When multiple glass panes are fitted in a single unit this system is called insulated glazing or double glazed unit. They are used for heat and sound insulation with the help of the generally inert gas between the two glass layers. The inert gas does not conduct heat and sound waves so insulation is maintained. The importance of this system is that they are still transparent systems and this makes them convenient to use in windows or ther glass surfaces.

The maximum insulating efficiency is determined by the thickness of the space between the glass units, i.e. the space containing the gas. If the space is too small then heat loss by radiation may be experienced. If the space is too large this time heat loss due to travelling of gas within the gap can be seen. The gap should be normally between 12 mm and 20 mm.

The cost of having single layer glasses in windows or glass doors can be as high as 25% extra heating cost. This means that you may be wasting one fourth of the fuel you buy just because it is transferred to the cold air outside through your glass exits such as windows and doors. The larger the area of the surfaces, naturally, the larger will be the loss.

A house with single layered glasses will also have a poor BER rating which is a labelling system for your house’s energy efficiency. All energy related elements in a house is taken into consideration while BERs are prepared. If you are spending more fuel than you need due to poor insulated walls, roofs, windows and doors this will cause a reduction in your BER report.


Glazed windows are not only required for heating purposes. Heat exchange due to radiation occurs also in summer but this time in the opposite direction. In other words, when you cool your house the hot air outside will start heating the cool air inside your house. And this will cause your spending more electricity to keep your house at a desired temperature level. The rates for winter are valid for summer months as well, i.e. with single layer glasses you will need 25% more electricity to cool your house.

Making a simple change in your glass exits will help you gain back the amount you lose due to poor insulation. Without a good insulated house all the changes you make in your house for being more energy efficient will be useless to some extent. You will definitely loose what you produced, hot air or cool air.


Double glazed windows also come with modern and stylish frames, they provide higher safety, acoustic insulation and you can use attractive glasses of your choice. Moreover, they are extremely easy to install.


If you need assistance from beginning to the end of your new glass insulation job you can contact us here.

Author's Bio: 

Sam Braidley is a author who writes on topics centered around green technology, for more information please visit his website. http://www.greentech.ie