Q
What is the difference between double glazed and single glazed windows?
Single glazed windows use one pane of glass and offer minimal insulation, allowing heat and cold to pass through easily. Double glazed windows use two panes separated by an insulating gap filled with air or argon gas, dramatically reducing heat transfer, noise, and condensation. In Melbourne's climate, upgrading can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.
Q
Are uPVC double glazed windows worth it in Australia?
Yes — particularly in Melbourne and Victoria where temperatures range from below 5°C in winter to above 40°C in summer. uPVC double glazed windows reduce heat loss, block heat gain, and cut energy bills year-round. They also reduce noise by up to 70% and add resale value.
Q
How much do double glazed windows cost in Australia?
Costs typically range from $1,500 to $4,000 per window depending on size, glass type, and frame colour. A whole-home replacement for an average Melbourne property generally costs between $15,000 and $40,000. Windows Republic offers a free measure and quote for accurate pricing specific to your project.
Q
Do double glazed windows reduce noise?
Yes. Double glazed windows significantly reduce outside noise by creating an insulating barrier between two panes of glass. For homes near busy roads, trams, or flight paths, Windows Republic also offers acoustic glass upgrades that can reduce noise by up to 70% compared to standard single glazed windows.
Q
What does uPVC mean?
uPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride — a rigid, durable form of PVC widely used in window and door frames. Unlike timber or aluminium, uPVC frames do not rot, corrode, or require painting. They are thermally broken by design, fully recyclable, and the preferred frame material for double glazed windows in Australia.
Q
Are uPVC windows better than aluminium windows?
For energy efficiency, uPVC significantly outperforms aluminium. Aluminium is highly conductive and transfers heat and cold easily, whereas uPVC is naturally thermally broken. uPVC also does not corrode in coastal environments and requires virtually no maintenance. While aluminium is cheaper upfront, uPVC delivers better long-term value.
Q
Do double glazed windows reduce condensation?
Yes. Condensation occurs when warm indoor air meets a cold glass surface. Because double glazed windows maintain a warmer inner glass surface, condensation is significantly reduced. This helps prevent mould growth on frames and surrounding walls — a common problem in Melbourne homes during winter.
Q
What is Low-E glass and do I need it?
Low-E (low emissivity) glass has a microscopic metallic coating that reflects heat while allowing natural light through. In summer it reflects heat away; in winter it reflects internal warmth back inside. Windows Republic recommends Low-E glass for all Melbourne installations as it can reduce heat gain and loss by up to 70–77% versus standard clear glass.
Q
What is a U-value for windows?
A U-value measures how quickly heat passes through a window — the lower the number, the better the insulation. Standard single glazed aluminium windows have a U-value of around 6.0 W/m²K. uPVC double glazed windows with Low-E glass can achieve 1.1–1.4 W/m²K, making them approximately five times more thermally efficient.
Q
How much energy can I save with double glazed windows?
uPVC double glazed windows with Low-E glass can stop up to 70% of heat loss and 77% of heat gain compared to standard single glazed aluminium windows. Most homeowners report energy bill savings of around 30% after installation, depending on home size, orientation, and number of windows replaced.
Q
Can double glazed windows be installed in heritage homes?
Possibly, but it depends on your property and local council requirements. If your home is subject to a heritage overlay, you'll generally need council approval before replacing or altering windows.
Q
What is Window Glazing?
Window glazing refers to the glass fitted within a window frame. Single glazing uses one pane of glass, while double glazing uses two panes separated by an insulating air or gas gap. Double glazed windows significantly improve thermal insulation, reduce noise, and minimise condensation compared to single glazed alternatives.
Q
What are tilt and turn windows?
Tilt and turn windows offer two opening positions: tilting inward at the top for secure ventilation, or turning fully inward like a door for easy cleaning and maximum airflow. They are a popular European design particularly suited to apartments and multi-storey homes where external cleaning is difficult — unlike awning windows, which open outward and are better suited to ground-floor rooms and standard residential homes across Melbourne.
Q
How long does double glazed window installation take?
Most residential installations take one to three days. Smaller projects involving a few windows can often be completed in a single day, while whole-home replacements typically take three to five days. Your home will never be left unsecured — all openings are fitted before the end of each working day.
Q
Where are Windows Republic frames made?
Windows Republic manufactures uPVC double glazed windows locally in Melbourne at our Cheltenham facility, and is proudly Australian Made accredited. Profiles are extruded in Europe and reinforced with A-grade galvanised steel, while hardware is sourced from leading German manufacturers SIEGENIA and ROTO. Local manufacturing means faster lead times, no overseas shipping delays, and the assurance of Australian quality standards.
Q
Do Windows Republic windows meet Australian standards?
Yes. All products are independently tested in NATA-accredited laboratories and comply with AS 2047-2014 (Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings). Insulated glass units comply with AS 1288-2006. Windows Republic holds a manufacturing membership with Master Builders Victoria and has manufactured locally in Melbourne since 2020.
Q
Does Windows Republic offer a warranty?
Yes. All Windows Republic products are backed by a 10-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, hardware, and frame integrity. We also provide lifetime support for any issues that arise after installation.
Q
Can you retrofit double glazing into existing window frames?
In most cases it is possible, however the best thermal and acoustic results come from replacing the entire window unit — frame and glass together. Retrofitting is limited by the existing frame depth and condition. Windows Republic can assess your frames during a free measure and quote to advise the best approach.
Q
Where can Windows Republic supply windows in Australia?
Windows Republic can supply and install windows and doors across more than 95% of Australia, including all of Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Tasmania, and most parts of Queensland and Western Australia, up to cyclonic region C2.