Why You Should Consider Insulated Glass For Your Commercial Door Replacement
September 10, 2024 5:01 pmWhen it comes to upgrading your commercial property, one of the most impactful decisions you can make is the choice of glass for your doors. Among the various options available, insulated glass units (IGUs) stand out as a superior choice for many reasons. In this blog post, we’ll explore why insulated glass should be at the top of your list for commercial door replacement, focusing on the energy-efficient types of glass and the benefits they offer.
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs)
Insulated glass units (IGUs) are a type of glass product designed to provide superior thermal performance and noise reduction. They consist of two or more glass panes separated by a spacer and sealed together to create an insulating barrier. This design helps to improve the energy efficiency of your commercial property while also enhancing comfort and security.
Components of Insulated Glass Units
- Glass Panes: IGUs typically feature two or more panes of glass. The space between these panes can be filled with argon, krypton, or other insulating gases to enhance thermal performance.
- Spacer Bars: These are used to separate the glass panes and create a consistent gap. The spacers are often filled with desiccants to absorb moisture and prevent condensation within the unit.
- Sealant: The edges of the IGU are sealed with a strong adhesive to keep the insulating gas in and prevent moisture from entering.
Benefits of Insulated Glass for Commercial Doors
Choosing insulated glass units for your commercial door replacement comes with a range of benefits, from energy efficiency to improved aesthetics. Let’s delve into some of the key advantages:
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the most compelling reasons to choose insulated glass units is their energy efficiency. Traditional single-pane glass allows heat to escape or enter your building, leading to higher energy costs for heating and cooling. IGUs, however, provide a much better barrier against thermal transfer.
Energy-Efficient Types of Glass:
- Low-E Glass: This type of glass has a special coating that reflects infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through. It helps in reducing heat loss and minimizes the need for artificial heating and cooling.
- Argon-Krypton Gas Filled: The space between the panes in IGUs can be filled with argon or krypton gas, which provides excellent insulation properties and reduces the amount of heat transfer.
By reducing heat transfer, insulated glass helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, leading to significant cost savings on energy bills.
2. Improved Comfort
Insulated glass units not only help with energy efficiency but also enhance the overall comfort of your commercial space. By reducing heat transfer, IGUs help keep indoor temperatures stable, which translates to a more comfortable environment for occupants.Additionally, the soundproofing qualities of IGUs can significantly reduce noise pollution from the outside. This is particularly beneficial in commercial settings located in busy or noisy areas.
3. Enhanced Security
Insulated glass units offer improved security compared to standard glass options. The multiple panes of glass in an IGU make it more difficult for intruders to break through. Furthermore, the sealant used in IGUs can help deter attempts at forced entry.
4. Reduced Condensation
Condensation on glass can lead to problems such as mold growth and damage to window frames. IGUs are designed to minimize condensation by maintaining a consistent temperature on both sides of the glass. This helps to keep the interior glass surface warmer and reduces the likelihood of moisture buildup.
5. Long-Term Durability
Insulated glass units are built to last. The multi-layer design and high-quality materials used in IGUs make them highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. This means that, with proper maintenance, IGUs can provide long-lasting performance and maintain their appearance for many years.
Types of Insulated Glass Units
When selecting insulated glass for your commercial door replacement, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they can meet your specific needs.
1. Double Glazing
Double glazing refers to IGUs with two panes of glass. This is the most common type of insulated glass and provides a good balance between performance and cost.
2. Triple Glazing
Triple glazing features three panes of glass and provides even better thermal insulation compared to double glazing. This option is ideal for buildings in extreme climates where additional insulation is necessary.
3. Low-E Glass
Low-E (low emissivity) glass is coated with a special layer that reflects infrared energy while allowing visible light to pass through. This type of glass can significantly improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer.
4. Gas-Filled IGUs
Gas-filled IGUs contain inert gases like argon or krypton between the panes of glass. These gases are excellent insulators and can enhance the thermal performance of the glass.
Choosing the Right Insulated Glass for Your Commercial Door
Selecting the right type of insulated glass for your commercial door replacement involves considering several factors, including the climate, energy efficiency goals, and aesthetic preferences.
Factors to Consider
- Climate: In colder climates, triple glazing and low-E glass can provide additional insulation to keep heat in. In warmer climates, double glazing with low-E coatings can help keep the heat out.
- Energy Efficiency Goals: If reducing energy consumption is a top priority, opting for gas-filled IGUs with low-E coatings can maximize energy savings.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Insulated glass units are available in various styles and finishes. Choose a design that complements the architecture of your commercial property.
- Budget: While insulated glass units may have a higher upfront cost compared to standard glass, the long-term savings on energy bills and the added benefits can make them a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Upgrading to insulated glass units for your commercial door replacement offers numerous benefits, from improved energy efficiency and comfort to enhanced security and reduced condensation. By selecting the right type of IGU for your needs, you can make a smart investment that not only enhances the performance of your property but also provides long-term value.
Incorporating energy-efficient types of glass into your commercial doors is a decision that pays off in both the short and long term. Consider insulated glass units as your go-to choice for a more efficient, comfortable, and secure commercial space.
Need Custom Glass in Twin Cities Metro, MN?
Custom Glass & Screen has been servicing Twin Cities since 1975. We repair custom and insulated glass and screens for windows, doors, shelving, showers, mirrors, tabletops, fireplaces, storefronts, porches, and more. We are also a family-owned company associated with the NFID. We have a highly trained staff that is here to help with anything that you need, so stop in, email, or give us a call today!
Categorised in: Commercial Glass
This post was written by admin