What is double glazing?

Double glazing is a popular home improvement that offers numerous benefits, including improved energy efficiency, noise reduction, and increased home security. If you’re considering double glazing a 3 bed house, read on to learn more about the process and its benefits.

Double glazing is the process of installing two panes of glass in a window frame, with a small gap between them that is filled with air or gas. This gap provides insulation, reducing heat loss and noise transmission.

Benefits of double glazing

• Energy Efficiency: Double glazing can help you reduce your energy bills by keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The insulation provided by double glazing helps to reduce heat loss through windows, which is a major source of energy wastage in many homes.
• Noise Reduction: Double glazing can also help to reduce outside noise, making your home a quieter and more peaceful place to live. This is particularly beneficial if you live near a busy road, railway line or airport.

• Increased Home Security: Double glazing can also improve the security of your home. The toughened glass used in double glazing is harder to break than single-pane glass, making it more difficult for intruders to gain access to your home.
• Improved Home Aesthetics: Double glazing can also enhance the look of your home, giving it a more modern and attractive appearance. There are a wide range of styles and finishes available, so you can choose the right double glazing to suit your home and personal taste

Installing double glazing on a 3 bed house

The process of double glazing a 3 bed house typically involves the following steps:

• Consultation: The first step is to consult with a reputable double glazing company to discuss your requirements and obtain a quote. It’s important to choose a company with a good reputation and experience in double glazing installations.

• Survey: Once you have chosen a company, a surveyor will visit your home to take measurements and assess your requirements. They will also advise you on the best type of double glazing for your home.
• Installation: The installation process typically takes 1-2 days, depending on the size of your home and the number of windows being replaced. The old windows will be removed, and the new double glazing will be installed in their place.
• Finishing: Once the installation is complete, the installers will finish the windows with any necessary sealants or trim, leaving your home looking clean and tidy

Cost to double glazed a 3 bedroom house

For a mid-sized 3 bedroom semi-detached or terraced house, homeowners can expect to pay between £3,000 – £6,000 to replace all the existing windows with high performance double glazed units.

The number of windows needing replaced will be the major cost factor, with a typical 3 bed home having 8-12 windows ranging from standard sizes to larger bay windows.

The frame material also impacts price, with uPVC being the most affordable. Upgrades like toughened safety glass, noise reduction glass, and trickle vents can add extra.

With professional installation, most 3 bedroom homes can be fully double glazed for £4,000-£5,000, bringing benefits like weatherproofing, noise reduction and lower energy bills. Always obtain multiple quotes before proceeding.

Material costs when getting new windows

There are multiple options available to homeowners when considering getting new double glazing on their home. We’ve provided rough estimates for each type below:

Window frame material:

uPVC (plastic)

£3,000 – £4,500 (cost for 3 bed house)

Aluminum

£4,000 – £5,500 (cost for 3 bed house)

Hardwood

£5,000 – £7,000 (cost for 3 bed house)

Softwood

£4,000 – £6,000 (cost for 3 bed house)

Composite (uPVC + Aluminum)

£4,000 – £6,000 (cost for 3 bed house)

Assumptions and comments to take note of in relation to the different prices:

• Prices assume 8-10 standard sized double glazed units.
• Includes professional installation costs.
• uPVC is the most budget friendly frame material.
• Hardwood frames are the most expensive option.
• Composite frames combine uPVC with a powder coated aluminum outer layer.
• Always get multiple installer quotes before deciding on materials.

While uPVC frames are the most affordable, materials like aluminum and wood offer enhanced aesthetics that may be preferred for period homes. Discuss options with installers to balance cost, appearance and functionality