Laminated Glass vs Double Glazed Use for Window

In the world of modern window systems, homeowners and builders alike are seeking glazing solutions that offer both safety and performance. Among the top contenders are laminated glass and double glazed glass. While both offer key benefits over traditional single-pane glass, they are designed for different purposes and excel in different areas.

Understanding the difference between laminated glass and double glazing can help you choose the right option for your window installations—whether your priority is thermal efficiency, noise control, safety, or aesthetics.

What Is Laminated Glass?

Laminated glass is a safety glass composed of two or more sheets of glass bonded together by a durable plastic interlayer—usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or SentryGlas® Plus (SGP). If the glass is broken, the interlayer holds the pieces together, preventing them from shattering dangerously.

In addition to safety, glass laminated windows provide:

• Sound reduction
• UV protection
• Impact resistance
• Intrusion delay
• Optional tinting and decorative features

Because of these properties, laminated glass is commonly used in:

• High-traffic buildings
• Ground-floor windows
• Coastal properties in hurricane zones
• Skylights and overhead glazing
• Airports, banks, and schools

What Is Double Glazed Glass?

Double glazed (also known as insulated glass units – IGUs) consists of two panes of glass separated by a spacer and sealed to create an insulating air or gas-filled gap. The most common gases used are argon or krypton, which reduce thermal transfer and improve energy efficiency.

The main goal of double glazed windows is thermal insulation—to keep warm air in during winter and out during summer.

Other benefits include:

• Moderate noise reduction
• Lower energy bills
• Reduced condensation
• Better climate control

Double glazed units are commonly found in:

• Residential buildings in cold or hot climates
• Green buildings
• Office towers
• Energy-efficient retrofits

Key Differences Between Laminated Glass and Double Glazing for Windows

1. Purpose and Performance

• Laminated Glass: Designed for safety, security, and soundproofing.
• Double Glazed Glass: Engineered for thermal insulation and energy efficiency.

Choosing between the two depends on whether your priority is impact resistance or indoor climate control.

2. Construction Method

• Laminated Glass: Bonded sheets of glass with an interlayer.
• Double Glazed Glass: Two separate panes with a sealed air or gas gap.

These structural differences define how each type performs in various environments.

3. Safety and Breakage Behavior

• Laminated Glass: Remains intact when broken, offering continuous protection.
• Double Glazed Glass: Shatters like regular glass unless one of the panes is tempered or laminated.

This makes safety laminated glass ideal for windows in vulnerable areas or where falling glass is a concern.

4. Energy Efficiency

• Double Glazed: Offers superior insulation due to the air/gas-filled gap, reducing heat transfer significantly.
• Laminated Glass: Provides minimal insulation unless combined with low-E coatings or built into a double glazed unit.

5. Noise Reduction

• Laminated Glass: Superior sound insulation due to the acoustic damping properties of the interlayer.
• Double Glazed: Basic sound insulation; better with uneven pane thicknesses or acoustic gas fills.

If soundproofing is a priority, laminated glass windows perform better than standard double glazing.

6. UV Protection

• Laminated Glass: Blocks up to 99% of UV radiation, preserving interior furnishings.
• Double Glazed: Provides some UV protection, but less than laminated glass unless treated.

7. Customization and Aesthetics

• Laminated Glass: Can include color interlayers, patterns, frosted finishes, and decorative inserts.
• Double Glazed Glass: Customizable with low-E coatings, tints, and smart glazing tech.

Both options allow for design flexibility depending on the application.

8. Laminated Glass Price vs Double Glazing Cost

The laminated glass price varies by thickness, interlayer type, and customization.

Glass Type	Estimated Price per m²
Standard Laminated Glass	$30–$60
Acoustic Laminated Glass	$50–$90
Double Glazed Unit (Standard)	$40–$80
Laminated + Double Glazed Unit	$90–$150+

Combining laminated and double glazed technologies yields the most benefits but comes at a higher price point.

When to Use Laminated Glass for Windows

• Areas requiring maximum safety, such as near entryways or busy streets
• Sound-sensitive environments, like bedrooms, studios, or offices
• Homes or buildings near coastal, high-wind, or storm-prone areas
• Locations requiring security glazing (banks, schools, retail)

When to Use Double Glazed Glass for Windows

• Homes in cold or hot climates aiming for energy savings
• Residential buildings focused on climate comfort and utility costs
• Offices or commercial spaces with high heating or cooling demands
• Buildings seeking green certifications like LEED

Can You Combine Laminated and Double Glazed Glass?

Yes. Many window systems now use laminated insulated glass units, which incorporate a laminated pane as one or both sides of the double-glazed system.

This hybrid option provides:

• Energy savings
• Noise control
• Impact resistance
• UV and security protection

For high-end residential or commercial projects, this is often the most comprehensive window glazing solution.

Want a deeper breakdown of laminated vs insulated glass performance?
🔗 Laminated Glass vs Insulated Glass

Final Thoughts: Which Glass Is Better for Windows?

It depends on your specific goals:

Choose laminated glass if:

• Safety and security are top priorities
• You need superior noise reduction
• You’re located in a high-impact or hurricane-prone region

Choose double glazing if:

• Energy efficiency is your main goal
• You live in an area with high heating/cooling costs
• You want to reduce condensation on windows

For the best of both worlds, consider combining the two.