Which glazing is right for your home?
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when upgrading your windows is choosing the right type of glazing. Should you go with double-glazing or invest in triple-glazing? The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options are highly effective when matched with the right needs and conditions.
Double glazing offers excellent thermal insulation and is a smart, cost-effective choice for most homes. Triple-glazing, on the other hand, provides enhanced performance for energy efficiency, noise reduction, and overall comfort, particularly in colder climates or high-traffic areas. The best choice depends on your home’s orientation, location, and insulation goals.
Installing energy-efficient windows and doors is one of the most impactful ways to conserve energy and create a more comfortable living space. At Fairco, we specialise in crafting high-performance, visually stunning windows and doors designed for the Irish climate. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly energy bills, reduce noise, boost security, or add value to your property, we’re here to help you make a confident, informed decision.
Why invest in insulation?
Windows and doors can lose up to 15% of the heat in your home to the outside environment. Modern energy-efficient double-glazed and triple-glazed windows and doors are designed to insulate your house from cold and damp Irish weather and provide a more comfortable and safe living environment, and reduce energy costs. Whether you are considering double-glazing or triple-glazing, modern window and door upgrades can provide long-lasting benefits for homeowners.
A way to save money and reduce energy bills
Outdated windows and doors are notorious for letting heat escape during winter and allowing heat to enter during summer, leading to higher energy costs. Heat loss occurs through poorly insulated, constructed, or installed windows and doors and can cost a household at least €600 a year in energy bills, with the average energy bill of a 3-bedroom semi-detached house in Ireland being €1,752. Poor insulation can account for as much as one-third of your energy bill. That’s why many homeowners choose to upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors. Fairco’s BFRC-certified products are independently tested and proven to meet high standards of thermal performance, helping you save money while keeping your home comfortable year-round.
What is the difference between double and triple-glazing?
Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by a sealed layer of inert gas, providing effective thermal insulation and energy efficiency. It offers a cost-effective solution for most homes and is particularly well-suited to south-facing windows or areas exposed to lower levels of noise pollution. While it allows more UV light to pass through — contributing to increased solar heat gain — this can be a beneficial feature in colder climates or for maximising passive heat from the sun.
Triple glazing features three panes of glass with inert gas between them, providing two layers of insulation. While typically more expensive than double-glazing, this option provides superior insulation and noise reduction. Triple Glazing is recommended for openings facing the north, stronger wind directions and high noise and air pollution areas, such as road-facing sides of the house.
Both options will provide improved energy efficiency for your home. Installation of a mix of both options based on your house’s needs and the recommendation from our Installation Professional is generally a suitable choice. For those looking at maximum insulation, soundproofing and security, triple-glazing is recommended.
Why triple glazing stands out
A lot of research has been done into thermal efficiency. There is a technical way to measure exact heat loss through various building material types, which is measured by the “U value”. The lower the U value, the better. It is calculated with the equation W/m2K this equation is a measurement of loss of energy in Watts (W) for every square meter(m2) of material when the outside temperature measured in Kelvin (K) is at least a degree lower.
As mentioned above, the lower the U value, the better. Our modern triple-glazed windows with advanced coatings and frames can reach values as low as 0.8 W/m2K, while single-glazed windows are usually between 4.5 and 5.7 W/m2K, and double-glazed windows are between 1.2 and 3.3 W/m2K.
Protect your valuables with UV coatings
Sunlight contains a type of radiation known as ultraviolet (UV) rays. Over time, too much exposure to these rays can cause fading and damage to the things you love, like carpets, curtains, furniture, and even artwork. It’s one of the main reasons why some items in your home lose their colour or look worn out sooner than expected.
At Fairco, we help protect your home from that kind of damage. Our windows and doors are made with special energy-saving glass that has a Low-E (low-emissivity) coating. This clever technology blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays, helping to keep your interiors looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
If you’re looking for the best of both comfort and protection, our OMNIA range is a fantastic choice. With its modern flush design and top-level energy performance (U-values as low as 0.78 W/m²K), OMNIA helps keep your home warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and safer from sun damage, all while looking sleek and stylish.
Final thoughts: A smart investment for your home
Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about transforming your home into a more comfortable, secure, and eco-friendly space. With the right choice of glazing, you can say goodbye to chilly drafts, noisy streets, and skyrocketing energy bills. Plus, with advanced UV protection, your furniture and décor will stay vibrant for years to come.
Whether you opt for double or triple glazing, investing in modern, high-performance windows and doors is a decision that pays off in the long run. Not only will you enjoy a warmer, quieter home, but you’ll also see the savings reflected in your energy bills.
So why wait? Take the step towards a more efficient and stylish home today!
