Choosing the right windows can be a daunting task.
Windows and doors make up to 10% of the budget in typical domestic new build projects, and choosing the right products is a decision that will impact your home’s aesthetics, energy efficiency, and overall value.
In this article, we examine one key decision to make in your window journey: will you go for double or triple-glazed windows?
How much difference do triple glazed windows really make?
How much more do triple-glazed windows cost?
Are triple-glazed windows worth it?
In this article, we’ll compare double and triple glazing across several key areas and discuss how to make the best decision for your home.
Five factors to consider when choosing double or triple glazing:
- Energy Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a top priority, triple glazing is the better choice – Norrsken triple-glazed units offer a 40-45% improvement in thermal performance from double glazing.
- Budget: Triple glazed windows are typically 10-15% more expensive than double glazed models upfront, but the long-term savings on energy bills might offset the initial cost.
- Noise Reduction: If you live in a noisy area, triple glazing can offer superior noise insulation.
- Weight: Triple glazing is heavier than double glazing. This extra weight requires careful consideration during the decision-making process.
- Window Size and Orientation: Large south-facing windows might benefit more from triple glazing due to higher solar gain.
Energy Efficiency:
With three panes of glass and inert gas filling between panes, triple glazed windows usually lose 40-45% less heat than double-glazed windows. In terms of U-values, the best double glazing achieves around 1.2 W/M2K, while typical triple-glazed windows from Norrsken are approximately 0.8 W/M2K. What’s a U-Value?
Does triple glazing make a noticeable difference?
On a cold day, the glass on the inside of a triple glazed window is several degrees warmer than that on a double glazed version. This translates into a more comfortable feel on the inside, minimal convection of air internally and the sense of not being able to tell how cold it is outside. Triple glazed windows make a real difference to the feel of your home, making it feel warmer, more comfortable and less draughty inside.
“The experience of living in the house is, frankly, amazing.” – Norrsken triple-glazed window and passivhaus customer
Building a Passivhaus? Triple glazing is a crucial element for achieving exceptional energy efficiency. Learn more about Norrsken’s Passivhaus-approved window options and take your dream home to the next level of sustainability.
Budget
What’s the difference in upfront cost?
Double glazing is generally less expensive than triple glazing due to fewer glass panes and a simpler manufacturing process. Prices can vary significantly based on size, frame material, and features. Triple glazing is typically 10-20% more expensive upfront than double glazing due to the additional glass pane and increased manufacturing complexity.
Does triple glazing lower energy costs?
Yes. While specific energy savings can vary, it’s generally accepted that triple glazing can reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling by 20-40% compared to single glazing and 10-20% compared to double glazing. This reduces the cost of heating and cooling your home. Over time, these savings can offset the initial higher cost. If windows are a major source of heat loss or gain in your home, triple glazing can offer a greater return on investment than double glazing.
Depending on the thermal performance of the rest of the house (this includes insulation, airtightness, whether or not there is significant thermal bridging, and how the house is ventilated), triple glazing plays a significant role in reducing the costs of heating a home.
However, it’s important to use triple-glazing in the right environments. In a well-insulated, airtight building, triple glazing complements existing insulation measures, further enhancing energy efficiency. In poorly insulated buildings, while triple glazing can still provide benefits, addressing other insulation deficiencies is crucial for maximising energy savings.
While double glazing offers a lower initial cost, triple glazing may be a more cost-effective option in the long run, especially with rising energy costs and the need to meet the new Future Homes Standard for homes. The best choice depends on your specific budget, climate, energy needs, and noise concerns.
Soundproofing
Triple glazing reduces noise more than double glazing by physically blocking sounds.
When choosing windows, consider the sound performance to ensure they meet your specific needs, especially if you live in a noisy area.
Most customers report noticeably quieter homes with triple glazing installed. In laminated glass units, a thin layer of polyvinyl butyral resin (PVB) bonds glass sheets together. Originally used for safety and security, laminated glass also provides excellent acoustic performance by dampening sound waves.
What’s the benefit of more soundproof windows?
Increased soundproofing creates a quieter and more peaceful environment. Other benefits of soundproof windows include improved sleep quality, enhanced concentration and productivity, and a more desirable home for potential buyers.
Weight
The extra glass pane in triple glazing creates a heavier overall unit than a double glazed product of the same dimensions. The extra weight may require a more robust window frame to ensure proper support. When choosing your windows, consider:
- Window Size: Weight increases with the unit size, so larger triple-glazed windows and doors require more planning to manage and install.
- Building Structure: Ensure your home’s structure can handle the additional weight of triple glazing.
- Installation: Factor in potential difficulties during installation due to weight. Unlike most window suppliers, who do not offer in-house installation, Norrsken provides a full supply & installation service to give you complete peace of mind for your new windows and doors.
- Opening Mechanisms: Choose appropriate opening mechanisms that can handle the heavier windows. The Norrsken team will always guide you through the best options for your home.
While triple glazing offers excellent benefits, its weight is a key consideration during the decision-making process. Carefully evaluate your specific situation regarding window size, building structure, and installation feasibility to ensure successful implementation.
Preventing excessive solar gain
South-facing windows receive the most direct sunlight, so solar gain is a more significant factor to consider.
Double glazing can allow excessive heat gain during hot summer months, which is uncomfortable and can increase the cost of cooling your home. Triple glazing provides reduced solar gain compared to double glazing, helping to keep your home cooler in summer. Using low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings on the glass helps to maximise heat retention during colder months, so with triple glazing you get the best of both worlds and stay at a comfortable temperature year round.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both double and triple glazing require only minimal maintenance. However, triple glazing is generally considered more durable than double glazing due to the extra layer of glass and the potential for improved sealing. This can lead to a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements.
Double or triple-glazed windows: what’s right for you?
Triple glazing provides homeowners a marked increase – 40-45% – in thermal performance from double glazed alternatives. They make your home more comfortable, lower your heating bills, and can raise your home’s value. These windows and doors are durable, secure and offer great return on investment.
When choosing your windows and doors, though, you should take into account your whole-building thermal efficiency, budget, and noise concerns to make an informed decision. High performance double glazing can provide a useful alternative to those considering triple glazing who feel it doesn’t suit their project requirements.
Ready to unlock a quieter, more comfortable home with significantly reduced energy bills?
Explore our extensive range of double and triple-glazed windows on the Norrsken website (https://www.norrsken.co.uk/) and discover the perfect fit for your dream home. Let us help you transform your living space into a tranquil oasis you love living in.