Unlike double glazing, which is made up of two sheets of glass in the same sealed unit, secondary glazing involves adding a second, entirely separate window to the inside of an existing window. While double glazing is usually the recommended option for making a property more energy efficient, there are certain situations in which secondary glazing is more appropriate. Here, we look at when secondary glazing is recommended and the key benefits of installing it.
Why choose secondary glazing?
Often used to provide better insulation and sound protection in rooms with older, single-pane windows, secondary glazing is ideal for period properties, or buildings that are listed or located in a conservation area. Essentially, secondary glazing is a great option in any situation where it may prove tricky to get planning permission to replace all the existing windows with new double glazing. Because secondary glazing is considered a reversible change, permission is not required, and this is why it is recommended by The Listed Property Owners Club and English Heritage.
Even if you don’t live in a period property, secondary glazing is also well worth considering as a temporary measure when existing windows are cold and draughty but you cannot upgrade to new double glazing for a while.
The benefits of secondary glazing
Quick and easy to install, secondary glazing is very cost effective, and considerably cheaper than replacing all the windows in a property with new double glazing. One of the biggest benefits of secondary glazing is improved energy efficiency – it will instantly reduce draughts, helping to make your home warmer and, in turn, lower your energy bills. In fact, secondary glazing can save you around 10 per cent on your annual heating bill.
It is also excellent at reducing noise pollution, and is in some cases it may perform better than double glazing at cutting out noise (because you effectively have two separate barriers to the noise) although we do find that standard double glazing is a more attractive option as everything is all built together and ready for installation. Some people use secondary glazing in particularly noisy rooms, such as bedrooms that are close to a main road. That brings us to another key reason why many people choose secondary glazing: it can be installed in certain rooms where you need it most, and doesn’t have to be used throughout the entire property (unless you want to). This versatility helps to keep costs down.
In addition, most modern secondary glazing is very slim and discreet, and will blend in well with any room, even in the most traditional period property. Many homeowners in Thames Ditton have opted for secondary glazing.
At Hamilton Windows, we specialise in finding the perfect solutions for your home. If you think secondary glazing might be right for your property, please get in touch to find out more.
