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Double Glazed Windows: The Benefits

Mon 20 Nov 2006 - 12:02

Double Glazed Windows: The Benefits
By David Howarth

Many homeowners are hesitant to go with double glazed windows as they are unsure what the benefits are and why they should pay extra for them. However, doubled glazed windows have a number of advantages over single paned windows, and are amongst the more popular "home makeovers" available to a property owner.

First and foremost is their money-saving ability. Double glazed windows are composed of two panes glass with an area of "dead air" in between them (normally filled with a harmless, inert gas like argon or krypton, which have better insulation properties than normal air) that helps increase insulation and keep more warm air inside your home when closed. Due to this, they are one of the most energy-efficient windows available today, and according to many experts and government agencies in Canada, the United States, Australia and Great Britain you can save an average of 25-50% on your annual heating and cooling costs by switching from single pane windows to double glazed windows.

Secondly, as double glazed windows have two layers of glass, they are more secure. Burglars often gain entry via windows due to the inherent security weaknesses in them. However, it is harder for an intruder to enter your home through double glazed windows due to the thicker panes, and it also decreases the chance of shattering if a hard object comes into contact with them, the increased density being able to absorb greater impacts. To make sure double glazed windows are very secure, many companies are installing them with strong frames and added security measures by default, such as hard-lipped security beads and friction hinges. These features alone could save you hundreds of pounds in expenses and insurance.

Naturally, a lot of people are concerned about the expense of installing double glazed windows, however the long term savings and peace of mind they can bring more than makes up for any initial costs involved.

David A. Howarth has been working in the home restoration and improvement business in the UK for over 20 years now, and enjoys writing about home improvement features such as double glazing and conservatories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Howarth


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