Double glazing vs triple glazing: what are the benefits?

Double glazing or triple glazing? Which is better? It’s one of the most common questions asked in the window world. The truth is, both types of glazing work brilliantly. Which one you choose entirely depends on what’s right for your home. So, let’s go through the main benefits of and differences between both window glazing options, including:

• Energy efficiency
• Noise reduction
• Cost and value
• Condensation
• Security

First thing’s first…

What is the difference between double glazing and triple glazing?

Both terms relate to windows with multiple panes of glass fixed inside their frames. Two panes for double-glazed. Three for triple-glazed. In between the panes, the space is filled with a vacuum, or more commonly a gas like argon or krypton.

Double and triple glazing offers better insulation, while repelling noise and harmful UV rays. With incredibly high performance standards, they ensure your home stays warm in the Winter and cool in the Summer.

Is triple glazing more energy efficient?

Triple-glazed windows boast U-values as low as 0.8 W/m2k. U-values measure the rate of thermal transmittance through a material, divided by the difference in temperature across that material. The lower the U-value, the less heat escapes through the glass panes, the more thermally efficient the window. Imagine it like putting on an extra coat; the extra layer helps to keep the house warmer. This makes them particularly ideal for homes across Buckinghamshire during the Winter.

However, both our double and triple-glazed sealed units achieve A++ Window Energy Ratings. Manufactured by Planitherm, their special coating reflects heat back into the home and prevents heat from escaping. So, whichever glazing you choose, you’re guaranteed fantastic thermal performance and lower heating bills.

Are triple glazed windows more soundproof?

Both double and triple-glazed windows are brilliant for noise reduction. This is down to the space between the two panes. The larger the space, the more difficult it is for sound to bleed through. This is enhanced if one pane is thicker than the other(s). Planitherm’s extra coating also improves noise reduction by 20%.

Of course, triple-glazed windows’ extra pane makes for higher quality soundproofing. This makes them ideal for homes near busy roads and other noisy areas. However, if you live in a quiet cul-de-sac in Berkhamstead, double glazing will most likely be more than satisfactory.

Is triple glazing more expensive than double glazing?

As triple-glazed windows require more glass to manufacture, they are more expensive than double-glazing. However, when you consider the extra money you’ll save on heating bills, they are more than a worthwhile investment!

Is it worth getting triple glazing?

Because of their marginally more expensive installation costs, it can take slightly longer to see a return of investment on triple-glazed windows, compared to double-glazed windows. However, if you see them as a long-term investment, you will eventually come to reap the immense benefits. Energy bills will be much lower on a consistent basis, and your home will be much warmer.

They’re especially worthwhile if you live in an older property. In these scenarios, double-glazed windows older than 20 years old can be responsible for 25-30% of a home’s heat loss, according to energy.gov. By upgrading to triple-glazing, you can feel the warming effects instantly, and say goodbye to long Winters sat in the cold.

Does triple glazing stop condensation?

It is possible that triple-glazed windows may attract more internal condensation than double-glazed windows, but this is actually completely normal. This condensation occurs when the air temperature rises above that of the glass pane. When the air touches the glass, it cools. This causes the water vapour in the air to condense and mist up the window.

You may have heard horror stories about condensation on windows, but all this internal condensation means is that the window is working. It’s not allowing any heat to escape from inside your home. Because triple-glazed windows have lower U-values, it’s possible that they will mist up more. This condensation, if it occurs, can be easily wiped away, but will also dissipate by itself across the morning.

The only cause for concern is if your old windows are exhibiting condensation in between the panes, inside the sealed unit. This would mean your windows have ‘blown’ and are in need of replacing. For more information, read our guide to condensation on windows.

Are double-glazed windows good for security?

Yes! All Premier’s windows are exceptionally resistant to force, preventing intruders from gaining access to your home.

Of course, triple-glazed windows’ extra glass pane makes them more resistant to shattering. However, both our double and triple-glazed windows are available with Planitherm Comfort and Planitherm Comfort Plus glasses. These both have a special layer that makes the glass harder to break.

Also coming with top-of-the-range multi-locking point systems, you can rest assured that both double and triple-glazed windows will keep your home safe.

Double glazing and triple glazing in Buckinghamshire

Premier Windows offer fantastic double and triple glazed windows in Aylesbury, Chesham, Berkhamstead and across Buckinghamshire. For more information, download our specialist window buying guide.

If you’d like a free, no-obligation quote, call us free on 0800 854 353 or contact us online.