Triple glazing has been around for a while, but recently, it has gained significant attention due to its remarkable thermal efficiency. While most triple-glazed windows used to be 28mm thick, which is comparable to double-glazed units, the Definitive Collection offers 40mm thick triple-glazed windows. This substantial increase in thickness translates to up to 40% improvement in thermal efficiency, leading to significant energy and cost savings.
Achieving a More Comfortable Home
The Definitive Collection’s triple-glazed windows are certified by the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) and boast an energy label. This means they are among the highest performing windows available in the UK. Triple glazing surpasses the energy efficiency of double-glazed windows – even those boasting an “A” rating.
Is Triple Glazing Worth the Switch?
While a U-value of 1.6 may seem impressive compared to older window units, it still lags behind the required U-value for walls (currently less than 0.3). This highlights the importance of improving window performance to eliminate thermal weak spots in buildings.
Triple glazing plays a crucial role in achieving a more comfortable home environment. Insulating walls, roofs, and floors without addressing glazing results in cold spots around windows. This leads to drafts, heat loss, and condensation. Triple glazing ensures the warmth of your home is consistent throughout by matching the insulation levels of other areas.
The Science Behind Comfort
Triple glazing enhances comfort by significantly increasing surface temperatures. Research conducted by the PassivHaus Institute in Germany has shown that triple glazing improves comfort levels compared to double-glazed windows.
- Single-glazed windows result in internal surface temperatures of around 1 deg C.
- Double-glazed windows (2000 vintage) achieve a surface temperature of around 11 deg C.
- Modern, energy-efficient double-glazed windows reach 16 deg C.
- Triple-glazed windows boast a surface temperature of 18 deg C.
This slight increase in surface temperature results in a noticeable difference in comfort. While double-glazed windows provide adequate warmth, triple-glazed windows offer an extra layer of warmth and comfort. Triple glazing may not dramatically reduce heating bills, but the difference inside the house is evident.
The Importance of Holistic Design
The PassivHaus standard emphasizes the use of triple glazing for comfort. However, it goes beyond just the glazing itself, stressing the importance of insulated frames and proper window installation within the wall assembly.
In conclusion, triple glazing offers a significant improvement in comfort and energy efficiency. While energy savings may not be dramatic, the enhanced comfort and improved thermal performance of your home make it a worthwhile investment.
