Insulated glazing

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More energy-efficient windows (glazing) can be achieved through multiple layers or through the use of coatings.

Placement and size of the windows are also very important. Passive solar design considers the amount of sun that is captured, at what time of the year, and what time of the day, to warm when warmth is needed, and shield from heat during the hotter seasons and/or hotter parts of the day.

[edit] Multiple layers

Double-glazing and triple-glazing are much more effective at reducing both heat flow than conventional single layered glass.

The drawbacks are:

• Greater cost
• The windows must be kept closed to gain the full effect. The insulation effect is largely lost when the windows are opened. This may not be a big problem as:
  1. The windows may be opened at times of the day when the temperature is relatively comfortable.
  2. Ventilation may be achieved through a heat exchanger.^{[verification needed]} (How cost-effective is a heat exchanger as part of an energy-efficient house?^{suggested project.})

Use of inert gas such as argon adds to the efficiency, but at greater cost and it will leak out over perhaps 5 years. This is probably not cost-effective.^{suggested project.}

[edit] Cost effective design idea

This may be interresting for those on a tight budget that can't afford those new windows. Most of the windows in this house I have now are double glass already...but!...what the previous owner did was to put magentic strips around the edges of the window and add a removable panel of clear plexy glass. It is relativly thick plexy..not that thin flimzy stuff, the magnet strips create a very good seal, they can be removed to clean with a soft cloth and plexi is not that expensive. It is a great idea. I believe, it makes a significant difference to condensation, heat transfer, wind, noise and as a safety regarding protection if glass should get broken. - Yahoo! Answers - I want to get double pane, energy efficient windows for my home. How important is Argon gas a factor? (from a response posted by Jamie)