What types of insulating glass are there?

Insulating glass is divided into three categories:

• Double glazing: standard double glazing (Thermopane)
• High-efficiency insulating glass: HR, HR+, HR++ and HR+++ (Triple) glass
• Vacuum glass ( BENGglas )

Additional functions can be assigned to insulating glass by applying additional after-effects such as coatings, foils, extra windows or by applying unique product techniques.

This includes burglar-resistant, fall-proof, fire-resistant, sound-insulating, monumental and sun-resistant glass. Such post-processing is also possible with BENGglas .

Double glazing became the first step after single glazing and is also one of the most common types of insulating glass in older buildings built after the Second World War. Popularly, the old double glazing is also called Thermopane, named after the brand that was the first to market the type of insulating glass.

Construction and superstructure

The glass consists of two panes of approximately 4 to 5 mm thick with a cavity filled with air in between. Air conducts heat better than a gas filling or a vacuum, which means that the insulation value is less good than with other types of insulating glass.

HR (high-efficiency insulation) glass became the next step in insulating glass after standard double glazing. By replacing an air filling with a gas filling, the conduction from inside to outside was reduced. This resulted in an immediate improvement in the insulation value.

By applying heat coatings to the window, another step in insulation performance was achieved (HR+, HR++). These reflect the heat back into the home. By expanding the entire package with a third pane, the insulation performance was improved again (HR+++).

In essence, the more pluses, the better the insulation of the window.

BENGglas is the latest step in the development of insulating glass. By not using air or gas between the two panes, but instead creating a vacuum, conduction is kept to a minimum. This allows much better heat insulation, but also much better sound insulation, to be achieved with less material. This results in comfortable and quiet living.

Curious about all the benefits and what vacuum glass can do for you? Then request a quote immediately from one of the BENGglas dealers .

Spacers

Spacers are small dots found between the two panes of glass. These are intended to distribute the pressure on the glass during the vacuum process. Without spacers the glass would break. Our dealers are always in possession of a product sample. This way you can always view the spacers before purchasing.

Vacuum caps

Vacuum caps were used to extract the air between the two panes. However, technology is continuously developing. This now makes it possible to also extract air from the edges. This means that vacuum caps are no longer necessary.

Absorption strips or points

Absorption strips or points are intended to remove moisture from between the glass for a long time. This way the vacuum is kept intact. Depending on the production process, you will be dealing with an absorption point or absorption strip. With BENGglas + it will always protrude above the window slat. With BENGglas MAX and BENGglas BASIC this could be nicely concealed, provided there is the necessary space for it. The BENGglas dealers will be happy to advise you further on this.

To make an old home or building with old double glazing more sustainable, the choice quickly falls on HR++, Triple or vacuum glazing. However, by choosing vacuum glass you immediately save on new window frames and new (heavier) hinges and locks. You immediately start with long-term savings in your energy bill of 25 to even 50 years. Where the insulation value of high-efficiency glass increases slowly due to leakage and has a shorter lifespan of between 20 and 40 years.