Planning Permission Ireland

Choose Windows and Doors — Triple Glazing Pays Back in 12–18 Years, Double Is Good Enough on Most Irish Sites

Last updated 30/6/2026 · Reviewed 30/6/2026
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When this matters most

You're specifying the window schedule at detailed design, or you're retrofitting windows on a finished house.

When this doesn't apply

Glass is in. We're past first fix.

Frequently asked questions

Is triple glazing worth it in Ireland?

Depends on BER target. For A1, yes. For A2 or A3, double glazing with good frames can be enough.

How much do windows cost?

Double-glazed uPVC: €450–€750/m² installed. Triple-glazed alu-clad: €1,000–€1,500/m². A 30 m² window schedule = €13,500–€45,000.

What U-value do windows need for Part L 2022?

1.4 W/m²K maximum (backstop). For A1 BER: 0.8–1.2 typical.

Timber, uPVC, or aluminium?

Timber: looks best, repaint every 8–12 years. uPVC: cheapest, zero maintenance. Aluminium: longest-lasting frame, slim sightlines, premium.

Are sliding doors as warm as bifold?

Modern triple-glazed sliders are within 0.2 W/m²K of bifolds — both can hit A1 BER.

Sources

NSAI, I.S. EN ISO 10077 — Thermal performance of windows, doors and shutters. https://www.nsai.ie/

SEAI, Window performance database. https://www.seai.ie/

Frequently asked questions

Is triple glazing worth it in Ireland?

Depends on BER target. For A1, yes. For A2 or A3, double glazing with good frames can be enough.

How much do windows cost?

Double-glazed uPVC: €450–€750/m² installed. Triple-glazed alu-clad: €1,000–€1,500/m². A 30 m² window schedule = €13,500–€45,000.

What U-value do windows need for Part L 2022?

1.4 W/m²K maximum (backstop). For A1 BER: 0.8–1.2 typical.

Timber, uPVC, or aluminium?

Timber: looks best, repaint every 8–12 years. uPVC: cheapest, zero maintenance. Aluminium: longest-lasting frame, slim sightlines, premium.

Are sliding doors as warm as bifold?

Modern triple-glazed sliders are within 0.2 W/m²K of bifolds — both can hit A1 BER.

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