Double glazing uses two panes of glass with a single argon-filled cavity, delivering significantly better thermal and acoustic performance than single glazing, and meeting current UK Building Regulations requirements. Available across the full Nordvest window and door range, with low-emissivity coatings as standard.
A double glazed unit consists of two panes of glass, warm edge spacers and argon filled cavity. Argon is denser than air and a poor conductor of heat slowing the transfer of warmth from the inside of the building to the outside. A low-emissivity (low-E) coating is applied to one surface of the unit, further reducing radiant heat loss. The result is a Uw value typically in the range of 1.0–1.2 W/m²K, sufficient for many new build, self-build, renovation and replacement projects where the existing structure does not require passive house grade glazing.
Nordvest double glazed units are supplied with low-E coatings and argon filled as standard. Whole window U-values (Uw), which account for the frame as well as the glass typically fall in the range of 1.0–1.2 W/m²K depending on window type and size. Centre pane U-values (Ug) are lower. For projects requiring U-values below 0.8 W/m²K, or where Passivhaus performance is a target, see our triple glazing specification.
Double glazing eliminates most of the cold radiant effect associated with single glazed windows, i.e. the draught like sensation caused by a large cold surface near an occupied area. For most UK climates and building types, a high quality double glazed unit with low-E coating will deliver a comfortable interior environment without the need for triple glazing. The double glazed unit also provides meaningful noise attenuation, reducing the transmission of external traffic, wind, and ambient noise compared with single glazing.
Current UK Building Regulations require replacement windows to achieve a minimum Uw of 1.6 W/m²K (or a Window Energy Rating of Band C). Nordvest double glazed units comfortably exceed this threshold. For new build projects, Part L requirements may necessitate triple glazing depending on the building's overall energy model. Our technical team can advise on the appropriate specification for your project and location.
Triple glazing is not always the answer. Double glazing remains appropriate where the building's energy model does not require a higher level of thermal performance that triple glazing offers. It is also well suited to renovation and replacement projects, particularly listed buildings and heritage properties where the glazing specification must be sympathetic to the original fabric. Both double and triple glazing are available across the full Nordvest range. Contact our technical team to discuss the right specification for your project.
Solar control coatings are available on double glazed units across the full Nordvest range, allowing g-values to be reduced on south-facing elevations or in rooms with large glazed areas where overheating is a risk. See our solar control glass page for g-value options and guidance on when to specify.
Nordvest's most popular window. The top swing fully reversible opens outward at the top and rotates fully so the outer face can be cleaned from inside, no ladders, no additional hardware. Supplied complete with night lock, and child restrictor as standard.
Nordvest tilt and turn windows offer two opening modes in one, tilt at the top for controlled ventilation, or turn on the side hinge for full access. Designed and manufactured in Norway, they are a popular choice for new builds, self-builders, and renovation projects across the UK.
The classic European outward-opening window, built to Norwegian standards. Nordvest side hung casement windows suit period, heritage, and cottage-style properties where the traditional sash aesthetic matters without compromising on thermal performance, security, or longevity.
Fixed frame windows offer the highest thermal performance and maximum glazed area of any window type. Whether specified as a single large picture window to frame a view, a Passivhaus-grade thermal unit, or a glass-to-glass corner, Nordvest fixed frames are available in any shape or size, in timber or aluminium-clad.
Aluminium-clad timber windows give you the best of both materials: a powder-coated aluminium exterior that needs no painting or maintenance, with a warm natural timber reveal on the inside. Nordvest alu-clad windows are built for a 60-year lifespan and are available across the full window range, in any RAL colour, double or triple glazed.
Nordvest main entrance doors are manufactured in Norway to the same exacting standard as the window range. Available in timber or aluminium-clad, inward or outward opening, in fully glazed, full panel, or mixed configurations. Suited to new build, renovation, commercial, and Passivhaus projects across the UK.
Tilt and turn doors open inward in two modes: tilted at the top for controlled ventilation, or fully turned on the side hinge for unobstructed access. Most commonly specified as Juliet balcony doors on first floor and above, they are available as single or double leaf in timber or aluminium-clad.
Nordvest balcony doors are outward opening French doors supplied as single or double leaf, in full height glass or with a solid lower panel. Every door comes with three-point espagnolette locking, a friction stay to hold the door open at any position up to 90°, and a choice of hardwood or low-level threshold in timber or aluminium clad.
Nordvest sliding doors use a lift-and-slide mechanism where the door lifts slightly on its track to slide, then drops back down to seal when closed, giving a weathertight performance that conventional sliding doors cannot match. The ideal solution for large, glazed openings where an outward opening door is not practical.
Aluminium clad timber doors give you a powder coated, maintenance free exterior with a warm natural timber finish on the inside. Available across the full Nordvest door range; entrance, balcony, lift and slide, and tilt & turn, in any RAL colour, double or triple glazed, built for a 60-year lifespan.