5 Common Myths about double glazing Installation
Since being introduced over 50 years ago, double glazing has become a must have for all UK homeowners and is now installed din the vast majority of homes and commercial buildings across the nation.
Despite being so common, many people still hold a number of misconceptions about double glazing that could be preventing them from saving a significant amount of money and dramatically improving the energy efficiency of their homes.
If you are unsure about whether installing double glazed windows are the best choice for you, are considering upgrading your existing windows, or have heard about triple glazing and are wondering if there is any point investing in this additional upgrade, you have come to the right place.
We are one of the leading providers of double glazing in Edinburgh and have put together a list of the common myths and misconceptions that we hear about double glazing on a daily basis from customers out in the field.
This guide will hopefully help to debunk some of the concerns that you may have about double glazing installation and put you in a much stronger position to make decisions regarding new window installation.
Myth 1 – Double glazed windows don’t work on period properties
Many owners of older-style and period properties often put off the installation of modern double glazing as they are worried that it won’t fit in with the aesthetic of the rest of their home.
However, double glazing now comes in any number of different shapes, styles, and designs with both uPVC and timber frames available from all good double glazing installation companies. Timber framed double glazing, or even uPVC frames finished in a wood effect style, will look fantastic on your period home especially when you choose a classic design such as sash or French windows that complement the style and age of the property.
Myth 2 – Double Glazed windows don’t need to be replaced
As we mentioned above, double glazing has been around for many a decade at this point, and just because your windows are double glazed does not mean that there is no benefit to replacing them with new double glazed or even triple glazed units.
Not only are modern windows fitted with a range of additional features such as an energy saving coating and thermos-spacer bars, but there is also a good chance that your existing windows performance has declined significantly over time. The smallest of gaps or cracks in the frame of the window, for example, can allow heat to escape during the winter months and make it much more costly to keep your property warm. A leak in the window itself or the seal between frame and glass pane can also allow the argon gas filling that is so integral to the performance of double glazed windows to escape, making it much easier for cold and warm air to travel from one side to the other.
Whilst upgrading from single to double glazed glass certainly brings the biggest jump in energy efficiency, replacing poorly performing double glazing with more modern units can also be hugely beneficial and a fantastic financial investment.
Myth 3 – uPVC is bad for the environment
In a world where we are all keen to do our bit to protect the environment, replacing windows with long-lasting plastic can seem a rather backwards step. However, the uPVC used in our windows can be fully recycled once it comes to the end of its natural lifespan, usually a good 25 years or more after installation. Furthermore, the amount of energy that you save by installing new double glazing will dramatically reduce your own personal carbon footprint and is widely thought of as one of the biggest steps that an individual can take to helping reduce their impact on the environment.
Myth 4 – Triple glazing is unnecessary and expensive
With modern double glazing being so energy efficient, it is easy to see why some homeowners see the additional upgrade to triple glazing as an unnecessary additional expense.
However, whilst it is certainly true that the gap between double and triple glazing in terms of boosting energy efficiency is slimmer than the jump from single to double, if you are looking to maximise your energy efficiency it is certainly worth considering this additional upgrade.
Myth 5 – Double glazing installation is disruptive
This depends entirely on the installer, but there is absolutely no need for double glazing installation to do any damage to the exterior of your property. A qualified and professional window installer will have your windows out, and a new one in place, without damaging the wall surrounding the frame and can usually complete the entire job in a couple of days. Make sure to choose a respected local Edinburgh window installer for the best chance of a painless and fast job.