A question we get asked a lot at Everest is if the glazed unit in our double glazing windows can be replaced with a triple glazed unit.
Anthony Threlfall at Everest explains that in an existing window, you can replace broken and damaged glazed units in windows - If they are the same. So, you might think it would be easy to upgrade from a double to a triple unit. But unfortunately it’s not as simple as that due to a few reasons.
The Depth of the Unit
The main problem that gets in the way of being able to simply upgrade is the depth of the units. Everest double glazed units range from 24-28 mm, whereas a triple glazed unit has an extra piece of glass and air gap which means the depth can range from 36-40mm.
If you have double glazing and look at your existing windows, you can see how the glazed unit fits neatly in the frame and has a glazed bead that holds it in place.
And you can see that to try and add a deeper unit, it could not be held in place with the same glazing bead.
When windows are manufactured, they are designed and made to a very tight specification of the glazed unit. To change a unit with a different depth means you would need a specifically-made frame.
The other main factor that impacts changing glazing units is the weight of the glass.
The Weight of Glass
Glass is heavy. A triple glazed unit holds an additional full pane of glass and this can add considerable weight to the unit. For this reason, the frame of the unit must be strong enough to hold this weight.
The highest performing triple glazed windows can have units with a depth of 40mm or more. To support this, frames need to be thicker and deeper than standard double glazed windows. Depending on the size of the window, they may also have steel reinforcement added to maintain stability and avoid bowing in the frame.
What is an Option for Older Properties?
If you have a period home with original glazing and would like to improve the efficiency of your windows, what can you do?
Many period homes have sliding sash windows and the original windows will be single glazed. It is possible to insert a slimline double glazed unit into original timber frames. But, an old timber frame cannot hold a triple glazed unit for a variety of reasons including the depth of the unit.
An older property could choose double glazed sash windows, or they could consider installing quality secondary glazing for superior energy efficiency.
It’s important to note that you should always replace windows to suit the architectural style of your property.
Anthony would always advise that when fitting uPVC casement windows in a period property (where allowed) that you look for a high quality upvc or timber alternative double glazed unit which can look highly authentic. Or, if the budget allows a new timber sash window to avoid devaluing the property.
Energy Performance
Even though you might not be able to simply switch your glazing units, you shouldn’t dismiss triple glazing.
Triple glazed windows are an increasingly popular option and can offer outstanding energy efficiency. This impacts not only the energy you use, but also your carbon footprint.
In Europe and Scandinavia, triple glazing has been much more widely adopted as their homes are designed for super efficiency.
In the UK, new-build homes are now employing more advanced building techniques that will help to achieve the goal of Net Zero as we seek to reduce energy consumption as a nation.
For this reason, triple glazing is expected to become a standard for new housing stock in the near future.
Should you Upgrade your Old Windows?
If you are considering upgrading your windows from double to triple glazing there are a few good reasons to do this.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
You can expect to improve your current windows from a 2.4 U value (for older double glazing) to 1.0 (Everest triple glazing). U Values are the measurement used to compare window performance. Triple also achieves the highest A++ rating.
Better Design
A rising trend in home windows is for a flush window style that suits both contemporary and traditional properties. The frame has a sleek proportioned design that can mimic a traditional timber design, but also look as good as a contemporary aluminium frame.
Increased Value
A home with new triple glazed windows is a selling point and not only adds kerb appeal, but as a home improvement is one of the easiest ways to add value to your property.
As we have outlined, triple glazing is a great option offering many positive benefits to the homeowner, with the biggest benefit being enhanced energy performance.
Alongside saving on energy bills, improving the kerb appeal of your home by installing new windows will help to payback for the cost of the improvements.
Read more about if triple glazing is worth it.
To find out more about Everest and their home improvement services, visit here.