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FAQ  
   

The way to develop decisiveness is to start right where you are, with the very next question you face.
-- Napoleon Hill

 
       
 

What is UPVC in upvc double glazed windows and doors?

Upvc is Un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, which is essentially, a rigid plastic. It has been widely used and tested for many years. The properties of PVC which make them the ideal material for double glaze window and door manufacture is:

  • Does not rot or biologically decompose and will not attract termites.
  • Is resistant to weathering with low maintenance requirements.
  • Is tough on impact.
  • Is thermally efficient.
  • It retains its shape even within extreme climatic temperatures.
  • It can be reshaped at very high temperature and can therefore be recycled.



What is the difference between PVCu and uPVC in vinyl double glazing?

There is no difference. Beware of any salesperson trying to convince you otherwise! The letters stand for Un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, so rearranging them does not change the composition of the window or door frame. The benefits of upvc or pvcu double glazing are the same. Upvc double glazed windows can also be referred to as pvc double glazed windows or plastic double glazed windows.



Should the profile be reinforced with steel or aluminium?

In our opinion both do the job equally well . However "salespeople" of our competitors will often make exaggerated claims one way or the other in an attempt to sell their product. Typically the claims are that Steel is stronger - but more likely to rust if the galvanization is removed and Aluminium is not quite as strong - but will not rust.
What is not explained is that when screws are inserted into galvanized steel is that a small amount of "swarf" is removed and with that the galvanization. It's possible for the swarf - which will always drop down to the bottom of the frame to "rust". The evidence of this quickly disappears as the swarf oxidises. This rust is not contagious and will not pass to the rest of the reinforcing. We can manufacture according to builder's or architect's specifications, if they have a preferred method, so we are flexible enough for you to get exactly what you want and enjoy al the benefits of double glazing.
We feel it is more important to check the quality and design of the window system and not whether Steel or Aluminium is used for reinforcement.



What is the best option for double glazing - toughened glass or laminated glass?

Both Toughened glass and Laminated glass in double glazed windows and doors, are forms of "safety" glass. Many people mistakenly assume that toughened glass has some form additional strength or "toughness", capable of withstanding considerable force or impact. Toughened glass is not the same as bullet proof glass, but it is safer to break than float glass as it will not break into sharp, dangerous blades, but rather into small, blunt pieces that will not slice or cut in an accident, and the worst that might happen is a few minor scratches.
Laminated glass will crack when it is hit with force, but it's unlikely to smash because of a thin layer of laminate that will hold the broken glass together. However, it can be dangerous in any situation where you may need to break glass to escape (such as a fire).
This quality of glass can be an advantage if security is a major consideration. Laminated glass is also slightly thicker - usually 6.4 mm - and as such will offer better insulation. Also, Laminated glass is much heavier than toughened glass and will produce more wear on the hinges.
Remember that there may be a legal requirement to fit safety glass to some openings such as doors and large windows close to the floor, where there may be danger of injury when falling against it. The cost difference is marginal, and we therefore recommend that you consider which is the best for your circumstances, without being motivated by price.



What are the advantages and disadvantages of pvc in double glazed window frames over aluminium and wood?


  Advantages:
  • Great insulator
  • Low maintenance
  • Energy efficient
  • Recyclable
  • Available in coloured finishes
  • Is not corroded by salt
  • Does not attract termites
  • Does not warp or chip off
  • Will not rust
  • UV protected
  • Cost efficient and extremely affordable
  • Low impact on environment
Disadvantages:
  • Aluminium is slimmer
  • Wood is more aesthetically appealing


How should I care for my upvc double glazed windows and doors?

Once or twice per year we recommend cleaning and oiling visible moving metal parts, particularly door locks and 'friction stay' window hinges. Do not use liquid detergent in the water when cleaning the seals - it attacks and degrades them. Use a squirt of cream cleanser in warm water on a cloth to clean white uPVC. Do not use acetone or acetone based cleaning solutions.
Keep the sliding Patio Door tracks brushed clean of mud, grit and dust. It is not reommended that you lubricate the track because that may cause an accumulation of foreign particles which may make it harder to clean.



What is the difference between internal and externally glazed windows?

Internally glazed windows have the glazing beads, which secure the double glazed unit in place, on the inside. Externally glazed windows have the glazing beads on the outside. For security, most professionals would recommend internally glazed units, as it is not possible to remove the glass from the outside.
Transoms and mullions are usually welded with internally glazed pvcu systems and mechanically fixed with externally glazed systems. For higher buildings with more than just ground and first floor, it is easier to fit internally glazed windows as most of the work is done from the inside. We do offer both options with our double glazed windows and doors and can show you the difference, but recommend internal glazing for most jobs.



I was approached by aluminium and wood window companies and they are saying that pvc double glazed windows will melt in Australian conditions - is this true?

Upvc double glazed windows are not made of snow, but of a rigid plastic that has been tested and found to outperfom common wood and aluminium frames on a variety of important factors. Unfortunately, the sales people employed by some of Australia's largest companies are not technicians and care more about their commission then about the integrity of their statements. They are well trained in sales techniques but their knowledge of cutting edge technology leaves something to be desired and so they make up wild and imaginitive stories just to get by.
In fact, many of these salespeople dont even know that the same companies that they work for, are in the process of creating upvc window making departments, after realising how poorly their aluminium or wooden windows perform compared to ours. We challenge you to ask these salespeople if they have everbuilt a upvc window and if they have ever seen one actually melt.
We have the confidence that the intelligent consumers will be able to tell the difference between fact and fiction, and it is the intelligent consumer, after researching the options chooses the UPVC products from Double Glazed Windows and Doors!



What is secondary (Double) Glazing?

Secondary glazing is another window fitted on the inside of your existing window, it is sometimes referred to as secondary window/s. Secondary glazing can be used in addition to single glazing in particularly noisy areas, proximity to airport or a busy street. It could also be used when existing windows cannot to be replaced and are single glazed, e.g. in a listed heritage building.



I am looking for supply only, as my builder will be installing the double glazed windows in our extension/ house. Is this possible?

Yes! We will even provide a free consultation for your builder if they have not worked with pvc window frames before - to ensure a trouble free installation.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors Pty. Ltd.

 
       
  0423 221 942  
  contact@doubleglazedwindows.net.au  
 
 
     
 

Side Hinged Window

 

A meticulously controlled work process allows increased speed and economies of scale advantage in production and assembly. The design elements in the classic Side Hinged Double Glazed windows are sometimes subdued, but fundamentally enriching - aesthetically and through improved comfort. The classic design allows to emerge important elements such as a strong sense of mass, structural legibility and strength with clear proportional relationships between solid and void. Side Hinged windows are similar to Casement windows, but open out and provide the highest possible acoustic and thermal insulation. Side Hinged windows are uncomplicated and cost-efficient, and when combined with our double glazed units, and offer exceptional improvements in performance when compared against ordinary aluminium or wooden windows. With architect's help, the Side Hinged Double Glazed windows will no doubt encourage inhabitants or users to gain architectural delight from their serendipitous journeys throughout the home.   More info on double glazed side hinged window

 
     
 

French Door

 

Make a grand entrance to your outdoor living area and impress your family and friends with our traditional and carefully crafted Double Glazed French Doors that add charm and elegance to any home! Double Glazed French Doors open and close like conventional doors, and with an outswing design can save interior space, where it is limited. Combine with a wheelchair accessible threshold, a sidelight/ fixed panel or colonial bars that add the classic look of divided light, and Double Glazed French Doors will become a stunning feature of your home!   For more information double glazed french door

 
     
 

Casement Window

 

Casement windows are an excellent choice for consumers concerned with acoustic, thermal and safety performance. The difference is obvious at a glance - the frame and sash look sturdy and substantial when compared to ordinary aluminium and wooden windows. You can have a beautifull home, but if you install inexpensive windows, the strucure of the home can feel cheaply built.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed casement window on this page

 
     
 

Stacker Door

 

The Double Glazed Stacker Door has two or more (upto 6) panels, with one panel sliding past another, and all of the panels resting or being 'stacked' on one or two sides. They are a great alternative to Bifold Double Glazed Doors, when the client prefers the sliding style over the Bifold, or when space is at a premium, since with Stacker or Sliding Double Glazed Doors you need not worry about furniture placement or possible exterior obstacles. These doors feature ease of operation and maintenance, a universally appealing design that will complement any modern home.   Read more on double glazed stacker door

 
     
 

Shape Window

 

All of your senses work to appreciate a building and its components and this involves time and space: thermal and acoustic and tactile sensations, as well as memories and associations. Uniquely designed windows can even bring about a whole repertoire of past experiences and future hopes, based on your emotions and tastes. Through compellingly perceptive rethinking of the configurations of members, joints and welding processes, we are able to manufacture almost any shape and size, only limited by your imagination! Ultimately, shape windows are a symbol of your creativity and individuality.   Greater detail on double glazed shape window can be found here

 
     
 

Bifold Door

 

Embrace the beauty and sophistication of our Bifold Double Glazed Door carefully crafted with uncompromising expertise and unsurpassed quality The Double Glazed Doors are the ideal choice for the aspiring or an expert entertainer, offering an awe inspiring effect of an unobstructed opening onto a pool deck, garden, private beach, bushland or conservatory. The superior performance features are maintained in this style, offering acoustic insulation of upto 40 dB, with excellent energy efficiency rating measured by a u-value of 1.8, all while being corrosion resistant and environmentally friendly.   Additional information on double glazed bifold door can be found at this location

 
     
 

Composite Door

 

The Composite Door is gaining in popularity with great speed for clients wanting noise insulation, strength, durability and security. All our Composite Doors contain a solid interior, which is made with reinforced materials, allowing our clients to gain increased security over even a solid wooden door, and will no doubt keep the insurance provider pleased. Composite doors are extremely strong, so they don't buckle, dent or warp, because they are designed to look better and provide more security for a longer period, than wooden or glass alternatives, yet they are very price competitive. The surface contains a glass reinforced polymer material and will not fade or lose colour. Additional feature includes advanced properties that shield from the weather, to ensure you have value for money in a door that lasts for decades, not just a few years.   For a detailed discussion on the subject of double glazed composite door click here

 
     
 

Awning Window

 

Double Glazed Awning Windows allow the window sash to swing outward rather than inward or up and down, so they can be located in may places around the home and easily arranged next to other window types. The awning window is the ideal window type for homes in the temperate climate zone, or homes that are positioned to take advantage of natural ventilation or breeze. Double Glazed Awning windows are made with compression and weather seal and provide higher air-tightness, energy-efficiency and acoustic insulation than other window types such as sliding and double-hung windows. Double Glazed Awning windows have a variety of applications due to their versatility and durability, and are particularly attractive option for contemporary homes because our Awning windows are manufactured locally to an indisputably imposing standard, impressing even the most discerning clientele.   More info on double glazed awning window

 
     
 

Casement Door

 

The Casement Double Glazed Door is essentially a single panel double glazed hinged door that has one panel swinging in or out. This style is our best performing Double Glazed Door against wind, rain, fire, and even snow, the casement style is energy efficient and practical, which will have an instant impact on your home. This product is suitable for both internal and external uses and is also available for specialised commercial and architectural applications.   Get all the facts on double glazed casement door

 
     
 

Fixed Window

 

Continuity, refinement and reflection of light will bring out the many benefits by the use of our Double Glazed Fixed Panels. They are cost efficient and offer the ultimum level of high performance in acoustic and noise insulation, since they are non-openable. Our approach deals with important aspects of architecture - the cultural and the natural environment. Combine together with other window and door types to allow the play of light and shadow in your home, or for breathtaking surrounding view, and improve the energy efficiency, sound insulation and comfort qualities in your home. Fixed panels have universal appeal and can be used in any style of home! They are environmentally friendly since they are recyclable and contribute to reduction in carbon emissions.   Additional information on double glazed fixed window can be found at this location

 
     
 

Test Reports

 

Purchasing upvc double glazing is not simply a cosmetic improvement, it is about technical advancement, high performance, safety and security, so by having various of our vinyl double glazed products tested in a laboratory to Australian Standards and the building regulations, ensures your double glazed windows comply with the minimum expected from any manufacturer in Australia. In fact, the double glazed window products that were tested have been found to outperform the minimum levels, and sometimes even exceed these levels several times over. Supplementary advice on double glazed test reports.   More info on double glazed test reports

 
     
 

New Construction

 

Installation of Double Glazed Windows in new homes or buildings is usually performed by the builder and his team, however, we are prepared to quote and provide an installation service if required. Installation fee is calculated on a per item basis and depends on the size and quantity of the items. The installation quote ordinarily includes glazing, but we can also provide a quote for installation excluding glazing, or a glazing only installation - we are flexible and understand that client circumstances vary.   Read more on double glazed new construction

 
     
 

IGUnit Glass

 

or Double Glazing is described as two or more lites of glass spaced apart and hermetically sealed to form a single glazed unit with an air gap between each lite. As the name suggests, the most important function of and IGU is to improve the thermal performance of glass when used in architectural applications. It is common to find two panel of glass and they are therefore also referred to as double glazing units. Triple glazing units are rare but serve their owners well in very cold climates. Insulated glazing may be framed in a sash or frame. IGU made of glass is called insulated glass.   Continued on the double glazed igunit glass page

 
     
 

Warranty

 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors recognizes every purchase is a significant investment in your home, and we do everything to ensure the double glazed windows and doors you purchase pay for themselves long after you are so comfortable you forget they are there. Double glazed windows and doors will not require replacement for many years and to guarantee superior performance we use only high quality profile, double glazed units and hardware. Our relationship with clients doesn't end when the job is complete, Double Glazed Windows and Doors are available to you for any help. Additional information on double glazed warranty can be found at this location.   Get all the facts on double glazed warranty

 
     
 

Sizes and Dimentions

 

The total cost of delivery is directly related to the sizes and number of double glazing items in your order. If any of your double glazed windows or doors exceed a certain level in either height or width, we must use a bigger truck, which will raise the cost of delivery, even if you have only a single double glzing item. The first delivery level is 4m wide; the second delivery level is 6m wide. Of course, we always stack the items in a most efficient way to save space.   Get the answers on your questions on double glazed sizes and dimentions on this page

 
     
 

Delivery Areas

 

Delivery of double glazed windows, doors and products within 100km of the Sydney Metropolitan Region does not attract a fuel surcharge. If your order is comprised of only a few double glazing items, we can operate a multi drop delivery system to save you money. This method allows us to service multiple customers in the same area who share the truck and the delivery cost. This is optional and customers who have urgent needs for delivery of their double glazed upvc windows and doors can always opt for a direct delivery. Check the Delivery Schedule page for more information.   Great suggestions and more on double glazed delivery areas can be found here

 
     
 

Clading

 

Awning windows have both federation and contemporary architecture applications. Our windows are more than just apertures for light and ventilation - they can be a major spectacle offering a connection to heaven and earth. With the right advice about placement and size, our windows can improve comfort, utilize daylight and natural ventilation for improvement in overall health and well being.   For supplementary material on double glazed clading click here

 
     
 

Sealing

 

Many people have the impression that all silicone gels on the market are the same, but we have found that their properties and, therefore, suitability varies dramatically. Generally, the descriptions of silicone offer little information as to the correct grade and type for a given application, and because of performance variability, there is no one type of silicone sealant that should be used for everything. Using the incorrect silicone or improper use may cause joint failure, contamination of surfaces because of poor application, excessive movement in the sealed joint.   Examine all the facts on double glazed sealing page

 
     
 

Safety

 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors are committed to protecting our staff, customers, associates and public from risk and injury associated with working with windows and glass products. Most accidents are preventable, and we provide extensive training for our staff to deal with various situations and armed with knowledge and experience, we are confident they are well prepared for uncertainty. Double Glazed Windows and Doors maintain an effective OH&S plan that not only complies with the law, but also is continuously improved as we try to uphold the highest level of safety that reaches beyond minimum legal requirements.   For more information double glazed safety

 
     
 

Laminated Glass

 

Is a sandwich made of one thin layer of plastic Poly Vinyl Butyral between two or more sheets of glass. The PVB sticks with the glass, forms chemical as well as mechanical bonds. When laminated with annealed glass, the layer maintains the geometric integrity of the pane in case of breakage.
Also, it gives acoustic insulation as well as providing protection against damage caused due to UV radiation because it cuts almost 99% of UV radiation present in the sunlight.   Examine all the facts on double glazed laminated glass page

 
     
 

Euroslide Staker

 

The all-round customer-friendly double glazed products offer an enhanced appearance as well as superior fabrication ease and performance. Together, the advanced form and function of sliding window system ensure lasting high quality, simple installation and satisfied customers. The Rehau Euroslide Design can be used to make a wide variety of upvc sliding double glazed windows and doors. Three main categories of pvcu window and door design can be fabricated.   Continued on the double glazed euroslide staker page

 
       
 

Double Glazed Windows and Doors Pty. Ltd.

 
  0423 221 942  
  contact@doubleglazedwindows.net.au