- Thicker glass and wider air spaces reduce noise. Double-pane windows with one-quarter to a half of an inch of Argon or air between panes will lessen outdoor noise further.
- The average life of a window: The majority of window manufacturers say units should be replaced after twenty years. Common signs of defective windows include panes that gather frost, ice and condensation, draughty windows and frames that are painted shut or permanently sealed.
- A skylight offers thirty percent more light than a same-sized vertical window.
- Solid wood windows: Wood is a natural insulator; hence wooden windows are ideal in hot and cold weather. However, wood contracts and expands and this type of window frame is particularly costly to maintain.
- Custom window grills are inexpensive and a grill can easily be inserted into a standard sized window. Consult Majestic Glass to find the cost of fitting a window grill or design your own grill insert.
- Aluminium window frames require minimal maintenance. The strong, lightweight metal window frames are affordable, but aluminium conducts cold and heat.
- Vinyl frames are a popular choice. However, the affordable, low maintenance UVPC frames discolour over time.
- Clad window frames can be costly. The wooden frames have a vinyl or aluminium coating. The inner wooden frame minimises the heat transfer and the outer metal frame lowers maintenance.
- Composite windows are durable and affordable. This type of frame is hard-wearing in comparison to wood and vinyl and can be painted to match the home exterior.
- Certain window treatments allow light in and afford privacy and some special glass treatments are ideal for ground-level bathrooms. Glass blocks, bubbled glass and frosted glass all limit visibility, but allow light.
- Low-E glass or low-emissivity glass blocks harmful Ultra-Violet rays, but allows natural light to pass through. The thin metallic coating on the surface of the glass keeps a property warm in winter and cool during summer.
- Window cranks hinder window treatments; however, fold-down handles on casement and awning units offer sufficient clearance for shades and blinds.
- Suspended particle device technology can be applied to existing and new windows. Home or business owners can tint the glass using a dimmer switch.
- Self-cleaning windows are used in commercial and domestic premises. The dual-action coating breaks down the dirt as soon as it comes into contact with the glass.
- Numerous professional window coatings cut glare and reduce energy costs. UV blocking window film will stop the sun from fading fabric and flooring.
- Window awnings are available in a range of sizes. Fit an awning to a fixed window and it can remain open if there is a light shower of rain.
- Fixed and architectural windows allow light to flood the home. This type of window also affords the homeowner a great view.
- The classic single and double-hung windows are easy to lift, tilt and clean. This style of window doesn’t jut out into nearby areas like walkways, patios or porches.
- On average, fifteen percent of wall space in an average-sized home comprises of windows.
- The Home Energy Magazine reports awnings lower solar heat gain by as much as 77%, whereas light-colored window shades reduce solar heat gain by around 43%.
- Window R-Values measure resistance to heat flow and the U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer. High R-value windows are highly-efficient, whereas, low U-factor windows are the most efficient. SHGC or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient indicates the amount of heat the home derives from the sun. Homes with low SHGC rates attain little heat from the sun.
- Shatterproof glass is much stronger than standard window glass. A pane of shatterproof glass is made up of two glass panes with a thin layer of plastic sandwiched in the middle. This type of glass must now be installed in certain regions that are hurricane prone. Shatterproof glazing is energy-efficient, it lowers noise transmission and affords an extra level of security.
- Casement windows are great over countertops, appliances and sinks where it would prove difficult to lean over to open the window.
- Gliding windows don’t take up valuable space on walkways, patios and porches. This type of window is ideal for a basement because it meets egress requirements and lets the light in.
- Heat is lost through inefficient windows and glazed doors. In fact, twenty-five percent of a household’s annual energy bill accounts for leaky windows and skylights. Homeowners who buy windows with Energy Star ratings, airtight frames, double-pane insulated glass or heat-resistant coatings can cut energy costs by as much as 15%.
Click through here to learn more about our glass services in Sydney.
