ᐅ Window Replacement in Older Homes – Which Glazing Option?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought a house, and an inspector advised me to replace the heating system as well as all the windows.

The house was built in 1984 and is a Weber house, with a solid construction on the lower floor and a timber frame construction on the upper floor. The ceiling of the top floor is insulated with about 15 cm by 15 cm (6 inches by 6 inches) of insulation.

Unfortunately, I know very little about the wall insulation (so I don’t have a U-value or similar data). I am currently getting quotes for window replacement and am unsure whether to choose double glazing or triple glazing. I have informed myself adequately about potential issues in older buildings (such as mold).

My question is: Can I decide in favor of triple glazing despite the limited information about the wall insulation? Does the year the house was built and its construction method provide any useful information? Or are there bigger concerns in this respect? Should I possibly consult an expert again? If yes, who would be the right professional to contact?

Thank you in advance
- cabaLLero

What does the surveyor say about it?

Ask the building authority for the file. The application includes the construction description. Then you can calculate it yourself.
I would almost always go for triple glazing.

Always aim for the best possible option. The price difference between triple glazing and double glazing is usually not significant. However, regardless of the immediate effect, triple glazing is better in the long term. Keyword: resale value.

The inspector did not comment on the glazing, but I have followed up with him and am waiting for a response.

I am definitely leaning toward triple glazing, but I am unsure if it might cause mold issues due to the wall insulation. I cannot assess how good the wall insulation is or whether I can rely on the building’s age or construction method.

cabaLLero_ schrieb:

I am definitely leaning towards triple glazing, but I am uncertain whether it could potentially cause mold growth due to the wall insulation.

Exactly.
Why triple glazing? It boosts the insulation performance to meet current energy-saving regulations, but otherwise it is just more expensive, heavier...