Does the glass in my windows provide sufficient insulation?
Once you know the type of glass in your windows and its age, you can determine whether it needs to be replaced. But how do you decide this? We’ve provided a number of pointers below to help you make a well-founded decision.
You should upgrade the glass in your windows in the following cases:
- You have single glazing.
Since 1 January 2020, the government has required double glazing in the living space, the bathroom, the kitchen and the bedrooms of every home. All studio apartments and other apartments, rental properties and single-family residences are subject to this rule.
- Your double glazing is 20 or more years old.
Newer types of double glazing provide better insulation, that much is obvious. But double glazing also loses its insulating capacity over time, and can even start leaking. When double glazing is manufactured, air or inert gas is enclosed between two glass panes. The window is made fully airtight in the process, which results in double glazing having a far higher insulation value than single glazing.
However, glass is a material that expands and shrinks as temperatures rise and drop. This may cause leaks over time; the older the glass, the higher the risk of a leak. A leak also reduces the insulation efficiency of a window. If you replace the glass, you eliminate this risk.
If you notice any condensation on high-efficiency glazing, this does not automatically mean there is a leak. Look carefully which side of the glass is wet. Because of the excellent insulating properties of high-efficiency glazing, condensation on the outside of the glass can be seen in the morning depending on weather conditions. This condensation will disappear during the day as the outdoor temperature rises.
- Moisture condenses on the inside of the windows.
- A white haze is permanently visible in the glass.
If your double glazing has a leak, moisture can seep into the space between the two glass panes. The moisture may condense on the inside of the window. If this goes on long enough, a permanent white haze may develop in the glass. This obviously diminishes its transparency and is also a sign that your glazing has lost its insulating properties.
- Your energy costs are too high.
- It is not a comfortable temperature inside.
Although proper insulating glass is important, a lot of heat will still be lost if the window seals and window frames are not in good condition. If the joinery isn’t solid and windproof, high-quality glazing is pointless. The insulation of your walls and roller shutter casings is equally important.
This article was published on 12-10-2023. Unless expressly provided otherwise, all information you consult or obtain here is entirely without obligation and for information purposes only. The information applies exclusively to Flanders.