Future Proof, Sustainable Glazing
As prospective buyers, it’s important to establish the features of the property are compliant with current standard(s).
One area of consideration for improving the properties energy saving, security, and aesthetics is the replacement of the existing windows, as this will instantly enhance the aforementioned items in the energy performance certificate of the home.
For homeowners, one of the most notable uses to gain the benefits PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing can offer, is when vacuum glazing units are fitted into conservatories and sunrooms.
Maximizing Comfort and Efficiency
Vacuum glazing allows up to 80% natural light to enter the space while maintaining optimal thermal insulation due to the Low-e coating and the vacuum (U Value from 0.49 W/m2K), thus creating a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. Additional to this, is the impressive acoustic benefits Rw: 36 dB allowing the relaxing environment to be usable year-round.
When it comes to residential applications, PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing has several advantages over traditional glazing options. One of the main benefits is its exceptional thermal performance.
Enhanced Comfort and Quiet
The vacuum layer between the glass panes acts as an effective insulator, minimising heat transfer and reducing energy consumption. This not only leads to less reliance on temperature control systems but also improves the overall comfort of the living space.
In addition, vacuum glazing offers superior noise insulation compared to other glazing alternatives. The vacuum layer acts as a barrier, reducing sound waves from entering the building and creating a quieter atmosphere inside. This makes vacuum glazing an excellent choice for homes located in busy urban areas or near busy roads.
Long-Lasting Durability and Versatility
Vacuum glazing is highly durable (toughened and laminated versions available) and with a warranty of 15 years and a life expectancy of up to 25+ years, allows PassivGlas™ to be used in safety critical or security areas.
Moreover, vacuum glazing hybrids (PassivGlas™ Ultimate) can be an excellent alternative to replacing non efficient double glazing in properties with limited opportunities for window profile replacement. Traditional double glazing, if upgrading to more energy efficient triple glazing, requires an additional airspace between the glass panes, which may not be feasible in the existing frame.
Superior Sound and Insulation Efficiency for Home Renovation
Vacuum glazing, when compared to gas filled triple glazing, offers superior thermal (U-value 0.49 W/m2K) and acoustic insulation performance (Rw:36 dB) while requiring less space in a single form (from 6.15 mm), thus making it an ideal choice when replacing the glass in frames with architectural constraints, or slimline frames.
PassivGlas™ is among the best glass unit option for home renovation as it is versatile as a single PassivGlas™ unit or as a PassivGlas™ Ultimate hybrid vacuum glazing unit to fit into existing frames.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Heritage Buildings Without Compromising Aesthetics
Vacuum glazing can also be particularly beneficial in older properties or heritage buildings, that traditionally have single glazed slim profile windows that lack insulation and fail to meet modern energy efficiency standards. By installing vacuum glazing, homeowners can upgrade their properties without compromising the architectural integrity.
PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing is especially well-suited for historical preservation projects where aesthetics plays a significant role, especially now Historic England has sanctioned the use of Vacuum Insulated glazing in most cases.
Key points
Historic England (HEAG321 – Adapting Historic Buildings for energy and Carbon Efficiency Advice notice HEAN 18 v1.0 July 2024) recognises Vacuum Insulated Glazing as a viable option for sustainable re-development
- Superior thermal insulation: Ug-Value from 0.49 W/m2K
- UKAS tested sound reduction of Rw 36 dB
- Slimline: from 6.15 mm thick
- 15-year warranty on single VIG’s
Frequently Asked Questions
What are vacuum units?
Vacuum Insulated Glazing or VIG is an advanced fenestration type of insulating unit. It consists of two glass panes, like a standard Insulating unit, but rather than the spacer bar and an air gap, VIG’s are separated by a micro vacuum gap, with a glass solder edge seal.
Are they fully tested?
Yes, they are tested to recognised industry standards:
Impact resistance: EN 12150-2 & ANSI Z97.1-37 & EN 12600 & BS356 (recently completed)
Weathering: EN1279-5 & ASTM E546/E2188/E2189
U-Value: ISO8301/EN12667 (Recently UKAS tested) & ASTM C518
Soundproof: ISO 10140-2 (Recently UKAS tested)
Do the standard units use coated glass?
Yes, all PassivGlas™ Linear units incorporate a Low-e single silver toughenable coating.
In order to meet the current Part O regulations, a Low-e double silver coating would be needed to meet the 70/40 requirements. Please check with VGN as to availability and MOQ for this product range.
What is the expected life?
Expected life on the unit is 25+ years due to there being no spacer bar to fail.
Will there be any condensation
Condensation is formed when the air temperature surrounding an object falls below the dew point and changes into a liquid
Internal:
Although condensation will not form on the internal surface of a VIG unit, Vacuum Glazing does not eradicate condensation from the room.
The warmer inner glass will potentially change the rooms cold point.
It is advisable to ensure all rooms have effective ventilation/circulation.
External:
Condensation may form on the external glass surface under certain conditions.
Generally, forms a grid around the micro-pillars.
Will disappear when the outside temperature warms with the morning sun.
It is an indication of how efficiently your windows are at reducing thermal loss.
Condensation between glasses:
An indication that the Vacuum has been lost.
Consult your supplier to confirm course of action.