With winter right around the corner, it’s time to get your home ready by improving its insulation.
One of the best upgrades you can make is investing in double-glazed windows. Installing double paned windows can increase your home’s value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Let’s look at why double glazing is a smart choice in 2023 and how secondary glazing provides a budget-friendly alternative.
How Double Glazing Adds Value
Double glazing, also known as double pane windows, has two panes of glass separated by a gap filled with air or gas.
This construction provides better insulation than single-pane windows, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Reduced energy bills – The extra layer of insulation minimizes heat transfer, reducing demands on your heating and cooling system. You’ll save money each month on utilities.
- Noise reduction – The air gap between the glass panes acts as a buffer against outside noise from traffic, neighbors, etc. This allows for quieter and more peaceful indoor spaces.
- Increased comfort – By preventing drafts and temperature fluctuations, double glazing creates more consistent and comfortable indoor temperatures year-round.
- Improved durability – Double-paned windows last significantly longer than single panes before needing replacement. The extra pane protects against exterior wear and tear.
- Higher resale value – Energy-efficient updates like double-glazing windows appeal to home buyers. It can increase your home’s value by as much as 8%, according to the US National Association of Realtors.
With lower energy costs, better noise blocking, and reduced condensation, double glazing pays for itself over time through added comfort and savings.
These perks are why double paned windows are included in over 90% of new US homes constructed.
Double Glazing In 2023
Looking ahead, double glazing will continue to be a smart investment in 2023. Energy costs are expected to rise across the US by as much as 23% this winter.
Upgrading to double-pane windows can help offset these increased costs. Their noise reduction abilities also appeal to buyers as more people work from home.
2023 is a great time to upgrade your existing single-pane windows to double glazing.
As an important energy efficiency improvement, the upgrade can qualify for renewable energy tax credits of up to $500 per window. Supplies and labor shortages due to Covid are finally easing up as well.
What To Look For
When choosing new double-pane windows, look for the following features:
- Frame material – Vinyl or fiberglass frames insulate better than metal or wood. Composite materials are also durable and low-maintenance.
- Glass coating – Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings maximize insulation by preventing UV light from entering while trapping heat inside.
- Gas fills – Windows filled with argon or krypton gas insulate better than plain air-filled units. This does come at a higher cost, however.
- U-factor – This measures heat conductivity. The lower the U-factor, the better the window insulates. Look for U-factors between 0.20 and 0.30.
- Warranty – Look for at least 10 years of coverage on glass seal failure. 20 years is ideal.
The optimal double glazing system will keep your home comfortable in any season while adding value and beauty through energy savings and noise reduction.
Secondary Glazing – Budget-Friendly Alternative
If your budget doesn’t allow for brand-new double-glazed windows, consider secondary glazing as an affordable compromise.
Secondary glazing refers to installing a second layer of glazing over your existing windows.
Acrylic or glass panels are mounted on the interior or exterior of current windows.
There are also magnetic sheets that stick directly to the window itself. This creates an extra air gap for better insulation against cold outdoor temperatures.
Some of the benefits of secondary glazing include:
- Lower cost – Secondary glazing retrofits run about 25-50% of the price of new double-pane window installations.
- Quick installation – Retrofit films and acrylic sheets can be installed in a matter of hours without replacing entire windows.
- Renters can use – Renters can upgrade with secondary glazing while avoiding permanent modifications.
- Some energy savings – While not as efficient as true double glazing, secondary films and sheets can reduce heat loss by 25-50%.
- Noise reduction – The pliable films dampen outside noises nearly as effectively as double-paned glass.
Before installing secondary glazing, check that window frames are in good shape without rot or leaks.
Measure carefully and look for retrofitting products that can create an airtight seal around the entire window to maximize efficiency.
While not a perfect substitute, secondary glazing is an inexpensive way to gain some of the benefits of true double-glazed windows.
With creative budgeting and upgrades over time, you can increase the value of your home while reducing energy costs. Consult local window specialists to determine the best solution for your home.
