Double Glazed Glass
Double glazed glass, also known as an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU), is a high-performance glazing system made by sealing two panes of glass together with a spacer bar and an insulating air or inert gas gap between them. Unlike single glazing, double glazing is engineered to improve thermal insulation, reduce noise transmission, and enhance overall indoor comfort.
In Singapore, double glazed glass is increasingly used in HDB flats, BTO units, condominiums, landed homes, commercial offices, retail storefronts and high-rise developments where energy efficiency, acoustic control and long-term durability are important.
Beyond windows and façade systems, double glazed glass is also widely specified for glass door systems, including swing doors, sliding doors and specialised acoustic or fire-rated applications in commercial developments.
At House of Glass, we provide professional double glazed glass supply and installation services for residential and commercial properties across Singapore.
Why Double Glazed Glass Is Considered High-Performance Glazing
Double glazed glass is widely recognised as a performance-enhancing glazing solution due to its insulated construction and ability to control both heat and sound transfer. Unlike ordinary single-pane glass, it creates a sealed insulating barrier that significantly improves indoor comfort.
Double glazed glass is valued because:
It reduces external noise transmission
It improves thermal insulation
It lowers solar heat gain when paired with Low-E coatings
It enhances energy efficiency for air-conditioned spaces
It minimizes condensation compared to single glazing
It improves overall property value and comfort
For specialised door applications, double glazed systems can achieve enhanced acoustic ratings such as STC40, making them suitable for offices, meeting rooms, educational spaces and noise-sensitive commercial environments.
This makes double glazing ideal for properties located near MRT lines, highways, construction zones, busy commercial areas, or west-facing units exposed to strong afternoon sun.
Benefits & Use Cases of Double Glazed Glass in Singapore
Double glazed glass plays an important role in modern Singapore developments. With rising expectations for comfort, sustainability and noise control, it is commonly specified for both residential and commercial projects.
Common Applications
- HDB and condo window upgrades
- Sliding doors and balcony enclosures
- Office partitions and meeting rooms
- Retail storefronts and façade systems
- Hotels and hospitality glazing
- Sound-sensitive environments such as home offices or studios
For homes near expressways or MRT tracks, double glazing significantly reduces external noise intrusion.
For air-conditioned spaces, the insulated unit helps maintain cooler interior temperatures, reducing reliance on constant cooling.
In commercial environments, it enhances workplace comfort and supports energy-efficient building strategies.
Double glazed glass is also widely used for replacement works, especially when upgrading from single glazing to improve acoustic and thermal performance.
Double Glazed Glass Door Systems
In addition to window installations, double glazed glass is commonly fabricated into complete door systems supplied and installed with frames, ironmongery, fixings and finishes in accordance with project specifications and designer drawings.
Acoustic Double Glazed Swing Doors (STC40)
Commercial specification typically includes an 8+8mm double glazed single leaf swing door with clear tempered glass and optional switchable privacy glass. Installed within a black aluminium powder coated frame with drop seal for acoustic control.
Acoustic rating: STC40
Typical size: 1000mm x 2800mm
Frameless Automatic Sliding Glass Doors
Designed for commercial entrances and high-traffic areas. Systems commonly feature 12mm clear tempered glass in single or double leaf configurations, complete with concealed track and automatic operator.
Typical sizes:
- Double leaf: 1800mm x 2800mm
- Single leaf: 1000mm x 2800mm
Ideal for retail storefronts, offices, clinics and hospitality environments requiring seamless access.
Tempered Glass Swing Doors
For internal commercial applications such as meeting rooms and partitions, 12mm clear tempered double leaf swing doors with powder coated aluminium frames are commonly specified.
Typical size: 1800mm x 2800mm
Fire-Rated Glass Door Systems
Where compliance is required, 1-hour fire-rated insulated laminated glass doors are installed with certified fire-rated frames and hardware. Available in single or double leaf pivoted configurations.
Typical sizes:
- Double leaf: 1800mm x 2800mm
- Single leaf: 1000mm x 2800mm
Commonly used in commercial, institutional and multi-storey developments requiring compliance with Singapore fire safety regulations.
Double Glazed Glass Technology
The performance of double glazing lies in its sealed insulated structure. Two panes of glass are separated by a spacer bar that contains a moisture-absorbing desiccant. The cavity between the panes is filled with either dry air or inert gas such as argon.
This construction creates an insulating barrier that slows heat transfer and dampens sound vibrations.
Key Components of an IGU
- Two glass panes (clear, tempered, laminated or Low-E options)
- Spacer bar with desiccant
- Sealed air or argon gas cavity
- Perimeter sealant for airtight performance
When paired with Low-E coatings, double glazed glass further reduces solar heat gain and blocks ultraviolet exposure while maintaining clear visibility.
Manufacturing Process
Double glazed units are fabricated under controlled factory conditions to ensure airtight sealing and consistent performance.
The typical process includes:
- Precision cutting of glass panes
- Installation of spacer bars with desiccant
- Injection of air or inert gas into the cavity
- Sealing with high-performance structural sealants
- Quality testing for airtightness and durability
The integrity of the seal is critical. Proper fabrication ensures long-term insulation performance and prevents condensation between panes.
Thickness & Specification Guide
Selecting the correct double glazed specification depends on the application, required acoustic performance, structural considerations and regulatory requirements.
In door systems, common configurations include:
- 8+8mm double glazed tempered combinations for STC40 acoustic swing doors
- 12mm tempered monolithic panels for frameless sliding systems
- 25mm fire-rated insulated laminated glass for 1-hour fire-rated doors
For acoustic applications, laminated combinations and drop seals significantly improve sound isolation performance.
Thicker or laminated combinations are required for high-rise, safety-critical or fire-rated areas.
Double Glazed Glass Specifications in Singapore
Double glazed glass can be customised based on project requirements:
- Argon gas-filled units for enhanced insulation
- Low-E coated glass for solar control
- Laminated inner or outer pane for added safety
- Acoustic laminated glass for superior noise reduction
- Custom-sized panels for architectural façades
For west-facing units or full-height glazing, Low-E and laminated combinations are often recommended to optimise comfort and safety.
How Do You Maintain Double Glazed Glass?
Double glazed glass is designed for long-term durability, even in Singapore’s humid climate. When properly installed and sealed, it requires minimal maintenance.
Recommended care:
- Clean with mild soap and water using a soft cloth
- Avoid abrasive cleaners
- Inspect seals periodically
- Check for signs of condensation between panes
With proper installation and maintenance, double glazed units typically last 10 to 20 years or more.
Double Glazed Glass Price Guide in Singapore
The cost of double glazing depends on thickness, glass type, coatings, and installation complexity. Acoustic or Low-E upgrades increase pricing.
Type | Estimated Price | Typical Use |
Standard Double Glazed (5+6+5) | From $70 + | Residential windows |
Low-E Double Glazed | From $100 + | Heat control applications |
Laminated Double Glazed | From $120 + | Safety-critical areas |
Acoustic Double Glazed | From $140 + | Noise-sensitive spaces |
*Estimates only, actual pricing determined only after knowing detailed requirements and consultation
Typical Project Costs in Singapore
- HDB window upgrade: $800 – $1,800
- Condo sliding door replacement: $1,500 – $3,500
- Office partition system: $3,000 – $8,000
- Retail storefront glazing: $4,000 – $12,000+
Final project cost depends on glass thickness, access conditions, framing system, hardware and customisation requirements.
Double Glazed Glass Installation & Regulatory Guidelines
Installing double glazed glass requires proper planning and compliance with local regulations.
Typical Installation Process
- On-site inspection and measurement
- Recommendation of suitable IGU specification
- Quotation and approval
- Fabrication under factory conditions
- Delivery coordination
- Removal of existing glazing
- Installation and sealing
- Final inspection and safety checks
Emergency glass replacement can typically be arranged within 24–48 hours, subject to availability and site access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is double glazing suitable for Singapore’s climate?
Yes. It helps reduce heat transfer, improves indoor comfort and lowers external noise intrusion.
Does double glazing reduce noise?
Yes. The insulated gap between panes reduces sound transmission, especially when combined with acoustic laminated glass.
How much does double glazed glass cost in Singapore?
Prices typically start from $70+ per square metre and increase based on thickness and performance upgrades.
Can double glazed glass be customised?
Yes. Units can be customised by size, thickness, gas type, coating and safety specifications.
How long does double glazed glass last?
With proper installation and maintenance, it can last 10–20 years or more.
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Upgrade Your Comfort with Double Glazed Glass Today
Enhance comfort, insulation, and noise control with professionally installed double glazed glass. House of Glass provides expert supply and installation for HDB, condo, and commercial projects across Singapore. Contact us today for a site assessment and detailed quotation tailored to your property.