subject: Secondary Glazing : The Best Answer For Cutting Heat Loss In Older Homes [print this page] Anyone living in an older property where they want, or are obliged to keep the existing exterior windows, but need extra insulation to help cut energy costs, will find that secondary glazing makes a sound choice. Secondary glazing is distinct from conventional double glazing in that the units are intended to fit inside existing windows to provide additional insulation from draughts and cold weather, and can often be removed when they are not needed.
A wide range of secondary glazed window designs is available, while they also vary in terms of durability, ease of use and cost. The most basic designs are nothing more than temporary plastic sheets, but more sophisticated designs are also widely available. These can be made from rigid plastic or glass, and can be custom made to provide a permanent installation.
In many cases, these can slide fully open to give easy access to the exterior windows. This is a practical solution which allows you to keep both sets of windows clean, and to paint, stain or varnish the insides of your external frames.
A single secondary glazing unit simply fits directly over the existing window, providing a second glass layer which cannot be moved or opened. This makes for an ideal solution if your window is particularly exposed to winds or draughts, or is in shade for much of the time.
Combination secondary glazing can be fixed permanently over existing windows, but these windows can slide or pivot, allowing both sets of windows to be cleaned, and allowing you to control the level of insulation according to the weather conditions.
Frames for secondary glazing windows are now available in the same variety of materials and colours as all other types of frame, including wood and aluminum, so that they match and do not spoil the look of your existing windows.
If you own an older house, with distinctive original window frames, they no doubt contribute a great deal to the overall character of your property. So while you may want to improve your home's energy efficiency, it is also important that any measures you take to do this do not affect the aesthetics of the building.
Secondary glazing is therefore the ideal solution, offering you the benefits of double the level of sound and heat insulation, but letting you reduce that insulation when it is not needed, for example when (or if) the British summer arrives!
