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Double Pane Window Services for Butte

Twice as efficient as single pane windows, installing double pane windows into your home will help on your electricity bill. A double pane window, also known as an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU), is a window with two panes of glass separated by a vacuum or gas (like argon). IGUs are designed to reduce both energy loss and outside noise, such as street traffic, keeping your home quieter all year long. These panes keep the warm air inside your home during the cold winter months and cool air inside during the humid summer months.

The Science Behind Modern Units

Given the choice, most homeowners choose to install double pane windows, or IGUs, because it keeps the home insulated during severe weather, even though these panes are more expensive than single pane windows. This is because single pane windows do not have air pockets, so heat passes through glass more readily than air. With IGUs, the air pockets reduce conductivity in the window, resulting in a better-insulated home.

The twin panes are held together with a space made of moisture-absorbent material called desiccant. The entire unit is sealed to prevent the inner air chamber from escaping. To further improve the insulating properties of the window, we offer IGUs with argon or krypton gas in the air space and Low-E glass.

Why Choose IGUs?

If you choose IGUs to be installed to your home, whether that be during constructing a new home, or replacing a single pane or existing pane, you will see immediate benefits. These benefits range from:

  • A reduced carbon footprint
  • A reduction in your home’s energy bill; some units save homeowners up to 50 percent in energy expenses.
  • A reduced amount of noise pollution, which is optimal for our customers who live in busy, urban areas.
  • A reduced amount of heat entering your home; IGUs prevent 25 percent of the sun’s heat, glare and UV damage.

Installing and Replacing Double Pane Windows

Over the last two decades, IGUs have become the standard window option for new construction. However, many homes in America were built during the 1980’s according to the American Housing Survey. Homes built during that time are more likely to have single pane windows or double pane windows that have aged past their usefulness.

Below are some warning signs that show if your IGUs have outlived their usefulness ability:

  • Distorted or broken glass
  • Condensation forming between the panes
  • A cloudy appearance to the glass

Windows account for up to 25 percent of residential heat loss. If your windows are in disrepair, it is critical that you seek a solution. If you are still not sure upgrade your windows, consider trying a DIY efficiency test to see if your windows are as effective as they should be.

IGU Installation and Replacement

If your double pane windows are showing signs of aging or disrepair, it is time to consider replacing them. The trained experts at Glass Doctor of Butte, MT have the experience and tools needed to get the job done right. We will also walk you through step-by-step process of installing or replacing your IGUs.

The process of replacing an entire window are as follows:

1.The window will be removed in its entirety, including the casing, trim and sill plate.

2. The space for the new window will be prepared.

  • Clean the opening and remove any dirt of debris.
  • Repair or replace any damaged lumber or material.
  • Ensure the opening is level and square.
  • Remove any siding or resize the opening to accommodate the size of the new window.

3. Install the window using the manufacturer recommended hardware and adjust the fit with shims until it is plumb and square.

4. Finally, add spray or traditional insultation to any gap surrounding the window frame. Replace any siding, trim or casting.

Schedule an Appointment

If you can’t find the time to replace a window pane don’t worry! Glass Doctor of Butte, MT is here to deliver premium customer service to you! By scheduling an appointment online or calling us at (406) 792-1800 for an on-site consultation, you are taking the first step to discovering the difference between double pane windows and single pane.