Dear Tony
8th April 2014

Triple glazing or Trouble Glazing? The real question.
 
Whilst I fully appreciate the excitement amongst our friends in the supply chain over the “opportunity” to potentially increase sales of their products by 50 to 100%, we mustn’t lose sight of reality here for beneath the hype there are numerous considerations that are being disregarded, some of which are listed below:
 
Health & Safety   

If IGU production were to switch from double to triple, the weight of a standard domestic IGU immediately increases by 10 to 15 kg / m2 creating serious manual handling issues from manufacturing all the way through to installation. On the commercial front, the dangers are far greater.

The extra weight can result in large opening sashes parting company with the frame, especially in strong wind conditions. If heavy duty hinges are fitted, the fixing screws would simply be ripped out. In the case of high level windows above thoroughfares, the consequences could be horrific.

Since the introduction of “Fee for Intervention,” inspectors are unlikely to visit a business and come away without serving at least an improvement notice as they now require to generate revenue in order to maintain their status / existence. The above 2 points alone could see them rubbing their hands in anticipation.

Production Costs

Every TGU requires an additional toughened centre pane so electricity and labour to operate furnaces alone increases by 50%. There will obviously also be a knock on effect throughout every factory. Number of units produced per shift will reduce dramatically, even for those who invest in new machinery.

Visual Quality Issues

TGUs provide an additional pane of fragile coated glass for retired engineers and Headmistresses to view from a 30 degree angle when the sun is low in the sky.

Storage Space

Overnight, double the amount of floor space, trolleys and A frames would be required to maintain existing levels of operation.

Transport Costs

Due to the above, either twice the number of delivery vehicles or twice the number of journeys will be required. Either way, fuel costs are doubled.

Return Visits

“My window’s jammed.” “My door won’t close.” These are just a couple of the phone calls that can be expected after putting unnecessary additional strain on hinges and friction stays.

Devaluation

Already, those in our midst who are devoid of commercial nous are offering “triple glazing for the same price as double,” “upgrade to triple glazing for free” and so on. Add to this the usual suspects who try and justify selling below true cost by crying “I need my volumes,” “I’ve got a factory to fill,” “I’ve got three shifts to keep busy.” By far the best one I have heard is “I’ve got a plant to feed!” This is the type of “plant” that’s eats fools and their businesses then goes into hibernation until the liquidator finds a new home for it.
 
In summary, higher spec DGUs can satisfy legislation requirements and offer the real “opportunity” to sell added value without facing the issues outlined above but we seem unable as an industry to grasp this simple point. I look forward to some healthy debate on 10 April.
 
One final thought – those thinking that TGUs are the answer to all their prayers should keep one eye on the chickens who are packing their bags in preparation for the journey home!
 
Alex Gray
Managing Director
Supaseal Glass Ltd