What is Secondary Glazing?

Are you looking for better heat and noise insulation for your home but are concerned about replacing your current single-glazed windows? 

Secondary glazing could be an option for you. In this article we will give you all the information you need to help you make an informed decision. 

What’s the difference between Secondary Glazing and Double Glazing?

Secondary glazing consists of installing a completely independent pane of glass that can be joined to the window or door in a variety of ways. This means that the original window does not need to be altered and depending on your requirements, there are semi-permanent choices that are less invasive to your property. 

Double glazing on the other hand is made up of two sealed glass panes separated by a 10-20mm air gap. The air gap helps to improve the thermal insulation, specially when coated glass is used and the air gap is filled with an inert gas. 

Their Advantages Over Single Glazing 

The advantages of secondary glazing are particularly evident when compared to single glazing, here are some of the benefits switching you single glazed to secondary glazing: 

Extra security 

Windows are one of the most common access points for intruders. Fragile single glazed windows will make your home an easy target; whether it’s a stray football or something more dangerous, these windows can be easily damaged, leaving your home exposed to danger. With a subtle extra layer of protection, you can be assured that your house is safer against potential; break-uns. 

Improved thermal insulation

Secondary glazing can help you save on your energy bills by making your home more thermally efficient. The secondary panel effectively insulates your windows, with a fully sealed panel forming an airtight barrier between your home and outside. 

Noise reduction

There’s always some unpleasant noise coming from outside. The secondary pane of glass and air gap serves as an additional sound insulation barrier. The level of sound insulation can be boosted by increasing the distance between the panels. This is ideal for older homes where the windows cannot be changed but you still want to reduce the level of noise entering your house. 

Easy to install

One of the main advantages of the secondary glazing is that it is easy to install and there’s no invasive installation, no major disruption and there’s no need to seek planning permission. It’s a quick solution to make your home secure and more comfortable. 

Cost effective

Secondary glazing tends to be cheaper than installing double glazing or triple glazed windows. The installation is less technical and takes less time. It will not only improve your comfort but also help you reduce your energy consumption. 

Secondary Glazing Options

Permanent uPVC Secondary Glazing

This type of secondary glazing is arguably the best choice in many circumstances, and it includes installing an internal secondary window behind your current single glazed window. The secondary panel will have its own frame and be sealed around the edges to improve thermal efficiency. This is the most stable, reliable and thermally efficient secondary glazing option.

Permanent Wooden Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing made of wood is held in place by wooden frames. It is available in a number of styles to mimic the appearance of original wooden windows. The main appeal of wooden secondary glazing is its ability to look stylish in the right setting. 

Magnetic Secondary Glazing

Magnetic secondary glazing, as the name suggests, uses magnetic seals to attach the extra glass to your existing windows. Stick the magnetic seals to the secondary unit and existing windows, then click them into position as needed. It is absolutely low cost and lightweight. Magnetic secondary glazing can also be easily cut to size and requires minimal DIY skills. 

Secondary Glazing Film

Secondary glazing film is a thin, transparent film that can be applied to your window to create a double glazing effect. Once installed heat is applied to tighten it to the window. This is a cost effective and convenient method. This option provides some thermal enhancement and condensation management for a minimal cost.

Temporary Secondary Glazing

Rather than referring to a specific material, temporary secondary glazing encompasses any basic, lightweight screen that can be laced and withdrawn as needed. There are several types including magnetic secondary glazing and those that use buckles or clips to hold the panel of glass or plastic in place. If you need a temporary solution, this option is a great alternative. Let’s say your single glazed windows are being replaced, but you need something to boost the efficiency of your existing windows for the time being. 

Why Choose Us?

With over 5 decades of experience, we have established ourselves as one of the most trusted home improvement specialists in the Aylesbury and Buckinghamshire markets. We are a FENSA certified company and offer a 10 year guarantee backed by unparalleled workmanship and unrivalled support every step of the way. 

We know that choosing the right secondary glazing that provides optimum functionality can be a daunting task, but our team of experienced professionals go above and beyond to understand our customer’s needs and based on their preferences, and help them choose from a range of styles that comply to the best quality standards. 

If you are ready to install your secondary glazing with us, use our online quoting engine to get your bespoke quote. Alternatively, you can call us 01296 415 251 on or fill out our contact form and a member of our team will get in touch with you.