Last Updated on March 28, 2025

Alternative to Double Glazing: Best Options

As a homeowner or landlord in the UK, ensuring your home is energy-efficient, secure, and comfortable is a priority. One of the most common upgrades people consider is installing double glazing.

However, double glazing isn’t the only option for improving insulation, ventilation, and security. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the alternatives to double glazing, comparing them in detail across key areas like insulation, draught prevention, security, maintenance, costs, and installation.

By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision on the best window solution for your property.

Contents

1 Alternative to Double Glazing: Best Options

What is Double Glazing?

Before we explore the alternatives, let’s first clarify what double glazing is. Double glazing involves two panes of glass separated by a gap, usually filled with air or gas, such as argon.

This construction helps to improve thermal insulation, reduce noise, and enhance security. For a detailed breakdown of how double glazing functions, check out our comprehensive guide.

Alternative to Double Glazing – Key Options

While double glazing is a popular choice, there are several alternatives to consider. Let’s compare some of the best alternatives to double glazing in terms of energy efficiency, insulation, security, and more.

1. Triple Glazing

Triple glazing consists of three panes of glass with two insulating gaps between them. It offers superior thermal insulation compared to double glazing.

Key Features of Triple Glazing:

Light: Triple glazing can slightly reduce the amount of natural light entering your property, but it still allows for ample brightness.
Insulation: Excellent at preventing heat loss, with up to 40% better insulation than double glazing.
Draughts: Highly effective at reducing draughts, making it an excellent option for colder climates.
Security: Offers enhanced security due to the extra glass layer, providing greater resistance to break-ins.

Pros and Cons Of Triple Glazing

Pros

Outstanding insulation and energy efficiency.
Superior noise reduction.
Increased security.

Cons

More expensive than double glazing.
Heavier windows, which may require stronger frames and could add to installation costs.

2. Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing involves adding a second layer of glass or acrylic to your existing windows. It’s a popular and cost-effective alternative to double glazing, especially in listed buildings or conservation areas where you may not be allowed to replace windows.

Trying to decide between secondary glazing and double glazing? We break down the pros and cons so you can figure out what’s best for your home.

Key Features of Secondary Glazing:

Insulation: Improves thermal insulation significantly but not as effectively as double or triple glazing.
Draughts: Reduces draughts by creating an additional air gap, improving comfort in the home.
Security: Offers moderate security enhancement, but not as secure as double or triple glazing.
Ventilation: Secondary glazing typically offers less ventilation control compared to double glazing, though it’s still effective for general air management.

Pros and Cons of Secondary Glazing:

Pros

More affordable than double or triple glazing.
Ideal for heritage or listed properties where full window replacements are not possible.
Can be easily removed or adjusted for cleaning.

Cons

Does not provide as much insulation as double or triple glazing.
Aesthetic impact as the extra layer may not match the original style of the window.

3. Low-E Glass (Low Emissivity Glass)

Low-E glass is a special coating applied to windows that helps to reflect heat back into the room, making it more energy-efficient. While it can be used in double glazing units, it is also available as a standalone alternative. For a detailed comparison of Low-E glass and double glazing, check out our comprehensive guide.

Key Features of Low-E Glass:

Insulation: Provides energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer and retaining warmth inside your property.
Draughts: Low-E glass helps to reduce the amount of heat lost, preventing draughts in colder months.
Security: Offers moderate security but is not as robust as double or triple glazing.
Ventilation: Does not significantly impact ventilation.

Pros and Cons of Low-E Glass:

Pros

Helps to regulate temperature year-round.
More affordable than full double or triple glazing.
Ideal for properties with moderate insulation needs

Cons

Less effective than double glazing at preventing heat loss.
Does not provide noise reduction or the same level of security.

4. Cavity Wall Insulation

Though not strictly a window alternative, cavity wall insulation is an energy-efficient upgrade that complements the performance of windows. This option fills the space between your external and internal walls with insulation material, reducing heat loss and draughts.

Key Features of Cavity Wall Insulation:

Insulation: Significant improvement in heat retention across the entire home.
Draughts: Effectively reduces draughts, especially when combined with energy-efficient windows.
Security: Not directly related to security but can help in maintaining overall building integrity.
Light: No impact on the amount of natural light entering your home.

Pros and Cons of Cavity Wall Insulation:

Pros

Boosts overall energy efficiency.
Long-term energy savings.
Low maintenance.

Cons

Does not directly address window insulation.
Expensive installation if your property is not already suited for cavity wall insulation.

Costs of Alternatives vs Double Glazing

The costs associated with each option can vary depending on factors like the size of the windows, material choices, and installation complexity. Here’s a quick price guide to give you an idea of what to expect:

Window Option	Cost per Window	Installation Cost
Double Glazing	£300 – £700	£150 – £300
Triple Glazing	£600 – £1,200	£250 – £400
Secondary Glazing	£150 – £400	£100 – £200
Low-E Glass	£250 – £600	£150 – £250

For a deeper understanding of what you can expect to pay, take a look at our comprehensive double glazing cost guide.

Ready to Transform Your Home with New Windows?

Old windows can cause drafts, increase energy costs, and make your home less secure. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient windows not only boosts comfort but also enhances your home’s overall appearance and value.

Looking for expert advice? Let our team guide you through the best window solutions tailored to your needs and budget. Request your free window replacement quote now and start enjoying a more efficient and secure home today!

Final Thoughts: Which Option Is Best for You?

When it comes to choosing the right window upgrade, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Here’s a quick summary to guide your decision:

Double Glazing: Ideal for most homes, offering a balance of affordability, insulation, and security.
Triple Glazing: Best for those in extremely cold areas or anyone looking for the highest energy efficiency and security.
Secondary Glazing: A great solution for listed properties or those on a tighter budget who still want to improve energy efficiency.
Low-E Glass: A good choice if you’re looking to improve energy efficiency without replacing entire windows.

Each option has its merits, and the best solution depends on your priorities, budget, and property type.If you’re considering upgrading your window, take a look at our new windows cost guide to help you compare the prices of different types of windows.e.

James Elston

Boiler Expert

James Elston is the top boiler replacement and heating expert at Eco Happy. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry, focusing on Gas Safe boiler installations and offering home-heating and energy-saving solutions to homeowners across the UK. From sourcing the most energy-efficient combi boiler to providing specialist heating advice, James ensures that Eco Happy maintains the highest standards and best customer service.

Alternative to Double Glazing: Best Options

What is Double Glazing?