How do I know I’m getting the best price for my double glazed windows?
Everyone who wants to get double glazed windows installed expects it to be a big investment. Absolutely nobody wants to pay more for their windows than they need to.
Even if you’ve already compared quotes and found something that looks good, there may still be ways to on the cost of your windows.
That’s where we come in.
At Double Glazing Funding, we give you the tools to check if you’re eligible for home improvement grants that could reduce your upfront costs.
We work alongside the Help 2 Buy Windows scheme, so you don’t have to compromise on quality to stick to your budget.
And with our Best 4 Less guarantee, you can feel confident that you’re getting high-quality windows at the best possible price.
You don’t have to settle to save
Don’t feel the need to settle for low-cost, low-quality windows. Just check out our easy-to-use Grant Application Tool and see what savings and funding support might be available to you.
Our mission is simple. To help people across the country find the right windows for their homes, without spending a penny more than they should.
As the Swiss-French pioneer of modern architecture once said, “the history of architecture is also the history of the window.”
And while we might take the humble window for granted today, it transformed how buildings were designed.
For the first time, people could see their interiors without the need for artificial light like candles or torches. That shift changed architecture forever.
Windows have existed in different forms around the world for centuries. The Romans were among the first to use glass in their windows around 100 AD.
In China and Japan, early windows used paper framed with wood. Here in the UK, stained glass decorated churches, but in many homes, people used animal horn instead of glass right up until the 1600s.
Thankfully, the technology has come a long way since then.
But while modern glazing solves most of the problems of the past, it’s created a new one. Too much choice.
How do you know which windows are right for you?
These days, homeowners have more choice than ever when it comes to replacing their windows. In fact, the choice is so broad, it can feel more overwhelming than helpful.
Whether you’re upgrading from single glazing or replacing old, draughty double glazing with something more energy efficient, the options can be baffling.
Which frames match your home’s style?
Which glass will help you cut down on energy bills?
Are you paying the right price for your new windows?
Do you qualify for grant support to reduce the cost?
And will those windows last, or need replacing again in a few years?
It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin.
That’s why we’ve created this simple, comprehensive guide to walk you through everything you need to know before you invest in double glazed windows.
Let’s start with the basics…
Do you qualify for assistance paying for your double glazed windows?
Will your windows stand the test of time, or will they need to be replaced all over again in a couple of years?
It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin!
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to tell you everything you’ve ever needed to know about double glazed windows.
Let’s start with the obvious…
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Why should you get double glazed windows?
Double glazed windows are a big investment. And with so much variation in price, it’s natural to question whether they’re worth it.
The short answer is yes.
While there is an upfront cost, there are ways to reduce it (we’ll cover that later). And once your new windows are in, the benefits speak for themselves.
The benefits of double glazing
Energy efficiency
One of the biggest benefits of double glazing is how much more energy-efficient your home becomes. Double glazing traps heat inside during colder months and reflect solar heat in the summer.
That means lower heating bills in winter and less need for air conditioning in the summer.
Without double glazing, a lot of that energy (and money) is simply escaping through your windows.
How much could you save?
That depends on the type of windows you choose (we’ll get to that don’t worry) and the size of your home.
If you live in a semi-detached property, you could save between £75 and £110 a year on your heating bill. A detached home could save as much as £120 to £155 per year, while a flat or apartment could save between £35 and £55.
In some cases, homes with double glazing can save up to 30% of their energy bills each year.
And it’s not just about savings. No more freezing mornings in winter. No more sweltering afternoons in summer. It’s comfort you’ll feel every day.
Better security
Single glazed windows are easier to break, which can put your home at risk. Even single layers of toughened or laminated glass can be vulnerable.
Double glazed windows add an extra layer of strength and are much harder to breach.
Noise reduction
If you’re fed up with traffic noise, noisy neighbours, or late-night partygoers, double glazing can help.
Thicker panes and better seals make double glazed windows much more effective at blocking outside noise. The right windows can improve soundproofing by up to 35 decibels.
Protects your interior
Don’t you just hate it when your beloved armchair gets a pale patch on the arm from years of exposure to the sun? Or when your beloved rug or carpet sports a faded line straight down the middle?
UV rays from the sun can fade fabric, furniture, carpets, and artwork over time.
Double glazing blocks out a large portion of UV light, which helps protect your interiors from sun damage.
Boosts property value
Double glazing doesn’t just improve day-to-day comfort. It’s also a smart investment.
A well-insulated home with quality double glazed windows can be more appealing to buyers and may increase your home’s value by up to 10 percent.
How do double glazed windows work?
The benefits of double glazed windows are clear. But can one extra layer of glass really make that much difference?
It might seem hard to believe until you understand how double glazed windows works.
Double glazed windows reduce heat loss by limiting two of the main ways heat escapes, conduction and convection.
What is conduction?
Conduction is the transfer of heat through a solid material. In a single-glazed window, heat from inside your home moves through the glass and escapes outside quickly.
With double glazing, this process slows down. The second pane of glass creates a barrier, and the heat must pass through an extra layer. Between these panes is a sealed gap filled with air, or a gas like argon.
This is where convection comes in.
What is convection?
Convection happens when heat moves through a gas or liquid. In double glazing, the sealed gap between the panes is filled with a gas that doesn’t conduct heat well.
Air and gases like argon are poor conductors of heat, which means they help trap warmth inside your home and prevent cold air from creeping in. This sealed space interrupts the movement of heat and makes your windows much more efficient.
How much should you expect to pay for double glazed windows?
This one’s a bit tricky to answer because there are a lot of variables at play.
The total cost depends on the size and style of the windows you’re replacing, the type of glass you choose, and how many windows your property has. Not all double glazed windows are created equal.
That said, we can give you a ballpark figure.
The average cost of double glazing is around £400 to £600 per window. So, if you’re installing four windows in a flat, you’re looking at roughly £2,000.
For an average-sized home in the UK, the total could be anywhere between £4,800 and £7,200.
It’s worth noting, though, that there are ways to reduce that cost. Towards the end of this guide, we’ll walk you through how to check for grant funding that could bring the price down.
And remember, you’re in control.
When you understand the different window options available, you’ll know what suits your home and budget best.
With that knowledge, it’s easier to spot a fair deal and harder for sales reps to talk you into features you don’t really need.
What are the different types of double-glazed windows?
When choosing double-glazed windows, there are two key things you need to consider. The style of window you’re replacing, and the type of glass that best suits your home.
All double-glazed units work in the same basic way, two panes of glass with a sealed air or gas-filled gap between them. However, the materials used in the frame and the type of glass used can vary.
Each combination has different levels of energy efficiency, security, and soundproofing.
Float glass
Float glass is the most common type of glass used in windows today. It was developed by British engineer Sir Alastair Pilkington.
It’s produced by floating molten glass on a bed of liquid metal to create a smooth, flat surface.
While the name might sound technical, it’s the standard for most modern windows. Just be aware that some salespeople may pitch it as an upgrade, when in fact, it’s the default.
Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass
Low-e glass has a very thin metal coating that adds an extra layer of insulation. It helps reflect heat back into your home during winter and keeps unwanted heat out during summer.
It’s a smart choice if you want better thermal performance from your windows, and lower energy bills over time.
Laminated glass
Laminated glass is made by bonding two panes together with a protective layer in between, usually PVB (polyvinyl butyral) or EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate).
If it breaks, the glass stays in place rather than shattering. This feature makes it one of the safest and most secure glazing options available.
It’s also excellent for soundproofing, and is often used in homes near busy roads, flight paths or other noisy areas. In storm-prone parts of the world, it’s even called “hurricane glass” for its strength.
Toughened glass
Toughened glass does pretty much what it says on the tin. It is glass that has been strengthened using heat tempering processes.
If it does break, it crumbles into small, blunt pieces rather than dangerous shards.
It’s used in places where safety matters, like car windscreens, for example. It is a great choice for homeowners who want extra peace of mind.
What about the frames used for double glazing?
Most double-glazed windows in the UK are made with uPVC frames. And for good reason.
uPVC is affordable, long-lasting, and recyclable. It also performs well in terms of energy efficiency.
But it’s not the only option.
If your home has a more traditional or high-end finish, you might prefer timber or aluminium frames. Timber offers a classic look, while aluminium is sleek and modern. Both come at a higher cost but can offer more flexibility in style and structure.
Some high-performance windows include thermally broken frames, which have an insulating layer (usually reinforced polyamide) between the inner and outer parts of the frame. This helps reduce heat transfer through the frame itself.
Installation matters too
It’s not just the glass and frames that make the difference. Proper installation is key. Your old windows will be fully removed, and new, made-to-measure units will be sealed into place.
A good seal ensures no heat escapes around the edges. Even the best windows won’t perform if there’s a draught around the frame. So, it’s worth checking your sealant every few years and reapplying if needed. Get Quote
What colours and styles do double glazed windows come in?
Let’s be honest, the tech behind the glass and what goes into making the frame matter.
But they mean nothing if your new window looks like an eyesore when it’s installed in your home.
Most homeowners want windows that offer better performance without ruining the look of their property.
The good news is, double glazed windows are now available in a wide range of styles and colours, so you don’t have to compromise.
Popular window styles
Here are some of the most common window styles that can be double glazed for a seamless fit:
Single-hung windows
Single-hung windows look great in all kinds of properties. On a single hung window, the top sash is fixed in place.
Although the bottom sash can be opened to provide ventilation for your home
Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows, on the other hand. Allow you to move both the top and the bottom sashes to provide greater ventilation for your home.
These are especially useful in busy kitchens and bathrooms that need to let out hot air or steam.
Awning windows
Awning windows have a hinge at the top of the frame and open outwards from the bottom. They are great for getting lots of natural light in and work well in confined spaces.
Horizontal sliders
These windows slide open side-to-side and are ideal for wider window openings or panoramic views.
Bay and bow windows
Bay and bow windows are projecting windows that sit in the alcoves of your rooms. They can add a wonderful focal while letting in lots of natural light.
They have three faces, a wide front and two shorter sides.
Casement windows
Casement windows are attached via a hinge to one side of the frame and open outwards for a traditional look and feel.
Tilt & Turn windows
These open inwards from the top or side depending on how you turn the handle. They’re easy to clean and great for homes with limited exterior access.
Windowscapes
The premium option. These large, fixed windows stretch across entire walls and flood your home with natural light. They are perfect for homes with scenic views.
Colour options for uPVC frames
There was a time when white was the only option for uPVC frames. Not anymore.
Today’s uPVC windows come in a wide variety of colours and finishes, including realistic woodgrain textures that mimic oak, cherry, rosewood or mahogany.
If you prefer solid colours, you’ll find options in black, grey, green, blue and red to suit both modern and traditional homes.
Just keep in mind that coloured frames usually cost 10-15% more than standard white frames.
What are The British Fenestration Rating Council and why do they matter?
Sometimes, no matter how much research you do, you just want a quick, reliable way to know how energy-efficient your new windows really are. That’s exactly what the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) aims to provide.
They use a simple traffic light system to help you compare energy performance at a glance.
BFRC window ratings are based on three main factors:
- How well the window stops heat escaping from your home
- How well it keeps draughts out
- How effectively it lets in natural warmth from the sun
BFRC ratings range from A++ (the highest) down to E (the lowest). To meet UK building regulations, all new windows must have a rating of C or above.
While there’s no legal requirement for manufacturers to display energy ratings, most reputable suppliers will include this information. If they don’t, or if they seem reluctant to share it, that’s usually a red flag.
How to use BFRC ratings when comparing windows
When researching double glazing companies near you, it’s worth checking the BFRC ratings of the windows they offer. Just keep in mind, higher isn’t always better for everyone.
If you’re living in a small flat with low energy use, A++ rated windows might be more than you need. Don’t feel pressured into buying the most expensive option if it won’t make a meaningful difference to your bills.
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) also offers a handy calculator that helps estimate how much you could save with different energy-rated windows.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to balance that with how much you’re prepared to spend on your new installation, given your current energy usage and how long you expect to stay in the property.
While the BFRC ratings don’t tell you everything (like security or soundproofing performance), they’re a great place to start.
How do I get a quote for double glazed windows?
As with anything else, the key to getting the best quote for double glazed windows is shopping around.
Thankfully, it’s now much easier than it used to be. Gone are the days of high-pressure sales reps dominating your living room.
Most installers now offer free quotes online, and some even have cost calculators you can use without speaking to anyone.
That said, expect someone to visit your property later to double-check measurements and make sure the quote is accurate.
Even if a company doesn’t have an online tool, most will give you a free, no-obligation quote if you ask.
Tips for getting the best double glazing deal
Local companies know they have competition. Many will do what they can to win your business.
Don’t settle for the first quote. Get quotes from multiple companies in your area.
Be wary of pushy tactics like “today only” discounts or calls to the manager for a better deal.
Check online reviews on sites like Google and Trustpilot to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable installer.
Compare like-for-like. Make sure quotes are for the same window size, frame material, glass type and warranty.
Ask about price matching. If one company offers a better price for the same product, others may be willing to match it.
How long do double glazed windows last?
One of the many great things about double glazed windows is that they’re a long-term investment.
Most last 20 to 35 years, depending on the materials used and the quality of the installation.
Over time, the gas sealed between the panes can slowly leak out. When around 25% of that gas is lost, the window’s insulation starts to decline. That doesn’t mean you need a full replacement straight away.
You can often extend their lifespan with secondary glazing, like a clear insulating film or magnetic acrylic sheet.
Most manufacturers guarantee their windows for at least 10 years, which covers you against defects and seal failures.
So, while double glazing doesn’t last forever, you can expect decades of energy savings, better comfort, and improved security from a well-installed unit.