FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
What is double glazing?
IGU's consist of two or more panels of glass separated by an air space and a spacer bar. An example of a commonly used double glazed unit is 5-8-5 (18mm) which is 5mm glass with an 8mm air gap and 5mm glass. The spacer contains a desiccant (drying agent) that eliminates moisture vapour in the cavity. The combination of the two panels of glass and the trapped air is what makes IGU's a superior energy-efficient method of glazing. The IGU can perform a thermal and noise insulating function. The narrowest air gap used is 6mm, but wider gaps (10-20mm) will improve performance. For greater performance one of the glass panels should have a Low-E coating and argon gas between the panes.
Do I need double glazing?
Double glazing offers convenient comfort and security levels all year round. In addition to the glazing, minimal air leakage is important for thermal efficient windows and doors. Double glazing is necessary for modern homes to block unwanted heat gain (summer) and heat loss (winter). Low conductive frame material (i.e timber), compressible gaskets and supporting hardware are additions you should consider.
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What are energy-efficent windows?
Energy-efficient double glazed windows and doors ensure airtight closure due to superior gaskets, hardware and craftsmanship. Combined with a low conductive frame (i.e. timber) will ensure high all year round comfort levels with reduced heat loss in winter and less heat gain in summer.
Tip: Check for balanced high performance on WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme), low U Value, minimal Air Infiltration and low conductive frame material.
What is AliClad?
Miglas AliClad is a timber window with a durable aluminium exterior that mimics the appearance of a painted timber window with the benefit of never having to paint. It combines the advantage of a durable exterior with the beauty of a timber interior. The AliClad system is thermally efficient and long-lasting in addition to exceeding the performance of most other windows on the market.
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Is double glazing enough?
Double glazing is only one component that contributes to the performance. The frame, gaskets and hardware as well as the level of craftsmanship influence the quality of the product
Tip: Windows and Doors are a long term investment – see & touch the whole product before you make a decision.
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Is the product eco-friendly?
The Lifecycle expectations of an AliClad window outperform other window options. The combination of durable, low maintenance exterior and sustainable timber interior will last for 50+ years. No toxic wash off, component recycling and energy efficiency are only a few reasons to decide for AliClad windows and doors from Miglas.
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How do I compare window systems?
The best method of comparison is to refer to the performance figures of products to ensure they can meet your requirements. The difference in these figures can have a dramatic effect on energy costs over their lifespan that may outweigh the initial outlay to purchase a low-cost variant.
"Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten."
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How much is the Miglas product?
Every project is unique. This means we assess your project individually to meet the specific requirements and therefore windows and doors are customised to suit your design. Our windows and doors are bespoke high-performance products beyond double glazing. The choice of hardware, style, size and glass type will impact the overall price. Miglas provide quotations based on the details supplied, however, if there is a design option that would reduce the price we will draw alternate options and show the cost variation. Please do not hesitate to send your plans or window schedule (sizes and requirements) to info@miglas.com.au to receive your free no-obligation quotation.
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Is it easy to compare windows and quotes?
It is relatively hard to compare apples with apples as the quality of input components and craftsmanship are so different and not well regulated. You should always look for AGWA compliance and high WERS ratings as a minimum requirement. Windows and doors are an important investment as they are crucial to the buildings overall thermal performance. Shopping for price only may be the wrong decision long term. Ensure that you understand the differences in component quality and craftsmanship. As you are purchasing a product that should remain in your building for over 50 years it's worthwhile to invest in low maintenance, durability and life expectancy. The performance measures should be your minimum requirement, however, always check if these ratings are applicable for the whole window (not just for one component).
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Can I get double-hung windows?
Miglas does not manufacture traditional double-hung windows. The thermal efficiency of the product is not sufficient and the windows only allow for 50% ventilation opening compared to a casement. Additionally, the restrictions of the view don't cater to modern standards. Satisfying customer requirements in this case means - we will find a solution that is thermally efficient and meets your design requirements. Miglas offers options that imitate the look or the means of operation. The reason for not offering the double-hung is simply because there are more efficient and effective solutions available.
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Why not an aluminium window?
While an aluminium window does not require maintenance, the frames are highly conductive creating a thermal bridge - meaning that warmth will get lost through the frame in winter or unwanted heat is gained in summer. Thermal bridges should be avoided in order to achieve thermal efficiency. The Miglas AliClad windows and doors are thermally broken and provide superior performance.
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What is argon gas?
Argon gas is an inert, non-toxic gas used in insulating glass units (double glazing) to reduce heat transfer. Other companies offer these gas fillings to make up for their less efficient framing materials. Miglas offers this option to maximise heat control.
What are awning windows?
Awning windows are hinged at the top and open out from the bottom using our smooth action window winders or electric actuators. Folding window-winder handles give a clean line for curtains and blinds. It is designed to circulate air while protecting the room from light rain. The double sash locks give security and a positive closure on the seals. This means unwanted air leakage is reduced to a minimum (Miglas Air Infiltration = 0.07). The available performance options achieve high performance in each climate zone for all projects. Flyscreens are included as standard in all opening windows.
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What is a bay window?
A composite of three windows usually made up of a large centre unit and two side (or wing) units that can be at a 45 or 90 degree angle from the wall. Miglas offers these traditional options and has specially designed connectors for a smooth exterior finish and efficient installation.
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What are bifold doors?
Bifold doors consist of three or more panels. These doors are top hung with doors hinged off of each other. The doors fold into one area providing a large uninterrupted view. Wide openings are can be achieved with the multi-leaf design. Combinations of up to eight leaves are possible to create a smooth transition from living areas to a terrace, balcony or garden.
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What are casement windows?
Casement windows are ideal for ventilation with the sash opening to 90 degrees, providing maximum airflow to a room. They have a hinge-joint on the side and open out like a door. Quality Interlock hardware allows easy opening action and multipoint sash locks provide security and advanced sealing pressure on the compression gaskets for minimum air leakage. (Miglas Air Infiltration = 0.07). Folding window-winder handles allow a clean line for curtains and blinds. The quality construction, window hardware and seals also ensure excellent sealing against water. Casements can achieve a high level of performance in each climate zone for your project. Flyscreens are included as standard in all opening windows. Additionally, you can automate your casement windows.
What are french doors?
These doors have two opening leaves, an active and a slave that opens either internally or externally. French doors are designed to open the space to a terrace or to an outdoor area while giving you the option to open one or both doors. High-quality German engineered and manufactured multi-point locks and hinges provide smooth operation. Five lock-points and two (or three) hinges on each leaf offer a superior solution to ensure security. Both leaves have a handle for easy opening. In combination with the gaskets French doors satisfy the requirements for thermal efficiency. Non-visible, and 3D-adjustable hinges are available.
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What is condensation?
The deposit of water vapour from the air on any cold surface whose temperature is below the dew point, such as cold window glass or frame that is exposed to humid indoor air. (Liquid forming on the windows)
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What is a concealed hinge?
A concealed hinge is one that is hidden is not visible when the door is closed, allowing a clear aesthetically pleasing line. Miglas offers this option for all hinged doors. Additionally, the hinges can be purchased separately for other door systems.
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What is conduction?
Conduction is one of the most important aspects of insulation. It is the heat transfer through a solid material by contact of one molecule to the next. Heat flows from a higher-temperature area to a lower-temperature one. A low conductive frame material like timber is important for good insulation and comfort.
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What is the air gap?
This is the air space between the panes of glass in an insulating glass unit (IGU). This is also known as a cavity, airspace or spacer. The air gap contributes to the insulation of the double glazing and can be filled with Argon gas for improved performance. A gap smaller than 10mm is insufficient.
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What is Air Infiltration (AI)?
This is the amount of air leaking in and out of a building through windows and doors. Air leakage of windows and doors is responsible for 50% of a buildings heat loss or gain. Positive closure pressure on a quality gasket is crucial for a thermally efficient product. Always look for a low AI value below 0.1. Leaks also allow noise to enter or leave a building. Windows and doors with minimal air leakage help to reduce noise impact.
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What is embodied energy?
Embodied energy is the energy used during a product's entire life cycle in order to manufacture, transport, use and dispose of the product. Footprint studies often use embodied energy when tracking the trade of goods or the energy used to manufacture a certain component. Aluminium has a high embodied energy compared to timber. The justification to use aluminium cladding is the increased durability and the lower maintenance of the product. This means you never paint your windows - no solvents, no toxic wash off, no impact of paint transport over the 50+ lifetime of the product.
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What is flashing?
An impervious membrane compatible with the framing materials, installed in such a manner as to prevent ingress of water into the building. Miglas recommends the use of wrap and flashing for superior installation and insulation of your home.
What is frame depth?
The frame depth is determined by your type of construction. Miglas offer two frame depths to cater for the different wall constructions. 150mm for weatherboard and 177mm for brick wall construction. Miglas can supply timber extensions that can be fitted on-site by builders to suit specialised wall depths.
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How do you determine a frame size?
The dimensions shown in our quote are the actual overall window size rather than the opening. Miglas recommend allowing 10mm clearance all around the frame to ensure the frame can adequately fit and the gap is then filled with expanding foam to ensure an airtight seal to the wall. To receive an accurate quote it is crucial to provide the right overall height and width required
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How do you measure your windows?
It is usually best to get your builder to measure the windows and doors. As a guideline, if you measure the overall height and width of your existing window/opening this is sufficient for us to provide a quotation. The frames should be 10mm smaller than the opening all around. The final window sizes can be confirmed by your builder prior to manufacture. Miglas does not offer a measuring service, as we supply only, and typically this element is left to the installer.
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What is the Building Code of Australia (BCA)?
The Building Code of Australia outlines the standards, by law, which must be adhered to by the Australian building and construction industries.
What is a building envelope?
The building envelope refers to the walls, ceiling, windows, floors, skylights, and design features of a building.
What are gaskets?
All Miglas products have high-quality gaskets that surround the entire frame for airtight closure. Miglas uses only silicone rubber seals for durability and fire resistance. Gaskets are a major component of windows as they ensure thermal efficiency, noise reduction, and air tightness.
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What is hardcoat Low-E glass?
This is a transparent coating that is sprayed on a glass surface while it is still hot. It is also known as pyrolitic low E glass. The coating separates longwave (furnace heat) energy and short wave (sun heat) energy. The long wave is reflected back to the heat source. The short wave is allowed to pass selectively through the coating.
Note: Hardcoat Low-E can exhibit visual haze under certain lighting conditions.
What is soft coat Low-E glass?
This is a transparent coating which is applied using a Magnetron Sputtering Vapor Deposition (MSVD) process in a vacuum chamber. Compared to hardcoat Low-E, softcoat provides better visibility and performance.
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What is toughened glass?
Toughened or tempered glass is glass that has been processed by controlled thermal treatments. It has increased strength compared with float glass and will shatter into small fragments, rather than sharp shards, when broken. Heat-strengthened glass has lower residual stress and is two times stronger than float glass. There are requirements for this glass to be used, which includes large panels as well as doors and sidelights. Toughened glass is used when strength, thermal resistance and safety are important considerations and are required to comply with the glazing code AS1288.
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