Is Double Glazing Worth It in Australia? Benefits, Costs & Energy Savings

Is Double Glazing Worth the Investment?

Short answer: Yes. Double glazing is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to an Australian home — and the data backs this up.

How Double Glazing Works

Double glazed windows have two panes of glass separated by a sealed air gap (typically 12–20mm). This gap acts as insulation, reducing heat transfer and noise. Premium options use argon gas instead of air for even better insulation.

The Real Benefits (Backed by Data)

1. Energy Savings: Reduce Heating/Cooling Costs by Up to 30%

According to the Australian Government's YourHome guide — the official resource developed by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water:

• Up to 40% of a home's heating energy can be lost through glazing
• Up to 87% of unwanted heat gain enters through windows in summer

The Conversation, citing CSIRO research, confirms these figures. Double glazing can reduce heat loss by up to 30%, and when combined with Low-E glass, can prevent up to 70% of heat loss in cooler climates like Melbourne.

2. Noise Reduction: Up to 60% Quieter

If you live near a busy road, flight path, or train line, double glazing can reduce external noise by up to 35 decibels — the difference between a noisy street and a quiet library. For even better results, laminated glass provides superior acoustic insulation.

3. Reduced Condensation

Single glazed windows are notorious for winter condensation — water droplets on the inner glass that lead to mould and timber rot. Double glazing keeps the inner pane warmer, virtually eliminating this problem.

4. UV Protection

Double glazing with Low-E coating blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays, protecting furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading.

5. NCC Compliance and Property Value

The National Construction Code (NCC) maintains 7-star energy efficiency requirements for new homes. Double glazing is essential for meeting these standards. Energy-efficient homes with quality windows consistently sell for more in Sydney and Melbourne.

Cost of Double Glazing

Upgrade Path	Cost per Window	Expected Annual Savings
Replace single with double glazed	$500–$1,100	$30–$80 per window
Add Low-E coating	+$50–$150	Additional 10–15% savings
Upgrade to argon-filled	+$30–$80	Additional 5–10% savings

Payback period: Typically 5–8 years through energy savings alone, plus immediate comfort, noise, and condensation benefits.

How Australia Compares Globally

Here's a sobering statistic from CSIRO research: just over 10% of windows in new Australian housing are high-performance — compared to around 80% in the UK, US, and New Zealand. This gap represents both a problem and an opportunity for Australian homeowners looking to improve comfort and reduce bills.

What About Triple Glazing?

Triple glazing adds a third pane for even better insulation. Consider it if:

• Your home faces extreme weather exposure
• You need maximum noise reduction (near airports or highways)
• You're building new and want the best possible NatHERS energy rating

For most Sydney and Melbourne homes, double glazing with Low-E coating provides the best balance of performance and value.

WERS: How to Compare Window Energy Performance

The Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) rates windows from 0 to 10 stars for both heating and cooling performance. When comparing quotes, ask for the WERS rating — it's the most reliable way to compare energy performance across different suppliers.

Double Glazing is Standard with IMLANG

All IMLANG custom windows and doors come with double glazing as standard — no upgrade fee. We also offer laminated, triple-glazed, and Low-E options for homes that need extra performance.

Call 0433 211 029 or request a free quote to discuss the best glass options for your home.