work is fairly simple: glaziers construct a double-glazed window by placing two panes of glass – of which there are various kinds – into a single frame. The gap between these two panes is then filled with air - or an insulating gas, like argon - in order to prevent drafts, and the direct transfer of heat through the window.
Double-glazed windows are great at keeping your home comfortable, no matter the weather. They help keep your home warm during the winter, and cool in the summer, because heat on either side of the glass has to work much harder to move through all of the layers. Two panes of glass per window cut your heat loss by half in winter, and prevent twice as much heat from entering your home in the summer. It’s an all-around great way to balance out your home’s internal environment. Double glazed windows can also play the role of reducing noise, improving security, and replacing thermal drapes. On top of all of that, they also provide easy maintenance.
A triple glazed window, on the other hand, contains not just two but three layers of glass, also separated by air gaps to provide high levels of heat retention. They are equipped with high insulation performance and have been a popular choice for homeowners in colder climates.
Also offering an extensive array of benefits, triple glazed windows are one of the best options for homeowners who experience extreme weather. These windows are resistant to condensation and reduce sound transmission even more than their double-layered counterparts, and the three layers of glass provide greater security.
Quadruple-glazed windows have become an increasing trend, especially in Nordic countries where the temperature is significantly colder than most other countries. These ultra-insulated window systems are easy products to sell, as they are generally only sought-after in climates that more closely resemble Antarctica than Malibu.
So, you may be wondering which of these options to pick – they all seem to do a fantastic job! Though all have great benefits to keeping your homes warm during winter and cool during summer, there are two main things to consider when making your choice: weight, and your climate. Increasing the degree of your window glazing inherently means more window panes, making each individual window heavier with the additions. This makes them potentially more difficult to build for, and install.
You also have to consider the climate. Triple and quadruple-glazed windows are typically more expensive, and may constitute an over-investment if you live in warmer climes. However, if your weather resembles the Arctic, then triple or quadruple-glazed windows may be right for you.
Replacing everything all at once can be a little bit daunting, and we certainly don’t blame you. Talk to us about your options around retrofit double glazing, which can alter your existing windows, thus saving you both money and hassle. Atlas Glass can provide glazing design choices that are ideal for your home. We specialise in retrofit double glazing for timber joinery, upgrading your windows for a more comfortable and convenient lifestyle. Get in touch today!
There’s a good reason why designers and homeowners look closely at window design. The stylistic elements you choose and how you dress your windows sets the tone of your home, and your choice of window is ultimately complemented by what you place around it. Though often underestimated in its impact, how you dress your windows can ultimately change the overall atmosphere of an entire room.
Whether you choose to have blinds, curtains, shutters, or valances adorning these features, your choice will have many practical implications as well. Internal window coverings can ensure privacy, as well as dramatically improving the temperature within your home. And if you choose with care, they can help keep you and your family comfortable for years. Let’s look into how you can find the right window treatments, tackle the benefits of each, and understand how they can be ideal for your own home.
Window dressings are not just meant to be aesthetically pleasing. They serve a variety of purposes including securing privacy, controlling light and glare, buffering sound, and retaining and reducing heat. Primarily, you should be able to determine your goals before committing to any kind of window dressing. Remember to take into account the many different factors that may contribute to your decision, as they should coincide with the general purpose of your windows. For example, when you want to minimise heat gain during the summer, you may have opted for the double glazing approach, and you could supplement those benefits with curtains or blinds that block heat. You also have to consider the size of your windows, the space of your room, and what specific issues you want to deal with when you research possible window treatments.
Now comes the exciting part! Once you’ve determined your goals, you now at least have an idea what kind of window treatment or dressing will fulfil your goals, serves a specific purpose in your home, and also meets your design preferences.
Heavy curtains are perfect for thermal performance and are a great option to block out light. They are perfect for homes that have large floor space, and where there is enough allowance to mount the tracks. Curtains with enclosed pelmet at the top prevent airflow from the room down behind the curtain, which allows great thermal retention.
Blinds, on the other hand, are a good option for smaller and narrower windows where there isn’t really room for curtains. The secret to the maximum effectiveness of all type of blinds is fitting them snugly and securely within the window reveal. Blinds provide versatility, and are good for privacy. With blinds, you always have the option to see through your windows, or get the privacy you need on demand. Blinds are also very good insulators and are clean and contemporary in design. They can easily match with the interior decor in your home.
Interior shutters with adjustable blades are also great for providing privacy as well as blocking out light. They are convenient to use, as you can control the amount of light you let it. This way, you can regulate the UV rays and sunlight entering your home. Letting in less light can also preserve your floors, walls, and furniture.
There are numerous types of material or fabric for every window dressing. Durability is also an important consideration, so think about materials which can last you for many years, such as natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Though window dressings are not as exposed as external windows, they still need to be durable to withstand strong sunlight.
Another important consideration is making sure your window treatment is easy to use and that it is suitable for your room. Imagine using a pull-down blind that gets in the way of a door, now we wouldn’t want that would we? It’s all about choosing the right window treatment that will match your space, room size, and overall room vibe.
You can only achieve transformative window treatments when you start with a solid window design. Atlas Glass works with a team of excellent Auckland glaziers who can provide a complete range of window and mirror services to help you make the most out of your home’s windows. Our products and services can improve security, thermal performance, and the overall look of your windows. Call us to learn more about how we can transform your home.
Window design often remains disregarded when building one’s home. However, taking special consideration when choosing your window treatments can really add value and sophistication to your home, and even the quality of your life. Choosing the right kind of windows up front offers numerous benefits for you and your family, and today we go through some of the ideal options you can look into when you’re choosing a suitable window design.
Window designs that allow natural light in are always a plus. Well-lit rooms automatically create a warm and inviting atmosphere and reduce the need to use artificial lighting. Wall windows are great because they give you and your guests an expanded view of the environment, and allows the most sunlight in.
UV-inhibiting windows are a great option for maximizing large or wall windows that allow natural light in, as they prevent harmful ultraviolet radiation from entering your home, while still promoting stunning natural light and views.
As any experienced Auckland glazier will tell you, room temperature is a critical factor in any home, and your windows can have a significant effect on how well the house retains heat. Choose the appropriate design for your locale – the right glass will have a significant contribution to your home’s temperature. Double glazed windows can increase a room’s comfort levels as it can make your rooms warmer during winter and cooler in summer, and triple or quadruple-paned windows only maximise this effect.
Just because you’re living indoors does not mean that you have to be entirely disconnected from the beauty of the outside world. Windows are our portals to the views and light that suffuse the outdoors, and our eyes are naturally drawn to what’s on display, which in turn makes your room feel larger and more inviting.
It’s important to consider what particular window design and window placement will maximise the lovely scenery of the outside. Wall windows enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor, as they create an instant backdrop. This connection improves comfort and calmness, and can affect your overall mood on a day-to-day basis.
The specific function of each room of the house is an important factor when it comes to choosing the window design. Different rooms will require windows that suit their specific needs. For example, kitchens can make the most from double-hung windows when they get a little too stuffy from cooking, as double-hung windows allow the hot air to escape out of the top, and cooler air to enter through the bottom.
Double hung windows are also great to use in kids’ rooms, as the design prioritises safety. The top of the window can be lowered for ventilation, and the bottom half can be left closed.
Always choose to work with professionals to get the best quality windows that are a good fit for you and your home. Here at Atlas Glass we pride ourselves on giving you windows that will improve your quality of life. From retrofit double glazing, to timber joinery glazing, Atlas makes it all possible. We provide glazing for a number of timber joiners throughout Auckland, and are proficient in all of the latest methods. Give us a call today!
Modern glass that allow natural light into your home has significant benefits. Wouldn’t you agree that there is no better feeling than waking up in a room lit with sunlight? Just imagine how nice it would be to sit back in a warm and sunny spot in the living room in your favourite chair, gazing over your garden.
Professional architects, designers, and even researchers will tell you that, despite all of the advances in design techniques and technology, sunlight or natural lighting remains the best option to give life to any room. It creates a welcoming and warm atmosphere for your home. Today, we’ll talk about how natural light can turn your home into a sanctuary, and discuss how it improves not just your space, and but also your health!
A huge benefit, and not just for you, but for the environment as well. You can save up to 20-60% of energy when you maximise natural lighting for your home. Instead of turning on the heater, the warmth of the sun can work as a natural heat source. This can significantly reduce your costs in utility bills, saving you a lot of money on home maintenance costs.
Your home’s window design plays a significant role in reducing energy usage at night as well as during the day. With the proper thermal coating and insulation throughout your home, your walls and floors will absorb the infrared radiation from the sun throughout the day, then slowly release it in the cooler nighttime hours. This reduces your overall energy bill by a significant amount.
Utilising natural light also improves the aesthetic of your overall space. A well-lit room adds beauty to a space because everything looks better when everything is illuminated! Auckland glaziers and designers recommend the use of large windows that allow natural light to come through to make spaces appear larger, cleaner, and more appealing, thereby increasing the value of your home.
When your homes are well lit, energy-efficient, and have additional features such as patio enclosures and sunrooms, you increase your home’s desirability levels. Therefore, you also increase the overall value of your home.
Natural light is something our bodies and minds naturally need. Studies show that the use of natural light in homes and in workspaces help you become more productive, and can enhance your concentration levels. It also improves one’s mood as natural light can make you feel happier and calmer. Research shows that when exposed to natural light for a healthy amount of time, it can prevent mood disorders and alleviate depression. Create a calm and peaceful sanctuary for you and your family to return to by taking this into consideration.
An essential vitamin for all people, you can actually get it free from sunlight. Vitamin D has numerous benefits including strengthening your immune system and improving your brain function. With the rise of technology and indoor entertainment, it’s important to combat vitamin-D deficiencies proactively; large and well-placed windows is one such way that you can accomplish that goal.
Sunlight also reduces the amount of mildew and mould growth in your homes. It helps to evaporate any accumulated damp, and it kills the bacteria hiding in any dark or damp corners, making your space healthy and clean for you and your family.
If you’re building a new home or upgrading your windows, Atlas Glass can help you choose and install the most ideal window option for your home. Our professional glaziers can assist you throughout the whole process – from supplying the products, all the way to installation. We provide glass products and quality installation services that will surely make your space beautiful, safe, and comforting. Let us pour some light into your home! Contact us and get a free quote!
