Energy Effcient Windows FAQ

Home Products Glass Benefits Testimonials FAQ Order Installation Technical Delivery Employment Contact
 
       
   
FAQ  
   

The way to develop decisiveness is to start right where you are, with the very next question you face.
-- Napoleon Hill

 
       
 

What is UPVC in upvc double glazed windows and doors?

Upvc is Un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, which is essentially, a rigid plastic. It has been widely used and tested for many years. The properties of PVC which make them the ideal material for double glaze window and door manufacture is:

  • Does not rot or biologically decompose and will not attract termites.
  • Is resistant to weathering with low maintenance requirements.
  • Is tough on impact.
  • Is thermally efficient.
  • It retains its shape even within extreme climatic temperatures.
  • It can be reshaped at very high temperature and can therefore be recycled.



What is the difference between PVCu and uPVC in vinyl double glazing?

There is no difference. Beware of any salesperson trying to convince you otherwise! The letters stand for Un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, so rearranging them does not change the composition of the window or door frame. The benefits of upvc or pvcu double glazing are the same. Upvc double glazed windows can also be referred to as pvc double glazed windows or plastic double glazed windows.



Should the profile be reinforced with steel or aluminium?

In our opinion both do the job equally well . However "salespeople" of our competitors will often make exaggerated claims one way or the other in an attempt to sell their product. Typically the claims are that Steel is stronger - but more likely to rust if the galvanization is removed and Aluminium is not quite as strong - but will not rust.
What is not explained is that when screws are inserted into galvanized steel is that a small amount of "swarf" is removed and with that the galvanization. It's possible for the swarf - which will always drop down to the bottom of the frame to "rust". The evidence of this quickly disappears as the swarf oxidises. This rust is not contagious and will not pass to the rest of the reinforcing. We can manufacture according to builder's or architect's specifications, if they have a preferred method, so we are flexible enough for you to get exactly what you want and enjoy al the benefits of double glazing.
We feel it is more important to check the quality and design of the window system and not whether Steel or Aluminium is used for reinforcement.



What is the best option for double glazing - toughened glass or laminated glass?

Both Toughened glass and Laminated glass in double glazed windows and doors, are forms of "safety" glass. Many people mistakenly assume that toughened glass has some form additional strength or "toughness", capable of withstanding considerable force or impact. Toughened glass is not the same as bullet proof glass, but it is safer to break than float glass as it will not break into sharp, dangerous blades, but rather into small, blunt pieces that will not slice or cut in an accident, and the worst that might happen is a few minor scratches.
Laminated glass will crack when it is hit with force, but it's unlikely to smash because of a thin layer of laminate that will hold the broken glass together. However, it can be dangerous in any situation where you may need to break glass to escape (such as a fire).
This quality of glass can be an advantage if security is a major consideration. Laminated glass is also slightly thicker - usually 6.4 mm - and as such will offer better insulation. Also, Laminated glass is much heavier than toughened glass and will produce more wear on the hinges.
Remember that there may be a legal requirement to fit safety glass to some openings such as doors and large windows close to the floor, where there may be danger of injury when falling against it. The cost difference is marginal, and we therefore recommend that you consider which is the best for your circumstances, without being motivated by price.



What are the advantages and disadvantages of pvc in double glazed window frames over aluminium and wood?


  Advantages:
  • Great insulator
  • Low maintenance
  • Energy efficient
  • Recyclable
  • Available in coloured finishes
  • Is not corroded by salt
  • Does not attract termites
  • Does not warp or chip off
  • Will not rust
  • UV protected
  • Cost efficient and extremely affordable
  • Low impact on environment
Disadvantages:
  • Aluminium is slimmer
  • Wood is more aesthetically appealing


How should I care for my upvc double glazed windows and doors?

Once or twice per year we recommend cleaning and oiling visible moving metal parts, particularly door locks and 'friction stay' window hinges. Do not use liquid detergent in the water when cleaning the seals - it attacks and degrades them. Use a squirt of cream cleanser in warm water on a cloth to clean white uPVC. Do not use acetone or acetone based cleaning solutions.
Keep the sliding Patio Door tracks brushed clean of mud, grit and dust. It is not reommended that you lubricate the track because that may cause an accumulation of foreign particles which may make it harder to clean.



What is the difference between internal and externally glazed windows?

Internally glazed windows have the glazing beads, which secure the double glazed unit in place, on the inside. Externally glazed windows have the glazing beads on the outside. For security, most professionals would recommend internally glazed units, as it is not possible to remove the glass from the outside.
Transoms and mullions are usually welded with internally glazed pvcu systems and mechanically fixed with externally glazed systems. For higher buildings with more than just ground and first floor, it is easier to fit internally glazed windows as most of the work is done from the inside. We do offer both options with our double glazed windows and doors and can show you the difference, but recommend internal glazing for most jobs.



I was approached by aluminium and wood window companies and they are saying that pvc double glazed windows will melt in Australian conditions - is this true?

Upvc double glazed windows are not made of snow, but of a rigid plastic that has been tested and found to outperfom common wood and aluminium frames on a variety of important factors. Unfortunately, the sales people employed by some of Australia's largest companies are not technicians and care more about their commission then about the integrity of their statements. They are well trained in sales techniques but their knowledge of cutting edge technology leaves something to be desired and so they make up wild and imaginitive stories just to get by.
In fact, many of these salespeople dont even know that the same companies that they work for, are in the process of creating upvc window making departments, after realising how poorly their aluminium or wooden windows perform compared to ours. We challenge you to ask these salespeople if they have everbuilt a upvc window and if they have ever seen one actually melt.
We have the confidence that the intelligent consumers will be able to tell the difference between fact and fiction, and it is the intelligent consumer, after researching the options chooses the UPVC products from Double Glazed Windows and Doors!



What is secondary (Double) Glazing?

Secondary glazing is another window fitted on the inside of your existing window, it is sometimes referred to as secondary window/s. Secondary glazing can be used in addition to single glazing in particularly noisy areas, proximity to airport or a busy street. It could also be used when existing windows cannot to be replaced and are single glazed, e.g. in a listed heritage building.



I am looking for supply only, as my builder will be installing the double glazed windows in our extension/ house. Is this possible?

Yes! We will even provide a free consultation for your builder if they have not worked with pvc window frames before - to ensure a trouble free installation.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors Pty. Ltd.

 
       
  0423 221 942  
  contact@doubleglazedwindows.net.au  
 
 
     
 

Casement Window

 

Casement windows are an excellent choice for consumers concerned with acoustic, thermal and safety performance. The difference is obvious at a glance - the frame and sash look sturdy and substantial when compared to ordinary aluminium and wooden windows. You can have a beautifull home, but if you install inexpensive windows, the strucure of the home can feel cheaply built.   Continued on the double glazed casement window page

 
     
 

Awning Window

 

Double Glazed Awning Windows allow the window sash to swing outward rather than inward or up and down, so they can be located in may places around the home and easily arranged next to other window types. The awning window is the ideal window type for homes in the temperate climate zone, or homes that are positioned to take advantage of natural ventilation or breeze. Double Glazed Awning windows are made with compression and weather seal and provide higher air-tightness, energy-efficiency and acoustic insulation than other window types such as sliding and double-hung windows. Double Glazed Awning windows have a variety of applications due to their versatility and durability, and are particularly attractive option for contemporary homes because our Awning windows are manufactured locally to an indisputably imposing standard, impressing even the most discerning clientele.   To obtain additional information on double glazed awning window

 
     
 

Composite Door

 

The Composite Door is gaining in popularity with great speed for clients wanting noise insulation, strength, durability and security. All our Composite Doors contain a solid interior, which is made with reinforced materials, allowing our clients to gain increased security over even a solid wooden door, and will no doubt keep the insurance provider pleased. Composite doors are extremely strong, so they don't buckle, dent or warp, because they are designed to look better and provide more security for a longer period, than wooden or glass alternatives, yet they are very price competitive. The surface contains a glass reinforced polymer material and will not fade or lose colour. Additional feature includes advanced properties that shield from the weather, to ensure you have value for money in a door that lasts for decades, not just a few years.   Great suggestions and more on double glazed composite door can be found here

 
     
 

Fixed Window

 

Continuity, refinement and reflection of light will bring out the many benefits by the use of our Double Glazed Fixed Panels. They are cost efficient and offer the ultimum level of high performance in acoustic and noise insulation, since they are non-openable. Our approach deals with important aspects of architecture - the cultural and the natural environment. Combine together with other window and door types to allow the play of light and shadow in your home, or for breathtaking surrounding view, and improve the energy efficiency, sound insulation and comfort qualities in your home. Fixed panels have universal appeal and can be used in any style of home! They are environmentally friendly since they are recyclable and contribute to reduction in carbon emissions.   Supplementary advice on double glazed fixed window

 
     
 

Bifold Window

 

Combining the mastery of old world craftsmanship and progressive German engineering technologies, we create the most sophisticated upvc windows for the intelligent consumer who has the capacity to discern between a cheap imitation which creates disappointment, and our exceptional double glazed windows which will please and delight for years to come. Specified by architects as attributes of buildings, bifold windows bring out qualities of creativity, intelligence and magnificence that are easy to recognize but difficult to quantify or replicate by an inferior product. By making choices one transfers to the material assemblage of a building those attributes which really belong to one's personality. It is inevitable that qualities that feature in the buildings' owners' characters are read into architecture. What do your windows say about you?   Get all the facts on double glazed bifold window

 
     
 

Bifold Door

 

Embrace the beauty and sophistication of our Bifold Double Glazed Door carefully crafted with uncompromising expertise and unsurpassed quality The Double Glazed Doors are the ideal choice for the aspiring or an expert entertainer, offering an awe inspiring effect of an unobstructed opening onto a pool deck, garden, private beach, bushland or conservatory. The superior performance features are maintained in this style, offering acoustic insulation of upto 40 dB, with excellent energy efficiency rating measured by a u-value of 1.8, all while being corrosion resistant and environmentally friendly.   Get all the facts on double glazed bifold door

 
     
 

Tilt & Turn Door

 

When design and utility are a priority, our cutting edge technology is sure to impress! For exceptional thermal and acoustic performance coupled with trouble free maintenance and ingenious design, this Door will exceed your expectations. The inward swinging Tilt and Turn Double Glazed Door, operates in the same way as the Tilt and Turn Double Glezed Window, and is built with the same care and precision that any window and door deserves. Special high quality hardware allow a single handle to operate all three functions: multiple security locking points for safety when locked, special hinges allowing the window to tilt inside for gentle air flow, and of course, the fully opening 'turn' function for maximum air flow and ventilation.   Get all the facts on double glazed tilt & turn door

 
     
 

Tilt & Slide Door

 

Our Double Glazed Doors are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our Double Glazed Tilt and Slide Doors can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being. Window Factory Tilt and Slide Doors are the most innovative and attractive deck/ garden or balcony doors available. Not only do they boast the tilt option of other popular styles, but the Tilt and Slide Doors were also designed to maintain our reputation for high performance.   Examine all the facts on double glazed tilt & slide door page

 
     
 

Stacker Window

 

Self sufficient and allowing for maximum natural ventilation, Double Glazed Stacker Windows slide and fold effortlessly demonstrating the refined taste of an intelligent consumer. Double Glazed Stacker Windows can create a vast amount of space along with an inviting contemporary character, and re-create a glass wall effect because they are not constrained to the same limitations of casement, awning and tilt & turn windows where the openings are restricted. The Double Glazed Stacker Window has two or more (upto six) panels, with one panel sliding past another, and all of the panels resting or being 'stacked' on one or two sides. They are a great alternative to Bifold Double Glazed Windows, when the client prefers the sliding style over the Bifold, or when space is at a premium, since with Stacker or Sliding Double Glazed Windows you need not worry about furniture placement or possible exterior obstacles. These windows feature ease of operation and maintenance, and a universally appealing design that will complement any modern home.   More info on double glazed stacker window

 
     
 

Sliding Door

 

for a natural and continuous entry into the outdoor entertaining area, which defines any modern home, choose Window Factory Double Glazed Sliding Doors. Functional, intelligent and convenient are the defining characteristics of our Double Glazed Sliding Doors. All our doors are quipped with high quality hardware for effortless opening and closing enhance all these aspects. We combine efficient technology for Double Glazed Sliding Doors with sophisticated design creating that indispensable convenience for your home. Popular with contemporary homes, our Sliding system offers additional benefit of saving space and when used with mirrored glass, can even serve as a room divider for guest privacy.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed sliding door on this page

 
     
 

Warranty

 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors recognizes every purchase is a significant investment in your home, and we do everything to ensure the double glazed windows and doors you purchase pay for themselves long after you are so comfortable you forget they are there. Double glazed windows and doors will not require replacement for many years and to guarantee superior performance we use only high quality profile, double glazed units and hardware. Our relationship with clients doesn't end when the job is complete, Double Glazed Windows and Doors are available to you for any help. Additional information on double glazed warranty can be found at this location.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed warranty on this page

 
     
 

Glass Warranty

 

Irrespective of the type of glass you choose for your windows and doors, you will be reassured of high quality through our warranty committment to you. All the glass we use in our windows and doors comply with Australian standards. We will repair or replace the insulated glass unit found to be defective within the applicable period and in accordance with the purchase contract.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed glass warranty click here

 
     
 

Factory

 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors' focus is to keep the costs down - and this is transferred to the client in form of lower prices. Our staff are constantly maintaining and improving our processes for maximum automation and efficiency to maintain leadership and set high standards in the double glazing industry. In order to compete on price, Double Glazed Windows and Doors have created a lean business, and due to almost complete automation using high tech machinery, a considerably better class and value double-glazed product. Continued on the double glazed factory page.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed factory on this page

 
     
 

Handling and Storage

 

After the double glazed windows are delivered to your home or the construction site, ideally they should be installed as soon as possible, to minimise the risk of accidental damage. However, we understand that this may not be practical if there are other renovation or construction work being completed - in this case, it is best to store the double glazed window/ door frames and glass separately and in an area with limited access, so that the upvc window frames and insulated glass units experience the least movement possible.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed handling and storage click here

 
     
 

PrestigeD T84

 

Rehau quality stands for ambition and power, and these ideas are represented well in the Prestige casement upvc window and door system. The thickness of glazing ranges from 5mm to 33 mm. This double glazed window and door system comes with an overlap that measures 8 to 10 mm located between frame and sash, and this overlap not only helps to eliminate water infiltration and dust penetration, but also aids in saving energy consumption. Design optimisation of reinforcement chambers makes the double glazed window and door made of this profile highly resistant to high wind pressure.   Additional information on double glazed prestiged t84 can be found at this location

 
     
 

Replacement

 

Installation of replacement double glazed windows and doors or for new constructions includes removal but not disposal of existing windows, and includes glazing, which involves fitting glass into the frame.
If you hired a builder to manage the installation, but they are unfamiliar with upvc, we provide consulting services to ensure the windows installation is trouble free.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed replacement on this page

 
     
 

Clading

 

Awning windows have both federation and contemporary architecture applications. Our windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our windows can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed clading on this page

 
     
 

Tinted Glass

 

Ordinary tinted glass is popular because it reduces heat gain and carbon emmissions, although it also marginally reduces visible light transmission. High Performance or Low-e tinted glass or spectrally selective tinted glass reduces solar heat gain to below that of ordinary bronze/ gray tint but has a visible transmittance closer to clear glass. The tint has little effect on the U-factor but reduces solar gain considerably, which can reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer. Tinted glass is useful in controlling glare - especially for those windows facing east or north east. Return the sunlight not glare into your home.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed tinted glass click here

 
     
 

Low E Glass

 

Low-e glass brings out the best that technology has to offer for improving your views and comfort! A cool, metal oxide coating is applied to clear or tinted glass, so that the appearance and performance are the same regardless of glass thickness. Low-e glass is recommended by many energy efficiency experts as a result of high performance combined with aesthetics. Low-E glass typically cost about 15% more than ordinary glass, but they reduce energy use by as much as 30-50%, by using most of the heat gain in winter but keep the harmful UV rays out during the summer, and when used in insulated glass units - can have even better benefits.
For hot climates, low-E coating should be applied to the outside pane of glass. If the windows are designed to provide heat energy in the winter and keep heat inside the house typical of cold climates, the Low-E coating will maximise benefit by being on the inside pane of glass.   Supplementary advice on double glazed low e glass

 
     
 

Change your Schedule

 

Please note that delays by you of delivery of any order of double glazed windows and doors by more than 2 months will not be processed online, and you must speak to your sales representative to make a new arrangement. Please note that you may be required to pay a storage fee for lengthy and/or repeated delays. Failure to advise us of the changes in your availability at least 2 days before the delivery date, may make it difficult for us to make a timely change and if you are a part of multi point delivery, inconvenience other customers.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed change your schedule click here

 
       
 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors Pty. Ltd.

 
  0423 221 942  
  contact@doubleglazedwindows.net.au