Intending to upgrade your windows from double-glazing to triple-glazing to save more on electricity bills? If so, you may be hesitant due to the realisation that your current window frames and hardware will no longer be useful. Since window frames can be expensive, the decision to invest in them again is not one to be taken lightly.
In such a scenario, the thought must have crossed your mind at least once whether your existing double-glazing frames support triple-glazing as well! Well, that’s a tricky question to answer. In fact, there’s no one-word answer to it. In this blog, we will attempt to provide some clarity on this matter and help you make an informed decision.
What are Triple-Glazing Windows?
A triple-glazed window is essentially an enhanced version of a double-glazed window, featuring an additional windowpane made of toughened glass to offer increased insulation. The purpose of a triple-glazed window is similar to that of a double-glazed unit, but it provides even greater efficiency.
Double-glazed units come with a small space between two panes filled with argon or krypton gas while triple-glazed ones have two argon-filled gaps between three panes. Consisting of a higher number of gas-filled gaps between the panes, triple-glazed windows are equipped to prevent heavy heat or cold transmissions more actively.
Triple-glazing windows are up to 60% more energy efficient than double-glazing units, which is a solid figure to back your decision of upgrading from double-glazing to triple-glazing.
Is it Possible to Use Triple-Glazing Features in Existing Double-Glazing Frames?
In technical terms, it is feasible to upgrade to triple-glazing while keeping your existing frames and hardware, but it may not be applicable in every situation. Certain triple-glazed units are specifically designed to fit well into double-glazing frames during retrofitting.
As you pay attention to the mechanical differences between double-glazing units and triple-glazing ones, you will understand why it isn’t that easy to fit them in double-glazed frames. An extra chamber is required in the case of a triple-glazed unit, and only a few double-glazed frames come with the extra room to fit in an extra windowpane.
So, your existing frames and the type of triple-glazed unit you would install need to be evaluated from the inside out to determine if you can keep your old frames or hardware. In most cases, installing triple-glazing units require new frames and new hardware.
Why Should You Upgrade From Double-Glazed Windows to Triple-Glazed Ones?
At present, triple-glazing units occupy merely 1% of the UK windows market, but their prevalence in the European windows market is concrete with a market occupancy of 60%.
Undoubtedly, there are compelling reasons why numerous individuals are inclined to upgrade to triple-glazing. Let’s delve into the primary factors that make upgrading from double-glazing to triple-glazing a worthwhile consideration.
- The windowpanes used in triple-glazing are usually made of harder toughened glass and they require very minimal maintenance.
- Triple-glazed windows offer better insulation than double-glazing windows, preventing extreme heat and cold transmission to a large extent.
- Having triple-glazed windows increase the overall valuation of your property.
- Triple-glazed units come with stylish and advanced designs to get you rid of draughts, damps, or condensation.
- With triple-glazing, you get better noise reduction advantages.
- Triple-glazing units reduce your electricity bills substantially.
Is Putting Triple-Glazing in Double-Glazing Frames Worth It?
Once again, the response to this question is subjective. In numerous instances, attempting to install triple-glazing units in double-glazed frames can lead to insulation issues or even frame damage over time.
Also, the overhead costs of fitting triple-glazing units in existing double-glazed frames may exceed your budget. More to that, the frames and hardware of your old, double-glazed unit have likely already reached half of their expected lifespans. Even if they can support triple-glazing at present, they will be out of service before your new unit stops working and you will need a replacement anyway.
Considering all these factors, the majority of window installation experts suggest opting for complete unit replacements rather than installing triple-glazing within double-glazing frames.
However, if your existing double-glazed units are in mint condition, and they support triple-glazing, you can consider them to avoid spending a lot on purchasing new triple-glazed frames and hardware.
Double-Glazed Units and Triple-Glazed Units Comparison
| Parameters | Triple-Glazing Units | Double-Glazing Units |
| Retrofitting Compatibility | Not that favorable for it | Many double-glazed units support retrofitting |
| Lifespan | 30+ years on average | 15-25 years |
| U-Value (Energy efficiency) | 0.69 on an average | 1.9 on an average |
| Glass Thickness | 36 mm on average | 12 mm on average |
| Cavity Thickness | 24 mm on average | 4 mm |
| Insulation | Mostly argon gas | Mostly krypton gas |
| Visible Light Transmittance | 64% on average | 79-85% on average |
| Sound Reduction Index | Up to 42 db | Up to 35 db |
The comparison table firmly states the supremacy of triple-glazing units over double-glazed ones. Be it insulation-wise or in context to other parameters, triple-glazing is way more beneficial for households than double-glazing.
Final Words
We believe our blog has offered a comprehensive answer to whether you can put triple-glazing in double-glazing frames and we have covered all the possibilities associated with this. Upgrading from double-glazing to triple-glazing is undeniably a wise decision that promises long-term benefits.
If you still find yourself uncertain about whether to keep your existing frames for your triple-glazed units, it is highly recommended to reach out to a reputable and well-established window installation service. They can provide you with personalised solutions and guidance tailored to your specific situation.
