You may already be aware that you new windows and doors are available with triple glazing in place of standard double glazing. Whilst triple glazing is not that new a technology in other colder countries, here is is gaining increased awareness.
What you may not know is that triple glazing is not just a “latest fad” in replacement windows and doors. Governments from all over the world have signed up to international agreements to reduce energy and windows are just one small area.
Do you need triple glazing.
Glass is obviously a major component of windows and doors and therefore contributes a lot to the overall energy efficiency of a window.
Technology in glass has moved forward a lot in recent years. Original double glazing was simply two pieces of glass with an air space. Now glass has sophisticated coatings, warm edge spacers, argon gas fills and much more. All this helps energy efficiency.
Your window frames themselves also have insulation. Whether these are multi chamber PVCu, thermally insulated aluminium or solid timber, frames also play a part in achieving an energy efficient window.
Should you upgrade to triple glazing?
A triple glazed window will offer you advantages over a double glazed window but it is important to remember that it is not just your new windows that need to be considered.
We would say that before you consider the ultimate in PVCu, aluminium or timber windows, have a look if there are other areas in your home that can help reduce your energy consumption as well. Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation can help a lot.
Triple glazed windows will give you lower U values in most cases but the savings won’t be “substantial”.
As a good example, there are many double glazed aluminium windows available presently that can achieve triple glazing U values with double glazed units!
Triple glazing will give you improved levels of sound insulation and comfort but we must stress the overall property also plays a part.
Are there any drawbacks to triple glazing?
Not really. Triple glazing means you are now looking through three panes of glass and not two. With some larger windows you may find your view out of the windows can appear a little distorted as a result, but not hugely.
Your windows with three panes of glass will also be heavier than double glazed windows.
Contact us to find out more.
We offer a choice of double or triple glazed windows and will be happy to talk to you to answer any questions you may have. Please contact us for some free advice.
