The creation of double glazed windows is a testament to the phrase “Necessity is the mother of invention”.
Historians speculate that Scottish families residing in large Victorian residences pioneered double glazing. In ancient times, many houses depended on the kitchen fire to keep warm. However, it was not enough to insulate the large houses, so families were forced to find ways to combat drafts and keep their colossal mansions warm during the winter.
The technology finally came to the United States in the 1930s. In fact, some accounts credit the invention of double glazing to American inventor CD Haven. The windows were then called “thermopane” and were marketed primarily through the Libby Owens Ford Glass Company. By 1950, thermopanels were immensely popular in the United States and became a trademark synonymous with sophistication and luxury.
Interestingly, it was not until several decades later that the UK market caught up with the trend. The delay in receipt boiled down to two practical reasons: double-glazed windows were too expensive for the average home, and they weren’t really necessary at the time.
It was only between the late 1970s and 1980s that the UK finally caught on; it was impossible not to. It was too much to rely on traditional heating methods to warm the house if much of the heat was lost through drafty single-pane windows. Fortunately, as energy costs skyrocketed, cheaper materials for double-glazed windows emerged.
In addition to expensive wood frames, consumers could cut costs by opting for aluminum or uPVC alternatives. Overall, the prevailing circumstances required that more energy efficient and cost effective options be considered.
Today, it is more than just a luxury item or a staple item. It has become big business and an important home improvement option. With more companies moving towards expanding their product portfolio, the application of the technology has also expanded from simple windows to full-fledged greenhouses.
In the UK alone, around £3bn is spent annually on replacing windows, doors and conservatories. Newer building regulations aimed at lessening dependence on oil and promoting the environment have increased the overall appeal of the technology.
Experts predict that in the next five years the demand for energy efficient products will increase and while double glazed windows may not be exactly at the forefront, the technology will continue to be an important factor for homes that want to address their insulation, acoustic isolation. testing and energy saving needs with a simple solution.