Triple Glazing is generally the best option compared to double glazing in terms of U value, R-value, insulation, soundproofing, and saving house bills. However, if you are living in an area where it has a mild climate, not a colder climate region and you want to save more money then double glazing is a better option for you. Triple glazing windows are best suited for colder climate regions, while double glazing windows are best suited for the mild climate regions.
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FREE QUOTE REQUESTComparison Table of Double Glazing vs Triple Glazing
| Attributes | Double Glazing | Triple Glazing |
| U-Value (lower is better) | 1.1 to 2.8 W/m²K | 0.6 to 1.0 W/m²K |
| R-Value (higher is better) | 0.36 to 0.90 m²K/W | 1.0 to 1.67 m²K/W |
| Thermal Insulation | Good (Reduces heat loss by ~50%) | Excellent (Reduces heat loss by ~75%) |
| Soundproofing (dB) | 30 – 35 dB | 35 – 45 dB |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate to High | Very High |
| Condensation Resistance | 40% – 60% improvement over single glazing | 70% – 90% improvement over single glazing |
| Thickness | 20 – 28 mm | 36 – 44 mm |
| Weight | Lighter, less structural load | Heavier, more structural load |
| Cost (per m², in €) | €100 – €200 | €250 – €350 |
| Durability | 15 – 20 years lifespan | 20 – 30 years lifespan |
| UV Protection | 40% – 60% | 75% – 90% |
| Suitability for Extreme Weather | Suitable for most climates | Best for cold climates |
| Aesthetic Impact | Thinner profile, sleek look | Thicker frames may be noticeable |
Should You Choose Double or Triple Glazing?
The choice of double or triple glazing is directly depends upon the orientation of your home which significantly impacts the amount of sunlight it receives, which in turn affects your energy consumption and overall comfort.
South Facing Homes: South Facing homes get the most direct sunlight, which can cause overheating. We recommend double glazing with low-E coatings to reduce heat gain while still allowing plenty of natural light.
North Facing Homes: Since North Facing homes receive less sunlight, they tend to stay colder. For better insulation and warmth, we suggest triple glazing to keep your home cozy and provide better insulation.
East Facing Homes: East Facing homes get strong morning sunlight, which can increase heat inside. To manage this, double glazing with low-E coatings combined with solar shades or blinds is ideal.
West Facing Homes: West facing homes experience intense afternoon sun, which can also lead to overheating. We recommend using double glazing with low-E coatings and solar shades or blinds to control the heat.
Can you Put Triple Glazing in a Double Glazing Frames?
Yes, you can technically put triple glazing in double glazing frames, but it’s not ideal, because most double glazing frames are designed to accommodate a glass unit with a thickness of around 24-28 mm. whereas triple glazing units are typically thicker, around 36-44 mm, depending on the gas filling and spacer bars. If your double glazing frame is not deep enough, you’ll need to either modify the frame or replace it entirely. Also, triple glazing is heavier than double glazing, sometimes by 50% or more, which can place extra strain on the hinges and hardware. If the existing frame isn’t strong enough to handle the additional weight, you could experience sagging, difficulty in opening and closing, and even potential damage over time.
Is It Worth Replacing Double Glazing with Triple Glazing?
Yes, it is worth replacing double glazing with triple glazing if you are prioritizing maximum efficiency better insulation, and better soundproofing. Most people prefer triple-glazing just because of the soundproofing. if you live in a noisy area, such as near a busy road or airport then triple glazing is worth it for you. However, it is essential that you need to calculate overall your replacement cost. The Glass and Glazing Federation has developed a handy calculator to help you estimate your potential savings. Simply input your current window type and desired upgrade (A-rated double glazing or A++ rated triple glazing), and see how much you could save annually.
Can We Improve Noise Reduction In Double Glazing?
Yes, you can improve noise reduction in double glazing windows by simply changing the thickness of one of the glass panes.
For example: If you have two 4mm glass panes with a spacer bar. You can simply replace one pane with a thicker 6.8mm pane, ideally the outer pane. Because the sound waves pass through the glass more easily because they resonate similarly. However, by increasing the thickness of one of the panes (such as using a 6.8mm pane), you introduce an imbalance that helps disrupt sound waves, reducing their transmission through the glass. This will help block lower-frequency sounds, like traffic noise or aircraft while maintaining overall performance.
