Pros & Cons of Double Glazed Windows
Thinking about upgrading your home with double glazed windows? You’re not alone. More and more Melbourne homeowners are making the switch for better comfort, lower energy bills, and quieter living spaces.
But like any big decision, double glazing has both advantages and drawbacks.
At Astellite, we believe in giving you the full picture so you can make the right choice for your home. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of double glazed windows.
👉 The Pros of Double Glazed Windows
⚪️ Save on Energy Bills Year-Round
Double glazing works by trapping a layer of air (or gas) between two panes of glass. This insulation reduces heat loss in winter and keeps your home cooler in summer.
According to energy.gov.au, double-glazed windows reduce heat loss by up to 30%, cutting energy lost through single-glazed windows and improving your home’s thermal comfort.
This means long-term energy savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
⚪️ Enjoy Peace and Quiet
Double glazed windows can cut outside noise by around 30–50%, depending on the glass, frame, and installation quality.
For even quieter living, whether it’s trams clanging in the CBD, traffic along busy Melbourne arterials, or neighbourhood chatter, options like acoustic glass, wider gaps, or triple glazing can reduce noise by up to 65% or more.
According to yourhome.gov.au, double glazing and laminated glass are both effective at reducing noise when frames are well-sealed.
⚪️ Boost Home Security
Double glazing isn’t just about comfort it adds protection too. The toughened panes are harder to break, and when combined with uPVC frames and multi-point locks, your windows become a strong security barrier for your home.
⚪️ Reduce Condensation & Damp
By keeping the inner pane warmer, double glazing minimises condensation build-up. That means less mould, less damp, and healthier air inside your home, a big plus for families with allergies.
It’s especially helpful for those with asthma or hay fever, which are common in Melbourne’s spring, as reduced condensation lowers mould and damp, both of which can trigger respiratory issues.
⚪️ Increase Property Value
Install double glazed windows in your Melbourne home, and you’ll enjoy both better comfort and long-term value.
While double glazing alone won’t deliver the full 20–28% premium seen for multi-feature energy-efficient homes, studies show it offers strong returns, often recovering 70% or more of the upfront cost, and increasing appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
👉 The Cons of Double Glazed Windows
⚪️ Higher Upfront Cost
Compared to single-pane glass, double glazed windows are a bigger investment. But here’s the flip side: most homeowners recoup their costs within 5–7 years through reduced energy bills and added property value.
⚪️ Repairs Can Be Tricky
If the seal between the panes fails, condensation may appear inside the glass. In these cases, the whole unit often needs replacing. The good news?
At Astellite, our high-quality seals and warranties make this risk very low.
⚪️ Style Limitations for Heritage Homes
Some period homes have unique window styles that can be challenging to match. At Astellite, we solve this with custom designs that mimic traditional aesthetics, perfect for heritage homes in suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, or Hawthorn.
⚪️ Works Best in a Well-Insulated Home
Double glazing is most effective when paired with insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors. If your home isn’t insulated elsewhere, you might not see the full benefit.
👉 Do the Pros Outweigh the Cons?
For most Melbourne homeowners, the answer is yes. The comfort, savings, and peace of mind usually outweigh the drawbacks. Still, the right choice depends on your budget, insulation, and style preferences.