Double-glazing vs. Triple-glazing

When getting new windows fitted in your property, you need to decide which of the various glazing options is right for you. The two most popular types, by far, are double-glazed windows and triple-glazed windows, both of which offer considerable benefits in terms of energy efficiency, improved security, reduced heat loss, and more. But which is better? While many would assume that triple-glazing is the better choice, that’s not always the case in every situation. Sometimes traditional double-glazing is the more effective solution.

In this article, we’re going to look at the various benefits of both double- and triple-glazed windows to help you reach the right decision for you.

Energy Efficiency

Both double-glazed and triple-glazed windows help your property retain its heat, improving energy efficiency and reducing your heating costs. Thanks to their middle pane, triple-glazed window units have two vacuum sections that help reduce heat loss, rather than the single gap of a double-glazed unit. This helps to improve heat retention and lower energy consumption.

Noise Reduction

While it might be expected that a triple-glazed window will reduce noise pollution compared with a double-glazed window in much the same way that it reduces heat loss, the opposite is actually true. If the panes of glass in your triple-glazing are all of the same thickness, the middle pane can result in an increase in sound vibration, making it easier for sound to penetrate from outside. While you will notice a reduction in noise compared to a single-glazed window, double-glazing will often be more effective.

Security

When it comes to security, both triple- and double-glazed windows provide excellent protection for your home. Aside from the fact that they are incredibly resilient to impact damage, they also come with a host of additional security features, such as multi-point locking systems. Of the two, triple-glazing is the more secure option since the additional pane of glass in the unit makes it even more difficult to break.

Size

Most double-glazed window units are constructed to a similar size, meaning it is a simple matter to install them into existing frames. Triple-glazed windows are usually thicker to accommodate the extra pane of glass (36mm deep for triple-glazing as opposed to 28mm for double-glazing). This means you will probably need to replace the entire window frame rather than just the sealed glazed unit, which may add to the cost of the installation as well as the time it takes to complete.

Cost

Speaking of cost, there’s no question that triple-glazing is more expensive than double-glazing. More materials are used in its construction; the glazed units are heavier and more awkward to manoeuvre and, as mentioned above, may require new frames. If you are planning on replacing a large number of windows across your property, double-glazing may be the more affordable option.

Is Triple-glazing or Double-glazing Better for Me?

As you can see, the answer to that depends largely on the qualities you require for your home, as what works for one property might not be suitable for another. If you need expert advice on the best glazing solution for your domestic or commercial property, get in touch with Thextons today. Call our window specialists 0151 608 2278 to arrange a free consultation or to receive a free, no-obligation quote for our services.