Selecting the best double glazing for large-scale housing: Key factors to consider

When it comes to large-scale housing projects, whether for new developments or social housing refurbishments, selecting the right double glazing is not just a question of aesthetics. It directly impacts long-term energy efficiency, tenant safety, and overall cost-effectiveness. With growing scrutiny on building regulations, energy ratings, and fire safety, landlords and developers must make informed, regulation-compliant decisions from the outset.

From the type of window frame to the glass units used, every element of a double glazing installation contributes to reducing heat loss, improving thermal insulation, and creating safer, more sustainable homes. This guide explores the key factors to consider when specifying new double glazing for large housing projects and how partnering with a trusted double glazing installer like Shelforce ensures lasting value.

Why does double glazing matter in large-scale housing?

Double glazing plays a key role in creating homes that are:

Energy efficient: Reducing heat transfer lowers reliance on central heating, cuts emissions, and supports the UK’s net-zero goals.

Cost-effective: High-performing sealed units contribute to lower energy bills and reduce long-term installation costs and maintenance.

Safe and compliant: Properly specified glass panels help meet UK building regulations for fire safety, ventilation, and insulation.

Comfortable: Reducing external noise and maintaining consistent internal temperatures supports tenant satisfaction and well-being.

What should landlords and developers look for in double glazing?

1. Compliance with building regulations

Approved Documents L, F, K, and B all apply to double glazing windows in residential properties:

• Thermal efficiency (Doc L): Replacement windows must have a U-value no greater than 1.4 W/m²K.
• Ventilation (Doc F): Windows must allow for adequate airflow, often via trickle vents.
• Safety glazing (Doc K): Any pane of glass in a low or vulnerable location must be toughened or laminated.
• Fire safety (Doc B): Windows must provide an escape route in habitable rooms above ground floor.

Shelforce products are fully compliant with current standards, including British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) certifications for energy performance.

2. Energy efficiency and insulation properties

Efficient double glazing reduces the amount of heat escaping from a home. Key features to look for include:

• Multiple panes of glass: Typically two, separated by an insulating gap.
• Argon gas filling: Improves thermal insulation by reducing heat transfer.
• Spacer bars: Non-conductive materials between panes minimise cold bridging and cold air ingress.
• Low-E coatings: Reflect heat back into the room for greater energy savings.

Our UPVC windows and aluminium windows at Shelforce are designed to retain heat, reduce carbon footprint, and increase property value.

3. Glass thickness and type of glass

The type of glass and its thickness determine a window’s performance in terms of security, insulation, and noise reduction:

• Toughened or laminated glass is essential for ground-floor windows and fire safety compliance.
• Thicker panes or acoustic glazing can significantly reduce noise pollution from busy urban environments.
• Triple glazing is an option for buildings that require superior thermal insulation or soundproofing, although cost of double glazing and weight must be considered.

4. Frame material and durability

UPVC windows: Lightweight, cost-effective, and low maintenance. uPVC windows Ideal for large housing estates with tight budgets.

Aluminium windows: Stronger and more durable, with slimmer profiles that allow more light in. Aluminium windows are excellent for high-rise or exposed buildings.

Shelforce manufactures both frame types in-house using precision manufacturing processes, ensuring every product leaves our facility in good condition, ready for long-term performance.

5. Type of window and design considerations

Selecting the right type of window is vital to match functionality, appearance, and regulatory needs.

• Casement windows: Highly energy efficient and easy to operate.
• Tilt & turn windows: Ideal for multi-storey buildings, offering safe ventilation and cleaning.
• Sash windows: Suitable for heritage and period property refurbishments.
• Secondary glazing: Cost-effective solution for improving insulation without replacing original frames.

All window styles offered by Shelforce are designed to integrate with fire safety features and comply with ventilation requirements.

6. Installation by a registered and experienced installer

Working with a certified installer guarantees compliance with regulations and consistent quality. We:

• Work directly with local authorities and housing associations
• Manufacture all products at our Birmingham facility
• Provide fully certified products for installation teams familiar with social housing requirements

Incorrect or non-compliant installations can result in legal issues, increased costs, or even unsafe conditions for residents.

How does Shelforce support housing providers?

Shelforce has decades of experience in supplying new windows, residential doors, and fire doors for large-scale housing projects. That experience means we completely understand the demands of working with both housing associations and local authorities, which include:

• Short lead times and large volume orders
• Fully compliant products tailored to each project
• Inclusive employment practices that support community wellbeing
• Reliable aftercare and long-term support

Our commitment to social value and high performance has made us a trusted name in the UK housing sector. Working with Shelforce means you gain access to:

• High-performance UPVC and aluminium windows
• Expert support with building regulation compliance
• Durable, cost-effective products built for volume housing
• A long-established partner trusted by councils across the UK

Key Takeaways: Invest in quality, compliance, and partnership

Double glazing is a critical investment in social and large-scale housing and specifying the right double glazing is about more than just keeping tenants warm, it’s about long-term performance, safety, compliance, and value.

From sealed units with argon gas to compliant fire-rated windows, every decision matters. Selecting the right combination of glass thickness, window frame, fire safety compliance, and energy ratings supports tenant comfort, legal compliance, and reduced long-term energy bills. Shelforce manufactures and supplies high-performance UPVC windows, aluminium windows, and doors designed specifically for local authority and housing association requirements.

Ready to specify new double glazing for your project?

As a landlord or developer of large-scale housing projects you must be able to make informed decisions on double glazing by understanding the key considerations. Get in touch today to discuss your housing requirements. Our expert team is on hand to provide tailored advice, product recommendations, and reliable supply for any scale of housing development.

We’ll help you deliver safe, compliant, and energy-efficient homes that stand the test of time. For compliant, energy-efficient windows and doors, choose Shelforce as your double glazing partner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions on double glazing.

How long does new double glazing last?

Over 25 years, if installed and maintained properly.

Is triple glazing better than double glazing?

It offers higher insulation but comes with increased cost and weight.

Can I use aluminium windows in social housing?

Yes, they’re durable, secure, and fully compliant with UK housing regulations.