12 Jun Between Glass Window Blinds: Convenience vs. Energy Efficiency

The choices of window types and styles today are almost endless. Windows can be customized to fit any opening and the efficiency of the windows can vary significantly depending on the options that are chosen. One of the options on windows that affect the efficiency of a window is between-glass blinds. This system is a very smart innovation that provides valuable shade during periods of intense sun exposure while sporting the convenience of no maintenance and no window treatments. The downside of this product is the lack of energy efficiency.

Between Glass Blind Windows

Double pane windows are typically assembled to be airtight and filled with a composition of nitrogen and argon or krypton. These compounds offer a thermal barrier between the exterior and the interior of the house. This thermal barrier also helps to prevent condensation from forming on the windows, which is a major complaint during winter conditions in many homes.

In order to install blinds between the glass in windows, the blinds have to be operable. This means that an external control of some kind needs to operate the blinds to a near 0% failure rate. In order for this to occur, the space between the glass must not be sealed in order to allow for moving parts. This means that the ability to fill the cavity between the glass is non-existent and substantially reduces the energy efficiency of the window, especially for cold weather climates or seasons. To read about how you can increase energy efficiency with a window film read this article here.

Condensation Issues

One of the major drawbacks of this type of glass is the massive amount of condensation that occurs during winter months from the cold and warm air colliding on the glass. Because there is no thermal layer to prevent some of the heat loss from the house, the glass conducts a significant amount of the energy from the exterior of the home. While this typically does not hurt the window, it can cause rotting and mold buildup on the window jamb and casings. This unhealthy situation is hard to get rid of once it begins.

While blinds between glass window panes are desirable, the inefficiency of these products is hard to ignore. In a time when every energy saving aspect is so important, purchasing these types of windows or door units with blinds like this built into them will not increase your energy efficiency and may even make your home less efficient than before. Ultimately, it is your decision on whether you want the convenience or the energy efficiency.