Double glazing
Double glazing creates an insulating gap between two panes of glass. This is filled with air or an inert gas and can significantly reduce the heat flow without affecting the light levels.
Indeed, some types of double glazing can halve the heat lost or gained through windows.
The gap between the two panes of glass is usually 6–18mm. Wider cavities provide a lower U-value which improves the insulation value of the window. A gap of 12mm is the preferred option.[1]
In addition to reducing your heating and cooling costs, double glazing can insulate against outside noise when the correct double glazing unit is selected. Using double glazing with different interior and exterior pane widths can also increase the noise insulation potential of the windows. For more information, contact the AWA, or your chosen window company.
When it comes to double glazing though, it pays to get a variety of quotes from different parties as it can be quite expensive. Don’t accept the first price that comes along.
Buying Australian-made or importing it?
To cut costs, some people have resorted to importing double glazing directly from manufacturers in China. If you go this route, be aware that the glass needs to meet Australian standards. You also need to ensure that you don’t run into warranty problems if your glass is broken in transit.
If you want to buy double glazing that is made in Australia, then ask if the manufacturer or supplier is a member of IGMA (Insulating Glass Manufacturers Affiliation). IGMA represents Australian manufacturers of double glazing and all its members supply insulating glass products that are compliant with standard AS/NZS4666.
For a full list of IGMA members, visit: EnergyCut.info/igma-members
Gray’s Bakery, VIC
Gray’s Bakery has increased the insulation of their building by installing coolroom panelling. This is keeping the bakery warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
They have also fitted clouded double glazed windows and doors to capture the sun and light during the winter months.
According to owner Janine Gray, this is reducing the demands on heating and lighting at this busy cafe and bakery in regional Victoria.[2]