Vacuum-insulated glass vs. insulated glass for double glazing - What is The Difference?

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) provides superior thermal insulation compared to traditional insulated glass by eliminating air or gas between panes, significantly reducing heat transfer. VIG's vacuum layer minimizes conduction and convection, offering higher energy efficiency and better condensation resistance for double glazing applications.

Table of Comparison

Overview: Vacuum Insulated Glass vs Insulated Glass

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) features a near-complete vacuum between two glass panes, significantly reducing heat transfer via conduction and convection compared to traditional insulated glass units (IGUs) filled with air or inert gas. VIG offers superior thermal insulation with a typical U-value as low as 0.2 W/m2K, outperforming standard insulated glass that usually ranges between 1.1 to 2.0 W/m2K. The minimal thickness and higher energy efficiency of vacuum insulated glass make it ideal for modern double glazing applications seeking enhanced insulation and slimmer profiles.

Double Glazing Basics: Understanding the Core Concepts

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) and traditional insulated glass units (IGUs) both enhance thermal performance in double glazing by reducing heat transfer, but VIGs achieve superior insulation through a near-vacuum space between glass panes, minimizing conduction and convection. Insulated glass units typically use air or inert gas fills like argon or krypton, providing effective thermal resistance with thickness variations affecting U-values and soundproofing. Understanding these core concepts is essential for selecting double glazing solutions that balance energy efficiency, acoustic insulation, and overall window performance.

Construction Differences: VIG vs IGU

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) consists of two ultra-thin glass panels separated by a vacuum space, eliminating air or gas fill to minimize heat transfer through conduction and convection. Insulated glass units (IGU), commonly used in double glazing, feature two or more glass panes separated by a spacer filled with air or inert gas like argon or krypton, providing thermal insulation primarily through reduced air movement. The vacuum gap in VIG allows for significantly thinner glass and superior thermal performance compared to the thicker spacer and gas-filled gap in traditional IGUs.

Thermal Performance Comparison

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) outperforms traditional insulated glass units (IGUs) in thermal performance due to its near-complete elimination of conductive and convective heat transfer between panes. VIG typically achieves U-values as low as 0.5 W/m2K, compared to standard double glazing IGUs with U-values around 1.1 to 1.4 W/m2K, significantly enhancing energy efficiency. This superior thermal insulation reduces heat loss in cold climates and heat gain in warm climates, leading to lower HVAC energy consumption and increased occupant comfort.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) significantly enhances energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through the near-complete absence of air or gas between panes, resulting in U-values as low as 0.7 W/m2K, compared to 1.2-1.8 W/m2K typical for conventional insulated glass units (IGUs). This superior thermal insulation translates into substantial cost savings on heating and cooling bills, particularly in extreme climates. Despite a higher initial investment due to advanced manufacturing and edge-sealing technologies, VIG's long-term energy savings and durability often offset upfront costs within 5-7 years.

Noise Reduction Capabilities

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) offers superior noise reduction capabilities compared to traditional insulated glass units by eliminating the air gap and creating a near vacuum space that drastically reduces sound wave transmission. The vacuum layer in VIG minimizes acoustic resonance, resulting in significantly lower noise levels from external sources such as traffic or construction. In contrast, standard insulated glass relies on air or inert gas filling, which is less effective in dampening sound vibrations and provides moderate noise insulation.

Durability and Lifespan

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) offers superior durability due to its airtight vacuum layer, reducing gas leakage and condensation compared to traditional insulated glass units (IGUs) filled with inert gas. VIG panels typically have a longer lifespan, often exceeding 20 years, by maintaining thermal performance without degradation from gas diffusion or seal failure. Insulated glass units may experience decreased efficiency and durability over time as gas fills escape and seals deteriorate, often requiring replacement within 10-15 years.

Thickness and Weight Considerations

Vacuum insulated glass typically offers a thinner profile and significantly lighter weight compared to traditional insulated glass units used in double glazing, enhancing window frame compatibility and reducing structural load. The vacuum layer in vacuum insulated glass can be less than 0.2 mm thick, whereas conventional insulated glass often ranges from 12 to 24 mm in total thickness due to air or gas-filled gaps. This reduction in thickness and weight not only improves thermal performance but also allows for slimmer window designs and easier installation in high-performance architectural applications.

Application Suitability: Residential and Commercial Uses

Vacuum insulated glass offers superior thermal performance and slimmer profile, making it ideal for high-performance residential windows and commercial facades where energy efficiency and space-saving are priorities. Insulated glass units (IGUs) are more commonly used in both residential and commercial settings due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility, suitable for standard double glazing applications with moderate insulation needs. Commercial buildings with large window areas benefit from vacuum insulated glass's enhanced insulation, while residential properties often opt for IGUs balancing cost and thermal comfort.

Price Analysis: Vacuum Insulated Glass vs Insulated Glass

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) typically commands a higher price compared to traditional insulated glass units (IGUs) due to its advanced technology and superior thermal performance. While VIG offers exceptional energy efficiency and thinner profiles, the manufacturing complexity and materials involved increase its upfront cost by approximately 30-50% compared to standard double glazing. Insulated glass remains more cost-effective for large-scale applications but may incur higher long-term energy expenses due to less effective thermal insulation.