Common Uses
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Standard Residential and Commercial Windows: Used in virtually all new construction projects and window replacements across residential homes, apartments, and commercial buildings globally to meet modern energy codes.
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Climate Control Environments: Essential for buildings in extreme climates (very cold or very hot) to maintain interior temperature stability and comfort.
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Noise Sensitive Areas: Often used in properties near traffic or airports, as the sealed airspace between panes helps dampen sound waves (often enhanced with different glass thicknesses).
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Energy-Efficient Glazing: Almost always combined with Low-E coatings to achieve maximum energy performance and the highest possible R-value (thermal resistance)
Advantages
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Exceptional Thermal Insulation:
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The sealed airspace or inert gas (like Argon) between the panes creates a thermal break, significantly reducing heat transfer through the window.
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This results in a higher R-value (or lower U-factor) compared to single-pane glass, making it highly energy efficient.
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Significant Energy Cost Savings:
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By minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, IGUs reduce the workload on HVAC systems, leading to lower heating and cooling bills.
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Increased Interior Comfort:
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The inner pane of glass stays closer to the room's temperature, eliminating cold spots and drafts near the window, and creating a more comfortable living space.
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Minimized Condensation:
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The warm interior surface temperature prevents water vapor from condensing on the glass, reducing humidity issues and preventing damage to sills or frames.
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Improved Sound Dampening:
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The two separated panes of glass and the airspace help to absorb and block external noise, providing better acoustic insulation than single-pane glass.
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Cautions
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Higher Initial Cost:
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Due to the complexity of construction (multiple panes, spacer, sealant, and gas fill), IGUs are more expensive than single-pane glass.
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Seal Failure Risk:
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If the perimeter seal is compromised (often due to age, poor installation, or extreme temperature cycling), the inert gas can leak out, and moisture can seep in.
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Seal failure leads to fogging or condensation between the panes, permanently obstructing the view and reducing thermal performance.
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Difficult and Expensive Repair:
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Unlike single-pane glass, a broken or fogged IGU cannot be repaired; the entire sealed unit must be replaced, which is more costly than replacing a single pane.
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Heavier and Thicker Profile:
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The addition of a second pane and an air space makes the unit thicker and significantly heavier than single-pane glass, which requires thicker frames and heavier-duty hardware.
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