As spring approaches, double glazing may be the last thing on your mind. But the dryer months are the best time to consider double glazing, as it is more convenient to be installed in spring and summer, and you can prepare for the next winter. Double glazing costs thousands and many homeowners want to know if it is worth the investment. We look at the pros and cons of double glazing.
The Pros of Double Glazing
There are many benefits of fitting double (or triple) glazing. Here are the key ones:
Save energy – It is estimated that we lose around 18% of a property’s heat through windows. Double glazing adds an extra layer of insulation, resulting in lower energy bills. For every layer of glass you add, your energy savings will increase – triple or quadruple glazing will help you to reduce CO2 emissions and bills even further.
Reduced Condensation – Condensation is caused when warm air hits a cold surface (such as a window). This can make a room feel colder, so people turn up the heat, resulting in even warmer air, and more condensation. Double and triple glazed units work by trapping air between the sheets of glass. This means that the inside sheet of glass doesn’t get as cold. The result? Less condensation.
Reduced Noise Pollution – Double and triple glazing put an extra barrier between you and the outside world, reducing the noise from outside dramatically.
Increased Safety – Double glazing tends to be harder to break, so they are safer, particularly if you have children. They are also more secure; due to the tight seals, double glazed windows are harder to force open and tougher to smash from the outside.
The Cons of Double Glazing
Nothing is perfect, and double glazing does have some disadvantages:
Replacing the Unit – Because double glazing is a sealed unit, if you break one pane, the whole thing will need to be replaced. If the seal is compromised in any way, condensation will build up between the two panes and – you guessed it – the whole unit will need replacing.
Summer Heat – Double and triple glazing is great in the winter, when it conserves heat, but in the summer months, the lack of ventilation can be a disadvantage. If you have newly installed double glazing, remember to open an inaccessible window to prevent your home from becoming too hot.
Aesthetics – Not everyone likes the appearance of double glazing windows, particularly in older properties. Most double glazing is UPVC, which can jar with older architecture. In addition, if you replace one window, you really need to replace them all. Don’t be put off by appearances, however: there are lots of different types of double glazing units available, including wooden framed ones. Although wooden double glazing is more expensive, it can be worth the investment, particularly in a period property.
Are you considering investing in double glazing? Get a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted company near you.