Double glazing refers to a window that features two panes of glass separated by a small air gap or layer of inert gas. This forms a sealed unit, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU), which is then housed within a window frame — whether that’s uPVC, aluminium, or our personal recommendation: timber.
This separation layer is what gives double glazing its thermal and acoustic performance. For those seeking even more efficiency, triple glazing uses three panes instead.
Benefits of Double Glazing
1. Thermal Insulation
One of the biggest advantages of double glazing is its ability to retain warmth inside your home while reducing the amount of cold air that gets in. The result? A more comfortable indoor environment year-round — cool in summer and warm in winter.
2. Noise Reduction
Living near a busy road or noisy neighbourhood? Double glazing significantly reduces external noise, helping create a calmer indoor atmosphere. It’s important to consider not just the glass, but also the frame material:
- uPVC and aluminium frames are hollow, meaning sound travels through more easily.
- Solid timber, especially softwood, naturally absorbs sound due to its internal air pockets — making it the superior acoustic insulator.
You can also opt for laminated glass, which includes an extra layer of vinyl between two panes of glass. This further reduces vibration and improves acoustic control.
3. Lower Energy Bills
Because double-glazed units improve your home’s thermal efficiency, you’ll rely less on your heating system, especially in winter. This translates to noticeable savings on your energy bills.
4. Improved Home Security
With two panes of toughened glass, double glazing provides greater resistance against forced entry than single glazing. Laminated glass goes one step further — it’s difficult to shatter and impossible to cut through from the outside, offering a robust barrier against intruders.
How Long Does Double Glazing Last?
The typical lifespan of double glazing is 20 to 35 years, depending on several factors:
- The quality of the materials used
- The standard of installation
- Environmental conditions, such as weather exposure
- How well the windows are maintained over time
At Mumford & Wood, our bespoke timber windows are engineered for long-term performance and come with comprehensive guarantees:
- 30-year timber warranty
- 10-year hardware warranty
- 10-year glazing warranty
- 10-year paint warranty
- 5-year stain warranty
About Mumford & Wood
At Mumford & Wood, we specialise in beautifully crafted, made-to-measure timber windows and doors designed to enhance both the performance and appearance of your property. We combine sustainable materials with exceptional craftsmanship to deliver long-lasting products.
To learn more about our premium timber windows and doors, contact our team or download our brochure for further information.
