If you’re thinking about replacing your windows or improving your home’s comfort, you’ve probably heard about double glazing. But is it worth it? In this blog, we’ll explain what double glazing is, how it works, the benefits it brings, and a few things to think about before making a decision.
What Is Double Glazing?
Double glazing means having two panes of glass in your window instead of one. The panes are separated by a small gap, usually filled with air or a special gas like argon. This gap acts as an extra layer of insulation, keeping heat in during winter and helping to keep your home cooler in summer.
It’s now the standard for most modern homes in the UK, and has been for many years. If you live in an older property and still have single-glazed windows, upgrading can make a big difference to your comfort and energy bills.
How Does Double Glazing Work?
The two panes of glass, combined with the sealed gap in between, help to reduce heat transfer. Here’s how:
- In winter: The warm air inside your home is kept in, so your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard.
- In summer: It reduces the amount of heat coming in from outside, keeping your home cooler.
- All year round: It reduces draughts and makes it harder for noise to get in.
The space between the panes is often filled with argon gas because it’s a poor conductor of heat, making it more effective than air at keeping temperatures stable.
Benefits of Glazing
There are many reasons why people choose to install this glazing over other types. Here are the main ones:
1. Better Energy Efficiency
Double glazing helps to keep the heat inside your home, which means you use less energy to stay warm. This can reduce your heating bills over time. Many double-glazed windows have energy ratings to show how well they perform, similar to ratings you see on fridges or washing machines.
2. More Comfortable Living
With fewer draughts and more stable temperatures, your home will feel warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This makes every room more comfortable to use, even those that were previously too cold or too hot.
3. Less Noise from Outside
If you live near a busy road, railway, or in a noisy neighbourhood, double glazing can help. The extra layer of glass and the gap between panes help to reduce outside noise, making your home quieter.
4. Better Security
Double-glazed windows are harder to break than single-glass panes. They often come with multi-point locking systems, making it more difficult for intruders to get in.
5. Less Condensation
Condensation happens when warm air meets a cold surface, such as single-glass windows in winter. Double glazing keeps the inner pane warmer, which reduces the chance of condensation forming.
6. Increases Property Value
If you decide to sell your home, having double glazing is often seen as a selling point. Buyers look for energy-efficient homes, and modern windows are a sign that the property has been well maintained.
Are There Any Downsides?
While double glazing has many benefits, it’s worth being aware of a few possible drawbacks:
- Upfront Cost: It can be expensive to install, especially if you replace every window in your home at once.
- Repair Costs: If the seal between the panes breaks, the window can become misty inside. This usually means replacing the glass unit.
- Not Always Suitable for Listed Buildings: In conservation areas or listed properties, there may be restrictions on replacing original windows.
How Much Does Double Glazing Cost?
Prices can vary based on the style, size, and material of the frame (uPVC, aluminium, or timber). On average in the UK:
- uPVC double glazing: £250–£600 per window
- Aluminium double glazing: £400–£800 per window
- Timber double glazing: £500–£1,000 per window
These prices usually include installation. Whole-house installation can cost several thousand pounds, but you can choose to replace windows gradually to spread the cost.
Frame Materials for Double Glazing
When choosing the glazing, you also need to decide on the frame type. Each has its pros and cons:
| Frame Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| uPVC | Low cost, low maintenance, energy efficient | Limited colour choices (though more now available) |
| Aluminium | Slim frames, modern look, strong | Higher cost than uPVC, not as insulating without thermal breaks |
| Timber | Traditional look, good insulation | Needs regular maintenance, higher cost |
Energy Ratings and U-Values
When looking at double glazing, two terms are worth knowing:
- Energy rating – A to G scale (A++ is best) showing overall energy performance.
- U-value – Measures how much heat escapes. The lower the number, the better the insulation. For double glazing, look for a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or lower.
Is it Worth It?
For most UK homes, the answer is yes. It improves comfort, reduces energy bills, and adds value to the property. The savings on heating costs can help offset the initial cost over time.
If your current windows are damaged, draughty, or single-glazed, upgrading can make a big difference. Even replacing older double glazing with modern units can improve efficiency, as technology has advanced a lot in the last 20 years.
Alternatives to Double Glazing
If you can’t install double glazing, there are a few alternatives:
- Secondary Glazing: Adds a second pane of glass inside the existing window.
- Triple Glazing: Offers even more insulation, but is more expensive and often unnecessary in milder climates.
- Draught-proofing and Heavy Curtains: Cheaper ways to reduce heat loss, though less effective.
Tips for Choosing Double Glazing
If you decide to go ahead, here are some tips to get the best result:
- Choose a FENSA-registered installer to ensure the work meets building regulations.
- Compare quotes from at least three companies.
- Ask about guarantees – most reputable firms offer 10 years.
- Check customer reviews for service quality.
- Look at the frame style to make sure it matches your property.
Maintenance for Windows
Double glazing is generally low maintenance, but a few simple steps will help it last:
- Wipe down frames regularly to prevent dirt build-up.
- Keep tracks and hinges clean to avoid stiffness.
- Check seals for any signs of damage or gaps.
- Avoid slamming windows, as this can damage locks and seals.
Planning Permission
In most cases, replacing windows with double glazing doesn’t require planning permission. However, check with your local council if your home is in a conservation area or is a listed building.
Conclusion
Double glazing offers a mix of comfort, energy savings, and noise reduction, making it a solid investment for most homes. While the upfront cost can be high, the long-term benefits in lower bills, increased security, and improved property value often make it worthwhile.
If you’re unsure, you could start with the rooms you use most, like the living room or bedrooms, and replace other windows over time. At Skyway Windows we offer double glazing on all windows we install, if you are looking for a quote, please get in touch with us here. You can also see our instagram posts and gallery here.
