Argon Gas Double Glazing: Does it Improve Sound Insulation?
When it comes to improving our homes, one key factor that you might have considered is sound insulation – particularly if you live in a busy city or on a main road. For many of us, the ability to keep unwanted noise out of your home is essential for our comfort.
One innovation that has recently gained popularity for its perceived potential to enhance sound insulation in windows is argon gas double glazing. Unfortunately, even though some window manufacturers insist that it will reduce noise, the benefits to noise reduction with argon gas windows are minimal.
However, there are still advantages to argon gas filled double glazed windows, so read on to learn more about what argon gas double glazing is, how it works, and what it’s benefits actually are.
What Are Argon Filled Windows?
Argon-filled windows are a type of energy efficient window that is designed to improve thermal insulation and reduce heat transfer. These windows consist of two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer and sealed with 90% argon gas inserted between the panes.
By choosing windows filled with argon rather than regular air, you’ll be able to ensure that less heat leaves your property in the winter or enters your property in the summer.
Two Panes of Glass
Unlike traditional single glazing, double glazing incorporates two layers of glass. These layers are spaced apart within the frame in order to create an insulating barrier. Of course, if you chose to opt for argon filled triple glazing, then your windows would have three panes of glass.
Argon Gas
In argon filled double glazing, or even triple glazing, space between the glass panes is filled with argon gas. This inert gas is a colourless, odourless, non-toxic, and non-flammable, and because it is denser than air, it makes for a good insulator.
Low-E Coating
Some argon gas double glazing units now also include a Low-E (low emissivity) coating on the glass. This coating helps reflect heat back into the room during cold weather to prevent heat loss and blocks heat from entering during hot weather.
What Is the Purpose of Argon Gas in Windows?
So, why is argon used in double glazing instead of air?
An energy rated window, such as argon gas filled double glazing will help prevent heat loss in a property, and thus improving the insulation properties of your home.
Whether you choose to have double glazed or triple glazed windows installed in your home, argon windows can help you to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from exiting your home during the winter.
Argon gas filled windows achieve this by reducing heat transfer through the window assembly, resulting in improved insulation, a reduced energy consumption, and a more comfortable indoor environment.
Additionally, argon gas can offer benefits such as condensation reduction and UV protection when combined with other innovations such as Low E coatings.
Benefits of Argon Gas Double Glazing
Improved thermal performance
Argon gas, which is denser than air, serves as an effective insulator and has become one of the most commonly used gas fillers for windows. When sealed between the two panes of glass in double glazing, it reduces the transfer of heat through the window.
This results in better thermal insulation, helping to keep indoor spaces warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Therefore, by upgrading from air filled double glazing, homeowners can enjoy increased comfort year-round and potentially lower utility bills due to reduced heating and cooling costs.
Better energy efficiency
A more energy efficient and greener way of life is becoming increasingly important as we battle to slow down climate change. Argon-filled double glazing can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of a building.
By reducing heat transfer, these windows help maintain a more stable indoor temperature. And, in the winter, this will help to limit the time you need to spend with your central heating running.
This, in turn, lowers energy consumption and carbon emissions, contributing to a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective home.
Of course, if you’re looking for maximum efficiency in your home, there are other changes you can make, including LED light bulbs, switching to appliances with a better energy rating, and improving the insulation in your walls, loft and floor.
Lower energy bills
With the rising cost of energy and general living costs, lowering your energy bills can make all the difference. Argon gas windows are designed to improve the energy efficiency of your home, leading to a reduction in your heating and cooling costs.
It’s important to note that the extent of the energy savings you’ll experience depends on several factors, including the quality of the windows, the climate in your area, and the overall energy efficiency of your home – as improved windows aren’t the only way to insulate your property.
Argon gas filled windows can reduce energy bills, but they are just one component of an energy-efficient home. Other factors, such as floor and ceiling insulation and your choice of doors, also play a vital role in your home’s overall energy performance.
Are you looking to upgrade to new windows?
If you’re looking to upgrade the windows of your home, or meet building regulations in a commercial or rental property, then contact our skilled team to help you on your way to a warmer winter!