Is Triple Glazing Really Worth It?

Double Glazing can make a drastic improvement in thermal comfort when compared to single glazing, however, can the same be said for Triple Glazing? Let’s consider a few things and determine if Triple Glazing is truly worth the extra expense.

Cost of timber

We typically manufacture doors and windows from 50mm thick Accoya, allowing us to get a finished thickness of 45mm. This gives us enough room for a 34mm rebate which permits double glazing. To move up to Triple Glazing, we need a rebate of 50mm. To achieve this, we need a finished thickness approximately 65mm, which can be machined from 75mm thick timber. Thus, there is approximately 50% more cost in timber.

Cost of Glazing

Triple Glazing Units start at approximately 50% more than double Glazed. So, this means that aside from the cost of timber, there is also more cost to be accounted for in the glazing itself.

Performance

Finally, the big one, thermal performance. Ultimately, we want to achieve maximum thermal efficiency to reduce ongoing heating and cooling costs. However, the minor improvement in thermal performance for Triple Glazing may be less than you think.

For this purpose, we can compare glazing options for a 900 H x 600 W Stormsafe Casement Window.

When we run a simulation for this window with 4mm Clear Float Single Glazing, we return a U Value of 3.8 and SHGC of 0.51.

For this same unit in Double Glazing (4 Clear-10 Argon-4 Clear) we return a U of 2.10 and SHGC of 0.45.

Now, it gets interesting when we utilize Lightbridge Double Glazing (4 Clear – 10 Argon – 4 Clear Low E) and return U 1.56, SHGC 0.35. These values are quite impressive and achieved with affordable Double Glazing.

Finally, we can look at an entry level Triple Glazing option (4 Clear – 12 Argon – 4 Clear – 12 Argon – 4 Clear), for which we see a U of 1.65 and SHGC of 0.41 and if we upgrade this to incorporate a Low E coating, we get a U of 1.39 and SHGC of 0.32.

Our Recommendation

The performance values we can achieve with Lightbridge DGUs are better than entry level Triple Glazing, and at a fraction of the price. This option is suitable for harsh climates throughout Australia. We recommend Lightbridge Double Glazing as the best return-on—investment for glazing. Triple Glazing with Low E coating can perform slightly better than Lightbridge Double Glazing, but the performance increase is not near as significant as the cost increase.

For more info, contact us.

https://www.viridianglass.com/products/energy/lightbridge/

https://www.viridianglass.com/products/energy/vistatech/

September 18, 2023

Double Glazing

Introduction

Double glazing is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who wish to create an energy-efficient & comfortable home. This type of glazing involves having two panels of glass installed in a window or door frame, creating an air gap between them. The air gap acts as an insulator, helping to reduce heat loss and keep your home warm in the winter, and cool in the summer.

Why is double glazing important for an energy-efficient home, you might ask? There are several reasons, all of which contribute to lowering your energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.

Insulation

Firstly, double glazing is an excellent way to reduce heat loss. Single glazed windows & doors can lose up to 20% of a home’s heat. In contrast, double glazing can reduce this heat loss by up to 50%, making it a very effective way to keep your home warmer for longer without needing to continuously use your heating system.

This means that, with double glazing, you can use your heating system less frequently and at a lower temperature, resulting in significant savings on your energy bills. In addition, when you use your heating system less often, you reduce your carbon footprint, making your home more environmentally friendly.

This same principal applies to cooling. Double glazed windows can reduce the amount of heat entering the home and decrease the demand for a cooling system. This can be enhanced with the addition of a low E coating as incorporated into systems such as Lightbridge, by Viridian.

Acoustics

Double glazing can also help to reduce external noise pollution, which is especially important if you live in a busy area or close to a main road. The air gap between the two panes of glass acts as a barrier, reducing the amount of noise that enters your home.

Security

Another benefit of double glazing is that it can help to increase the security of your home. The two panes of glass are held in place by a frame, creating a strong barrier that is much harder to break than a single pane of glass. This means that, in addition to reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint, double glazing can also help to give you peace of mind and improve the safety of your home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, double glazing is a crucial consideration for an energy-efficient and comfortable home. It helps to reduce heat loss & gain, external noise pollution, and increase the security of your home, all while lowering your energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why double glazing is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want to create an environmentally friendly and cost-effective home.

For a quote on timber double glazed doors and/or windows, contact us.

August 25, 2023August 25, 2023

Cabinet Makers & The Artistry of Cabinet Making

Introduction

When it comes to creating beautiful and functional spaces within our homes, one cannot undermine the significance of cabinetry. From stunning kitchen cabinets to exquisite bathroom vanities, cabinets not only provide essential storage solutions but also add an aesthetic appeal to any room. Cabinet makers, true artisans in their craft, possess a unique combination of technical skills, creativity, and an eye for detail that elevates their creations to works of art. In this blog post, we will explore the artistry and craftsmanship of cabinet makers, shedding light on their expertise, design process, and the value they bring to our living spaces.

Masters of their Craft

Cabinet making is an age-old profession that has been passed down through generations, with skilled craftsmen carefully honing their techniques over time. These artisans work with various materials such as wood, metal, glass, and even sustainable alternatives like engineered wood, ensuring durability and longevity in their creations.

A cabinet maker’s work often starts with the selection of high-quality materials, followed by precise measurements and meticulous planning. They skillfully transform these raw materials into bespoke cabinets, utilizing their expertise in joinery techniques, woodworking tools, and finishes. Cabinet makers pay attention to every detail, ensuring seamless joinery, flawless finishings, and functional designs that meet the unique needs of their clients.

The Design Process

Cabinet makers are not just skilled craftsmen; they are also talented designers who can turn your vision into reality. Their design process involves collaborating closely with clients, understanding their preferences, and incorporating their functional requirements into the overall design. They consider factors such as available space, storage needs, and aesthetic preferences to create custom cabinets that seamlessly integrate with the existing décor of a room.

From conceptual sketches and 3D renderings to material selection and finish options, cabinet makers take a holistic approach to ensure every aspect of the design aligns with the client’s desires. Whether it’s a modern minimalist kitchen or a traditional bathroom with intricate detailing, cabinet makers have the expertise to bring any style to life.

The Value of Custom Cabinetry

Off-the-shelf cabinets may seem like a convenient option, but nothing compares to the value and uniqueness of custom cabinetry crafted by skilled artisans. Custom cabinets allow homeowners to maximize space utilization, incorporating clever storage solutions and unique design elements that suit their specific needs. The superior craftsmanship of custom cabinetry also ensures longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for the long run.

In addition to functionality, custom cabinets can transform a space into a statement of personal style. The ability to choose from a wide range of materials, finishes, and hardware allows homeowners to add a personal touch to their cabinets, elevating their interior design and creating a cohesive look that reflects their taste and personality.

Conclusion

Cabinet makers are true artists who combine technical skills, creativity, and a passion for their craft to bring functional works of art into our homes. Their attention to detail, precision, and ability to create custom designs make them indispensable contributors to our living spaces. Whether it’s a sleek contemporary kitchen or a stylish bathroom vanity, the artistry and skill of cabinet makers ensure that the cabinets in our homes are not only functional but also enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. So, the next time you admire the beauty and functionality of your cabinets, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship of the cabinet maker who brought them to life.

To work with talented Cabinet Makers near you, please contact us.

February 13, 2023March 1, 2023

Kitchen Design

The basics of kitchen design

Kitchen design can be daunting at first, but with professional guidance it can be a fun experience. At the Joinery Store, our expert team can assist with your kitchen design and provide high quality 3D renders for your convenience.

When planning a design it is important to balance function with aesthetic. It is a good idea to start by considering the space available to fit your new kitchen and then how you as as an individual, would work within the space. Each home is different. Some people love to bake and require multiple ovens whilst others may not cook much. Some kitchens need to serve a large household, and some may only need to be suited to a single individual. Think carefully about how your design will need to be orientated to serve your needs.

Once you are aware of the space available and how the kitchen needs to function, you will need a style and some inspiration. Using Google Image Search, you can search phrases like ‘Modern Kitchen’, ‘Scandinavian Kitchen’ or ‘Traditional Kitchen’. This will result in thousands of photos which can inspire your vision.

Engaging a Professional

Once you have a basic understanding on the direction you are headed with your design, it’s a good idea to engage a professional. If you are struggling to even come up with an initial layout or style, a professional can also help guide you through the most basic components of the design. However, the more information in terms of ideas and inspiration references you can give the professional, the more efficient the process may be.

A good professional designer will be able to design a layout that balances functionality and style, whilst fitting your needs. They should be able to provide plans or images of some description, which reflect this design.

At the Joinery Store, we utilize modern CAD software to prepare 3D renders for our clients, such as those shown in the gallery below. This helps our customers to get a good feel for the design and a visual of the aesthetic.

Need Help?

Contact our team for help with your design, or try the following resources:

https://www.thespruce.com/basic-design-layouts-for-your-kitchen-1822186

https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/traditional-kitchen-design-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_10444~s_2307

https://www.pinterest.com.au/kitchenideas/modern-kitchens/

February 3, 2023March 1, 2023

Fire Place Mantels

Mantels for Fire Places

A Mantel surround for a fireplace is often an ornamental fixture, designed to add character to a home. Often the structure will consist of columns either side of a fire place with a mantel shelf over the fireplace. This type of fire place surround structure can draw attention to the fireplace, and dress it into the architectural style of the house.

Timber Fire Place Mantels

Fire Place Mantels can be made from timber, like the Rosewood used in the above Mantels. This creates a feeling of warmth in the home whilst inviting natural earthy tones.

Painted Fire Place Mantels

Some Mantels may be constructed from paintable substrate such as MDF. These can then be painted to match the surrounding walls, or to stand out as a feature by using a different paint colour. In the above photo, the Mantel has been painted the same colour as the skirtings and architraves, in a bright white which pops out against the bone colour walls.

Where to buy a Custom Fireplace Mantel Surround

At the Joinery Store in Young NSW, we manufacture custom Fireplace Mantels to suit our customers needs. We can manufacture Primed MDF Mantels ready for painting as well as Natural Timber Mantels. If you would like a quote for a Mantel, please contact us.

For more inspiration for Fire place mantels, check out these images on Google.

January 18, 2023January 18, 2023

Best Timber for External Doors and Windows

Introduction

In this article we compare common timbers used, to determine which may be considered the best timber for external doors and windows.

The timbers we will be comparing will be Western Red Cedar, New Guinea Rosewood and Accoya. We will be comparing them based on multiple factors such as stability, longevity and coatability.

Hardness (Jenka)

The first character we will be comparing is hardness. This is an indicator of the surface durability of a timber and is measured using the Jenka system.

When comparing the three timbers we are investigating, we find that Western Red Cedar Typically has a low Janka hardness of 2kN, New Guinea Rosewood has a moderate Janka hardness of 5kN and Accoya has a moderate Janka hardness of 4.1 kN. This makes Rosewood the hardness option with Accoya close behind, whilst WR Cedar is quite soft. Due to it’s softness, Cedar may mark quite easily whilst Accoya and Rosewood will not mark as easily.

Estimated Service Life

The estimated service life of a timber is the timespan it is expected to perform it’s purpose to a satisfactory standard. Timbers are classed by their estimated Service Life with Class 1 being timbers with a service life of 40+ years, Class 2 being timbers with a service life of 15-40 years, Class 3 being timbers with a service life of 7-15 years and Class 4 being timbers with a service life of 0-7 years. These periods being based on outdoor use of the timber, above ground.

Both Western Red Cedar are Class 2 Timbers with an estimated service life of 15 – 40 years. Accoya on the other hand is a Class 1 timber with an estimated service life of 40+ years. Thus, out of the timbers investigated, Accoya has the longest Estimated Service Life.

Coating, Painting

When considering how suitable a timber is for painting, we need to look at multiple factors including how stable the timber is (Will it move and split the paint) and how likely it is to bleed tannins which may discolour the paint.

One way we can determine how well a timber will support a painted coat is by looking at the radial shrinkage of the timber. This is the amount the timber may move along the growth rings (Shrink and expand) which can result in the painted surface cracking. Rosewood has a radial shrinkage of 1%, Western Red Cedar has a radial shrinkage of 1.5% and Accoya has a radial shrinkage of 0.4%. This makes Accoya the most stable when it comes to shrinkage.

When we look at tannin and leaching, both Western Red Cedar and New Guinea Rosewood may stain the paint causing discolouration. For this reason they are best sealed and painted with an oil based paint. Accoya on the other hand, does not bleed or leach and so it can also be painted with water based paints.

With these factors considered, Accoya is the most suitable timber for painting.

Conclusion

Considering the above factors, we find that Western Red Cedar is the least hard, durable and suitable for painting of the three timbers investigated. Rosewood is the hardest, but is not the most suitable for painting and is only a Class 2 timber. Accoya proved to be the best for painting and is a class 1 timber which also boasts a hardness not far behind Rosewood. For these reasons, we conclude that Accoya is the best Timber for external doors and windows.

If you would like a quote for external doors and windows, please contact us.

Sources and References:

https://brittontimbers.com.au/timbers/rosewood/

https://brittontimbers.com.au/timbers/western-red-cedar/

https://brittontimbers.com.au/timbers/accoya/

https://www.accoya.com/au/why-accoya/benefits/

https://qtimber.daf.qld.gov.au/guides/natural-durability-ratings

January 10, 2023February 3, 2023

Metamerism and Colour Inconstancy in Painted Finishes

Introduction

When comparing painted surfaces, colour inconsistencies are often observed. These can be inconsistencies between different paints which have been colour-matched, or with different surfaces painted in the same paint when viewed under different conditions. In this article, we explore when, how and why this happens.

Metamerism

Metamerism describes the way two coloured surfaces may appear colour-matched, or non Colour-matched, depending on the light under which they are viewed. This phenomenon results from the varying spectral power distributions of the surfaces.

In one case we had a client report that their windows had discoloured over time. We prepared freshly painted sample pieces of timber and took them to site as control tools. When we placed these sample pieces against the windows, they were perfect matches. However when we took the pieces away and looked at them under direct light, they appeared whiter than the windows. This was a result of metamerism as the paint colours were a perfect match when in the same light, and only appeared different when observed under different light.

Metamerism is common in painted surfaces as different paints have different formulations (Different pigments used etc). For this reason, paint matching is not a perfect art and inconsistency in colour is common. The below video explains metamerism whilst provide visual aids to demonstrate this effect.

Viewing Angle and Shading

The viewing angle also affects the appearance of a surfaces colour, along with the shading of surrounding objects.

In one experiment, we sprayed a window frame with a RAL 9010 (Pure White) coloured paint. We viewed the frame when stood upright and observed that the inside faces of the sides appeared whiter than the sil, which had a creamier appearance. However, when we then rotated the frame, the colour appearance adapted accordingly. The inside face of the side of the frame now appeared cream, whilst the sil appeared whiter.

This can happen because each piece is subjected to different lighting and shading. It is therefore metamerism as we explored above, resulting from the placement of the piece being viewed, and the respective viewing position. But in this case, we are seeing how the same paint changes it’s colour appearance when subjected to different lighting and shading, rather than comparing two different paints.

Sheen Level

Sheen level is another factor which can affect the appearance of a paint. Let’s say you try to colour match two paints. Each paint is tinted to the ‘same colour’, however one has a sheen level of 30% and the other has a sheen level of 60%. The two paints may appear to be different in colour as a result of how glossy and reflective they are. The 60% sheen paint may reflect more colour from the surrounding environment and appear glossier whilst the 30% paint may maintain it’s own colour to a greater degree and appear less glossy.

Paints with a higher sheen level also can often appear darker than the equivalent colour in a low sheen paint. The below article from Dulux Australia discusses this matter.

https://www.dulux.com.au/how-to/how-to-use-colour/how-to-choose-a-sheen-level

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors can also affect the colour of a paint. Depending on the paint and the environment it is subjected to, it may discolour as a result of being subjected to direct sunlight or moisture.

On a couple of occasions we have observed painted surfaces that have been discoloured by environmental factors such as pollen and dust. In one particular case, our customer reported that their white paint had yellowed. The paint we use is non-yellowing and so we were not surprised when we attended the site to discover that a yellow substance had stuck to the painted surface. We speculated from observing the surrounding environment, that it was yellow pollen. We were able to simply wipe the suspected pollen from the surface of the paint, revealing the true paint colour underneath.

As an experiment, we have painted test pieces of timber in matching paint then stored them in different locations over a period of a few months. One piece in direct sunlight, one in the dark of a cupboard and one subject to the ambient light in an office. At the end of the test period when we compared the samples side by side, they all matched perfectly. No discolouration had taken place with the paint we used under these conditions.

Key Takeaways

When trying to colour match paints, we must be mindful of the above factors. It is always advisable to for the customer to compare paint samples under different lighting in different locations before settling on a selection when colour matching is a concern.

As with the above, when settling on a paint colour selection, it is best to view it under different light and at different positions and locations, to consider how the appearance of the colour may vary.

Below are some other resources regarding this topic. If you would like a quote for painted timber doors or windows, please contact us.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/metamerism#:~:text=Metamerism%20is%20the%20term%20used,different%20observers%20(observer%20metamerism).

https://www.xrite.com/blog/what-is-metamerism#:~:text=Metamerism%20is%20a%20phenomenon%20that,and%20dark%20colors%20like%20these.

https://www.carboline.com/solution-spot/posts/understanding-metamerism-color-matching-for-industrial-coatings/

https://www.wonderfulcolors.org/blog/metamerism-and-why-does-paint-color-shift/

https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/paint-color-matching-263322

December 21, 2022December 21, 2022

Pre-Finished Doors & Windows

What are Pre-finished Doors & Windows?

At The Joinery Store, we specialize in pre-finished Doors and windows. These include the operable components (Window sashes, door leaves etc) pre fitted in jambs/frames.

These units come coated (Painted or stained) and glazed, with hardware pre-fitted.

To achieve this, we manufacture the doors and windows and fit the hardware. We set the door or window up in a controlled environment, and test for functionality. We then disassemble the units and send the timber components into our spray booth to be coated. Once they are coated and dried, we can glaze any sections required then reassemble the units before subjecting them to a final quality control process.

How does this compare to other Timber Doors & Windows?

Most common doors and windows come uncoated, or primed ready for painting. They are then to be painted on site after they have been installed. Unlike our pre-finished units which do not need to be painted or stained on site.

Sometimes timber doors and windows will come pre-glazed, and other times they will need to be glazed on site after they have been installed, depending on what the manufacturer offers. We glaze our pre-finished units during manufacture, before they go to site.

Sometimes windows will come pre-fitted with hardware. Usually doors will come as loose-leaves without hardware, for the carpenter to fit into the jamb on site. Our pre-finished units are completely fitted within the frames/jambs, with necessary hardware. We can supply this hardware, or fit hardware supplied by our client

What are the benefits of Pre-Finishing?

Our Pre-finishing process provides a range of benefits, including:

Paint/Stain Coverage. As we spray the components in a controlled setting before reassembling and glazing the units, we can ensure all exposed timber is sealed as required. As these coatings are sprayed on, we can achieve a wet film thickness of around 170 microns per coat. For comparison, a brushed or rolled coat would typically be 30 – 50 microns thick. Our coating is even, seals the end grains of the timber and is environmentally friendly.

With our windows and doors pre-fitted and operational, there is much less work to be conducted on site. The carpenter simply needs to fit the finished unit into the opening and it should function optimally with minimal adjustments required.

Quality Control. As we are responsible for the majority of the work involved in finishing the unit, we can maintain a high degree of quality control. We ensure our units operate correctly before they leave the workshop. We also use superior timbers and coating systems such as Accoya Wood with Teknos Paints and Stains.

Disadvantages of units that aren’t Pre-Finished

*More work required on site for carpenters, to assemble, install unit and make it functional.

*Painter Required to coat timber on site. This can result in uneven coverage, sashes and door leaves sticking to each other and unwanted mess.

*If the unit is painted after it has been glazed, painting inside the rebates and back of glazing beads is not possible

*Lesser Quality Control

*Possible need for Glazier to glaze onsite

*Inferior products likely to be used, such as the timber and paint

For more information, or to request a quote, please contact us.

November 1, 2022November 1, 2022

Accoya Decking

Which timber is best for decking?

Timber is a popular choice for outdoor decking as it can provide a naturally aesthetic and comfortable surface. You may find yourself asking what is the best timber for outdoor decking. Well Accoya might be the answer you are looking for. Let’s take a look at some of the characteristics of Accoya Decking.

Durability

Accoya is a highly durable timber. It is a ‘class 1’ timber meaning that it expected to last over 40 years outdoors and it has an estimated 70 year minimum service life. It even comes with a 50-year above ground guarantee.

Accoya is suitable for all kinds of climates and is less prone to warping, cupping or bowing than common timbers such as spotted gum and merbau. It is resistant to both rot and splintering.

Thermal Comfort

Another thing to consider when selected decking is the thermal or ‘heat’ gain. This will affect how hot the decking gets when exposed to ambient heat and sunlight. Accoya has a low thermal gain as compared to other decking products and so this can make it much more comfortable to step onto within burning bare feet.

Pest Resistance

Accoya is resistant to pests such as termites which may otherwise consume the timber, breaking down your decking. However it is still non-toxic not relying on toxic insecticides to achieve this property.

Coatings

Accoya is suitable for coatings such as paints and stains. The stable nature of the wood can preserve the coating meaning a greater span of time achieved between coatings.

Final Words

Accoya is a versatile timber which offers a range of benefits. The unique properties of Accoya make it a great option for timber decking. If you would like a quote for Accoya Decking, please contact us.

September 27, 2022September 30, 2022

How much does a Kitchen cost?

How much does a Kitchen cost in 2022-2023?

As with everything else, the price of kitchen renovations has increased noticeably in recent years. As so, you may find yourself asking “How much does a kitchen cost?”. The following are some typical price ranges for new kitchens.

How much does a Budget Kitchen cost?

A modern budget kitchen will typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000 depending on factors such as selections and size. These kitchens will often be simple and tidy in style, utilizing cost effective materials such as melamine doors and laminated benchtops.

How much does an average Kitchen cost?

These days, the average kitchen will likely fall in the price range of $20,000-$40,000.00 with $30,000.00 being quite typical. Benchtops may be in an entry-mid range stone and doors might be vinyl wrapped or painted. The average kitchen will often include more hardware such as drawers and pull-out bins.

How much does a premium Kitchen cost?

Kitchens over $40,000.00 can be thought of as premium. These might range from $40,000-$100,000. A premium Kitchen may feature profiled doors like shaker doors, sometimes in a face-framed cabinet style and be sprayed in 2-pac polyurethane or even hand-painted. Benchtops will typically be stone and/or timber. Custom features like range hood mantles and timber butcher’s blocks are also popular in premium kitchens.

How much does a luxury Kitchen cost?

Few people will spend over $100,000 on a kitchen but for those who do, it is truly a luxury kitchen. A Kitchen of this calibre is often very large. It will feature high end selections such as natural marble benchtops and splash backs. It may be sprayed or hand-painted and feature unique custom components including framed island benches, shelves with decorative supports, range hood mantles, butcher’s blocks and even custom interior components such as bespoke drawer inserts.

So how much should you spend on your kitchen?

How much you need to spend on your kitchen will depend on many factors. These can include distance from manufactures, condition of your home (are structural repairs or modifications required), style preferences etc.

For those with a tight budget or who are replacing a kitchen in a rental property, a budget kitchen in the $10,000-$20,000 range would usually be fine. For the average home owner upgrading their kitchen for long term use, the $30,000 mark is quite typical. Whilst those who want to make a real statement of their cabinetry may choose to spend more.

All in all, the ranges are quite broad and can vary in accordance with what is required for the renovation. Kitchen renovations can involve plumbing, electrical, plastering, painting, tiling, cabinetry, benchtops, electrical appliances and more. This article is only meant as a quick reference to kitchen pricing based on the current Australian market. For a better indication on what your kitchen may cost, please contact us for a quote.

Additional articles relating to this topic can be found below.

https://hipages.com.au/article/how_much_does_a_kitchen_cost

https://www.service.com.au/articles/building/how-much-does-a-kitchen-cost

https://badelkitchens.com.au/how-much-is-a-sydney-kitchen-renovation-the-experts-at-badel-weigh-in/