If you’re building or renovating a home in Melbourne, choosing the right windows is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Double glazed windows have become the gold standard for energy efficiency, comfort and noise reduction — but not all double glazing is created equal.
This guide covers everything you need to know before investing in double glazed aluminium windows for your Melbourne home.
What Are Double Glazed Windows?
Double glazed windows feature two panes of glass separated by a sealed air or argon gas gap, typically 12–20mm wide. This insulating gap dramatically reduces heat transfer through the glass — keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
In Melbourne’s climate, where temperatures can swing from 8°C winter nights to 40°C+ summer days, this thermal performance translates directly into lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment year-round.
Double Glazed vs Single Glazed: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Single glazed windows (one pane of glass) are still common in older Melbourne homes, but they offer very little insulation. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Single Glazed | Double Glazed |
|---|---|---|
| U-Value (heat loss) | 5.8 W/m²K | 2.8 W/m²K |
| Energy saving | Baseline | Up to 30% less heating/cooling |
| Noise reduction | Minimal | Significant (25–35 dB) |
| Condensation | Common | Greatly reduced |
| NCC 2022 compliance | Often non-compliant | Compliant |
The upfront cost of double glazing is higher, but most Melbourne homeowners recoup the investment within 5–8 years through reduced energy costs — and enjoy better comfort from day one.
Understanding the NCC 2022 Energy Requirements
Australia’s National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 introduced significantly stricter energy efficiency requirements for new homes. Melbourne sits in Climate Zone 6, which requires windows to meet minimum thermal performance ratings.
For most new Melbourne homes, this means double glazing is no longer optional — it’s required to achieve the mandatory 7-star NatHERS energy rating. If you’re building or doing major renovations, your windows must meet these standards.
At Iconic Windows, every window we manufacture is designed to meet or exceed NCC 2022 requirements for Climate Zone 6.
Thermally Broken Frames: The Missing Piece
Many homeowners focus on the glass but overlook the frame. Standard aluminium frames conduct heat and cold easily — creating what’s called a “thermal bridge” that undermines the insulating benefits of your double glazed glass.
Thermally broken aluminium frames solve this problem with a polyamide strip separating the inner and outer aluminium sections, stopping heat transfer through the frame itself. The result:
- No cold spots or condensation on frames in winter
- Better overall window energy performance
- Compliance with premium energy ratings
- Still maintains the sleek, low-maintenance benefits of aluminium
Glass Options for Double Glazed Windows in Melbourne
Not all glass is the same. Here are the main options available for your Melbourne double glazed windows:
Low-E Glass (Low Emissivity)
A microscopic metallic coating on the glass reflects infrared heat back into your home in winter and blocks solar heat gain in summer. Ideal for most Melbourne homes — particularly north and west facing windows.
Laminated Safety Glass
A plastic interlayer bonded between two glass panes. If broken, the glass holds together rather than shattering. Required in certain locations under Australian Standards (AS 1288) — near doors, low windows, and stairways.
Obscure / Frosted Glass
Maintains privacy while still allowing natural light — popular for bathrooms, side windows and street-facing bedrooms. Available in a range of patterns and opacity levels.
Tinted Glass
Reduces glare and solar heat gain. Available in grey, bronze and blue tones. Often used on west-facing windows in Melbourne where afternoon sun can be intense.
Which Window Style Works Best with Double Glazing?
Double glazing is available across all aluminium window styles. Here’s how each type performs:
- Awning windows — Excellent sealing when closed, great for bedrooms and bathrooms. Hinged at the top so they can be left open in light rain.
- Sliding windows — Cost-effective, wide openings, popular for living areas and kitchens. Good for cross-ventilation.
- Fixed windows — Maximum thermal performance since there’s no opening sash to seal. Ideal for feature walls, high windows, and framing views.
- Casement windows — Hinged at the side, create a tight seal when closed. Superior thermal and acoustic performance.
How Much Do Double Glazed Windows Cost in Melbourne?
Pricing varies based on size, style, glass type and frame finish. As a general guide for factory-direct supply and installation in Melbourne:
- Standard double glazed aluminium window: $400–$900 per window
- Thermally broken double glazed: $600–$1,400 per window
- Large feature or sliding windows: $800–$2,500+
Because Iconic Windows manufactures directly in our Melbourne factory, we eliminate the retailer markup — meaning you get a better product at a more competitive price than through most window suppliers.
5 Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- Are the frames thermally broken? — Essential for maximum performance in Melbourne’s climate.
- What’s the WERS rating? — The Window Energy Rating Scheme gives each window a star rating. Aim for 4+ stars for Melbourne.
- Is the glass Australian Standards compliant? — Ask for AS 1288 compliance documentation.
- Who manufactures and installs? — Factory-direct manufacturers (like Iconic Windows) offer better quality control and pricing.
- What’s the warranty? — A reputable manufacturer should offer at least 10 years on the frame and 5 years on the glass unit.
Ready to Get a Free Quote?
Iconic Windows manufactures custom double glazed aluminium windows at our Mulgrave factory and installs across Melbourne. Our team provides a free quote and design consultation — we’ll assess your home, recommend the right glass and frame options, and give you a detailed quote with no obligation.
Call us on 0468 886 377 or request a quote online.
