Argon, Krypton, and Xenon: Understanding the Differences Between These Gases for Windows

Discover the differences between Argon, Krypton, and Xenon gases in window glazing. Enhance your home’s energy efficiency with Dale Joinery’s expert insights and options.

Selecting the right type of window glazing is crucial for enhancing your home’s energy efficiency. At Dale Joinery, we pride ourselves on offering a range of high-performance windows filled with Argon, Krypton, or Xenon gas. Each of these gases plays a significant role in improving the insulation properties of your windows, but what exactly are they, and how do they differ? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed choice for your next window installation.

The Basics of Gas-Filled Windows

Gas-filled windows consist of two or more panes of glass with a layer of gas sealed between them. This gas layer significantly reduces heat transfer, enhancing the window’s thermal insulation properties. While traditional double glazing typically uses air, modern energy-efficient windows often employ inert gases like Argon, Krypton, and Xenon due to their superior insulating properties.

Argon: The Popular Choice

Argon is the most commonly used gas in window glazing, and for good reason. Here are some key characteristics of Argon-filled windows:

Thermal Insulation

Argon gas has a thermal conductivity of 0.016 W/m·K, significantly lower than air (0.0262 W/m·K). This means it reduces the transfer of heat through the window, helping keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, leading to significant energy savings.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to Krypton and Xenon, Argon is more abundant and less expensive, making it a cost-effective option for improving window insulation without a substantial increase in cost.

Availability and Performance

Argon performs well in standard double and triple-glazing units, making it a versatile choice for various types of windows.

Non-Toxic and Non-Reactive

Argon is a non-toxic, inert gas, which means it does not react with other materials or pose any health risks.

At Dale Joinery, our standard units feature 24mm argon-filled glass panes. This setup is ideal for homeowners, self-builders and developers seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Krypton: Superior Insulation

Krypton is another inert gas used in window glazing, known for its excellent insulating properties. Here’s how Krypton differs from Argon:

Enhanced Insulation

Krypton has a thermal conductivity of 0.0088 W/m·K, which is much lower than Argon. This provides even better insulation, making Krypton-filled windows an excellent choice for regions with extreme temperatures.

Space Efficiency

Krypton is more effective in smaller spaces, which means it is ideal for triple-glazed windows with narrower space between panes. This allows for superior insulation without increasing the window’s overall thickness.

Higher Cost

Krypton is rarer and more expensive than Argon. While it offers superior insulation, the higher cost may be a key consideration.

Optimal for High-Performance Windows

Due to its higher cost, Krypton is often used in high-performance windows where maximum energy efficiency is a priority.

We offer Krypton gas filling as an option at an additional cost, catering to customers who prioritise superior insulation for their homes and properties.

Xenon: The Premium Option

Xenon is the least commonly used gas for window glazing, primarily due to its cost, but it offers the best thermal performance. Here’s what you need to know about Xenon:

Exceptional Insulation

Xenon provides the highest level of insulation among the three gases with a thermal conductivity of 0.0051 W/m·K. This makes it the most effective gas for reducing heat transfer.

Ideal for Extreme Climates

Xenon-filled windows are perfect for homes in extreme climates where maintaining indoor temperatures is particularly challenging.

High Cost

Due to its scarcity, Xenon is significantly more expensive than both Argon and Krypton. This makes it a premium option reserved for specialised applications where the utmost energy efficiency is required.

Best for Custom Projects

Given its cost, Xenon is typically used in custom or high-end window installations where performance trumps price.

For those seeking the pinnacle of window insulation, we provide Xenon gas filling as a premium option, ensuring the highest possible energy efficiency.

Additional Glass Options at Dale Joinery

In addition to our range of gas-filled windows, Dale Joinery offers several premium glass options further to enhance the performance and aesthetics of your windows:

Laminated Glass: Laminated glass is an optional extra within our double-glazed units. It is extremely durable, offers additional security, and provides noise reduction qualities, making it ideal for both residential and commercial properties.

Self-Cleaning Glass: This glass includes a coating that reacts to ultraviolet light from the sun, breaking down dirt particles and making them easier to remove with rain. The self-cleaning finish typically lasts between 3-10 years and can be reapplied as needed.

Acoustic Glass: Designed to reduce noise, acoustic glass features a thicker 8.8mm sheet with a 12mm gap and a 4mm inner sheet. It is perfect for properties located on busy roads or under flight paths.

Solar Control Glass: Particularly useful for roof lanterns and large south-facing screens, solar control glass helps reduce solar gain during the summer months, keeping your home cooler.

Obscured Glass: Our glass units can include an obscured design or pattern on the outer sheet. We have 7 designs to choose from, alongside a sandblast option that allows us to create stencilled designs for your windows and doors. This includes names, numbers, borders, partial obscuring, and patterns.

At Dale Joinery, we understand that choosing the right gas for your windows can be overwhelming. Each gas, Argon, Krypton, and Xenon offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and budgets. By understanding the differences, you can make an informed decision that enhances your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.

Whether you opt for the popular and cost-effective Argon, the superior insulation of Krypton, or the premium performance of Xenon, our team at Dale Joinery is here to provide you with the best options and expert advice. Explore our range of high-performance windows and contact us today for more information on selecting the best option.

Additionally, request a quote or download our brochure to explore the full range of our products. You can also visit our showroom at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre!