Can Stained Glass Be Double Glazed?
Charlie installing stained glass door panels encapsulated in double glazing units
One question we get asked quite often is: can stained glass be incorporated into double glazing?
The answer is yes.
We’ve created stained glass panels for clients which have then been encapsulated inside double glazed units by our trusted glazier in Boyle. Once sealed within the unit, the finished glass can be installed into a door in much the same way as a standard double glazed panel.
It’s a great solution for anyone who loves the character and colour of real stained glass but also wants the practical benefits of modern glazing.
How does stained glass work inside double glazing?
The stained glass panel is made by hand in our studio in Co. Leitrim, using individually cut pieces of glass joined together to create the finished design.
Once complete, we bring the panel to our glazier, who encapsulates it within a sealed double glazed unit. The stained glass sits safely inside the unit, protected between panes of glass. We are also able to use toughened glass if preferred for extra protection.
The completed glazing unit can then be fitted into the door or window.
This means you still get the texture, colour and changing light of genuine handcrafted stained glass, while the panel becomes part of a modern glazing system.
What are the benefits of encapsulating stained glass in double glazing?
1. Better thermal insulation
A double glazed unit provides better insulation than a traditional single-glazed stained glass panel, helping to reduce heat loss through the glazed area of a door or window.
2. The stained glass is protected
Because the stained glass sits within the sealed unit, it has an additional layer of protection on both sides. This helps protect the glass and leadwork from weather, dirt and everyday contact.
3. Easier to keep clean
The outer surfaces are plain glass, so they can be cleaned just like conventional glazing. The individual pieces of stained glass and leadwork are safely contained inside.
4. Suitable for contemporary doors and homes
Encapsulation allows traditional stained glass construction to work alongside modern glazing. This is particularly useful when creating stained glass for a new front door or when upgrading the glazing in an existing door.
5. You don't lose the character of real stained glass
Most importantly for us, the decorative panel is still real stained glass.
Each piece of coloured and textured glass is selected, cut and assembled by hand. Natural light still passes through the different colours and textures, giving stained glass the depth and character that makes it so special.
Can you put stained glass into an existing door?
In many cases, yes.
We create stained glass for both new and existing doors, but every project is a little different. The size and construction of the door, the existing glazing and the type of frame all need to be considered.
If you're thinking about replacing the glass in an existing front door with stained glass, send us a few photographs and approximate measurements. We can take a look and advise you on what may be possible.
Does double glazing change the appearance of stained glass?
The stained glass remains the decorative heart of the unit.
We spend a lot of time choosing glass not only for its colour but for how it interacts with light. Some glass is beautifully transparent, some has texture and movement, and other pieces diffuse the view to provide more privacy.
Encapsulating the finished panel allows us to retain those qualities while giving the stained glass the protection of a modern glazed unit. Once installed it's hard to tell the stained glass is within a double glazing unit, the stained glass is so vibrant.
Designing stained glass for a double glazed door
For us, the practical side of the glazing is only one part of the project.
Every Eirlume stained glass commission begins with the door, the architecture around it and the people who live there. We consider the proportions of the glass, the amount of natural light, privacy, colours within the home and how the design will sit within the entranceway.
The aim isn't simply to put a decorative piece of glass into a door. We want the finished panel to feel as though it belongs there.
Every panel is individually designed and handcrafted in our Leitrim studio before being prepared for glazing and installation.
Thinking about stained glass for your door?
If you love the idea of stained glass but thought having a modern double glazed door meant it wasn't possible, it may be much more achievable than you realised.
You can learn more about our custom stained glass doors and windows or get in touch with us about your own door. A photograph of the door and some approximate measurements are a great place to start.
We create contemporary stained glass commissions in Co. Leitrim for homes and projects throughout Ireland.
To commission a stained glass door email or phone us at:
Or fill out the contact form below.