Transforming Your View with Kachina Windows and Doors
The large picture window in my home provides a sweeping view of the vibrant desert landscape. Yet, there's a clouded patch marring half of this vista. This cloudiness points to a double-glazed window, a sign of quality, but it also signifies a compromised seal between the panes. It's clear — a replacement from Kachina Windows and Doors is in order.
Introduced to homeowners in 1952, double-glazed windows are now featured in over half of American homes. They're especially popular in regions with temperature extremes, providing insulation against the burning summer heat of places like Phoenix.
Double-glazed windows aren’t just aesthetic features; they offer tangible benefits to homeowners. If you're considering a window upgrade with Kachina, here's what you should know:

Understanding Double-Glazed Windows
Standard glass doesn’t offer much insulation – its R-value is below one. However, with the addition of a second pane and a sealed gap filled with gas, the insulation value soars. This is the magic behind double-glazed or double-pane windows.
Manufactured with frames crafted from wood, composite, or other non-thermally conducting materials, these windows have spacers that maintain a distance between the panes. Often, the gap is filled with inert gases like argon, xenon, or krypton. Krypton stands out due to its superior insulation properties and ability to remain within the panes.
If there's a breach in the window's seal allowing moist air to intrude, the window can become foggy. In such cases, replacement is the only solution.
Why Choose Double-Glazed Windows from Kachina?
Double-glazed windows, especially those from Kachina Windows and Doors, offer:
Thermal Insulation: These windows minimize heat transfer, ensuring your air conditioning doesn't overwork in the Phoenix heat. This means lower energy bills.
Sound Insulation: The quiet of your home won’t be disrupted by outside noise, providing a serene indoor atmosphere.
Enhanced Security: Intruders will find it challenging to break through the dual panes. Opting for tempered or laminated glass further boosts security.
Reduced Condensation: With a smaller temperature difference between the inside and outside panes, the risk of condensation, and subsequently mold growth, is significantly reduced.
The only hitch? If there's damage, they must be replaced, not repaired. And quality does come at a price.
Investing in Double-Glazed Windows
On average, expect to spend around $1,000 per unit. However, factors like window size, frame material, style, glass type, and gas can affect the price.
For instance:
Window Size: Larger windows cost more. As a rough estimate, small windows range from $300-$750, medium ones from $400-$1,850, and larger ones from $650-$4,500.
Frame Material: Fiberglass and steel frames typically come with a higher price tag than vinyl and aluminum.
Glass and Gas Choice: Clear-tempered or laminated glass are popular choices. Opting for krypton gas may add approximately $300 per window.
DIY or Professional Installation?
While installing the windows yourself might seem tempting, it's not always the best decision. Many manufacturers, often require professional installation to maintain the warranty. Additionally, remember to check on building permits, especially if you're altering the window size.
Having invested in premium windows, the reassurance of a professional installation and a workmanship warranty from Kachina Windows and Doors can be invaluable.
Choose quality. Choose clarity. Choose Kachina.