The Benefits of Triple-Glazing...
By: Glen Janiszewski, Gienow Windows and Doors
One of the biggest trends in the window business has been the growth in demand for energy-efficient glass. Over the past 10 years, the percentage of new homes featuring energy-efficient glass has gone from less than 10 percent to more than 90 percent. Today, innovators looking for further improvement are finding it in triple-glazing.
As the description implies, triple-glazing features three pieces of glass (see left) sealed together to create an insulated glass (IG) unit rather than two. To further improve performance, a nearly invisible low emissivity coating is applied to the glass, creating a glass specification called Sol-R®2 Shield 270.
Triple-glazed, Sol-R®2 Shield 270 glass will keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The window's R-value is slightly improved, meaning less furnace heat is able to escape the home. Heat from the sun is blocked from entering the home (but the light still shines in), keeping the home much cooler on sunny days.
Triple-glazing gives you several other important benefits. Your home is quieter as triple-glazing deadens exterior noise. Warmer windows reduce the likelihood of interior condensation forming on the window. Finally, Sol-R®2 Shield 270 nearly eliminates ultraviolet light transmission, which contributes to fading of flooring, furniture and art.
In the past, windows with triple-glazing tended to be bulky and difficult to operate. Finally, new window models are being designed to properly handle triple-glazing. The Triumph window series by Gienow Windows and Doors was specifically designed for triple-glazing. A maintenance-free sliding window, the Triumph series features an oversize frame that can accommodate the extra weight and dimensions of triple-glazing. Dual rollers are used to allow the window to glide effortlessly. With its substantial frame and steel reinforcement, the Triumph window achieves structural performance levels typically reached only by casement or awning-style windows.
Just like the trend towards widows with Low-E glass over the past 10 years, the next 10 years will likely see a similar movement towards triple-glazing as a result of both consumer demand and legislation. Choosing triple-glazed windows for your home will increase your comfort and lower your energy bills now, and will also improve the resale value of your home down the road. It's no wonder Cedarglen Homes is choosing to pass this exceptional product along to you, the customer! They've been an industry leader for 30 years now, and this is only one of many examples.