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Vacuum Glazing Is A Better Option For Listed Buildings Than Standard Double Glazing

If you live or work in a period home or listed building then you will know how hard it is to keep them warm. An important factor in this is the old single glazing that is is featured in the original timber sash or casement windows. Single glazing is a bad insulator, for both heat and sound.

The natural instinct is to upgrade the glass from single glazing to double glazing. But in listed buildings this is not straightforward as they are protected structures and must comply with modern building regulations. Let’s take a look at why double glazing isn’t a viable option – and why Fineo vacuum double glazing is a far superior solution.

Standard double glazing is not a good fit for listed buildings

Comparing FIneo VIG with double glazing

Too big for historic frames – double glazing is too thick to be accommodated in historic frames. Single glazing is 4mm thick and the overall thickness of double glazing is between 20 to 28mm.

Regulations and restrictions – any alterations to windows in listed buildings will need prior consent and approval. Double glazing will not be approved because of the impact on the original frames and aesthetic.

Ugly appearance – double glazing can be rejected for use in a listed building because the aesthetics do not match the historic windows. The frames themselves would need a extensive routing to even accommodate the double-glazed unit size. And the large cavity, with visible spacers and reflections, does not match the character of the period.

Lets compare Fineo Vacuum Glazing with traditional glazing;

Single Glazing
Slim Double Glazing
Double Glazing
Triple Glazing
FINEO
Thickness
4mm
11mm
28mm
36mm
7.7mm
U-value W/m2K
5.8
1.9
1.2
0.8
0.7
Light Transmission
90
80
80
71
80
Sound Reduction Rw (C;Ctr) dB
29 (-2; -3)
31 (-2; -5)
31 (-2; -5)
32 (-1; -5)
35 (-2; -5)
Solar G-value
0.87
0.71
0.71
0.61
0.62

Vacuum glazing is a better option for listed buildings, period homes and conservation areas

What is Vacuum Glazing?

Vacuum glazing (or vacuum-insulating glazing) is a cutting-edge energy-efficient window glass technology. Like standard double glazing it consists of two glass panes.

The difference is, the panes are separated by a 0.1mm vacuum-sealed gap – instead of a larger gas filled cavity. This vacuum acts as an insulating barrier, drastically reducing heat transfer. Since there is no air or gas between the panes, vacuum glazing achieves exceptional thermal performance (similar to triple glazing) with a very thin profile of only 7.7mm, similar to single glazing.

Heritage buildings in England

Key Benefits of Fineo Vacuum Glazing:

Stop Heat Escaping – Fineo vacuum glazing reduces heat loss 8 times more than single glazing! It has a low U-value of 0.7 (single glazing is 5.8) – that’s better than triple glazing. The lower the U-value the better the insulation.

Similar thickness – This makes Fineo the perfect solution for replacing single glazing as it is only 7.7mm thick. The vacuum glass can be easily retrofitted into period homes and listed buildings.

Perfect for historic homes or buildings – Vacuum glazing like Fineo is perfect for replacing single glazing in  listed buildings and conservation projects. It has been approved for use by Historic England. Fineo complies with building regulations, delivering modern comfort while preserving the original authentic window frames.

Reduce unwanted noise – Helps reduce external noise due to its vacuum-sealed design. Ideal for built up areas where maintaining the original frames is desired. There is a 34% perceived noise reduction when compared to single glazing.

Longer warranty and lifespan – Vacuum-sealed units do not degrade over time like gas-filled units. Fineo has a market leading 20 year warranty with an expected lifespan of 60+ years. It is also the only vacuum insulating glass manufactured in Europe with CE marking.

Fineo with CE marking

Fineo vacuum double glazing is the best replacement glazing for single glazing In listed buildings, period homes and conservation areas.

If your priority is achieving a warmer more comfortable home – while preserving traditional window frames, then Fineo vacuum glazing is worth the investment.

Get Expert Advice

Interested in upgrading to Fineo vacuum glazing? Contact us today to arrange a free quote or visit our approved installers page to find your nearest Fineo installer.

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