The "standard thickness" of insulating glass for Windows is not a single figure, but the total thickness composed of the thickness of the original glass sheet and the thickness of the insulating layer.
The most common regular configuration (the main force of home decoration doors and Windows)
For the balconies and Windows of the vast majority of family residences, the most mainstream and cost-effective configuration is:
Specification: 5+12A+5 or 5+15A+5
Total thickness: 22mm or 25mm
Explanation
Glass sheet (5mm) : This is currently the most commonly used single-pane glass thickness for home decoration doors and Windows, achieving a good balance among strength, sound insulation, heat preservation and cost.
Hollow layer (12A or 15A) :
12A is a proven economical option that is highly effective in enhancing sound insulation and heat preservation performance.
The performance of the 15A is slightly better than that of the 12A and it is becoming an increasingly popular upgrade choice at present.
Conclusion: If you are not sure what to choose, selecting 5+12A+5 or 5+15A+5 will basically not go wrong.
The regular ranges of each component
1. Thickness of the original glass sheet
Common ones include: 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, etc.
Commonly used in home decoration: 5mm
For larger areas of glass (such as large glass for sealing balconies) or in situations where higher security is required: 6mm, 8mm or even thicker glass will be used. The larger the area of the glass, the greater the thickness of a single piece required.
2. Thickness of the hollow layer
Common ones include: 9A, 12A, 15A, 18A, 20A, 22A, etc.
The most commonly used models in home decoration are 12A and 15A.
Technical description: The air or gas (such as argon) in the hollow layer is the key to insulation. But the hollow layer is not necessarily the thicker the better. Theoretical research and practical experience show that the insulation (heat transfer coefficient K value) effect is the best when the hollow layer is between 12mm and 18mm. If it is too thick (such as over 22mm), the insulation performance will be reduced instead due to the intensified air convection.
Other common configuration combinations
According to different needs, there will also be the following combinations:
Economy type/Common in old Windows
5+9A+5 (total thickness 19mm)
It has slightly weaker performance, but the lowest cost.
Sound insulation and heat preservation upgraded type
6+15A+6 (Total thickness 27mm)
Using thicker glass results in better overall strength and sound insulation performance.
Three-glass two-chamber (high-performance type)
5+9A+5+9A+5 (Total thickness 33mm)
With two insulating layers, its heat insulation and sound insulation performance far exceed that of ordinary insulating glass. It is often used in extremely cold northern regions or buildings with extremely high energy-saving requirements.
Large glass configuration (such as floor-to-ceiling Windows for sealed balconies) :
8+18A+8 (total thickness 34mm)
10+20A+10 (total thickness 40mm)
To ensure safety and wind pressure resistance, thicker single-pane glass must be used.
Final suggestion
When making a choice, please be sure to consult a professional door and window manufacturer or designer. They will recommend the most suitable glass configuration combination for you based on the climate of your area, the size and orientation of your Windows, as well as your specific budget and performance requirements (sound insulation and heat insulation).
