Are you considering secondary glazing for your home? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this ultimate guide, we will cover everything you need to know about this affordable and effective way to increase your home’s energy efficiency. From what it is and how it works, to the benefits and installation process, we have got you covered. So read on to find out if secondary glazing is right for you!

What is secondary glazing?

Secondary glazing is an additional window that is installed on the inside of your existing window, and it is used for properties that can’t have double glazing fitted. It’s perfect for homeowners as it can be used to improve the thermal insulation of your home, reduce noise pollution and increase security. 

Why have secondary glazing?

As mentioned above, secondary glazing can be extremely beneficial to homeowners for a number of reasons. To start with, it can improve the insulation in your home, which is going to allow you to need less heating and cooling for your home. This will save you money on your energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint. As well as this, secondary glazing will also reduce noise pollution if you live in a built up area, and will add an extra layer of protection for you and your family.

Is it better than double glazing?

There are a number of reasons why secondary glazing is better than double glazing, and here are just a couple of them:

  • It’s less expensive – If you’re looking at getting double glazed windows, then you’re going to need to completely replace the set, which can be extremely expensive. Secondary glazing can be added to your existing windows, so the expense is decreased dramatically.
  • It provides better acoustic installation – the two panels of glass actually works better to reduce the noise in your home than double glazing does, so if you live in a built up area then this might be the best option for you.

What are the different types?

Permanent uPVC secondary glazing

This is where an internal secondary window with its own frame is installed behind the existing single glazed window. This must be installed by a professional, and is both stable and reliable.

Permanent wooden secondary glazing

This is any secondary glazing measure which uses wooden frames to hold the secondary panel in place. The positive of this is that wood can be easily adapted by style and colour so it will fit with the aesthetics of your home.

Magnetic secondary glazing

Magnetic secondary glazing works by using magnetic seals to attach the supplementary panel to your existing windows. This is a lightweight and low-cost method.

Secondary glazing film

This is a transparent sheet of plastic which is stuck to an existing pane to try and mimic secondary glazing. Although this offers some thermal protection, this is going to sag and will need replacing.

Temporary secondary glazing

This is a lightweight screen that can be attached or removed from an existing pane as and when required. This is a cheap way to quickly get secondary glazing, however as this is only temporary, it might work out cheaper to get the permanent glazing fixed. 

Secondary glazing can be a great way to improve the insulation of your home and reduce noise levels. If you’re considering installing secondary glazing in your home, our guide will give you all the information you need to get started. If you want to lower your energy bills, increase your safety, and reduce your noise pollution through secondary glazing, then contact us at Andover Glass Works today to find out how our installers can help you.