Picking the right window replacements for your home and lifestyle can be more challenging than you might realize. You have to choose the right type of window for your home when it comes to cost, style, comfort, quality and efficiency.
Double glazed window replacement costs can be considerable, but they can make a huge difference in your energy bills, and enhance the style and comfort of your home. Here are some of the various factors you should consider before deciding on these windows.
What Are Double Glazed Windows?
Double glazed windows are also referred to as double pane windows. They are made with two panes of glass with an airtight space between them filled with inert gas, or air. This space acts as a barrier between the outside weather conditions and the interior house temperature.
This type of window construction helps with your home’s climate control. If you have an otherwise properly-sealed home, you can expect to reduce your energy usage by up to 24 percent in cold climates in winter, and by up to 18 percent in hot climates in summer.
Double glazed windows, especially when acoustic glass is used, helps to insulate against the nuisance caused by outside noise. Laminated acoustic double glazed windows can reduce noise levels by up to 35 decibels.
Pros and Cons of Double Glazed Window Replacements
Here is a rundown of all the advantages and disadvantages that come from upgrading to double glazed windows.
Pros
Double glazed windows can significantly lower your energy bills and save you money. This is easily their biggest advantage over other window replacements, and the main reason homeowners choose them. Bear in mind that you’ll have to replace a few windows to reap the benefits – one or two replacements won’t be worth it.
Well-fitted double glazed windows can dramatically improve waterproofing, especially if you previously had old single-pane windows in your home. Damp and mildew can ruin home interiors like nothing else – and it can also be dangerous for your family’s health.
These windows can double up as soundproof window replacements. They won’t eliminate noise entirely, but you will probably be able to enjoy more peace and quiet at home.
While single glazed windows are easy to penetrate and therefore vulnerable to break-ins, double glazed windows are sturdy and offer you much better security. You can beef up your window security even more by using laminated glass.
Modern double glazed window replacements can really uplift the aesthetics of your home. They come in a range of frame materials and styles, for both traditional and modern types of homes. These windows help to boost the curb appeal and value of your property.
Cons
There’s no glossing over the high initial cost of double glazed window replacements. You are paying for two sheets of glass instead of one, and the frame is more complicated to construct and install.
If the air gap between the two panes of double glazed windows is breached, they can be susceptible to condensation. This is unsightly and difficult to get rid of.
Another aspect of the two-pane construction of these windows is that if the gap is breached and the seal is broken, they’re difficult to repair without calling in the experts. Your insulation and soundproofing will be decreased. Depending on the style and size of the window, a repair could be very costly.
Type of Double Glazed Window Replacements
Double glazed windows can replace any of your common window styles, like casement or double-hung windows.
While double-hung windows aren’t recommended for very cold climates, a double-hung AND double glazed window is a great barrier against the outdoors. Double glazing offsets any air leakage that a double-hung window style might be susceptible to.
Double Glazed Window Replacement Prices
The size and quality of the window can affect the price. You will also pay more for thermal windows or Low-E windows than for standard double glazed replacements with air or gas spaces between the panes.
Here is a look at some average double glazed window replacement costs.
| Low End | Standard | High End | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Prices | $120 - $150 | $180 - $216 | $276 - $336 |
| Installation Cost | $150 - $168 | $192 - $222 | $240 - $270 |
| Total | $270 - $318 | $372 - $438 | $516 - $606 |
Conclusion
If you’re in doubt about high double glazed window replacement costs, it’s a good idea to consult an appraiser. He or she will be able to advise you whether double glazing would add to the value of your home or detract from it.
Generally, upgrading to double glazed windows is a great way to increase your home’s energy efficiency, improve your general comfort levels and bring your energy bills down.
As it’s a fairly big investment involving a number of windows, weigh up carefully whether these windows will suit your budget AND preferences.