scope:

Insulating glass units (IGUs), otherwise known as sealed double- or triple- glazing units, are now commonly installed in all types of windows. They can be installed in appropriately designed timber, PVC-U, aluminium, steel and composite frames. They have better thermal insulation properties than single panes of glass and therefore enable reductions in energy use in buildings and allow designers to meet the requirements of building regulations. This Digest covers good practice in glazing with IGUs, with particular emphasis on ensuring long-term durability. It covers the main standards for glazing, general principles of good glazing, site and factory glazing, and specific requirements of different types of frames. It also gives a maintenance checklist for ensuring continued sound performance of the system.