What is Secondary Glazing?

With the global cost of energy soaring and annual bills rising, people are increasingly undertaking home improvement projects and DIY in an attempt to keep their homes warmer, eliminate the draughts and lower the cost of their bills.

Studies have shown that 18% of heat loss occurs through windows and so for many, the windows are the first thing to think of when trying to save on their bills. Both building and window insulation have come a long way in recent years and more people are opting to upgrade to double and even triple glazing options. 

But both double and triple glazing are costly options for homeowners that take time to measure and fit and often require fully replacing your windows. That’s where secondary glazing comes in.

In this latest blog we are going to take a look at secondary glazing, most cost-effective form of glass insulation, and share:

• What secondary glazing is
• The difference between traditional double glazing and secondary glazing
• The benefits of secondary glazing
• Types of secondary glazing, including magnetic and secondary glazing film
• What to do if you think you need secondary glazing

If you have already purchased your magnetic secondary glazing panels and are looking to fit, check out our installation guide.
 
What is Secondary Glazing?
 
So, the central question, what exactly is secondary glazing? Much like both traditional double and triple glazing, secondary glazing involves adding a layer or pane to your windows, which locks in heat. 
 
By fitting an internal pane to your existing single glazed window, you can create multi-glazed glass without the need to replace all the window frames around your home. As a result, secondary glazing is dramatically cheaper to purchase and install than more traditional techniques. 
 
Installing DIY secondary glazing is a simple task too. You can complete it by yourself - without the need to hire expensive labourers to install new windows for you. Here at The Plastic People, we do all the hard work for you too! 
 
We can cut to size/shape the glazing panels and supply a secondary glazing kit, so all you have to do is place the secondary glazing panels in situ. 
 
Benefits of Secondary Glazing 
 
We have already mentioned a few of the benefits of secondary glazing, but here we are going to take a more in-depth look at why you should consider this method of glass insulation over more traditional techniques. 

 

 

 

Types of Secondary Glazing 

There are a few different types of secondary glazing on offer with each providing different benefits but also draw backs. It’s important that you’re familiar with each of them to decide on the right secondary glazing for you.

Magnetic Secondary Glazing

Magnetic glazing offers a simple solution to those trying to insulate their homes or looking to DIY secondary glazing for noise reduction.

The homeowner can simply take the measurements, input them online and have the glazing panels cut to size. All you have to do then is attach the magnetic strips and position the internal glass in place – it’s that simple.

Pros of magnetic glazing

• Simple installation
• Affordable
• Semi-permanent so you can install and remove panels
• Fittings can also use a range of other plastic adhesives

Cons of magnetic glazing

• Strong winds can knock off the glazing panels although this is rare and panels can easily be reattached

Check out our magnetic secondary glazing installation guide for more information.

Secondary Glazing Film 

Window secondary glazing film is a self-adhesive and transparent film, which you stick to the inside of your window to create a double-glazing effect. It offers a simple DIY option to help insulate your home.

Pros of secondary glazing film

• Affordable
• Easy to install
• Adds another layer of insulation

Cons of secondary glazing film

• More visible on the window
• Over time the secondary glazing film can sag
• Noise reduction is limited
• Thermal insulation is also limited

 
Wooden and Aluminium Secondary Glazing 
Wooden and aluminium secondary glazing are the two methods that most resemble traditional double uPVC double glazing. These involve either wooden or aluminium frames – made to mimic your existing window frame – which holds the glass insulation panels in place. 

Pros of wooden and aluminium secondary glazing

• Easier to fit to the style of your home
• Offers much more insulation
• Robust materials offer durability

Cons of wooden and aluminium secondary glazing

• A much more expensive option which can sometimes equal that of uPVC double glazing
• Cannot easily be removed once installed
• Often needs a professional to install

What to do if You Need Secondary Glazing

Already homeowners and renters across the UK are turning to DIY secondary glazing for noise reduction and insulation, swerving more traditional double and triple glazing and the bigger price tag that comes with them.
Hopefully now you understand the pros and cons of the different types of secondary glazing and which one may be right for you and your home. If you are still in the dark on whether secondary glazing is the right solution for you and would like more advice get in touch today.