Everything you need to know about double glazing before you buy, with real insights from Perth families who’ve made the switch.
If you live in Perth, you’ve likely felt the extremes, stifling summer heat, brisk winter mornings, and the relentless hum of traffic or neighbours just metres away. For many homeowners, standard windows simply don’t cut it anymore. That’s why double glazed windows are fast becoming a must-have, not a luxury.
But with so much information (and misinformation) out there, how do you know if double glazing is the right move for your home?
This guide is designed to answer that. Whether you’re renovating a character home in Subiaco, building new in City Beach, or upgrading a family home in the hills, we’ll walk you through how double glazing works, what it really costs in Perth, and how it improves security, comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term value.
Let’s explore why more Perth families are making the switch, and what you need to know before doing the same.
What Are Double Glazed Windows and How Do They Work?
If you’re picturing two panes of glass with a gap between them, you’re on the right track. But true double glazing is more advanced than that.
The Anatomy of a Double Glazed Unit
A double glazed window is made up of two panes of glass separated by a sealed air or gas-filled space (often argon). This insulated gap acts as a thermal and acoustic barrier, dramatically reducing heat transfer and noise intrusion. The edges are sealed tightly to prevent moisture build-up and ensure long-term performance.
How Double Glazing Traps Heat and Blocks Noise
In summer, double glazing keeps the hot air out. In winter, it traps warmth inside your home. That thermal buffer helps regulate indoor temperatures year-round. Meanwhile, the two layers of glass, dampen external noise, whether it’s a barking dog, traffic on Stirling Highway, or early-morning leaf blowers.
Materials Used in Perth: Why Aluminium?
While some window frames are made from timber or PVC, aluminium is the go-to choice in Perth for good reason. Penot’s aluminium double glazing in Perth features thermally broken frames, meaning a non-conductive barrier is inserted between the internal and external parts of the frame. This stops heat from passing through the metal, combining strength with efficiency, crucial in a hot, dry climate like WA’s.
Why More Perth Homeowners Are Choosing Double Glazing
It’s not just a trend, it’s a smart response to the realities of living in Western Australia. Across Perth’s suburbs, more families are choosing double glazed windows to solve problems older homes were never designed to handle.
The Impact of Perth’s Climate on Home Comfort
Perth is known for its hot summers, cool winter nights, and dry, sun-exposed conditions. Single glazed windows, especially in older homes, let heat in during the day and let warmth escape at night. That means more reliance on air conditioning and heating, and higher power bills all year round.
Double glazing helps break that cycle. By creating an insulated barrier between outside and in, it stabilises your home’s internal temperature, keeping your living spaces comfortable with far less energy input.
Common Problems With Single Glazing in Older Homes
Many homes in Perth’s western suburbs, inner-city areas, and hills were built with outdated window systems. Homeowners often report:
- Unbearable heat in summer-facing rooms
- Chilly draughts in winter
- Condensation and mould near windows
- Constant street noise
- Skyrocketing energy bills
Double glazed windows directly address all of these issues, improving not just comfort but the value and liveability of your property.
Real Stories: Families in the Western Suburbs Who Made the Switch
We’ve worked with homeowners from Floreat, Dalkeith, Subiaco, and Leederville, many of whom were sceptical at first. But after installation, they report:
- Cooler rooms without running the AC all day
- Quieter nights in high-traffic areas
- Lower energy bills within the first few months
- A noticeable increase in home resale interest
For many Perth families, double glazing has gone from a “nice to have” to a must-have.
The Top Benefits of Double Glazed Windows in Perth Homes
Whether you’re renovating a character home in Subiaco or building a new residence in City Beach, the benefits of double glazed windows go far beyond temperature control. Here’s why so many Perth homeowners are upgrading:
Year-Round Temperature Control
Double glazed windows help regulate indoor temperatures by limiting heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. The sealed air gap between panes acts as insulation, keeping your home cooler on hot days and warmer on cold nights without relying heavily on air conditioning or heating systems.
Noise Reduction in Busy Streets and Near Schools
If you live near train lines, major roads, or active community zones like Leederville or Mount Hawthorn, street noise can be relentless. Our acoustic-rated double glazing significantly reduces noise intrusion, helping you sleep, work, and relax in peace.
Enhanced Security and Durable Frames
Double glazed aluminium windows are harder to break and feature internal locking mechanisms and multi-point seals. This improves not only safety and security but also makes it harder for unwanted entry attempts, a smart upgrade for homes across Perth’s suburbs.
Boosting Property Resale Value
Energy-efficient upgrades are a key selling point in today’s market. Prospective buyers look for long-term cost savings, reduced noise, and modern design. Installing double glazed windows can enhance your property’s appeal and improve its market value, especially in high-demand areas like Nedlands, South Perth, or the Perth Hills.
What Does Double Glazing Cost in Perth?
When considering double glazed windows, cost is often the first question homeowners ask, and for good reason. While prices vary depending on size, style, and performance features.
What Affects the Cost?
Several factors influence your final quote:
- Window size and number of panels
More glass = more cost. Sliding and stacking windows tend to be more economical than tilt-turn or casement units. - Glass specification
Tinting, low-E coatings, and gas-filled units add cost, but also add performance. - Frame configuration
Thermally broken frames provide superior insulation and comfort but are more complex to manufacture than basic aluminium. - Installation access
Second-storey installs or homes with limited access may require scaffolding or lift equipment.
Cost vs Long-Term Savings on Energy Bills
While the upfront investment in double glazing may seem significant, many Perth homeowners see ongoing reductions in heating and cooling costs. Some report saving up to 30% on annual energy bills, especially in suburbs with extreme summer heat or winter cold like Kalamunda, Darlington, or Roleystone.
Double Glazing vs Standard Aluminium Frames: What’s the Difference?
If your current windows have standard aluminium frames with single glazing, you might be wondering how much of a difference double glazing really makes. The short answer? A lot. But it’s not just about the glass, the frame technology plays a critical role, especially in WA’s climate.
Thermal Performance
Standard aluminium conducts heat rapidly, meaning hot Perth summers can cause indoor temperatures to spike even with the aircon running. Double glazed windows with thermally broken aluminium frames add a non-conductive barrier inside the frame, dramatically reducing heat transfer.
- Standard aluminium U-value: ~6.0
- Double glazed with thermal break U-value: ~2.0–3.0
That’s up to a 66% improvement in insulation, felt in both summer and winter.
Airtightness and Moisture Resistance
Old aluminium frames often lack compression seals, allowing air leakage and even water ingress during Perth storms. In contrast, Penot’s double glazed systems include:
- Multi-point locking
- Triple-layer perimeter seals
- Frame drainage for controlled water runoff
The result? No more cold draughts or window condensation.
Design Flexibility and Sealing Options
With Penot’s thermally broken aluminium systems, you’re not limited in size or style. Whether you’re after slimline modern aesthetics or high-performing bushfire-rated units, our frames deliver:
- Clean architectural lines
- Custom powdercoated colours
- Airtight seals that don’t compromise appearance
Can I Retrofit Double Glazed Windows Into My Existing Home?
Absolutely, and in Perth, retrofit double glazing is one of the smartest upgrades for older homes. Whether you’re in a Federation-style character home in Subiaco or a mid-century classic in Floreat, replacing your single-glazed units can transform comfort, efficiency, and even resale appeal.
When Retrofitting Is Possible
Retrofitting involves removing your existing windows and replacing them with new double glazed units. It’s most commonly done in:
- Brick veneer or double brick homes (common across Perth)
- Homes with accessible, non-structural window surrounds
- Properties with deteriorating or poor-performing aluminium or timber frames
If your current frames are warped, leaking, or letting in too much heat or noise, retrofit is usually the better long-term option over temporary fixes.
Best Practices for Character Homes and Renovations
In older homes, especially those in areas like Mount Lawley or Fremantle, aesthetic integrity matters. At Penot Double Glazing, we:
- Match frame colours to existing tones
- Maintain original sill lines and shadow gaps
- Use slimline aluminium profiles that preserve period charm
- Provide BAL-rated options for retrofits in bushfire zones
This ensures your new windows blend seamlessly while delivering modern performance.
How It Works With Different Architectural Styles
Whether you live in a federation, coastal contemporary, or newly renovated duplex, retrofit double glazing is customisable to suit:
- Casement-style for heritage homes
- Sliding or stacking for open-plan extensions
- Awning windows for passive airflow without compromising security
And because we specialise in aluminium double glazed systems, you get lasting durability without ongoing maintenance, a major plus in Perth’s climate.
How to Choose the Right Double Glazed Window Supplier in Perth
Not all double glazing is created equal. And when you’re investing in something as foundational as your windows, choosing the right supplier isn’t just about price, it’s about performance, longevity, and trust.
Key Questions to Ask Your Installer
Before you commit, make sure you ask:
- Is your product tested to Australian standards?
Look for compliance with AS2047 and AS1288, essential for performance and safety in WA conditions. - Do you use thermally broken aluminium frames?
Without this, you’re likely to lose the insulation benefits double glazing promises. - What’s included in the installation process?
A quality supplier will handle everything, removal, installation, sealing, and post-checks, with zero shortcuts. - Do you offer site-specific recommendations?
Perth’s suburbs vary, coastal builds, bushfire zones, and high-wind areas all require different solutions.
Why Product Quality and Installation Experience Matter
Even the best window system will underperform if installed poorly. That’s why experience counts:
- Poor sealing = heat gain, water ingress, noise
- Uneven installation = frame warping or lock failure over time
- Inadequate fixings = compromised safety and durability
Penot Double Glazing’s installation teams are trained, licensed, and laser-focused on detail. Our systems aren’t just delivered, they’re engineered into place for lasting performance.
What Sets Penot Double Glazing Apart
At Penot, we offer more than just premium windows. Here’s what makes us the preferred choice for discerning Perth homeowners:
- WA-specific systems – Designed for local heat, storms, salt air, and BAL zones
- Thermal break technology – Energy-efficient framing that lasts
- Real, tested acoustic options – Not just buzzwords, real results for noisy suburbs
- Architectural-grade finishes – Built for street appeal and resale value
- End-to-end project management – From consult to clean-up, we handle it all
When you choose Penot, you’re not buying off-the-shelf, you’re getting windows engineered for your lifestyle, suburb, and long-term comfort.
The Installation Process: What to Expect with Penot Double Glazing
Choosing the right double glazed windows is only part of the equation. At Penot, we believe a premium product deserves a premium installation, and that starts from the very first consultation.
Step-by-Step Overview: From Consultation to Aftercare
- Site Visit & Consultation
One of our Perth-based specialists visits your property to assess the current windows, measure openings, and discuss your goals, whether it’s comfort, energy savings, or acoustic control. - Custom Specification & Quote
We’ll recommend window styles, glazing options, and frame finishes tailored to your home. You’ll receive a detailed quote, no guesswork, no pressure. - Manufacture to Order
Your windows are precision-manufactured to size using thermally broken aluminium frames and high-performance glazing, all compliant with WA standards. - Professional Installation
Our experienced team ensures a clean, efficient install, with correct sealing, level placement, and full system performance checks. We treat your home like our own. - Final Inspection & Handover
We walk you through the installed windows, show you how everything works, and ensure you’re 100% satisfied. - Aftercare & Support
All Penot installations come with warranty coverage and local customer support, because quality service shouldn’t stop after install day.
How We Minimise Disruption During Install
- Pre-scheduled install dates that work for your schedule
- Dust minimisation, protective drop sheets, and careful removal of old frames
- Most window replacements completed within a day per opening
- No messy gaps or unfinished trims, we leave your home neat and secure
What Makes Our Service Premium
- WA-based team with real experience in local homes
- Higher standards in waterproofing, sealing, and insulation
- No outsourcing, your installers are part of the Penot team
- Clear communication, start to finish
Conclusion: Should You Invest in Double Glazed Windows?
If you’re living in Perth and weighing up the value of double glazing, the answer is clear, yes, it’s worth it. Whether you’re replacing tired old windows, building your forever home, or simply tired of soaring energy bills and street noise, double glazed aluminium windows deliver year-round benefits.
Why Perth Homes Benefit More Than Most
- Summer-ready: Reflect heat and reduce reliance on air conditioning
- Winter comfort: Keep warmth in and cold draughts out
- Noise control: Create calm in busy suburbs like Subiaco, Leederville, or East Perth
- Energy savings: Cut heating and cooling costs by up to 30% over time
- Increased resale appeal: Modern buyers expect energy-efficient upgrades
When It’s Time to Upgrade
- Your home still has single-glazed or poorly sealed windows
- You feel temperature swings even with the air con running
- You’re planning a renovation or building in a high-performance suburb
- You’re ready to invest in long-term comfort, not short-term fixes
Book your free quote today and let Penot Double Glazing help you create a quieter, more comfortable, and more efficient home, built for WA.
