You're probably aware that, as the name suggests, double glazing is constructed with two panes of glass and triple glazing with three. This makes triple glazed windows more secure, more sound-proof, and more energy-efficient, although more expensive. Is the additional expense worth it or are you better off sticking with double glazing? In this article, we take a look at the benefits of triple glazing compared to double glazing.
How Energy Efficient Is Triple Glazing?
One of the main reasons for installing double glazed windows is to reduce heat loss to make your home warmer and cosier. Heat loss is measured in U-values. Single glazed windows have a 5.6 U-value; double glazing comes in at 2.8, while triple-glazed windows can provide a U-value of just 0.8. The extra pane in triple glazing helps to retain warmth within your home, keeping your house cosy and cutting your heating bills in winter.
But heat can be lost from other areas of the home, such as the roof, cracks under the doors, and even through the brickwork – and not just the windows. So, if energy efficiency is your priority, remember to add insulation to walls, lofts and roof spaces and seal any draughts around skirting boards and floors.
Is Triple Glazing The Best Option For Noise Reduction?
The more panes of glass, the greater the noise reduction. Triple glazing offers superior noise reduction when compared to double glazed windows, so is a good option if you live on a main road, near a railway line, or in a busy area – but consider the following points:
- For the best results, the panes of glass should be of different thicknesses; for example, 4mm and 6mm - different thicknesses of glass block different sound frequencies.
- The greater the gap between the panes, the more effective the reduction of noise.
- If your window is fitted with a trickle ventilator, this will negate any noise reduction you may have achieved with the measures above.
Triple glazing offers better noise reduction, but it is also more costly, and you may find that double glazing with the correct glass thickness is sufficient for your needs.
Reducing The Risk Of Cold Patches: Double Vs Triple Glazing
Cold or damp patches in the house occur in situations where there is a considerable difference in U-values between the walls and the windows. The U-value of a wall is 0.3, so a triple glazed window with a U-value of 1.8-0.6 will minimise the risk of cold patches better than a double-glazed window. Unless your home is prone to damp you probably won’t see much difference between triple and double glazing, but if damp and cold areas are an issue in your home, the extra money could be worth it for a drier and warmer environment.
Triple Glazed Or Double Glazed Windows: A Cost Comparison
Thanks to a more complicated manufacturing process and the added cost of the raw materials, triple glazing is a more costly option. Both double glazing and triple glazing will make your house feel warmer and cosier than single glazing, and you will see lower energy bills going forward. Double glazed windows have a starting price from £650 and will be fully fitted including VAT, but your choice will depend ultimately on your requirements for comfort and energy efficiency rather than a financial return on your investment.
So Which Will It Be, Double Or Triple Glazing?
As you can see, there are several pros and cons to consider when it comes to double glazing vs triple glazing. Your own priorities will be the deciding factors when it comes to deciding which type of glazing is most suitable for your property.
If you need more information before making your decision, please don't hesitate to call our expert team on 0116 497 5866 or email info@harveyswindows.co.uk. We're always happy to answer any questions and help you to find the perfect windows for your home.
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