Light exposure is essential to happiness, emotional health, and overall wellbeing. Before the invention of glass, the earliest windows comprised simple openings in roofs that admitted light during the day before progressing to include animal hide, cloth, or wood coverings. These protected the inhabitants from weather elements while being translucent, allowing trace elements of light to illuminate homes. Learn more about how glass has been used through the years as we explore the history of glass windows.
The first glass creations were found in nature. Naturally occurring volcanic glass, or obsidian, was used to fashion basic ornaments and spear tip weapons or serve as forms of currency in the prehistoric age. The first existence of man-made glass can be traced back to 3500 BC.
Glass is manufactured from natural raw materials like sand, soda ash, and limestone that are melted at high temperatures to form a liquid. It is then manipulated and moulded into different shapes before cooling into hardened glass structures. The introduction of the blowpipe was pivotal in the construction of glass containers. However, the glass produced in this period contained a high level of impurities and was mostly used for fashioning jewellery and vessels. Glass windows had not yet been invented.
The history of the first glass windows began by the end of the 1st century AD, as glass material became commonly available throughout the Roman Empire. The Romans were the first to make window glass panes. Blown cylindrical shapes were flattened out into thinner sheets, serving as the building pieces for window creations. However, this manufacturing process meant that windows were limited to a small size of uneven thickness and weren’t completely transparent.
Stained glass gained popularity across Europe as Christianity spread in the 4th century and was used to create biblical images by joining different coloured pieces of glass together.
The history of glass windows and innovative experiments have culminated in the revolutionary window-making techniques we use today. The float glass-making process was introduced in the 20th century and remains the industry standard for making glass windows. Molten liquid glass is poured and spread out on a bed of molten tin, paving the way for large panes of unblemished glass devoid of flaws to be created.
Today, we see many innovative window glass variations like retrofit double glazing and tinting, together with different framing choices that you can customise to suit your home and the climate.
Enjoy the many benefits of modern technology and innovation with Atlas Glass, Auckland’s double-glazing experts. Retrofit double-glazing features two or more panes of glass spaced and hermetically sealed, creating a layer of air in the middle. A high-quality and attractive window solution, this method provides insulating qualities for an energy-efficient home with cost-effective minimal maintenance. Talk to our experienced team for a free consultation and advice on how retrofit double-glazed windows can work for your home today!
Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature in the summer and winter can take a toll on your bills. Save money and lower your carbon footprint at the same time by investing in methods to make your home drier, insulated, and energy efficient. Making a conscious effort to implement improvements around your home will prove priceless in the long run. We discuss how you can create a low-maintenance and comfortable energy-efficient home.
Whether installing it in a new build or retrofitting your existing home, double-glazing your window frames is a great way to create an energy-efficient home. The added layer of air in between the glass panes acts as an insulator to reduce heat loss and trap heat indoors. In addition to preventing heat loss through windows and providing efficient noise control, it also reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows, keeping your home warm and dry all year round.
A heat pump offers one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat your home. Instead of generating heat, it extracts warmth from the outdoors and moves it inside during cold months to heat your home, and vice versa during the summer. Offering dual heating and cooling properties for different seasons, save money with this two-in-one system that uses relatively lower power compared to other heating methods like electric or gas heaters. Choosing an appropriately sized heat pump will keep your home warm and dry and is an excellent investment for a cost and energy-efficient home in the long run.
Window blinds can be custom-made to sit flush with your window opening, creating a tight air space for improved insulation and preventing heat loss from your home. With complete flexibility over their use, enjoy improved comfort by controlling how much light and privacy you receive at any time of day; open your blinds in the morning to let in sunshine and heat and close them at night to reduce heat loss. Different blind types, like cellular shades, contain air layers in a honeycomb design which helps reduce heat conduction, while heavier fabrics in roller blinds offer better thermal performance.
Carpeting isn’t only great for its aesthetic features and softness; it is also an amazing insulator. Up to 10% of heat loss in a house occurs through uninsulated flooring. Hard-tiled or wooden floors are also cold to walk on and can cause a chill when you’re trying to move around the house in the cold. Installing a thicker carpet will make a big difference and is one of the easiest and cheapest insulation methods for a more energy-efficient home.
Keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer without breaking the bank. As New Zealand’s double-glazing specialists, Atlas Glass can fit unique and high-performance double-glazed windows for your new build or upgrade your existing windows to a design of your choosing. Simple, cost-effective, and requiring minimal maintenance, talk to our team to receive a free quote and upgrade for an energy-efficient home now!
You’ve set up your tree, decorated the front lawn, and hung stockings on the mantlepiece. What now? Don’t overlook your timber double-glazed windows when it comes to Christmas decorating! Dressing your windows for Christmas can go a long way in tying in the rest of the home décor and can even be appreciated from the outside.
Decorating your home for Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive. Adding some simple ornaments or DIY crafts and repurposed items you find throughout the house can shift the mood of your home drastically and boost happiness. Even if your windows are the only thing you’re decorating this season, it is a quick and easy way to add a festive touch to any room without too much effort. We discuss the best Christmas window display ideas for your home to prepare you for this cheer season.
Complement fresh and traditional foliage wreaths with fir cones, dried oranges, and cinnamon sticks for a gorgeous woody and festive aroma. Alternatively, you can customise a wreath to suit your desired style with plenty of unconventional ideas like felted, dried flowers, and mistletoe options.
Adorn your Christmas window with a string of Christmas cards, lights, baubles, or little cut-outs of adorable gingerbread men. Craft homemade garlands from dried flowers and fruits for a homier and more rustic vibe that can lend a subtle fragrance to the air.
Stickers are an easy and fuss-free way to decorate your windows for Christmas. High-quality weatherproof snowflakes and reindeer motifs made from vinyl will allow you to reuse them yearly. You can also place them outside, allowing more space for decorating the interior with other ideas. Stained glass prism stickers will offer great privacy and catch the sun gorgeously, projecting rainbows into your home during the day.
From an attention-drawing large centrepiece to a collection of tiny knick-knacks, ornaments for Christmas windows can be as simple or as complex as you wish. Hang baubles, DIY origami, or a fairy light curtain to add a delicate and subtle glow, perfect for mood lighting.
Can’t seem to find a Christmas window decorating idea you resonate with? Why not create your decorations? Not only are chalk pens an affordable and easy way to display your creativity, but you can also remove them easily with a quick wipe. The beauty of this method is that the options are limitless; draw Santa riding a dinosaur off into battle or a giant gingerbread cookie attacking a city. Express yourself however you wish, get the kids involved, and have a drawing session with the whole family!
You can be as excessive or minimalistic as you’d like; the sky is the limit with creative Christmas window decorations. Atlas Glass ensures your glass windows look good and perform well in any condition, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Reach out to us to install double-glazed windows in your Auckland home today and start decorating!
Although often overlooked in many homes, unsightly and peeling timber window frames can drastically affect how your home looks from the inside and outside. Fret not, however, as you can fix this problem easily! Upgrading your timber frame glass and repainting it can take your windows to the next level, extending their lifespan and rejuvenating your home décor. We run through a step-by-step guide to painting timber window frames for your next home improvement project.
You can repaint your timber window frames as an easy and inexpensive way to refresh how your home looks. Otherwise, a general rule for timber frame upkeep is to repaint them every 5 to 10 years, which is essential for maintaining worn frames and ensuring continued protection from weather elements. The longevity of freshly painted timber frames varies according to the sun or rain exposure your frames see. Carry out proper repainting when required.
Wipe down your frames and panes with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt or debris. Using sugar soap will allow for a more thorough clean and cause primer and paint to adhere better to your timber frames.
Strip peeling parts and sand down your timber frames to remove any existing paint or varnish. Remove dust with a clean paintbrush and toothbrush, alternating the two for different areas.
Lay a sheet under your window if needed. Apply masking tape to the edge of your frames to prevent paint from spilling on the glass or bleeding while allowing for straighter lines. Remove any fittings like window handles to prevent paint from getting on them.
Choose a colour. Go for a neutral or white tone to brighten up the space and blend in well with the rest of your house or go for a slightly brighter or darker colour than your walls for a truly outstanding statement. Apply a layer of undercoat to help your finish last longer, starting in one area before carefully working around the frame. Apply your first coat similarly and add a second coat to ensure full coverage. Remove the masking tape before your paint dries and reattach any fittings.
And with that, you’re done! Stand back to admire your freshly painted timber frames and pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
Ready to paint your frames? Upgrade your windows first with some new glass panes! At Atlas Glass, our retrofit double glazing for wooden frames offers added benefits, such as improved energy efficiency and noise reduction. With freshly painted timber frames and double glazing, your windows will look good and function incredibly well. Contact our experienced team to discuss how retrofit double glazing can benefit you and receive a free quote today!
A cracked window can do more damage than simply obscuring the view out your kitchen window. A small crack can have consequences for the structural integrity of your window if left unchecked. As the premier glazier in Auckland, we know a thing or two about windows and are here to explain what causes a window to crack, how to fix it, and why you should deal with it immediately!
If you find a crack creeping out from the edge of the window, it’s likely a stress crack. Stress cracks are formed by continuous temperature fluctuations that cause the expansion and retraction of the glass panes.
Think about how a cup pulled straight out of the dishwasher is likely to crack if you immediately fill it with cold water. The process happens to your windows repeatedly as temperature changes both indoors and outside. This can eventually lead to the stress of the expansion overpowering the strength of the glass, causing a crack to form.
An impact break is exactly what it sounds like - a window crack caused by a backyard cricket game gone astray, a lawnmower-propelled rock, or a bird with a poor sense of direction. Any flying object that comes into contact with your window will likely cause an impact break. These breaks are easily identified by their starburst pattern that radiates outward from the point of impact.
Pressure cracks are far less common and will seemingly come out of nowhere. These cracks are found in insulated glass and dual pane windows and will form in the shape of a curve, closely resembling an hourglass. What causes these window cracks are weather fluctuations that lead to changes in pressure, causing pressure to build up between the panes and create cracks.
Here are a few reasons why ignoring a crack in a window, even for just a short period, is something you may regret:
You can always be sure of one thing with window cracks: they will spread! The further a crack spreads, the more significant the damage will be, and the chance of repair will dramatically decrease. Problems like these cannot go away on their own accord and must be tackled proactively.
Your home loses most of its heat through the doors and windows, doubly so if you have cracks in them. Especially during the cooler months of the year, the smallest of cracks can impact your home’s insulation and, in turn, energy consumption.
Now that you know what causes a window to crack, you can prevent it from happening! Double-glazing is one of the most effective ways to keep your windows strong and protected from the elements. Atlas Glass is a trusted name in all things glass, from retrofit double glazing in bungalows to innovative UV-blocking glass. Upgrade your windows with retrofit double glazing today to ensure they last for years to come without cracks! Give us a call today to learn more about our range of services.
Frames are an essential part of your windows and doors, and your choice of frame type will affect their overall energy efficiency and how long your joinery can last. Given New Zealand's everchanging weather conditions, you need a strong, durable frame built to last through the seasons.
How long do timber windows last, and how do they compare to other joinery materials? We discuss all that and where you can find the best window glass supply in Auckland to complement your timber joinery.
Aluminium is one of the most popular window frame choices due to its strength and low maintenance. Its lightweight but tough and durable nature makes aluminium one of the longest-lasting window framing materials. However, although your aluminium frame will remain warp- and rot-resistant in damp conditions, metal conducts heat, making it an unsuitable insulating material. Be sure to opt for thermal breaks between the frame areas that will act as insulators to retain warmth. Your aluminium frame joinery is expected to last up to 45 years and is recyclable for use as other items.
Aluminium is one of the most popular window frame choices due to its strength and low maintenance. Its lightweight but tough and durable nature makes aluminium one of the longest-lasting window framing materials. However, although your aluminium frame will remain warp- and rot-resistant in damp conditions, metal conducts heat, making it an unsuitable insulating material. Be sure to opt for thermal breaks between the frame areas that will act as insulators to retain warmth. Your aluminium frame joinery is expected to last up to 45 years and is recyclable for use as other items.
As one of New Zealand's growing materials of choice due to its availability and affordability, unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) has low conductivity and is a good insulator. It's an ideal choice for keeping homes warm. Often inserted with steel for added strength and durability, uPVC is durable, low-maintenance, and recycled into other products.
Although some manufacturers can produce uPVC frames in different colours, most are primarily white, which can become stained with time. With different grades of uPVC on the market, you need a suitable one that can withstand New Zealand's weather and UV radiation. High-quality uPVC window frames generally last 20–35 years.
You can lose a significant amount of heat through your windows. A double-glazed windowpane will help extend the lifespan of your frames by reducing collected condensation. Double-glazing contributes significantly to keeping your house warm and reducing your energy bills. Not only that, but it will also provide you with improved security, noise reduction, and minimal maintenance needs.
Known as Auckland's trusted glaziers and double-glazing specialists, Atlas Glass supplies the best and highest quality window glass for your frames. Cut to size and professionally installed, enhance the lifespan of your frames, and add value to your house today. Contact our experienced and professional experts to learn more about our timber joinery glazing and other quality products.
Any aspect of designing a home is exciting, even if it's simply installing some timber double-glazed windows. With the number of joinery options available today, homeowners find it tough to narrow down what they want for their homes. From the cost of wooden windows to the extreme maintenance they—allegedly—require, we debunk some of the common myths surrounding timber joinery.
The price of timber may be higher than what you would be looking at pay for alternative joinery options, like aluminium. But with a higher price tag comes supreme quality. Timber frames are strong and will last a long time accenting your windows. The quality of timber, combined with double-glazing, will work toward creating a more energy-efficient home. Despite what many believe, timber frames provide ideal insulation to avoid escaped heat. With the numerous glass options available from glaziers, Auckland homes will be well-insulated for winter. Invest in timber windows, and you'll see a return through the long-term benefits.
We've already touched on the quality and longevity of timber joinery, and they don't need frequent maintenance to achieve this. Whatever type of joinery you choose will require maintenance, but it doesn't need to be hard work.
Modern timber joinery generally includes cost seals to keep it protected for a long time. If you're cleaning your home's exterior twice a year, you're doing all the maintenance already. Wash your timber frames twice annually with non-corrosive cleaning products, and your timber will stay in the best condition.
Your home is supposed to be a safe and comfortable place. A common misconception about timber windows is that they lack security. The truth? Security risks are primarily unlocked windows, weaker glass, or a stroke of bad luck.
Modern glass is strong and provides extra security to lockable windows. Combined with other home security technologies, you can enjoy your new windows knowing you're safe.
If you're investing in something new for your home, you'll likely want it to look modern. Many refuse to believe that timber window frames age a house. Timber frames create a beautiful accent for your home's exterior. You can even paint them to suit any style, from modern to classic home designs. Whatever your preference, wooden framing creates a timeless-looking home for your family to enjoy.
As local Auckland glaziers, we're experts at all things window-related. Whether you're preparing for a new build or looking to bring some new life into your home’s old windows, we can help. We offer different types of glass, each bringing a unique benefit to your windows. Our team are experts with double-glazing windows, specifically those with timber joinery. Now that we’ve squashed those myths on timber, are you ready to breathe some new life into your home with brand new windows? If so, get in touch with the team at Atlas Glass today, and we'll be happy to help you out.
According to New Zealand police, 7 out of 10 burglaries in 2020 happened in residential areas. Though burglary rates have decreased through the years, it's better to be wary and alert than sorry. You can lessen the risk of a break-in by keeping your home secure and following safety measures.
From installing sturdy locks to double glazing wooden frames and windows, refer to these tips for preventing a break-in.
One of the pillars of home security is setting up CCTV cameras. Don't just place cameras on every corner that give a wide-angle view of every room. Instead, place the cameras in strategic locations and at close angles.
Remember, it's a robber you're trying to catch and stop. A camera showing an entire room makes it difficult for authorities to identify the culprit. A CCTV camera placed at the front door at eye level makes it easier to find the culprit since you can get a good look at their features.
Robbers target windows first since they are easy to break. Double glazing adds an effective layer of protection to your windows. They require more force to break, take more time, and produce more noise, all factors that deter burglars.
Double-glazing is an economical option to keep your glass windows and wooden frames in the best condition. If you have aging single-glazed windows, you can consider retrofitting. With our retrofit double-glazing service, you can give your windows some added protection and security. As experts in glass supply in Auckland, we offer various glazing services depending on your needs.
In some circumstances, you can also consider reglazing with laminated glass. As a form of safety glass, laminated glass is designed to stay intact upon impact. This is possible due to the layers of glass that are bonded together with a special film during processing.
If a thief wants to make their break-in "subtle", they'll attempt to enter your home through the door or window when they suspect no one is home. Installing reliable locks to entrance points in your home is a must. A heavy-duty deadbolt lock is worth considering since it's not spring-activated. Spring locks don't provide much security compared to a deadbolt lock. You should also have more than one lock in your front and back doors.
Talk to your neighbours and try to bond with them. Once you've established a good relationship with them, they can call you if they see anyone suspicious around your home. A bonus is that they can empty your mailbox for you if you're away, so it doesn't seem like you're not home.
You can look out for each other and avoid break-ins as soon as they're about to happen.
You want to create an illusion that people are at home, even when you're away or out of town. One of the best ways to do that is to keep your lights on. Check out if the lights are visible from the outside windows.
If you think turning on your lights while you're not there is a waste of electricity, you can install an automated lighting system. When you're on an overnight trip, another way to make it seem like someone is home is to keep the curtains or blinds partially opened.
You can start safeguarding your home by reinforcing your locks and windows. As a leading company that offers glass supply in Auckland, we at Atlas Glass can provide state-of-the-art double glazing in your Auckland home. Reach out to our team to find the best glazing solutions for your home. Follow these measures and give your home the security upgrade it deserves. These efforts will prevent a break-in and protect your household and valuables.
Windows must be strong and durable to withstand New Zealand’s frequent weather changes. However, they must also be well designed to suit your needs and blend into the existing architecture. We discuss why timber frames are the material of choice and list some of our favourite timber frame joinery designs so you can make an informed choice when choosing a window solution for your residence.
Offering a timeless and rustic feel, timber is a versatile material that can be stained or painted in any colour to compliment your home. Unlike aluminium, it is also a natural insulator that prevents heat from escaping during cold months and doesn’t attract as much condensation. Not only will this keep your home nice and warm but it will also help you save on electricity bills. Regular sealant reapplication and maintenance will ensure the wood stays weather tight, preventing any damage or rot.
The options for window designs are endless, and we can’t possibly list them all in one sitting. Here are four of the best timber frame joinery designs that we think are the most popular and will offer a timeless appeal, blending seamlessly into any house design.
True to its name, sliding windows slide open when pushed to their side. As one of the most inexpensive options, this simple window type is easy to use due to the installation of tracks above and below the window. Sliding windows are highly versatile and perfect for locations that don’t have enough space for hinged windows, making them one of the most popular choices in residential homes.
Unlike a single-hung window that operates with just one moveable sash, a double-hung window features two moveable sashes that allow for either the top or bottom half of the window to be open at a time. This commonly chosen option is easy to use and popular with homeowners that prefer having multiple ventilation choices.
A casement window is attached to the frame by one or more hinges at the side, allowing it to swing open vertically, akin to how a door operates. This window design is popular in bungalow houses as it provides increased airflow and full manoeuvrability. Most homeowners also install bungalow retrofit double-glazed glass options to minimise heat loss and add value to their property.
Similar to a casement window, an awning window is attached to the frame with one or more hinges but connected horizontally to the top instead. This makes for a horizontal outward swinging window from the bottom and offers greater privacy options than other window types.
A lone timber frame is only complete when combined with a high-quality glass solution. This pairs rustic and modern influences to create a beautiful, finished window that provides ample natural light and insulation. Older windows can also be upgraded with new timber frames and glazing options suited to your lifestyle.
Choose between double glazing, thermal glass, and acoustic glass choices. Double glazed windows comprise two layers of glass, with a layer of insulated air sandwiched between, offering the best thermal and sound insulation. The thermal glass comes in two options: low E Glass or overlaying laminate. Both options boast excellent solar control, sound, and thermal insulation properties, making them a perfect all-rounder. Acoustic glass is laminated, featuring a limpid resin interlayer perfect for optimum sound reduction.
Wood never goes out of style, so you need superior glass choices with your timber frames. As the leading supplier of window glass options and double glazing in Auckland, Atlas Glass specialises in timber joinery glazing that can be customised to suit every type of window. Reach out to us today for a guaranteed glazing solution that you will love for years.
Generally, there are two main areas where windows can get damaged: the pane and the surrounding frame. However, there are some cases where your window may look intact and still be functional, so how do you know when it’s time to replace your windows? We delve deeper with some examples and discuss scenarios where window refurbishment may be more appropriate and cost-effective.
You’ll need to consider the condition of your windows and your budget. In many situations, like the ones we are about to mention, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire window rather than repair it.
If you keep your windows and doors well-shut to preserve heat but still feel cold drafts coming in, there could be a leak in your window. Damaged seals, worn-out caulking, or cracks can compromise thermal stability. Not only will this cause cold air to seep into your home, but warm air will escape as well. This could put considerable strain on your energy bills as you struggle to keep your home well-heated, especially over winter.
Replacing your faulty windows with retrofit double glazing will afford you better savings and a warmer home. Double-glazed windows feature an additional layer of trapped air in between, which acts as further insulation. While this keeps your house cooler in winter and warmer in summer, it can also serve as a noise dampener.
If you don’t experience any drafts but are seeing higher than usual energy bills, it can also be a sign of a compromised window and extra care should be taken to check for leaks.
Significant damage such as broken or cracked panes of glass should be replaced immediately as a safety precaution. Windows that hang loose or crooked should be replaced as well. Upgrading damaged windows with new materials would be a considerable improvement and can be a quality investment in the long run.
In some cases, it may be cheaper to replace the affected areas if the entire window is still in good shape or if the glass itself is left intact.
The older your home is, the more likely your frame is prone to rot, especially during seasons of heavy rain and humidity. Wooden frames become warped from water damage. Any mould growth that comes after would pose as a major health concern in addition to being unsightly. However, this can be easily fixed by swapping the frames out, especially if the panes are still intact. This would also solve cases where the paint on the frames is chipped or peeling or if the window is jammed from years of collected rust and grime.
With decades of experience, the team at Atlas Glass are experienced in providing timber joinery services as well as being one of the pioneer glaziers in Auckland. We carry high-quality glass solutions for both commercial and residential services and are eager to help you with your problems. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.
