What is Vacuum Insulated Glass?
Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) is a type of insulated glass that uses a vacuum instead of air or gas to insulate the space between two panes of glass. This makes it much more effective at insulating than traditional insulated glass units (IGUs), which use air or argon gas.
VIG units are made by evacuating the air from the space between two panes of glass and then sealing the unit. The vacuum creates a barrier that prevents heat transfer between the inside and outside of the building. This makes VIG units up to six times more insulating than traditional IGUs.
How Does Vacuum Insulated Glass Work?
VIG units work by preventing heat transfer through the glass. Heat can be transferred through glass in three ways: conduction, convection, and radiation.
- Conduction is the transfer of heat from one molecule to another. In a VIG unit, the vacuum prevents heat from being conducted from the outside of the building to the inside.
- Convection is the transfer of heat by the movement of air or gas. The vacuum in a VIG unit prevents convection from occurring.
- Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. VIG units can be coated with a low-emissivity (low-e) coating to reduce heat transfer by radiation.
What are the benefits of VIG?
VIG offers a number of benefits over traditional insulated glass, including:
- Superior thermal insulation: VIG is up to 14 times more thermally efficient than monolithic glass and 2-4 times more efficient than traditional insulated glass. This means that VIG can help you save significantly on your heating and cooling costs.
- Reduced condensation: VIG can help to reduce condensation on your windows, even in cold climates. This is because the vacuum layer prevents heat from transferring from the inside of your home to the outside, which can cause condensation to form.
- Improved soundproofing: VIG can also help to improve the soundproofing of your home. The vacuum layer acts as a barrier to sound waves, reducing noise pollution from outside.
- Thinner and lighter: VIG is thinner and lighter than traditional insulated glass, making it easier to install and transport.
Applications of Vacuum Insulated Glass
VIG can be used in a variety of applications, including:
- Windows: VIG windows are ideal for residential and commercial buildings. They can help to reduce energy costs, improve comfort levels, and reduce noise pollution.
- Doors: VIG doors can also help to reduce energy costs and improve comfort levels.
- Skylights: VIG skylights can help to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.
- Curtain walls: Use VIG curtain walls to craft a glass facade seamlessly, boasting superior insulation performance.
How to Choose the Right Vacuum Insulated Glass
When choosing VIG units, there are a few factors to consider:
- Size: VIG units are available in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose the right size for your application.
- Thickness: VIG units are available in a variety of thicknesses, so it is important to choose the right thickness for your application.
- Performance: VIG units have a variety of performance ratings, so it is important to choose the right performance rating for your application.
- Price: VIG units can be more expensive than traditional insulated glass units, so it is important to factor in the cost when making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the R-value of vacuum insulated glass?
A: The R-value of vacuum insulated glass varies depending on the thickness of the glass and the width of the vacuum space. However, VIG typically has an R-value of 10-15, which is up to 14 times higher than traditional double-paned glass and up to 4 times higher than triple-paned glass.
Q: Is vacuum insulated glass expensive?
A: VIG is more expensive than traditional insulating glass. However, the long-term energy savings can offset the initial cost of installation.
Q: How long does vacuum insulated glass last?
A: VIG is designed to last for the lifetime of your home. However, it is important to have your VIG windows and doors inspected and maintained regularly to ensure that they are performing at their best.
Q: Where can I buy vacuum insulated glass?
A: You can buy vacuum insulated glass from a variety of window and door manufacturers and installers. We are a leading provider of VIG products and installation services. Contact us today to learn more.
Final Words
Vacuum insulated glass is the most energy-efficient and thermally insulating glass on the market. It offers a number of benefits over traditional insulated glass, including superior thermal insulation, reduced condensation, improved soundproofing, and a thinner and lighter profile.
If you’re looking for a way to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home or business, vacuum insulated glass is the perfect solution. Contact us today to learn more about our VIG products and services.