Energy Efficiency, Aluminium, Architecture, Glass, Windows
Double Glazed Windows & Doors
May
Double Glazed Windows & Doors – A Complete Guide.
If you are shopping for aluminium windows and doors in South Africa, you may have come across double glazing and wondered whether it is worth the additional cost.
Double-glazed windows and doors can help make your home more comfortable, improve thermal insulation, reduce outside noise and improve overall energy efficiency. They are particularly worth considering for modern South African homes with large aluminium windows, sliding doors, folding doors and custom-made windows.
But there are also practical questions. How thick is double glazing? What does 4-12-4 double glazing mean? Which aluminium frames can accommodate it? And how much does double glazing cost per m² in South Africa?
This guide explains double glazing for aluminium windows and doors in simple terms, including common Insulated Glass Units (IGU) sizes, aluminium frame options, benefits, disadvantages, prices and installation.
For simplicity, all the Insulated Glass Units (IGUs) discussed in this guide use a 12mm sealed gap between the two panes of glass.
1. What Is Double Glazing for Windows and Doors?
Double glazing uses two panes of glass with a sealed 12mm space between them, instead of the single pane commonly found in standard aluminium windows.
The complete sealed glass panel is called an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU).
A simple example is:
4mm glass + 12mm sealed gap + 4mm glass = 20mm IGU
The sealed space creates an insulating layer between the inside and outside panes.
This makes double-glazed windows better at reducing heat transfer than ordinary single-glazed windows.
Single Glazing vs Double Glazing 
| Feature | Single Glazing | Double Glazing |
|---|---|---|
| Main glass panes | 1 | 2 |
| Typical glass | 4mm or 6mm | 4-12-4 |
| Example total thickness | 6mm | 20mm |
| Sealed gap | None | 12mm |
| Thermal insulation | Basic | Better |
| Noise reduction | Basic | Better |
| Winter comfort | Basic | Better |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Aluminium frame | Standard | Must accommodate IGU |
For homeowners, the difference is quite simple:
Single glazing gives you one glass barrier. Double glazing gives you two panes with an insulating space between them.
This is why double glazing is increasingly considered for energy-efficient aluminium windows and doors in South Africa.
2. How Does Double Glazing Work? 
Glass allows heat to pass through it.
With an ordinary single-glazed aluminium window, there is only one glass pane separating your home from the outside temperature.
A double-glazed window adds another pane with a sealed 12mm cavity between them.
This helps slow down heat transfer.
Double Glazing for Better Winter Insulation 
During winter, heat inside your home naturally moves towards the colder outside environment.
Large areas of single glazing can therefore contribute to heat loss.
Double glazing helps reduce heat transfer through your windows and doors, making it particularly useful during cold Johannesburg, Pretoria and inland winter nights.
Double Glazing for Summer Heat
Double glazing can also help reduce unwanted heat transfer during warmer weather.
However, thermal insulation and solar control are slightly different.
If strong afternoon sun shines directly through large west-facing aluminium windows or sliding doors, you may also want to consider:
- Roof overhangs
- External shading
- Blinds
- Tinted glass
- Low-E glass
- Solar-control glass
For an energy-efficient home, the best results normally come from combining suitable glazing with good orientation, shading and insulation.
3. What Is a Double-Glazed Insulated Glass Unit (IGU)?
An Insulated Glass Unit may look simple, but several components work together to create a properly sealed double-glazing system.
Main Parts of Double-Glazed Glass
| Part | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Outer glass | First glass barrier |
| Inner glass | Second glass barrier |
| Spacer | Maintains the 12mm cavity |
| Sealed cavity | Creates an insulating space |
| Desiccant | Helps control moisture |
| Edge seals | Keep the unit sealed |
The two panes are manufactured as one sealed unit before being installed into the aluminium window or door frame.
Example: 6.38-12-6.38 Double Glazing
A specification such as:
6.38-12-6.38
means:
6.38mm laminated glass + 12mm sealed gap + 6.38mm laminated glass
Total thickness:
6.38 + 12 + 6.38 = 24.76mm
Once you understand this format, comparing different double-glazing specifications and prices becomes much easier.
Air vs Argon Double Glazing
The 12mm cavity can contain dry air or an insulating gas such as argon.
Argon can improve thermal performance because it transfers heat less easily than ordinary air.
However, good energy-efficient double glazing depends on more than the gas.
You should also consider:
- Glass type
- Glass thickness
- Spacer
- Edge seals
- Window frame
- Weather seals
- Installation quality
The complete window or door system matters.
4. Double-Glazing Thickness and 12mm IGU Sizes
There is no single glass thickness suitable for every double-glazed aluminium window or door.
In this guide, the sealed cavity remains at 12mm, while the thickness and type of glass change according to the application.
Common 12mm Double-Glazing Sizes
| IGU Make-Up | Outer Glass | Gap | Inner Glass | Total IGU Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-12-4 | 4mm | 12mm | 4mm | 20mm |
| 6-12-4 | 6mm | 12mm | 4mm | 22mm |
| 6-12-6 | 6mm | 12mm | 6mm | 24mm |
| 6.38-12-4 | 6.38mm laminated | 12mm | 4mm | 22.38mm |
| 6.38-12-6 | 6.38mm laminated | 12mm | 6mm | 24.38mm |
| 6.38-12-6.38 | 6.38mm laminated | 12mm | 6.38mm laminated | 24.76mm |
These are examples rather than recommendations for every opening.
The correct double-glazing thickness depends on the window size, door size, glass position, safety requirements, wind loading and required performance.
Laminated Safety Glass for Double Glazing
A typical 6.38mm laminated glass pane consists of:
3mm glass + 0.38mm interlayer + 3mm glass
The interlayer helps hold the pieces together if the glass breaks.
Laminated glass can therefore be useful for double-glazed doors, large windows, safety glazing and noise reduction.
Is Thicker Double Glazing Better?
Not automatically.
A thicker IGU is generally heavier and more expensive.
For example:
- A small bedroom window may require a relatively simple specification.
- A bathroom may need privacy glass.
- A noisy bedroom may benefit from laminated glass.
- A large aluminium sliding door may require safety glass.
- An oversized fixed window may require thicker glass because of its size and wind loading.
The goal is to choose the correct double glazing for the window or door, rather than simply choosing the thickest option.
Total IGU Thickness and Aluminium Frame Size
The complete IGU must fit properly into the aluminium window frame.
For example:
4-12-4 = 20mm
while:
6.38-12-6.38 = 24.76mm
The difference affects the glazing pocket, bead and gasket required.
When comparing double-glazed window quotations, ask your supplier to confirm both the IGU make-up and total IGU thickness.
28mm, 30.5mm, 34mm and 38mm Aluminium Casement Windows
Not all aluminium window frames are the same.
South African aluminium casement systems can include:
| Aluminium System | General Application |
|---|---|
| 28mm casement | Standard/light residential aluminium windows |
| 30.5mm casement | Residential aluminium windows with a larger profile |
| 34mm casement | Heavier glazing and system-dependent IGU applications |
| 38mm casement | Larger glazing capacity and double-glazing applications |
It is important not to confuse the aluminium profile dimension with the IGU thickness.
A 38mm aluminium casement window does not necessarily use 38mm glass.
Depending on the particular system, it may accommodate a 20mm, 22mm, 24mm or 24.76mm double-glazed unit.
For customers comparing double-glazed aluminium windows, it is always worth checking the manufacturer’s actual glazing capacity.
5. Advantages and Benefits of Double-Glazed Windows and Doors
Why choose double glazing instead of standard single glazing?
Better Thermal Insulation
The 12mm sealed cavity helps slow down heat transfer.
This gives double-glazed windows and doors better thermal insulation than basic single glazing.
Warmer Homes During South African Winters
Double glazing can reduce heat loss through windows and doors.
This can be particularly useful for homes in Johannesburg, Gauteng, Pretoria and other colder inland areas.
Better Summer Comfort
Double glazing can also help reduce unwanted heat transfer during summer.
For windows receiving strong direct sunlight, consider combining double glazing with Low-E or solar-control glass.
Lower Heating and Cooling Costs
Better insulation can reduce the amount of heating or cooling required to keep your home comfortable.
The actual saving will vary according to the size and design of the house.
Double Glazing for Noise Reduction 
Double glazing can reduce outside noise, making it particularly useful for homes close to:
- Busy roads
- Schools
- Shopping centres
- Businesses
- Airports
- Noisy neighbourhoods
Where noise is a major concern, laminated glass and different pane thicknesses may provide better results.
Better Comfort Around Large Aluminium Windows
Large single-glazed windows can feel cold during winter.
Double glazing helps keep the room-facing glass surface warmer, which can make living areas with large aluminium windows and doors more comfortable.
Reduced Window Condensation
Double glazing can reduce condensation on the room-facing glass because the inner pane generally stays warmer.
Good ventilation is still important because indoor humidity can also cause condensation.
6. Disadvantages and Common Double-Glazing Problems
Double glazing offers several advantages, but customers should also understand the disadvantages.
Double Glazing Costs More
The main disadvantage is the higher purchase price.
The additional cost includes:
- Two glass panes
- Spacer
- Sealing system
- IGU manufacturing
- Suitable aluminium frame
- Heavier-duty hardware where necessary
Double-Glazed Glass Is Heavier 
Weight is particularly important for aluminium sliding doors, folding doors and opening windows.
| IGU | Approximate Weight |
|---|---|
| 4-12-4 | ±20kg/m² |
| 6-12-4 | ±25kg/m² |
| 6.38-12-4 | ±26kg/m² |
| 6-12-6 | ±30kg/m² |
| 6.38-12-6.38 | ±32kg/m² |
For example:
A 2m² glass panel at 32kg/m² weighs approximately:
64kg
This is why the aluminium frame, hinges, rollers and tracks must be suitable for double glazing.
Condensation Between Double-Glazed Panes
Permanent mist or moisture between the two panes may indicate that the IGU seal has failed.
This is different from normal surface condensation.
A failed IGU will normally need to be replaced.
Higher Replacement Cost
Replacing a standard single pane is relatively simple.
A damaged double-glazed unit normally has to be manufactured to the correct size and specification before it can be replaced.
7. Double Glazing for Homes in South Africa
South Africa has different climate regions, so the benefits of double glazing can vary depending on where you live.
Double Glazing Johannesburg and Gauteng
Double glazing in Johannesburg and Gauteng can be particularly useful because of:
- Cold winter nights
- Warm summers
- Large day-to-night temperature differences
- Traffic noise
- Dense residential areas
Bedrooms, lounges, home offices and large glazed living areas are good places to consider double-glazed aluminium windows.
Double Glazing Pretoria and Inland Areas
Pretoria and other inland areas also experience considerable temperature changes.
Double glazing can improve comfort and reduce heat transfer.
For west-facing windows, consider combining double glazing with shading, Low-E or solar-control glass.
Double Glazing Cape Town and Coastal Areas
For Cape Town and coastal homes, considerations can include:
- Winter heat loss
- Strong winds
- Summer sun
- Coastal exposure
- Condensation
The aluminium finish, hardware and weather seals should also suit the coastal environment.
Double Glazing for Colder South African Homes
Double glazing can be particularly useful in high-altitude and colder parts of South Africa.
If you regularly heat your home during winter, energy-efficient double-glazed windows can form part of a wider insulation strategy that also includes the roof and walls.
8. Double-Glazed Aluminium Windows
Most common aluminium window types can be double glazed, provided the frame is designed for the selected IGU.
Double-Glazed Fixed Aluminium Windows
Fixed windows are one of the simplest applications because the glass does not move.
They work particularly well for:
- Large views
- Lounges
- Staircases
- Double-volume spaces
- Architectural feature windows
Double-Glazed Top-Hung Aluminium Windows
Top-hung aluminium windows can be double glazed.
Because the sash opens outwards, the friction stays and frame need to support the additional glass weight.
Double-Glazed Side-Hung Aluminium Windows
Side-hung windows can also work well with double glazing.
Suitable hinges, seals and frame strength are important.
Double-Glazed Aluminium Sliding Windows
Double-glazed sliding windows require good-quality:
- Rollers
- Tracks
- Sashes
- Interlocks
- Weather seals
The heavier window should still open and close comfortably.
Custom Double-Glazed Aluminium Windows
Double glazing is particularly useful for custom aluminium windows and large feature glazing.
For example, a 3m² IGU weighing 30kg/m² has a glass weight of approximately:
3 × 30kg = 90kg
Large made-to-measure aluminium windows therefore need suitable glass, mullions, frames and installation.
9. Double-Glazed Aluminium Doors
Large aluminium doors can contain several square metres of glass, making glazing performance particularly important.
Double-Glazed Aluminium Sliding Doors 
Double-glazed aluminium sliding doors are suitable for:
- Lounges
- Patios
- Entertainment areas
- Bedrooms
- Pool areas
For example, a sliding-door glass panel measuring:
1.2m × 2.1m = 2.52m²
using an IGU weighing 30kg/m² has approximately:
75.6kg of glass
Good-quality rollers, tracks and aluminium sashes therefore become very important.
Double-Glazed Aluminium Folding Doors
Double-glazed folding doors can provide better insulation while still creating wide openings between indoor and outdoor living areas.
The aluminium profiles, hinges, rollers, guides, tracks and locks all need to accommodate the heavier glass.
Double-Glazed Hinged and Entrance Doors
Double glazing can also be used for aluminium entrance doors and hinged doors.
The correct safety glazing should be selected because door glass is located in an impact-risk area.
Large Double-Glazed Sliding and Folding Doors
Large doors should be treated as complete systems.
Consider:
- IGU thickness
- Safety glass
- Door-panel size
- Glass weight
- Aluminium profile
- Rollers
- Tracks
- Wind loading
- Locks
- Weather seals
9. Best Frames for Double-Glazed Windows and Doors
The glass is only one part of an energy-efficient window or door.
uPVC vs Aluminium vs Timber vs Steel
| Frame | Insulation | Strength | Maintenance | Large Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | Very good | Good | Low | Moderate |
| Aluminium | Good* | Excellent | Very low | Excellent |
| Timber | Very good | Good | Higher | Good |
| Steel | Lower* | Excellent | Medium | Excellent |
*Metal frame performance depends on the system and whether it includes a thermal break.
Aluminium Frames for Double Glazing
For many South African homes, aluminium provides a useful balance of:
- Strength
- Slim profiles
- Durability
- Low maintenance
- Large opening capability
- Modern appearance
This makes double-glazed aluminium windows and doors particularly suitable for contemporary homes.
However, not all aluminium frames have the same glazing capacity.
The complete system should be considered, including the 28mm, 30.5mm, 34mm or 38mm casement profile, glazing beads, gaskets, mullions and hardware.
Thermally Broken Aluminium Windows and Doors
For improved thermal performance, thermally broken aluminium is worth considering.
The thermal break reduces heat transfer through the aluminium frame itself.
It generally costs more than standard aluminium, but it can provide a more complete high-performance glazing solution.
10. Double Glazing, SANS 10400-XA & Energy-Efficient Windows
Double glazing can help improve the energy performance of a South African home.
SANS 10400-XA deals with energy usage in buildings, and windows and doors form part of the overall building envelope.
Two important terms are:
| Term | Simple Meaning |
|---|---|
| U-value | How easily heat passes through the window |
| SHGC | How much solar heat passes through the glazing |
As a simple guide:
Lower U-value = better resistance to heat transfer.
Double glazing generally provides better thermal performance than basic single glazing.
However, double glazing alone does not automatically make a building SANS 10400-XA compliant.
Energy-efficiency calculations may consider:
- Total glazed area
- Window orientation
- Shading
- U-value
- SHGC
- Frame performance
- Roof insulation
- Walls
- Floors
- Overall building design
For new homes, it is useful to decide on double-glazed windows and doors early in the design process, before the final window schedule and energy calculations are completed.
11. Double Glazing Prices South Africa – Cost per m²
One of the most common searches is:
How much does double glazing cost in South Africa?
It helps to separate the price of the IGU glass itself from the cost of the complete aluminium window or door.
Double-Glazing Glass Prices per m²
For budgeting purposes:
| 12mm-Gap IGU | Total Thickness | Indicative IGU Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4-12-4 Clear | 20mm | ±R900–R1,000/m² |
| 6-12-4 Clear | 22mm | ±R1,100–R1,300/m² |
| 6.38-12-4 Clear | 22.38mm | ±R1,200–R1,350/m² |
| 6-12-6 Clear | 24mm | ±R1,350–R1,550/m² |
| 6.38-12-6 Clear | 24.38mm | ±R1,400–R1,600/m² |
| 6.38-12-6.38 Clear | 24.76mm | ±R1,500–R1,700/m² |
| Privacy / Laminated IGU | Varies | ±R1,900–R2,200/m² |
| Low-E Double Glazing | Varies | ±R1,800–R2,500+/m² |
These are indicative double-glazing prices per m² for budgeting and comparison. Actual supplier prices can change according to quantity, glass processing, coatings, delivery and other requirements.
Double-Glazing Price Example
Consider a 1,500 × 1,500mm aluminium window.
Area:
1.5 × 1.5 = 2.25m²
| IGU | Example Rate | Approx. IGU Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 4-12-4 | R950/m² | R2,138 |
| 6-12-4 | R1,200/m² | R2,700 |
| 6.38-12-4 | R1,275/m² | R2,869 |
| 6-12-6 | R1,450/m² | R3,263 |
| 6.38-12-6.38 | R1,600/m² | R3,600 |
| Low-E IGU | R2,200/m² | R4,950 |
Remember that these are example IGU glass costs, not complete aluminium-window prices.
Double-Glazed Aluminium Window Prices
A complete double-glazed aluminium window price can include:
- Aluminium frame
- IGU
- Mullions
- Opening sashes
- Handles
- Friction stays
- Gaskets
- Glazing beads
- Manufacturing
- Delivery
- Installation
Broad budgeting ranges may look like:
| Complete Double-Glazed System | Indicative Budget |
|---|---|
| Standard aluminium + double glazing | ±R2,500–R5,000/m² |
| Higher-spec double-glazed system | ±R5,500–R9,500/m² |
| Thermally broken aluminium + double glazing | ±R8,000–R14,000+/m² |
A fixed aluminium window will generally cost less than a large double-glazed sliding or folding door.
What Affects Double-Glazing Prices?
Important price factors include:
- Glass thickness
- Window or door size
- Laminated or toughened safety glass
- Low-E glass
- Privacy or tinted glass
- Aluminium system
- Fixed or opening sashes
- Sliding or folding hardware
- Custom manufacturing
- Delivery and installation
Standard vs Custom Double-Glazed Windows
Standard sizes can sometimes be more economical.
However, custom aluminium windows and doors are useful for:
- New homes
- Renovations
- Existing openings
- Architectural plans
- Window schedules
- Large feature windows
- Oversized sliding doors
Made-to-measure double glazing allows the glass and frame to be manufactured for the actual opening.
Is Double Glazing Worth the Extra Cost?
Double glazing may be particularly worthwhile for:
- Cold bedrooms
- Bedrooms facing busy roads
- Large lounge windows
- Sliding patio doors
- Folding doors
- Home offices
- Double-volume windows
- Rooms regularly heated or cooled
If budget is limited, you don’t necessarily have to double glaze every opening.
Start with the areas where better insulation, energy efficiency or noise reduction will make the biggest difference.
12. Installing Double Glazing in Existing Aluminium Windows 
Can you convert existing single-glazed aluminium windows to double glazing?
Sometimes, but not always.
Consider an old aluminium window designed for 4mm single glass.
Replacing it with:
6.38-12-6.38 = 24.76mm
means fitting a glass unit that is considerably thicker and heavier.
The existing aluminium frame may not have enough space for:
- IGU
- Glazing beads
- Gaskets
- Correct glass clearance
- Drainage
The opening sash, hinges or friction stays may also not support the additional weight.
In many cases, the better solution is:
Old single-glazed aluminium window → new double-glazing aluminium frame → new 12mm-gap IGU
Have the existing window inspected before deciding whether to replace only the glass or the complete frame.
13. Double-Glazed Window and Door Maintenance
Double glazing is generally easy to maintain.
Cleaning Double-Glazed Windows
Use:
- Clean water
- Mild glass cleaner
- Soft cloth
- Squeegee
Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the glass or damage specialised coatings.
Clean Aluminium Sliding Door Tracks
Sliding tracks collect sand, dust and building debris.
Keeping them clean helps rollers move smoothly.
Keep Aluminium Window Drainage Holes Open
Avoid blocking drainage paths with dirt, paint or excess silicone.
Check Window and Door Gaskets
Damaged or missing gaskets can allow unwanted air and water leakage.
Condensation Between Double-Glazed Panes
Condensation on an exposed glass surface does not automatically mean your double glazing has failed.
However, permanent mist or water inside the sealed 12mm cavity can indicate IGU seal failure.
The sealed glass unit may then need replacement.
14. Double Glazing South Africa – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Glazing Worth It in South Africa?
For many homes, yes.
Double glazing can be particularly useful for cold winters, large glazed areas, regular heating or cooling and noisy locations.
What Is the Standard Double-Glazing Thickness?
There isn’t one universal thickness.
With the 12mm cavity discussed in this guide, common examples include:
- 4-12-4 = 20mm
- 6-12-4 = 22mm
- 6-12-6 = 24mm
- 6.38-12-4 = 22.38mm
- 6.38-12-6.38 = 24.76mm
What Does 4-12-4 Double Glazing Mean?
It means:
4mm glass + 12mm sealed cavity + 4mm glass = 20mm IGU.
How Much Does Double Glazing Cost per m² in South Africa?
For budgeting, basic clear double-glazed IGUs can start around R900–R1,000/m², while laminated, privacy and performance glazing can cost approximately R1,500–R2,500/m² or more.
The complete aluminium window or door costs more because the frame, hardware and manufacturing must also be included.
Does Double Glazing Reduce Noise?
Yes.
For homes affected by traffic or other outside noise, laminated glass and different pane thicknesses may improve acoustic performance further.
Does Double Glazing Stop Condensation?
It can reduce condensation on the room-facing surface by keeping the inner glass warmer.
Indoor humidity and ventilation still matter.
Can Aluminium Windows Be Double Glazed?
Yes.
The aluminium frame simply needs to be designed to accommodate the thickness and weight of the IGU.
Can 28mm or 30.5mm Aluminium Windows Take Double Glazing?
It depends on the actual aluminium system.
Check the glazing pocket, bead and gasket rather than relying only on the overall profile dimension.
Are 34mm and 38mm Casement Windows Better for Double Glazing?
Larger casement systems can offer greater glazing capacity depending on their design.
The manufacturer’s glazing specification should always be checked.
Does a 38mm Casement Window Use 38mm Glass?
No.
The 38mm measurement refers to the aluminium profile system, not necessarily the IGU.
The actual IGU may be 20mm, 22mm, 24mm, 24.76mm or another suitable thickness.
Can Aluminium Sliding Doors Be Double Glazed?
Yes.
The aluminium sash, rollers and track must be suitable for the additional weight.
Can Aluminium Folding Doors Be Double Glazed?
Yes.
Suitable aluminium profiles, hinges, rollers, guides and tracks are particularly important because of the heavier glass.
Aluminium vs uPVC – Which Is Better for Double Glazing?
Both have advantages.
uPVC provides good natural thermal insulation.
Aluminium provides strength, slim profiles, low maintenance and excellent capacity for large windows, sliding doors and folding doors.
Thermally broken aluminium can provide improved thermal performance where required.
Should Every Window Be Double Glazed?
Not necessarily.
If you are working within a budget, consider prioritising:
- Bedrooms
- Main living areas
- Large windows
- Sliding doors
- Folding doors
- Noisy elevations
- Cold rooms
- Rooms regularly heated or cooled
What Should I Ask for in a Double-Glazing Quote?
When requesting prices for double-glazed aluminium windows and doors, ask your supplier to confirm:
- IGU make-up
- 12mm cavity
- Total IGU thickness
- Glass type
- Safety glass
- Low-E coating, where required
- Aluminium system
- Frame glazing capacity
- Glass weight for large panels
- Hardware
- Installation
- Warranty
This will make it much easier to compare quotations properly.
Choosing double glazing for your South African home does not need to be complicated. Start by deciding what you would like to improve: insulation, winter comfort, summer comfort, outside noise, energy efficiency, safety or a combination of these.
For homes with aluminium windows, sliding doors, folding doors and large feature glazing, it is particularly important to consider the glass and aluminium as one complete system. The glass, 12mm spacer, seals, aluminium frame and hardware all need to work together.
You also don’t automatically need the most expensive double glazing throughout your home. A 4-12-4, 6-12-4 or 6.38-12-4 IGU may suit one application, while a large aluminium door or special safety application may require a different specification.
The aim is to choose double-glazed aluminium windows and doors that suit your home, climate, budget and the level of performance you need.
Cost Savings and Benefits of Double Glazing
Energy Efficiency and Reduced Utility Bills
Double glazing significantly reduces heat loss, leading to lower heating and cooling costs. This energy efficiency translates to cost savings on utility bills.
Increased Property Value and Marketability
Homes with double glazing are more attractive to buyers, potentially increasing the property’s value and marketability.
Long-Term Savings on Heating and Cooling
Although the initial investment in double glazing is high, the long-term savings on energy bills make it a cost-effective solution.
Maintenance and Durability Cost Benefits
Double glazed windows are durable and require less maintenance compared to single-pane windows, resulting in lower maintenance costs over time.
Comfort and Health Benefits
Double glazing reduces noise pollution, provides better UV protection, and improves overall comfort, contributing to a healthier living environment.
Financing Options and Government Incentives
Payment Plans and Financing Solutions
Many suppliers offer financing options and payment plans to spread the cost over a period, making it more affordable for homeowners.
Available Government Subsidies and Rebates
Check for any available government subsidies or rebates aimed at promoting energy-efficient home improvements, which can offset some of the costs.
Tax Benefits and Incentives for Energy Efficiency
Some energy-efficient upgrades, including double glazing, may qualify for tax incentives, providing additional financial relief.
Comparison of Financing Options from Different Providers
It’s advisable to compare financing options from various suppliers to find the most favorable terms and interest rates.
Tips for Budgeting and Planning for Double Glazing
Create a budget and plan for the investment by obtaining multiple quotes and understanding all associated costs, including any potential hidden fees.
Choosing the Right Supplier and Installer
Comparing Quotes from Multiple Suppliers
Request quotes from several suppliers to compare prices and services. Ensure each quote includes a detailed cost breakdown.
Evaluating Supplier Reputation and Reviews
Research supplier reputation by reading customer reviews and testimonials. A reputable supplier is more likely to provide quality products and services.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Choose a supplier that offers a solid warranty and reliable after-sales support to ensure your investment is protected.
Importance of Professional Installation
Professional installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of double glazing. Ensure the installer is certified and experienced.
Questions to Ask Potential Suppliers and Installers
Prepare a list of questions to ask potential suppliers and installers, such as:
- What materials and glass types do you offer?
- Can you provide references or case studies?
- What is the expected timeline for installation?
- Are there any additional costs or fees?
By considering these key topics, you can make an informed decision about double glazing for your home in South Africa, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
Double glazed windows are becoming popular recently. These are windows that have two glass panes. The presence of a spacer with a layer of air separates the panes.
One of the main reasons for double glazed windows is to reduce energy costs by improving the energy efficiency in your home. So the use of a double glazed window gives you better insulating effects than those of single glazed.
Here are some of the advantages/benefits of using double glazed windows:
-
Reduced Energy Costs:
With the use of double glazed windows, there’s a considerable reduction in energy usage to warm or cool your home. Invariably, this cuts down your energy bills and helps you to save some money.
-
Better Insulation:
Whether you’re in a region with extreme coldness or hotness, you can proactively maneuver the effects of the weather with double glazed windows. The spacer or air gap in the window produces a better insulating effect in the home. It keeps your house warm by preventing the loss of heat from inside to outside during cold seasons like winter. Similarly, during hot periods like summer, your home is kept relatively cool. The insulation of the double glazed windows will prevent the radiation of heat from outside to inside.
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Reduced Condensation:
Condensation will cause the formation of moisture from excess humidity inside a home. This can subsequently lead to water droplets on surfaces. Where there’s much condensation, you stand the risk of having mold, mildew, or wood rot in your home. Also, you or your family are likely to become asthmatic from extreme condensation.
Condensation is triggered through the easy transfer of heat between the inside of your home and your surroundings. This is usually obtainable with single-pane windows. However, the use of double glazed windows minimizes the possible transfer of heat, thereby cutting down condensation within your home.
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Increased security:
Having a sense of security is a priority for everyone. It’s more difficult to break double glazed windows than single glazed ones. The sealing in double glazed windows is made to be very tight. Also, in cases of burglary, double-glazed windows are hard to open from outside. Thus, they are a better option in terms of security than the singles.
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Noise Reduction:
It can be quite irritating when every single noise that comes from outside your building gets to you. That means you’ll hardly have a peaceful time of rest or sleep. Sounds usually travel through a medium. Air is a good medium that can pass sounds to you even through a window. The double-glazed windows are built such that air can hardly pass through them. This makes them a better choice in cutting external sounds from your home.
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Interior Damage Reduction:
When you have single unit windows, sun rays can easily pass through them. These rays can damage some of your property, such as furniture, carpets, and other décors that are closer to the windows. However, with double-glazed windows, your property is safer from harmful UV rays. The double glazed reduce the radiation of the sun rays from entering your home through its insulation.
Conclusion
Getting doubles glazed windows can be very rewarding in your home. In addition to all their benefits, they improve the aesthetics of your home. You are sure that with the high insulating ability of the units, your home is protected. Also, you will find them as a better option in saving that extra costs on energy.
