What is HR+ glass?
HR+ glass, or High Efficiency glass, is double glazing with a special low-emissivity coating on the inside of the glass panes. This coating reflects heat back into your home. The cavity between the panes is usually filled with air. While it offers better insulation than standard double glazing, more efficient alternatives are now widely available.
What is HR++ glass?
HR++ glass is the enhanced version of HR glass. Both panes are coated, and the cavity between them is filled with an insulating gas such as argon instead of air. Argon provides better thermal insulation, allowing HR++ glass to retain significantly more heat.
The U-value of HR++ glass is typically around 1.1 W/m²K. The lower the U-value, the better the insulation performance. For comparison, single glazing has a U-value of around 5.8, while standard double glazing is approximately 2.7.
Can HR++ glass be installed in existing window frames?
In most cases, yes. HR++ glass has a similar thickness to traditional double glazing, meaning it can usually be fitted into existing window frames without major modifications.
What is triple glazing (HR+++)?
Triple glazing, also known as HR+++ glass, consists of three panes of glass with two argon-filled cavities. This provides an even higher level of insulation. The U-value of triple glazing can be as low as 0.5 W/m²K, meaning very little heat is lost through the window.
Triple glazing also offers excellent sound insulation and is particularly suitable for new-build homes or if you’re planning to replace your window frames. However, because it is thicker and heavier than double glazing, it may not always be suitable for existing frames.
Which option is best for your home?
The right choice depends on your property and your renovation plans:
- If your home still has single glazing or older double glazing in existing window frames, HR++ glass is usually the best and most cost-effective upgrade.
- If you’re replacing your window frames or have a new-build home, HR+++ glass is an excellent choice for maximum insulation performance.
- HR+ glass is rarely chosen today, as HR++ glass offers significantly better insulation for only a modest additional investment.
Grants for insulation glass
The Dutch government encourages homeowners to invest in energy-saving improvements. Through the ISDE grant scheme, you may be eligible for financial support when installing HR++ or HR+++ glass, particularly if you combine it with a second insulation measure such as floor insulation or cavity wall insulation. The grant can amount to several tens of euros per square metre, making your investment even more attractive.
Be sure to check the eligibility requirements in advance to see whether your property qualifies. If you need assistance or would like advice from an insulation specialist, get in touch with us for a free consultation. We’ll be happy to help.