When someone says they are comparing double glazed sash windows to single glazed windows they probably mean they really want to get double glazed windows. Everybody they know either has or wants double glazed windows.
What’s really happening is the the person who appears to be comparing is really trying to decide if he should take the leap and install the windows he really wants. It’s not like he has to compare one pane of glass to two. One is one less than two.
Is it possible that people are trying to compare cost effectiveness? That makes a lot of sense. Installing double glazed windows costs money. It costs more than installing single panes.
Homeowners find that double glazed windows will save them significant amounts of money on their utility bills. A large percentage of heat loss from a house happens through windows. In summer heat comes in and undermines the efforts of AC units. And in the winter heat leaks out.
Historically people have tried to minimize heat transfer by using heavy draperies. They help but while they keep in some heat they keep out light. That means increased lighting costs.
Double glazed windows are essentially two panes of glass with a space in between filled with gas or air. The space provides insulation. Instead of traveling through just one pane of glass the heat has to travel through that space which doesn’t conduct heat well at all in addition to two panes of glass. And then the whole unit is sealed to prevent leakage. People usually notice a savings on their first heating bill soon after double glazed windows are installed.
People who are trying to decide whether to install double or single glazed windows should consider whether the amount they will save on their heating bills will make enough of a difference to pay for the higher initial cost. They should also take into account the increased comfort they will experience. They will also notice decreased noise levels as insulated windows minimize sound as well as heat transfer.
Will double glazed windows increase the resale value of your home? They might. Green is good and a lot of buyers will be looking for ways to decrease their carbon footprint as well as to save money on utilities.
On the other hand if the house is on a historic preservation list adding double glazed windows might actually detract from resale value. In some areas they might be forbidden in the interest of not tampering with the integrity of the building. However many historic preservation boards are starting to allow well made wood sash windows that are double glazed because they can be made to look very much like the originals. They can also make historic homes more attractive to buyers who love history but don’t want to freeze.
Now, you are more than likely thinking about trying double glazed sash windows because you know how lovely sash windows are and you are right.
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