Choosing the Right Glass for UPVC Windows and Doors in Blackpool & Preston

12 Apr Choosing the Right Glass for UPVC Windows and Doors in Blackpool & Preston

When upgrading your home with UPVC windows and doors in Blackpool or Preston, choosing the right type of glass is just as important as the frames themselves. Glass plays a vital role in everything from energy efficiency and noise reduction to security and even aesthetics. With so many options available today, it can feel overwhelming—but don’t worry. Whether you’re battling the brisk sea breeze in Blackpool or just trying to keep the heating bills down in a Preston terrace, this guide breaks down the most popular types of glass available for UPVC frames and how to choose what’s best for your home.

Why Glass Choice Matters in the North West

Let’s face it: Lancashire weather can be unforgiving. From salty coastal winds in Blackpool to damp, chilly winters inland in Preston, our homes need to be tough yet comfortable. While UPVC frames offer excellent insulation, the type of glass you choose makes a huge difference in:

• Thermal insulation (reducing heat loss)

• Noise reduction (especially near busy roads or the promenade)

• Security (keeping you safe and secure)

• Light transmission (how bright your rooms feel)

• UV protection (preventing fading of furnishings)

So, let’s dive into the main glass options.

1. Double Glazing: The Gold Standard

Double glazing consists of two panes of glass with a gap in between, often filled with argon gas. It’s the most common choice for UPVC windows across Blackpool and Preston for good reason.

Pros:

• Excellent insulation—keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

• Energy-efficient—reduces heating bills.

• Noise reduction—great if you live near a main road or train line.

• Affordable—good balance of cost and performance.

Best for:

• Most family homes, especially in suburban or residential areas like Layton (Blackpool) or Ashton-on-Ribble (Preston).

2. Triple Glazing: For the Energy-Conscious

Triple glazing includes a third pane of glass for enhanced insulation.

Pros:

• Superior thermal efficiency—ideal for energy-conscious homeowners.

• Better sound insulation than double glazing.

• Great for modern, energy-efficient homes.

Cons:

• More expensive than double glazing.

• Heavier—may require stronger frames or reinforcement.

Best for:

• New builds or high-performance renovations.

• Homes near Blackpool Airport or busy roads in central Preston.

3. Low-E Glass: Boosting Energy Efficiency

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass has an invisible coating that reflects heat back into your home while allowing light to pass through. It’s often used in combination with double or triple glazing.

Pros:

• Reduces heat loss even further.

• Minimises condensation.

• Improves energy ratings—may help qualify for green home incentives.

Best for:

• Homes in wind-exposed areas like South Shore or elevated parts of Fulwood.

4. Toughened Safety Glass

Also known as tempered glass, this type is heat-treated to increase its strength. If broken, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards.

Pros:

• Highly secure—5 times stronger than standard glass.

• Meets building regulations for doors and low-level windows.

• Ideal for families with children or pets.

Best for:

• Patio doors, full-length windows, or anywhere safety is a concern.

5. Laminated Glass: Top Tier Security

Laminated glass consists of two panes bonded together by a plastic layer (usually PVB). Even if the glass breaks, the plastic holds it in place.

Pros:

• Maximum security—hard to break through.

• UV protection—blocks up to 99% of harmful rays.

• Good sound insulation.

Best for:

• Ground-floor windows in high-traffic or urban areas of Preston.

• Coastal homes in Blackpool worried about storm damage.

6. Obscured or Frosted Glass: Privacy, Please

Obscured glass comes in a variety of patterns and opacities that let in light while preventing clear views through the pane.

Pros:

• Provides privacy without sacrificing light.

• Available in dozens of patterns—from modern to classic styles.

• Can be used in combination with safety glass.

Best for:

• Bathrooms, entrance doors, and side windows.

• Terraced houses with close neighbours (common in areas like St. Annes or Deepdale).

7. Self-Cleaning Glass: Low Maintenance Luxury

Perfect for homeowners who’d rather enjoy the view than clean it, self-cleaning glass uses a special coating that breaks down dirt and allows rain to wash it away.

Pros:

• Low maintenance—especially useful in hard-to-reach windows.

• Streak-free finish.

• Works well in rainy or coastal climates (hello, Blackpool).

Best for:

• Upper-storey windows.

• Holiday homes or rentals near the Fylde Coast.

8. Acoustic Glass: For Peace and Quiet

If you live near Blackpool’s bustling nightlife or a busy street in Preston, acoustic glass can be a game changer. It’s made by sandwiching a sound-dampening layer between two panes.

Pros:

• Significant noise reduction.

• Can be paired with laminated or toughened glass for added benefits.

Best for:

• Properties near train stations, schools, or pubs.

• Homes in central locations like Preston City Centre or Blackpool Town Centre.

9. Decorative Glass: Add Some Personality

Decorative glass is more about aesthetics, but it still serves functional purposes. Options include:

• Leaded designs

• Georgian bars

• Stained glass inserts

• Bevelled glass

Pros:

• Adds character to period homes.

• Customisable—great for matching existing architectural features.

• Can be combined with energy-efficient glass.

Best for:

• Victorian or Edwardian homes in Ashton or South Shore.

• Anyone wanting to boost kerb appeal.

Tips for Choosing the Right Glass for Your UPVC Windows

1. Assess your priorities: Is it warmth, noise reduction, or safety?

2. Consider your location: Coastal vs. inland, urban vs. rural.

3. Think long-term: Glass affects your home’s running costs.

4. Check building regulations: Especially for safety glass requirements.

5. Mix and match: You can combine different glass types in different parts of the house.

What Glass Options Are Popular in Blackpool and Preston?

From talking with local installers and homeowners, here are some common trends:

• Double glazing with Low-E glass is a top choice for energy-conscious families.

• Obscured glass is popular in close-knit housing areas like Fishwick and Bispham.

• Acoustic or laminated glass is growing in popularity in areas with nightlife or construction.

• Many coastal homeowners prefer self-cleaning glass to combat salty air and frequent rain.

Final Thoughts

Your choice of glass can dramatically impact your comfort, bills, and even your home’s value. While UPVC frames offer a solid foundation, choosing the right glass brings out the full potential of your windows and doors.

If you’re in Blackpool, Preston, or the surrounding areas and looking to upgrade, don’t just settle for standard glazing. Talk to a local installer about the best glass for your specific property and lifestyle. Whether it’s to keep warm during the long Lancashire winters, reduce the roar of the seafront, or just enjoy a low-maintenance view, there’s a perfect option waiting for you.

Need advice on your UPVC window upgrade in Blackpool or Preston? Feel free to drop a comment or reach out for personalised recommendations!

If you’re interested in our window or door services for your home, take a look at our services for more!

Also, follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with all our news, blogs and offers.