What Is Secondary Glazing?
Secondary glazing is a cost effective method to increase the efficiency of thermal energy and reduce the noise level of single-glazed windows that are already in use. Unlike replacement primary window units, it doesn't require the removal of the frames that are in use and is more sympathetic to the period homes.
A reputable company should be able to provide support following installation, including a courtesy call after a week or so to inquire about how your installation is going on. They should be FENSA-accredited, and offer an assurance.
Improved thermal efficiency
Addition of secondary glazing can help to reduce heat loss and also reduce drafts. It also makes the home more comfortable and quiet. It is important to note that this solution is not a replacement for triple or double glazing, and will only give a slight boost in thermal efficiency.
Glass isn't a good insulation, but an air layer or sometimes argon gas between two panes of glass can slow the transfer of heat from cold to warm and help to reduce condensation. A layer of insulation between the two panes of glass in a double glazed window will stop cold air from entering your home and keep warm air inside your property.
There are a variety of systems that can be installed using DIY kits while others require professional installation. There are systems that fit sliding sash windows and other frames that are already in use. Some are able to open and close, while others are fixed to the wall.
The most economical kind of secondary glazing is the 'lift out' method that is incorporated into the existing window and lifts it out of a secure channel. This is the ideal choice for a sash window, or when access to the primary windows is limited.
Certain types of glass offer more insulation than others based on the type of glass and the distance between the primary and secondary window. Generally speaking, the greater the gap between the two panes of glass, the better the thermal performance will be.
In some cases, the addition of secondary glazing can increase the efficiency of a house to the point where it can be comparable to the insulation provided by newer double or even triple-glazed windows. This is especially true in older properties where planning restrictions limit the type of replacement windows that can be put in place. In these cases, the use of secondary glazing to insulate the old sash windows could be the only cost-effective option.
Reduced noise
Windows let a lot of noise into your home. This is a particular problem for those who reside near rail lines. In these cases upgrading to double-glazed windows will reduce the impact the outside noise can have on a home. However, not everyone wants to or is able to afford the change of all their windows and this is the point where secondary glazing comes into play. This is the process of adding an additional window to the frame of a home. This second window will provide an additional (sealed) barrier that will help insulate your home from cold air, and also external noise.
Noise pollution is a major problem that could cause long-term harm to your health if you don't take action to address it. Ecoease offers a low-cost solution to cut down on the amount of sound emanating from outside that enters your house. Our second double glazing is an excellent solution for those looking to reduce noise pollution, but without spending the money to replace all their windows.
The main benefit of secondary glazing is that it creates an additional barrier between your home and the outside world, greatly lessening the amount of noise pollution. This is achieved by installing an independent pane and frame inside the original window at an interval of about 100mm. Unlike the primary window, the secondary window can be closed and opened to allow ventilation.
This barrier can help protect a room from cold air that could otherwise escape through the window and down the wall. This helps to keep the room warm and also cuts down on energy costs.
In addition the secondary glazing also helps to cut down on the noise created by traffic and other outside activities. The extra barrier between your home and the outside world is an enormous comfort factor and something that will make a real difference to your daily routine.
Another benefit of the system is that it can be adapted to virtually any kind of window such as awning windows and vertical sliding sash windows and even sliding doors. It can be applied to individual windows or to multiple windows in a house and is a cheaper option than replacing all your existing windows. It can also preserve the look of your home and provide an ideal solution for listed homes where changing windows might alter their appearance.
Security is a top priority.
Many people think that double glazing is an expensive option, however this is not always the situation. You can actually purchase secondary glazing for less than you might think, especially if you consider that it is an effective security solution. It's not just an effective barrier, but it also offers insulation. This makes it difficult for burglars to get through. Installing secondary glazing is more secure than replacing windows which can be complicated in some instances and require planning permission.
Unlike new windows, which can be customized to fit any home, secondary glazing is designed to fit on the inside of existing window frames. It is a simple and affordable solution that has numerous benefits. In addition it can increase your property's overall security by making it less noisy that can enter your home.
If you are in search of secondary glazing in your area it is important to take into consideration the quality of the product and the services offered by the installers. Check their certifications, insurance documents and guarantees. Also, consider how long the company has been operating for. Selecting double glazing near me will assist you in ensuring that the work is done correctly and efficiently.
Secondary glazing has the primary benefit of reducing heat loss and improving the draughtproofing of your home by constructing another window behind your existing windows. The second pane acts as an insulating layer which reduces heat loss, and also reduces noise intrusion. It is also a cost-effective way to upgrade your existing windows without needing to replace them completely.
If you live in an older home with windows that are single-glazed, then you're probably spending an enormous amount of money for cooling and heating. This is because glass is an excellent conductor of heat, meaning that hot water as well as electricity are being lost through your windows as you're trying to stay warm in the cold winter.
The best solution to tackle this issue is to invest in secondary glazing. This type of window treatment is less expensive than constructing a new window unit, and will provide you with numerous advantages, including improved insulation, lower energy costs as well as enhanced security. You can also choose from a variety of different styles, including hinged units as well as secondary glazing that lifts out.
Improved appearance
One of the main concerns of homeowners is the impact that replacing their windows will impact the appearance of their house. Secondary glazing can increase the same thermal efficiency as double glazing without affecting the appearance. Installation is much simpler than replacing the original windows and it is much faster.
The process involves an individual pane and frame positioned on the inside of the window, leaving a gap of approximately 100mm between them. This acts as an obstruction to heat loss and the seals made of rubber aid in separating the space from the window and limit the transmission of sound. It is a great way to increase insulation in older buildings, where planning restrictions prohibit the use of double-glazed units.
There are a number of different styles of secondary glazing that are available to suit all requirements from those that can be opened just like a window (hinged secondary glazing) to those that are set within the sash frame and are fixed in place. Some are designed to be as subtle as is possible using small frames that are concealed from view and unobtrusive internally. They are especially useful in situations where regular ventilation is required, since opening the sash may cause a health and safety hazard in the event that a significant amount of wind is blowing into the building.
Certain companies offer permanent secondary glazing made of aluminium which is positioned on the exterior of your current window, resulting in higher energy efficiency and a modern appearance. This is a good solution for buildings that are listed or historic. It can also be economical if you are in a financial crunch. You can select the woodgrain or colour to match your home's style to make it appear as if it's always been there.
It is essential to choose a company that has experience in working on your kind of property, and also one that has a great customer service reputation. You can also read online reviews and request recommendations from your family and friends. You should also verify if the company is a member of professional associations, such as the Glass and Glazing Federation.