--- title: How to Choose the Right Double Glazing description: How to choose the right double glazing for your home, covering frames, glass, energy ratings and cost, with friendly advice for York and North Yorkshire. --- [![SM\_Logo\_Final\_Lught](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp?width=140&height=80&name=SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp "SM_Logo_Final_Lught")](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) - About - [About](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/about) - Doors - [uPVC Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-doors-york) - [Sliding & Bifold Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/aluminium-sliding-bi-fold-doors) - [Composite Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/composite-doors-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Door Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Windows - [uPVC Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-windows-york) - [Casement Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/casement-windows-york) - [Sash Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/sash-windows-york) - [Timber Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/timber-windows-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Lanterns & Roof Lights](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/korniche-lanterns-flat-roof-lights) - [Window Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Conservatories - [Conservatories](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - [Orangeries](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - Resources - [Gallery](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/gallery) - [Brochures](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads) - [Blog](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog) - [Reviews](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/customer-reviews) - [Contact Us](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/contact) [Request A Quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) [![SM\_Logo\_Final\_Lught](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp?width=140&height=80&name=SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp "SM_Logo_Final_Lught")](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) [Request A Quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) - About - [About](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/about) - Doors - [uPVC Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-doors-york) - [Sliding & Bifold Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/aluminium-sliding-bi-fold-doors) - [Composite Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/composite-doors-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Door Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Windows - [uPVC Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-windows-york) - [Casement Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/casement-windows-york) - [Sash Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/sash-windows-york) - [Timber Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/timber-windows-york) - [Heritage Aluminium Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/heritage-aluminium-windows-doors) - [Lanterns & Roof Lights](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/korniche-lanterns-flat-roof-lights) - [Window Repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) - Conservatories - [Conservatories](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - [Orangeries](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/conservatories-orangeries-york) - Resources - [Gallery](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/gallery) - [Brochures](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads) - [Blog](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog) - [Reviews](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/customer-reviews) - [Contact Us](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/contact) [Windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/tag/windows) # How to Choose the Right Double Glazing By [SM Windows & Doors](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/author/sm-windows-doors) Oct 22, 2026, 10:30:00 AM 3 Minutes Read Choosing new windows can feel like a lot, with frame materials, glass options and energy ratings all pulling your attention. The good news is that finding the best double glazing for your home comes down to a handful of decisions. Here is a friendly walk through each one so you can buy with confidence. ## Start with the frame material The frame does more than hold the glass. It affects how the window looks, how warm it keeps your home and how much upkeep it needs. There are three main choices: - **uPVC** is the most popular by a mile. It is affordable, insulates well and needs almost no maintenance beyond the odd wipe. Our [uPVC windows in York](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/upvc-windows-york) suit most homes and budgets. - **Aluminium** has slim, strong frames that let in more glass and look sharp on modern homes. It costs more but lasts a long time. Have a look at our [aluminium windows](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/aluminium-windows-york) if you want that contemporary feel. - **Timber** is beautiful on period properties but needs regular painting or treating to stay right. For most York homes, uPVC hits the sweet spot of price, warmth and easy living. If you have a modern extension or want the biggest possible glass area, aluminium is worth the extra. ## Understand the glass Double glazing is two panes of glass with a gap between them, usually filled with argon gas and sealed. That gap is what does the insulating. When you compare windows, a few things make a real difference: - **Low-E glass** has an invisible coating that reflects heat back into the room. Most modern units include it. - **The spacer bar** between the panes can be a "warm edge" type that cuts heat loss around the edges. - **Toughened or laminated glass** adds safety and security, and is required by law in certain positions like near doors and low down. You may also see triple glazing offered. It adds a third pane and can help in very exposed spots, though for most homes good double glazing already does a fine job. ## Check the energy rating Windows carry an energy rating, often shown as a band from A upwards, along with a U-value. A lower U-value means the window loses less heat, so it keeps your home warmer and can trim your bills. Through a Yorkshire winter this genuinely matters. Do not chase the very top rating at any cost, but do compare like for like across the quotes you get. A well-rated window fitted properly will feel noticeably warmer to sit beside than an old unit. ## Match the style to your home The best double glazing looks like it belongs on your house. Casement windows, which open on hinges, are the everyday choice and suit almost everything. Sash windows suit Victorian and Georgian terraces, of which York has plenty. Flush casements sit neatly into the frame for a more traditional, understated look. Think about the glazing bars, the colour of the frame and whether you want a woodgrain finish. On a period home or in a conservation area, a style that respects the original character usually looks best, and it can matter for planning too. ## Do not overlook fitting and aftercare A great window fitted badly will still let in draughts, so who installs it matters as much as what you buy. Good fitting means the window sits square, the seals are neat and the locks line up first time. Ask what guarantee covers both the windows and the work, and whether the installation will be registered to meet Building Regulations. Rules can change, so check the current requirements or ask your installer to confirm. It also helps to know they offer [window repairs](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-door-repairs-york) down the line, so a misted unit or stiff handle is an easy fix rather than a whole new window. ## Rough 2026 prices Prices vary with material, size, glass and how many windows you do at once, so treat these as broad 2026 guides. A supplied and fitted uPVC double glazed casement window often lands somewhere around 400 to 800 pounds, with aluminium and larger or specialist styles costing more. For a proper figure, [request a free quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) and we will measure up. ## FAQs ### What is the best type of double glazing? For most homes, uPVC double glazing with Low-E glass and a warm-edge spacer offers the best balance of warmth, price and low maintenance. Aluminium suits modern homes wanting slim frames and more glass. ### Is triple glazing worth it over double glazing? Triple glazing can help in very exposed or cold spots and cuts noise a little more, but good double glazing already insulates well for most homes. Weigh the extra cost against how much benefit you would really notice. ### What energy rating should I look for in windows? Aim for a high energy band and a low U-value, and compare like for like across your quotes. A well-rated, properly fitted window keeps your home noticeably warmer. ### How long does double glazing last? Good double glazing typically lasts around 20 to 35 years. The sealed units themselves can start to mist after a couple of decades, but they can often be replaced without redoing the whole frame. ### How much does double glazing cost in 2026? As a rough 2026 guide, a fitted uPVC casement window often costs around 400 to 800 pounds, with aluminium and larger styles more. Prices vary, so get a quote for your home. Want to see the full range of styles and finishes? [Download our latest brochure](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/brochure-downloads), or [request a free quote](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/request-a-quote) and we will pop out for a look. #### SM Windows & Doors Author ## Phone: 07833387823 Email: [Sam@smwindowsanddoors.co.uk](mailto:Sam@smwindowsanddoors.co.uk) Opening times: Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 17:00 Sat-Sun: By Prior Appointment [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/people/SM-Windows-Doors/100093013267883/) [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/smwindowsanddoors/) ![x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a\_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY](https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY.jpg?width=300&height=106&name=x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY.jpg "x59dcc190ea7d320001f0083a_logoAsset-2-1.jpg.pagespeed.ic.lk8k-280iY") ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "SM Windows & Doors", "url" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/author/sm-windows-doors" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-22T09:30:01.174Z", "datePublished" : "2026-10-22T09:30:00.000Z", "headline" : "How to Choose the Right Double Glazing", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/blog/sm-windows-doors-blog/how-to-choose-the-right-double-glazing", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://smwindowsanddoors.co.uk/hubfs/SM_Logo_Final_Lught.webp" }, "name" : "SM Windows & Doors" } } ```