Insulating Glass Units: everything you need to know

Explore the world of insulating glass units with Vetreria Valmarecchia: from functionality to thermal and acoustic insulation, let’s delve into types, thicknesses, costs, and benefits.

An insulating glass unit (IGU), commonly known as double glazing, is a popular solution for windows due to its ability to provide thermal and acoustic insulation. Among the various types of IGUs available, the laminated variety is an ideal choice for those seeking enhanced window security.

Moreover an IGU is a structure consisting of two or more parallel glass panes, hermetically sealed and spaced apart to contain a dehydrated air or gas-filled chamber. It’s used in windows and glazing for its thermal and acoustic insulation properties.

There are several types of IGUs, categorized by the glass used and additional treatments:

Each type of glass can be part of double or triple glazing IGUs, offering different insulation coefficients. For the best choice of insulation coefficient, contact our technical office for tailored advice.

The thickness of an IGU depends on the specific needs of your client.

Generally, the thicker the glass, the better its thermal and acoustic insulation properties.

It is essential to select a suitable thickness for the building’s specific requirements to ensure maximum comfort and energy savings. However, thickness also significantly influences the cost of the glass and the overall window unit. Therefore, it is crucial to find the right balance between client needs and the appropriate glass solution.

The cost of IGUs depends on several factors:

• Dimensions
• Thickness
• Type of glass chosen

Market conditions, especially the cost of sourcing large glass sheets, also influence pricing, which has seen significant increases in recent years (2021 and 2022). Vetreria Valmarecchia’s extensive industry knowledge, built over nearly 50 years, often plays a crucial role in selecting the most cost-effective product. It is advisable to contact us before preparing your quote to ensure competitiveness and the right solution for your client.

Low-emissivity (low-e) IGUs are ideal for reducing heating and cooling costs. These units feature a thin metallic coating that reflects infrared radiation, preventing heat transfer from inside to outside. This reduces energy consumption, leading to significant cost savings.

IGUs with internal Venetian blinds are highly appreciated for their aesthetic appeal. This solution involves placing a Venetian blind inside the IGU, ensuring greater elegance and cleanliness. The blind can be controlled magnetically or electrically, allowing easy adjustment of light levels. We recommend using Pellini® blinds in our glass for their quality, aesthetics, and functionality.

Producing IGUs for windows requires a high degree of specialization and expertise. It is essential to rely on a professional and specialized manufacturer who can provide customized, high-quality solutions. Vetreria Valmarecchia offers customized IGUs of high quality, thanks to our extensive experience and ability to meet specific client needs.

Triple-glazed IGUs are ideal for those seeking superior thermal insulation for their windows. This type of IGU uses three glass panes separated by two cavities, providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. They are suitable for high-energy-efficiency buildings, ensuring high comfort and energy savings. While the increased thickness leads to a heavier unit, the choice of IGU depends on various factors, including:

• thermal insulation,
• acoustic insulation,
• window security,
• aesthetics.

In conclusion, IGUs are insulation systems made up of two or more glass panes, separated by a spacer and hermetically sealed. Various types of IGUs, such as laminated, tempered, coated, acid-etched, and screen-printed glass, cater to different needs.

IGUs can be double or triple glazed, offering varying insulation levels. The choice of IGU thickness depends on specific client requirements and affects the cost.

Specialized solutions like low-e IGUs save energy, and IGUs with internal Venetian blinds enhance window aesthetics.

Producing IGUs requires expertise and specialization; therefore, partnering with a professional manufacturer like Vetreria Valmarecchia is crucial for high-quality customized IGUs.

For choosing the right glass to match your window frame