Vacuum Insulated Glass: Benefits, Applications & More
Vacuum Insulated Glass: Benefits, Applications & More
Exploring Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG): The Future of Glazing for Modern and Historic Properties
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG)
- What Is Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG)?
- Advantages of Vacuum Insulated Glass
- Energy Efficiency and Low U-Values
- Thin Profile and Aesthetics
- Long-Term Durability
- Applications of Vacuum Insulated Glass
- Vacuum Insulated Glass for Historic and Listed Buildings
- Why It’s Perfect for Conservation Areas
- English Heritage Approvals
- Cost Considerations: Vacuum Insulated Glass vs Other Glazing Solutions
- Sustainability: A Green Glazing Solution
- Why Choose VIG for Your Windows and Doors?
- Enhance Your Property with Vacuum Insulated Glass
1. Introduction to Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG)
Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) is changing glazing technology quickly. It’s the next big thing for modern and historic buildings. VIG units are gaining popularity. They offer great thermal performance, look good, and are good for the environment. In this blog, we’ll explore VIG. We’ll discuss its benefits, possible downsides, and why it’s perfect for homes and businesses. This includes Grade II listed buildings and other historic properties.
Vacuum Insulated Glass has a special design. It replaces thick double glazing by using a vacuum between two glass panes. This technology offers great thermal insulation. VIG outperforms traditional options like double or triple glazing.
2. What Is Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG)?
Vacuum Insulated Glass consists of two panes of glass with a very thin layer of vacuum between them. VIG stands out from traditional glazing options. While those use layers of air or gas, VIG uses a vacuum as an insulating barrier. This design significantly cuts down on heat transfer. The unit can be just 6.2 mm thick. That’s much slimmer than standard double or triple-glazed windows, which are usually about 24 mm thick.
VIG technology offers great thermal performance, achieving U-values as low as 0.38 W/m²K. This makes VIG one of the most energy-efficient glazing options today. It provides excellent insulation for homes and businesses alike.
VIG is great for places with limited space but where strong insulation is needed. This technology looks great, making it perfect for buildings that want a sleek, modern style while still performing well.
3. Advantages of Vacuum Insulated Glass
Energy Efficiency and Low U-Values
One of the most compelling advantages of Vacuum Insulated Glass is its outstanding energy efficiency. Traditional glazing options like double or triple glazing provide good insulation. However, VIG stands out with much better performance. Its U-values range from 0.7 W/m²K to as low as 0.38 W/m²K.
This very low U-value keeps heat transfer to a minimum. So, it improves thermal performance and lowers heating and cooling costs. No matter if you’re updating old windows or putting in new ones, VIG provides a lasting way to keep your indoor temperatures comfy all year. It also cuts down on energy use.
VIG also helps cut carbon emissions. This supports a more sustainable living space. It’s a big plus for homes and businesses seeking green certifications like BREEAM.
Thin Profile and Aesthetics
VIG is not only functional but also visually appealing. Its slim profile, as thin as 6.2mm, lets it fit easily into window frames. You can use it with traditional steel, timber, or modern aluminium frames. This makes it an ideal solution for heritage properties that require modern thermal performance without compromising on aesthetics.
AGC’s new vacuum glazing technology is different from older types. It has ultra-thin edge seals and no evacuation ports. Older technologies used bulky ports and thicker edges. This keeps the largest vision area clear, giving unobstructed views through the window.
This technology saves energy and boosts the look of buildings. So, VIG is great for new builds and refurbishments.
Long-Term Durability
Another key benefit of VIG is its impressive longevity. VIG units are designed to last up to 50 years, making them a cost-effective investment in the long term. The sealed, vacuum-insulated area between the glass panes stops moisture from getting in. This helps reduce the chance of condensation or cloudiness inside the unit.
With proper installation and care, VIG is very durable. It provides long-lasting benefits for homes and businesses.
5. Applications of Vacuum Insulated Glass
Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) is becoming popular in homes and businesses. It offers great thermal efficiency, looks good, and is sustainable. Here, we’ll explore the diverse applications of VIG and how it can elevate the performance and appearance of various building types.
Residential Properties
For homes, good thermal insulation and energy efficiency are very important. VIG is perfect for homeowners who want to boost their windows’ performance while keeping the look they love. The slim profile of VIG makes it suitable for installation in heritage homes, modern properties, and everything in between.
Homeowners can feel more comfortable all year. They will lose less heat in winter and gain less heat in summer. The installation of VIG windows will lead to reduced heating and cooling costs, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run.
VIG is great for people in noisy areas. Its soundproofing features help to make indoor spaces quieter.
Commercial Properties
In commercial properties, large windows or glass curtain walls are common for looks and light control. VIG provides a slim, energy-efficient option compared to standard glazing. Its ability to provide excellent thermal insulation in a thin profile allows businesses to achieve modern architectural designs without sacrificing performance.
Retail spaces, office buildings, and hotel lobbies all benefit from VIG’s energy efficiency. It cuts down the need for artificial heating and cooling. Lower energy costs help businesses gain sustainability benefits. These benefits support green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM.
Moreover, as business owners and property developers continue to prioritise energy-efficient solutions, VIG becomes an attractive feature for commercial projects seeking to meet environmental standards.
Historic Properties
One of the most significant advantages of VIG is its suitability for heritage conservation projects. When renovating or restoring historic buildings, particularly those in conservation areas or Grade I or II listed buildings, the preservation of architectural integrity is essential.
Traditional double glazing or triple glazing may be too bulky and intrusive for such properties, but VIG offers a discreet solution that maintains both the visual and historical value of the building.
VIG has been approved by English Heritage for use in historic buildings, making it an ideal solution for conservation projects. Whether installed in original steel windows or newly fabricated windows, VIG ensures that the aesthetic and structural integrity of the building are preserved, all while significantly enhancing thermal performance.
In particular, our team at STEEL FRAME WINDOW REFURBISHMENT has extensive experience in installing VIG in both in-situ and ex-situ restoration projects for Grade II listed buildings. We are proud to have got the English Heritage approval for our installations, ensuring that each restoration meets the highest standards of quality and historical preservation.
6. Vacuum Insulated Glass for Historic and Listed Buildings
When working with heritage properties, window treatments require careful attention to detail. It’s crucial to respect the original design while improving the building’s energy efficiency. This is where Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) shines, offering the perfect balance between modern performance and traditional aesthetics.
Why It’s Perfect for Conservation Areas
Conservation areas are typically filled with historical charm and architectural heritage, which must be protected during any renovation project. However, many buildings in these areas were originally built with single-glazed windows, which do not meet modern standards for energy efficiency.
Replacing these windows with modern, energy-efficient solutions like double or triple glazing may alter the look of the property, detracting from its original design. However, VIG provides an effective way to upgrade windows while still maintaining the authentic appearance of the building.
VIG is ideal for conservation projects as it offers exceptional insulation without the need for bulky double or triple glazing. This makes it a popular choice for historic and listed buildings, where any changes to the external appearance must be in line with planning regulations.
English Heritage Approvals
Vacuum Insulated Glass has been thoroughly tested and approved by English Heritage for use in historic restoration projects. Whether you are restoring the windows in a Grade II listed building or creating a new replica window, VIG has the necessary approval to ensure that the project complies with heritage preservation guidelines.
At STEEL FRAME WINDOW REFURBISHMENT, we have successfully installed Fineo VIG into various listed buildings and historical sites, ensuring that each window meets the strict requirements set by English Heritage.
7. Cost Considerations: Vacuum Insulated Glass vs Other Glazing Solutions
When choosing the best glazing option for your property, cost is always a crucial consideration. Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) tends to have a higher initial cost than traditional glazing options, but its energy efficiency, durability, and long-term savings make it a smart investment.
Initial Cost
The initial cost of VIG is typically higher than double glazing or triple glazing, mainly due to the advanced technology used in its production. The manufacturing process of VIG involves vacuum-sealing two panes of glass, creating a low-pressure space that provides superior insulation. This level of precision and technology adds to the cost, but the benefits it offers over time justify the initial investment.
Long-Term Savings
While the upfront cost may be higher, VIG offers long-term savings in the form of reduced energy bills. The low U-values of VIG ensure that heat loss is minimised, keeping your home or building warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This results in lower energy consumption, reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems, and ultimately, savings on your utility bills.
When comparing the lifetime cost of VIG to that of traditional double-glazed windows (which may need to be replaced every 20–30 years), VIG proves to be a cost-effective choice due to its up to 50-year lifespan.
Sustainability Benefits
Choosing VIG over traditional glazing options also contributes to sustainability. VIG is an eco-friendly glazing solution that minimises heat loss, reduces the carbon footprint, and improves the overall energy efficiency of a building. This aligns with the goals of many homeowners and businesses who are looking for ways to make their properties more environmentally friendly.
8. Sustainability: A Green Glazing Solution
One of the primary driving factors behind the popularity of Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) is its sustainability. As the world continues to prioritise energy efficiency and eco-friendly solutions, VIG offers an innovative product that aligns with these objectives.
VIG provides exceptional thermal insulation, which helps reduce the carbon footprint of buildings by decreasing the need for heating and cooling. The long-lasting nature of VIG means that it doesn’t need to be replaced as frequently as traditional glazing, further contributing to its environmental benefits.
9. Why Choose VIG for Your Windows and Doors?
Choosing Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) for your windows and doors ensures that you are opting for a high-performance, aesthetic, and sustainable solution. Whether you are renovating a historic property or upgrading your modern home, VIG offers unmatched energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
The thin profile, long-term durability, and approved heritage applications make VIG an ideal glazing solution for both new builds and restoration projects. It ensures that you get the best of both worlds—modern performance with heritage preservation.
10. Enhance Your Property with Vacuum Insulated Glass
Ready to experience the future of glazing with Vacuum Insulated Glass? Contact us today at STEEL FRAME WINDOW REFURBISHMENT to discuss how VIG can enhance your home or commercial property. Whether you’re looking to restore historic windows or upgrade to energy-efficient glazing, we have got the expertise to deliver outstanding results.
Conclusion
Vacuum Insulated Glass is a game-changer in the world of glazing. Its exceptional thermal efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and long-term sustainability make it the ideal choice for both modern and historic properties. Whether you’re looking to replace outdated windows or enhance the thermal performance of your existing frames, VIG offers an effective solution that can help you save money on energy bills while preserving the charm of your building.
For more information or to discuss a project, reach out to us at STEEL FRAME WINDOW REFURBISHMENT. We’re ready to help bring the benefits of VIG to your windows today.