Double glazing vs. triple glazing: how much better is it, really?
Let's compare double glazing and triple glazing. Is triple glazing really worth it? The experts weigh in on insulation, noise, comfort and value.
When it comes to choosing windows for your home, there are lots of factors to consider. Beyond aesthetics, stained glass, shapes and tints, there's one question that often still baffles homeowners.
Is
triple glazing worth the investment? Can an extra pane of glass really make that much difference?
Well, it's a little more complex than that, actually.
Let's quickly break down the differences between the two.
Double glazing vs. triple glazing
Double glazing is a type of window with two glass panes separated by a gap filled with gas. This gap helps to insulate the home and reduce heat loss.
Triple glazing, meanwhile, has three glass panes separated by two air gaps. This provides even more insulation and heat loss reduction, along with several other benefits.
So, we know triple glazing has more going on in its inner workings, but how much better is triple glazing than double glazing?
Insulation
Triple glazing is between
40% and 50% more thermally efficient than double glazing, especially if the frame is installed correctly by experts like us.
So, it's fair to say triple glazing is significantly better at insulating your home than double glazing. Better insulation means less heat loss and less hard work for your central heating. This is especially important nowadays since energy prices remain unpredictable.
Environmental factors play a part too. Using triple glazing in your doors and windows isn't just a money-saving measure. It can also help to lower your household carbon emissions.
And in the world of energy-saving fenestration, it all comes down to "U". (Yes, U.)
The U-value of a window measures how good it is at stopping heat transmission – from inside to outside and from outside to inside. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation. On average, triple glazing has a U-value of 0.8, while double glazing has a typical U-value of 1.6.
You may pay more upfront for triple glazing. In reality, however, the difference it makes to your home insulation can lead to significant savings on your energy bills – especially in the winter months. Ultimately, the slightly higher price tag could pay for itself.
This is especially true if you can ditch the cost of heavy curtains in favour of better-insulated windows. (Now that's a choice that you won't have to lose sleep over.)
Noise reduction
Speaking of losing sleep (or, more precisely,
not losing sleep)…
If you've ever lived by a main road, a train station or a nightclub, you'll understand the importance of noise insulation when it's time to draw the curtains for the night.
How does triple glazing fare when it comes to noise reduction?
Well, it has an extra layer of glass and an extra layer of gas. These extra layers add up to better sound absorption. There's simply more "stuff" for the audio waves to pass through.
As a whole, triple glazing has been shown to
absorb 50% more sound than other kinds of windows.
If you live in a noisy area, value peace and quiet and are willing to pay a little extra, triple glazing should definitely be on your radar.
Security
Although glass is often considered a fragile material, you'd be surprised how much difference an extra pane of glass can make when it comes to the strength and security of your windows.
Because triple glazing uses three panes of glass, it's more difficult to break through a triple-glazed window. This makes it more secure against intruders – and more of a
pane (get it?) for criminals.
So if you're tallying reasons to choose triple glazing over double glazing, add security to that list. Who'd have thought one extra pane of glass could make life so much harder for those pesky burglars?
Return on investment
According to The Eco Experts, homeowners are likely to see a return on investment if they sell their property after installing double or triple glazing.
Installing new windows can increase the value of your property by improving its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating. Properties with good EPC ratings can sell for up to 14% more than properties with poor EPC ratings.
As triple glazing is more energy efficient, it's likely to improve your home's EPC rating and may prove to be an enticing selling point for potential buyers.
Condensation reduction
No more drippy windows and wet window sills. Triple glazing is great for tackling condensation issues.
Condensation occurs when there's a temperature difference between window glass and indoor air. Triple glazing's multiple panels can notably reduce this risk because the innermost pane, inside the home, remains warmer. See how those triple-glazing insulation qualities go a long way?
However, it's important to note that while triple glazing can and should substantially reduce condensation, it's not guaranteed. You might still see condensation if your home has certain defects or broader humidity and ventilation issues.
What's the verdict?
Of course, triple glazing is a little more expensive than double glazing. But it's easy to see why.
The additional cost is usually offset by the savings on your energy bills, the increased value of your home and – of course – the peace of mind you feel knowing that your home is quieter and more secure than before.
If you're looking for the best possible insulation,
noise reduction, security and value for your home then triple glazing is the way to go.
And if you are still unsure whether to choose double or triple glazing, why not consult the professionals?
At Calder Windows, we can help assess your needs and recommend the best option for your home.
Contact us today to get started.
Calder Windows is a leading door and
window supplier in West Yorkshire. We offer a wide range of windows and doors, including double and triple glazing. We look forward to helping you improve your home.
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