Glass makes the cut

Energy efficient glass such as double-glazed, coated and toned glass can provide the perfect solutions to meet aesthetic, lifestyle and energy efficiency demands in all new homes – regardless of the climate or building codes.Resigned to overhauling designs, altering house orientation or reducing window sizes to rob a home of uninterrupted light and views, those affected by this legislation need look no further than glass.

“With smart design, you can build an energy efficient home that boasts cutting edge designs and all the advantages associated with it – a sunny, light filled home with the appeal of an outdoor/indoor relationship, regardless of Building Codes” said Ian Koochew, Executive Director of the Australian Glass and Glazing Association.

In a hot, tropical climate such as Queensland, it is perceived that the energy solution is to keep the sun’s rays out and the cool air in with fewer, smaller windows that keep out the heat, but create a home that is dark, gloomy and uninspiring. The clear solution is to open up to the views by using the correct energy efficient glass.

Sydney experiences both hot and cold conditions but the right glass can minimise the effects of the sun during the warmer periods while adding insulation when the weather is cooler – at the same time letting you enjoy the blue sky views and chic design.

In Melbourne, cold winters result in heavy energy use from heating. Insulating a home from the cold while keeping warmth in through natural sunlight with double glazing will again maintain sweeping views and sunlight flooding the home – even in the depths of winter.

On today's prices, new homebuyers can save up to $1,176 annually on their energy bills in a 5 star home featuring energy efficient glass (as derived using the 'Firstrate' software, available from SEAV, and multiplying this by the cost of energy at 10 cents per kw on 150m2 home). And these benefits last the life of the home.

“By using methods other than Energy Efficient Glass in windows, the overall cost of meeting the legislation can cost as much as $3,300 for the average house*. Alternatively, by spending as little as $1,100 on glass, the same level energy rating can be achieved and any energy requirements comfortably met.