UKO Glass

When considering home improvements, particularly regarding window installation, homeowners often encounter the term “argon gas.” This non-toxic, colourless gas plays a crucial role in enhancing the energy efficiency of windows. Wondering what is argon gas? In this blog post, we will explore the properties of it, its applications in window technology, and the benefits it brings to homeowners seeking to reduce energy costs and improve comfort in their home. What Is It? Argon is non-reactive, odourless, and colourless gas, making it an ideal choice for various applications. The unique properties of this gas, which constitutes approximately 1% by volume of Earth’s atmosphere, allow it to serve as an effective insulator, particularly in double and triple-glazed windows. The Characteristics Non-Toxic Argon poses no health risks to humans or the environment, making it a safe choice for residential use. Low Thermal Conductivity It is less effective at conducting heat, which enhances thermal insulation in windows. Argon as a Noble Gas Argon, symbolised as Ar, is a fascinating chemical element belonging to the noble gases group. Discovered in 1894 by Scottish chemist William Ramsay and English chemist Morris Travers, argon was isolated from air through fractional distillation. The name “argon” comes from the Greek word “argos,” meaning “inactive” or “lazy,” reflecting its non-reactive nature. As the third most abundant gas in the Earth’s atmosphere, argon constitutes just under 1% of the air we breathe. Additionally, you can find it in trace amounts within natural gas and oil deposits, making it readily available for various applications. The Production The production of this gas primarily involves the fractional distillation of liquefied air. This process entails cooling air to very low temperatures, causing its constituent gases to separate based on their boiling points. Argon is then collected and purified to achieve high-quality gas suitable for various uses. Another method of producing this gas is through the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, where we obtain argon as a byproduct. The Role of Argon in Window Construction Argon gas is primarily used to fill the space between the panes of double and triple-glazed windows. This process, known as gas filling, significantly improves the thermal performance of the windows. It is also useful in various applications, including window construction, lighting, and welding. How it is Injected 1.      Preparation The window panes are sealed with a spacer, which creates a pocket for the gas. 2.     Injection The gas is pumped into the sealed space through a small opening, displacing air and preventing it from entering. 3.      Sealing Once the argon is injected, the opening is sealed to maintain the gas within the window unit. Why Choose it for Your Windows? Homeowners are increasingly opting for argon gas-filled windows due to their numerous advantages. Understanding these benefits can help in making informed decisions regarding window installations. Energy Efficiency Windows filled with argon gas significantly reduce the amount of heat that escapes during colder months. This enhanced insulation translates to lower heating costs and increased comfort. Soundproofing Qualities It also acts as a sound barrier. Its density helps to dampen noise, making it a great choice for homes located in busy or noisy areas. Is Argon Gas Safe? One of the most commonly asked questions about this gas is its safety. Given its non-toxic nature, homeowners can rest assured that argon poses no health risks. Environmental Impact Argon is a naturally occurring gas that dissipates quickly in well-ventilated areas. If a window seal fails and argon escapes, it does not harm the environment or the inhabitants of the home. Handling and Installation During installation, professionals take the necessary precautions to ensure that the gas remains contained within the window units. Homeowners do not need to worry about exposure during or after installation. Argon vs. Krypton Gas While the most common use for argon is gas for window insulation, krypton gas is another option that some homeowners may consider. Differences in Properties Density Krypton is denser than argon, which allows it to provide superior insulation, especially in smaller spaces between panes. Cost Krypton is more expensive than argon, making it less popular among homeowners looking for cost-effective solutions. How Long Does It Last in Windows? The longevity of it in windows largely depends on the quality of the window units and the installation process. Expected Lifespan High-quality argon-filled windows can retain their gas for 20 years or more. However, some gradual leakage is normal over time. Signs of Gas Loss Homeowners may notice condensation or frost forming between the panes, indicating that the gas has escaped. Regular inspections can help identify these issues early. Modern Glazed Units Argon gas is an essential component of modern window technology, offering homeowners numerous benefits, including enhanced energy efficiency, soundproofing, and safety. At UKO Glass, we fill all our glass units with argon gas. This is great for enhancing insulation and energy efficiency for superior thermal performance in every product. Whether you need high-performance acoustic solutions or custom large-scale sizes, we have the glass solution for you. Want to find out more? Email us today on theteam@ukoglass.co.uk.

Toughened glass, often referred to as safety glass, is renowned for its strength and durability. Unlike regular glass, tempered glass undergoes a rigorous manufacturing process that enhances its resilience, making it a popular choice in various applications, from windows to roof lanterns and more. However, a common question often arises: can toughened glass be cut? This blog post will talk you through the properties of tempered glass, the manufacturing process, and the implications of cutting or drilling it. Specifically, we will address why it is not feasible to cut toughened glass without compromising its structural integrity and safety features. What is Toughened Glass? Toughened glass is created through a specialised thermal process that significantly increases its strength compared to standard glass. This process involves heating the glass to high temperatures and then rapidly cooling it, creating internal stresses that enhance its durability. Tempered glass is known for its strength making it particularly valuable in situations where resistance to breakage and potential injury is a priority, such as in glass doors and windows, shower screens, and commercial buildings. Understanding Toughened Glass Tempered glass, also known as toughened glass, is a type of safety glass that has been treated to significantly enhance its strength and durability. The tempering process involves heating the glass to a high temperature, typically around 700°C, and then rapidly cooling it. This rapid cooling creates internal stresses within the glass, which are responsible for its increased strength and resistance to impact. The tempering process not only makes the glass much stronger than standard glass but also alters the way it breaks. Instead of shattering into sharp, jagged pieces, tempered glass breaks into small, blunt fragments, reducing the risk of injury. This safety feature makes tempered glass an ideal choice for applications where both strength and safety are paramount, such as in glass doors, shower screens and commercial buildings. The Tempering Process 1.     Heating The heated glass is brought to approximately 700°C. This step is crucial as it prepares the glass for the toughening process. 2.     Cooling After heating, cold air is applied quickly to the glass, causing the outer surface to cool rapidly while the inner part remains hot. This temperature difference creates tension within the glass. 3.     Final Product The result is a glass panel that is four to five times stronger than its non-toughened counterpart. In the event of breaking, toughened glass shatters into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury. Properties of Toughened Glass Strength – Its increased strength makes it ideal for high-impact applications. Safety – The way it breaks into small pieces minimises the risk of severe injuries. Thermal Resistance – Toughened glass can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for various environments. Can Toughened Glass Be Cut? The straightforward answer is no; once toughened glass has completed its manufacturing process, it cannot be cut, drilled, or altered. Attempting to do so will cause the glass to shatter. Challenges of Cutting Toughened Glass Cutting tempered glass presents significant challenges due to the internal stresses introduced during the tempering process. These stresses make the glass exceptionally strong and resistant to cutting or any form of manipulation. When an attempt is made to cut or drill toughened glass, the internal stress is disrupted, often causing the glass to shatter into small, blunt pieces. The difficulty in cutting tempered glass means that glaziers must use specialised tools and techniques to handle it. Even with these tools, the risk of the glass cracking or shattering remains high if not handled with extreme care. The tempering process makes the glass prone to sudden breakage when its structural integrity is compromised, which is why cutting this type of glass is generally not recommended once it has been tempered. Ideal Preparation Before Toughening Before undergoing the toughening process, glass must be accurately cut and shaped. This is crucial for ensuring that the final product meets specific design requirements. It is important to consult specialists early in the project for shaped glass units to ensure the glass can be designed and cut to the desired size and shape. Here’s how the process typically works: 1.     Initial Cutting The glass is cut to the desired dimensions before it enters the toughening furnace. 2.     Shaping Any necessary shapes must be created at this stage. 3.     Toughening Once the glass is shaped, it is placed in the furnace for the toughening process. Common Uses of Toughened Glass Doors and Windows Tempered or toughened glass is widely used in both residential and commercial buildings for doors and windows. Its strength and shatter-resistant properties make it ideal for areas where there is a higher risk of impact, such as entryways, sliding patio doors, or large windows. In these applications, it offers both safety and security without sacrificing visual clarity or aesthetics. Shower Enclosures In bathrooms, toughened glass is the standard material for shower screens and enclosures. It is well-suited for these environments because it can withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations, resisting the thermal stresses from hot water and steam. Additionally, its smooth surface is easy to clean, maintaining hygiene and longevity in wet areas. Glass Railings Toughened glass is also popular in glass balustrades and railings used in balconies, staircases, and terraces. Here, the glass serves as a safety barrier while providing a sleek, modern look that enhances the design without obstructing views. In these applications, the glass is often paired with stainless steel or other materials for additional structural support. Partition Walls Toughened glass is used in office partition walls and dividers to create transparent or frosted barriers between spaces. It ensures safety in high-traffic areas while offering a soundproof and visually appealing solution for open-plan designs. Furniture Items like glass tabletops, shelves, and cabinet doors often incorporate toughened glass to ensure durability and resistance to breakage in daily use. Its strength makes it perfect for load-bearing surfaces, adding a refined touch to home or office furniture. Public and Commercial Spaces Toughened glass is integral to storefronts, shopping malls, train stations and airports

U-values are a critical aspect of building performance, particularly when it comes to glazing systems. They serve as a measure of thermal transmittance, indicating how effectively a window or door can prevent heat loss or gain. Wondering, what is a U-value? This blog post will talk you through implications for efficiency, and how they can influence your choice of glazing solutions. What is a U-value? U-values measure the rate of heat transfer through building elements, particularly windows and doors. This measurement indicates the effectiveness of materials in resisting heat flow, based on the temperature difference between the inside and outside. Expressed in watts per square meter per Kelvin (W/m²K), a lower U-value signifies better insulation properties. What’s the Difference Between U-value and R-value? U-value measures the thermal performance of building assemblies like insulated glass units (IGUs), whereas R-value is used to assess the insulation quality of other building components, such as walls, floors, and roofs. R-value measures thermal resistance, which is the ability of a material to resist heat flow. These two metrics are mathematically related, as they are reciprocals of each other. A lower U-value signifies better insulation, while a higher R-value indicates greater resistance to heat transfer. What About U-value and K-value? U-value and K-value both measure a material’s thermal transmittance, or how much heat passes through it. K-value specifically measures thermal conductivity, which is a material’s ability to conduct heat. K-values have been replaced by U-values for windows and doors. Importance of U-Values Energy Efficiency A lower U-value means reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling, translating into lower utility bills. Comfort Homes with windows that have low U-values maintain a more stable indoor temperature, enhancing comfort levels for occupants and making the home more energy efficient. Environmental Impact By choosing energy efficient windows and doors, homeowners can contribute to a decrease in carbon emissions, aligning with sustainability goals. What Constitutes a Good U-Value? For new homes, the recommended U-value for windows or doors inclusive of frames and glazing is typically around 1.4 W/m²K or lower. You can determine a good U-value by measuring the average heat flux through a material over a specified period. Energy Efficiency A window’s U-value has a direct impact on energy efficiency, influencing not only heating and cooling costs but also overall comfort within the home. Heat Transfer Higher U-values mean more heat escapes in winter, leading to increased heating costs. Cooling Costs In summer, higher U-values can result in higher air conditioning costs due to increased heat gain. Long-Term Savings Investing in quality windows and doors may incur higher initial costs but can lead to significant savings over time through reduced energy bills and improved comfort. Improving Energy Efficiency Enhancing the energy efficiency of windows can be achieved through various strategies. Here are some of the options you can choose from. Double Glazing Incorporating two panes of glass with an insulating gas in between significantly reduces heat flow compared to single glazed windows. Triple Glazing Adding a third pane further improves insulation, ideal for extremely cold climates. Low-E Coatings These coatings reflect heat back into the room, improving efficiency. Why It’s Important Understanding energy efficiency is essential for anyone involved in building or renovating a home. By selecting windows and doors with lower U-values, homeowners can enhance efficiency, reduce utility costs, and contribute to a more sustainable environment. As building regulations continue to evolve for new buildings, staying informed about energy efficiency is crutial for making informed decisions regarding window choices. Contact Us FAQs What is considered a good U-value for windows? For new constructions, a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or lower is generally recommended. How do U-values affect energy efficiency? Lower U-values lead to reduced heat loss and gain, contributing to lower energy bills and increased comfort in homes. Can U-values be improved? Yes, they can be improved through various methods, including using double or triple glazing and low-E coatings.

Glass is a versatile material that plays a crucial role in countless industries, from modern architecture to everyday household items. At UKO Glass, we take pride in offering a broad range of glass types tailored to meet the demands of a wide range of projects. In this blog post, we provide insights into the different types of glass available and their uses. The Different Types of Glass Before ordering glass for your project, you should understand the different types of glass, and their uses. From flat glass to decorative glass, we’ll explain how each is used. Flat Glass What is Flat Glass Used For? Flat glass is the foundation for many of the ordinary glass types you see in everyday life. At Performance Glass, flat glass is often processed further to create double glazing or other specialised glass for residential and commercial applications. It is a popular glass type and serves as the base material for numerous products, including double glazed units, appliances, windscreens, and electronics. Toughened Glass Safety glass, including toughened glass also known as tempered glass, is designed for durability and safety. The manufacturing process creates internal stresses that make it much stronger than standard glass. If it does break, safety glass shatters into small, blunt fragments, making it ideal for areas where safety is a priority. What is Toughened Glass Used For? Toughened glass is commonly used in areas requiring enhanced safety and strength, such as in window glass, doors and roof lanterns. Safety glass is also a preferred material for shower doors due to its safety features. Laminated Glass Laminated glass is a safety-conscious type of glass which many use in high-traffic areas. It consists of layers of glass bound together by an interlayer, meaning that even if the glass shatters, the fragments remain in place. What is Laminated Glass Used For? Laminated glass panes are a go-to solution for shop fronts, car windscreens, and areas where security is a concern. Fire-Rated Glass Fire-rated glass has a special design to withstand high temperatures and prevent the spread of fire and smoke between different areas of a building. What is Fire-Rated Glass Used For? It is primarily used in fire-resistance-rated walls, doors, and windows to enhance safety in both commercial buildings and residential spaces. Blinds in Glass Sealed within the glass unit, blinds in glass not only provide a sleek appearance and ease of maintenance but also allow natural light to enter while enhancing privacy and integrating seamlessly with doors and window glass. What are Blinds in Glass Used For? Blinds in glass help to maintain privacy and prevent glare from the sun. These are particularly common in doors with large glass panels such as bifold doors. You can use them in both domestic and commercial settings, such as hospitals. Oversized Glass Units Oversized glass units are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary architecture, offering plenty of natural light and an uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape. What are Oversized Glass Units Used For? Oversized glass units are commonly used in architectural and design projects where large openings or expansive views are desired. These types of glass are ideal for creating stunning glass walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious glass doors. Acoustic Glass Acoustic glass is a specialised type of energy-efficient glass designed to reduce noise transmission between spaces. It typically consists of multiple layers with a sound-damping interlayer, effectively absorbing sound waves and minimising external noise. What is Acoustic Glass Used For? Acoustic glass is commonly used in environments where sound control is essential, such as in residential buildings, offices, schools, and hospitals. Its primary applications include windows, doors, and partition walls, providing a quieter and more comfortable atmosphere for occupants. Find out more about the benefits here. Decorative, Mirrored Glass and Tinted Glass At UKO Glass, we specialise in manufacturing high-quality, bespoke glass solutions tailored to your project’s specific needs. Alongside high-performance tempered and laminated glass, we also supply decorative or patterned glass options to suit every bespoke design. We offer a wide range of decorative glass solutions including: – Switchable Glass– Conventional and Structural Glass Balustrade– Standard and Coloured Mirrored glass and Reflective Glass– Sandblast Designs – Any Colour Glass Cladding Glass For Every Possibility Now that you’ve explored the different types of glass and their uses, you may have an idea of what your project needs. No matter what you are looking for, at UKO Glass, there is a cost-effective glass solution for you. With our different types of glass including energy efficient solutions, coated glass, glass walls, or large scale glass for commercial buildings, we can help. With our focus on both rapid delivery and premium products, we ensure that your project, whether large or small, receives the best in glass technology and customer support. Our manufacturing process ensures absolute precision in crafting every glass type to your needs. If you’re looking for expert advice or a custom glass solution, contact us here at UKO Glass today on 01422 861116.

The Role of Performance Glass in Sustainable Building Practices

Installation process and maintenance tips to ensure you get the best out of your investment.

Explore the different types of performance glass available on the market and their unique advantages.

Embracing Sustainability: Rethinking Heat Soak Testing’s Environmental Impact During the meticulous manufacturing process of raw glass, even the tiniest impurities, such as Nickel Sulphide, may silently find their way into the final product. Though seemingly harmless, these inconspicuous “seeds” hold the potential to cause catastrophic spontaneous fractures in toughened glass items, presenting serious safety concerns. To address this critical challenge, the longstanding solution has been the utilisation of Heat Soak Testing – a controlled heat cycle applied to finished products to stimulate the growth of these seeds. While this destructive testing method reduces future instances, it comes at a considerable cost in terms of energy consumption. As UKO Glass embraces its mission to transform the glass industry through sustainable practices, understanding the environmental implications of conventional testing methods is vital. Let us delve into an enlightening statistic that unveils the carbon footprint associated with a year’s worth of daily heat soak testing cycles. The Carbon Footprint Dilemma To comprehend the substantial environmental impact of daily heat soak testing, UKO Glass has looked at energy consumption over the course of a standard working year for a business of our size. By considering the UK’s average carbon intensity for grid electricity (as of September 2021), estimated at approximately 0.233 kg CO2 per kilowatt-hour (kg CO2/kWh), we gain insight into the magnitude of carbon emissions resulting from this practice. Calculating Electricity Consumption Taking into account a daily electricity consumption of £180 (for heat soak testing) and an average electricity cost of £0.32/kWh, the staggering daily usage adds up to 562.5 kWh. Scaling this consumption to encompass five working days per week, the weekly total reaches 2,812.5 kWh. Extrapolating this data to span a full year, the accumulated energy consumption for daily heat soak testing totals an astonishing 146,250 kWh of electricity. Revealing the Carbon Emissions Multiplying the annual electricity consumption (146,250 kWh) by the UK’s average carbon intensity (0.233 kg CO2/kWh), we arrive at an eye-opening revelation – approximately 34.07 tonnes of CO2 would be released into the atmosphere each year just for one company such as ours. This figure serves as a compelling reminder of the considerable environmental impact stemming from conventional testing practices. Unveiling the Trees’ Equivalence to clean up the CO2 To add a tangible perspective to these carbon emissions, we explore the equivalent carbon absorption capacity of trees. Based on an average tree’s ability to absorb 22 kilograms of CO2 annually, we can calculate its equivalence. Dividing the total emissions (34.07 tonnes CO2) by the annual CO2 absorption rate per tree (22 kg CO2/year), the heat soak testing process is equivalent to the carbon absorption capacity of a remarkable 1,548.64 trees over the course of a year (for a business our size). Pioneering a Greener Path Acknowledging the pressing need for sustainable practices, PGP stands committed to leading the industry towards a greener future. The innovative Heat Soak Policy adopted by PGP exemplifies this dedication. By pushing for glass products with a thickness of 6mm or less to be except from heat soak testing, PGP actively minimises unnecessary energy consumption and reduces its carbon footprint. A Collaborative Pursuit As UKO Glass sets out to revolutionise the glass industry, collaboration with like-minded professionals is essential. Engaging in constructive dialogues, sharing best practices, and embracing innovative approaches, the industry can collectively mitigate its environmental impact. Together, we can forge a sustainable and responsible glass manufacturing ecosystem. Conclusion The statistics unequivocally underline the significance of embracing sustainable practices in the glass industry. Conventional heat soak testing carries a considerable carbon burden, emphasising the urgent need for alternative approaches. Among these, exploring other equivalents to conventional testing methods becomes imperative, as they can potentially mitigate negative impacts on the environment. This demands a collective reevaluation of our testing methods and a commitment to choosing the best glass production practices that align with eco-friendly principles. In doing so, we must steer clear of opting for cheap imports that often come with hidden environmental costs. It’s essential to recognise that although adopting these sustainable alternatives might take longer to manufacture, the long-term benefits for both our planet and our industry are undeniable. Additionally, optimising heat cycles specifically for thicker glasses offers a promising avenue to reduce energy consumption and further enhance the environmental sustainability of our processes. As UKO Glass takes the helm in this transformative journey, our company not only pioneers innovation but also showcases that product excellence and environmental preservation can seamlessly coexist. As we embark together on this path towards a brighter, greener future, let us inspire positive change and through our collective efforts, leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. Find out more about us here.

      Understanding the Cost of UKO Glass: A Comprehensive Guide We unravel the intricacies of high-performance glass and today, we address a question frequently asked by a diverse audience, including potential clients and various professionals: “How much does glass cost?” 1. The Factors Influencing Glass Prices UKO glass pricing is intricate, with several critical factors influencing the overall cost. For businesses considering glazing projects, understanding these elements is pivotal: a. Type of UKO Glass:The choice of glass type significantly impacts the price. Basic double-glazed windows may start at £100 per square metre, while more advanced triple-glazed options can range from £400 to £600 per square metre. b. Size and Thickness:Larger or thicker glass panels result in higher costs. For instance, a standard 4mm thick glass might cost around £50 per square metre, whereas a thicker, 10mm glass can go up to £100 per square metre. c. Specialised Coatings:Specialised coatings contribute both to functionality and cost. Low-E coatings for energy efficiency can add around £20 to £30 per square metre, while UV coatings for added protection might add an extra £10 per square metre. d. Customisation:Custom shapes and sizes come with additional expenses. Expect a 10% to 20% increase in costs for unique designs or tailored solutions. 2. Price Ranges for UKO Glass a. Entry-Level Options:Basic glass, like double-glazed windows with standard coatings, falls into the £100 to £200 per square metre range. b. Mid-Range Selections:Mid-range options, which may include triple-glazing and additional coatings, typically range from £400 to £500 per square metre. c. Premium Choices:High-end glass, featuring advanced technologies and extensive customisation, can range from £600 and beyond per square metre. 3. Considerations When Choosing Glass Navigating through glass options requires careful consideration, especially for businesses and professionals in the construction industry: a. Functionality Needs:Determine specific benefits sought, whether it’s enhanced energy efficiency, noise reduction, or UV protection, aligning with the project’s requirements. b. Architectural Design:Consider how the glass aligns with the overall vision. Customised designs may elevate aesthetics but at an additional cost. c. Location and Climate:Assess the environmental conditions. This includes understanding how glass features impact overall building performance for professionals involved in construction and engineering. d. Long-Term Savings:While initial costs may vary, consider the long-term savings through energy efficiency and potential reductions in utility bills, crucial for businesses focused on sustainable practices. 4. Getting an Accurate Quote For precise estimates tailored to specific projects, consulting with industry professionals is essential. They can assess requirements, offer expert advice, and provide detailed quotes based on glass type, size, and additional features. Conclusion: Understanding the cost of performance glass involves navigating various factors. As you explore the possibilities, weigh the upfront expenses against the long-term benefits. In our next blog, we’ll delve into specific types of glass and their unique advantages. For any questions or specific topics you’d like us to cover, feel free to reach out. We’re here to guide you, whether you’re an individual or a business, in making informed decisions about glass for your projects.