Types Of Double Glazing Explained: Which Option Is Best For Your Home?

When it comes to home improvements, understanding the different double glazing types available can feel overwhelming. With various glass options, coatings and technologies on the market, how do you know which is right for your property?

This guide breaks down the main types of double glazing to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore standard units, Low-E coatings, laminated glass, warm-edge spacer systems and triple glazing, so you can choose the best option for your home and budget.

What is double glazing and how does it work?

Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by an air gap, typically filled with inert gas such as argon gas. This creates a thermal barrier that reduces heat loss and improves your home’s energy efficiency.

The space between the glass panes acts as insulation, preventing heat transfer between your indoor temperature and the cold air outside. This means less heat escapes during winter, helping to maintain a comfortable room temperature whilst reducing your energy bills.

Standard double glazing units

Standard double glazing remains a popular choice for homeowners across the North East. These units feature two sheets of glass separated by a spacer bar, with the gap usually measuring between 16mm and 20mm.

Benefits of standard double glazing:

• Significant reduction in heat loss compared to single glazing
• Lower energy costs throughout the year
• Improved noise reduction from external noise
• Better insulation properties than older windows
• Increased property value

Standard double glazing offers excellent thermal performance for most homes. The sealed unit prevents cold air from entering and warm air from escaping, maintaining a stable indoor temperature with less reliance on heating systems.

How much can I expect to save on energy bills with standard double glazing?

Replacing single glazing with double glazing windows can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 50-70%. Most homeowners see noticeable reductions in their energy consumption, with savings varying depending on your property size and current window condition.

Low-E coated glass

Low-E (low emissivity) glass features an ultra-thin metallic coating applied during the manufacturing process. This invisible layer reflects heat back into your room whilst still allowing natural light to enter.

Low-E coatings work by reducing the amount of heat that can pass through the glass panels. In winter, they reflect warmth back inside. During summer, certain Low-E types can reduce heat gain, keeping your home cooler without over-using cooling systems.

Key advantages:

• Superior thermal efficiency compared to standard double glazing
• Reduced carbon footprint through lower energy consumption
• Protection from UV rays that can fade furniture
• Minimal impact on natural light levels
• Long-term energy savings

Low-E glass is particularly beneficial for homes in the North East, where weather conditions demand excellent thermal insulation. This type of glass helps maintain consistent room temperature year-round.

Gas-filled units

Most modern double glazing uses argon gas between the glass panes rather than regular air. Argon is denser than air, which reduces heat exchange and improves overall thermal performance.

Some manufacturers offer alternatives like krypton, though argon provides excellent results at a more accessible price point. The inert gas creates additional thermal resistance, making your windows more effective at keeping heat inside during colder months.

Benefits of gas-filled double glazing:

• Better insulation than air-filled units
• Reduced condensation risk
• Improved energy efficiency ratings
• Enhanced comfort in living spaces

Is there much difference between air-filled and gas-filled double glazing?

Yes. Argon-filled units typically provide around 5-10% better thermal efficiency than air-filled alternatives. Over the long run, this translates to meaningful energy savings and improved comfort.

Laminated glass

Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer. This type of glass offers unique benefits beyond standard double glazing.

When to consider laminated glass:

• Homes near busy roads requiring additional noise reduction
• Properties with young children where safety is paramount
• Ground floor windows requiring extra security
• Areas prone to noise pollution

The plastic layer in laminated glass holds fragments together if the window breaks, making it a safer option for certain applications. It also provides superior acoustic performance, blocking more sound waves than standard double glazing glass.

Laminated glass is an excellent choice for sash windows and casement windows in urban environments, where external noise can impact quality of life. Many homeowners report significant improvements in peace of mind after installation.

Acoustic glass for noise reduction

Acoustic glass takes noise reduction further by using different thicknesses of glass panes and specialised interlayers designed to dampen sound waves. This type of double glazing is ideal for properties affected by traffic, aircraft or other persistent noise pollution.

The acoustic properties come from the varied thickness of glass sheets, which disrupts sound transmission more effectively than standard units. Combined with proper sealing and quality window frames, acoustic glass can dramatically reduce indoor noise levels.

Does acoustic glass still provide good thermal insulation?

Absolutely. Acoustic glass delivers excellent thermal performance alongside its soundproofing benefits. You won’t need to compromise on energy efficiency to gain a quieter home.

Warm-edge spacer systems

The spacer bar that separates your two panes of glass plays a bigger role than you might think. Traditional aluminium spacers conduct heat easily, creating a cold edge around your window that can lead to condensation and heat loss.

Warm-edge spacer systems use materials with lower thermal conductivity, such as composite materials or stainless steel with thermal breaks. This reduces the temperature difference between the edge and centre of your glazing.

Advantages of warm-edge spacers:

• Reduced condensation on glass surfaces
• Improved overall thermal efficiency
• Better insulation at window edges
• Extended lifespan for sealed units
• Enhanced comfort near windows

When combined with Low-E glass and argon gas, warm-edge spacers create some of the most thermally efficient double glazing available. This combination is particularly effective in older homes where heat loss through windows has historically been problematic.

Solar control glass

Solar control glass includes special coatings that reflect and absorb solar energy, reducing heat gain during warmer months. This type of glass is especially useful for south-facing windows or conservatories that receive intense sunlight.

By limiting the amount of heat entering your home, solar control glass helps maintain comfortable room temperature without over-relying on cooling systems. This contributes to lower energy costs during summer whilst still allowing ample natural light.

Many homeowners find solar control glass strikes the perfect balance between brightness and temperature control, particularly in glass doors and large window installations.

Triple glazing: Is it worth considering?

Triple glazing adds a third pane of glass, creating two insulated air gaps instead of one. This significantly improves thermal insulation and noise reduction compared to standard double glazing.

When triple glazing makes sense:

• Properties in particularly exposed locations
• Homes aiming for very high energy efficiency standards
• Situations where maximum noise reduction is needed
• New build projects with appropriate frame specifications

Triple glazing offers superior thermal performance and can further reduce your carbon footprint. However, it comes at a higher cost and requires sturdy window frames to support the additional weight. UPVC windows and aluminium windows are both suitable for triple glazing installations.

For most homes in the North East, high-quality double glazing with Low-E glass and warm-edge spacers provides excellent results. Triple glazing represents an investment that pays off particularly well in the long run for specific properties or homeowner priorities.

How do I know which type of double glazing is right for my home?

Consider these factors:

• Your budget for home improvements
• Primary concerns (heat loss, noise, security)
• Property age and existing window condition
• Location and exposure to elements
• Long-term plans for the property

Standard double glazing with Low-E coating suits most applications and budgets. For enhanced performance, add warm-edge spacers and argon gas fill. Laminated or acoustic glass makes sense for specific noise or safety requirements.

Secondary glazing remains a popular option for listed buildings or properties where replacing original windows isn’t possible. This involves fitting an additional glass panel inside existing window frames.

Tyneside Home Improvements’ double glazing options

At Tyneside Home Improvements, we offer a range of double glazing windows to suit every home across the North East. Our expert team will help you choose the right combination of features for your property.

We install our glazing in a variety of styles, including casement windows, flush casement windows, sliding sash windows and tilt-and-turn options. Whether you prefer UPVC windows for their low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, or aluminium windows for their sleek appearance and slim sightlines, we have solutions to match your requirements.

All our windows achieve A-rated energy efficiency as standard, helping you reduce energy bills whilst improving comfort. We serve all major cities across the North East including Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Durham, plus all towns and villages in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, North Yorkshire and County Durham.

Ready to discuss your double glazing options?

Choosing the right type of double glazing makes a real difference to your home’s comfort, energy efficiency and property value. Our experienced team at Tyneside Home Improvements can guide you through the options and recommend the best solution for your specific needs and budget.

Get in touch today for your free, no-obligation quote. Complete our online contact form or call us on 0191 489 5063 to discuss your project. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and help you transform your home with high-quality double glazing that delivers results for years to come.