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With heating costs continuing to rise, homeowners across the UK are constantly seeking ways to improve their properties. Secondary glazing has emerged as a practical and cost-effective way to improve your home’s performance without the disruption of a complete window replacement.
We’ve written this piece to explain precisely what secondary glazing is, why you might opt for it and what it can do for your property.
What is Secondary Glazing?
Secondary glazing involves installing an additional window frame on the interior side of your existing window. Unlike replacement double glazing, this system preserves your original windows while providing many of the benefits of double glazing. It’s particularly valuable in period homes and conservation areas where maintaining the original character of the building is essential. The installation creates an insulating air barrier between your existing window and the secondary glazing panel, dramatically improving thermal and acoustic performance.
The Benefits of Secondary Glazing
Improved Thermal Performance
One of the primary reasons homeowners choose secondary glazing is to combat heat loss. Secondary glazing panels significantly improve insulation by creating an additional barrier between your home and the cold air outside. This extra layer helps trap warm air inside, reduce draughts and lower energy bills. The improved thermal insulation helps maintain consistent room temperatures throughout the year, reducing the strain on your heating system and leading to noticeable reductions in heating bills.
Superior Sound Insulation
While double glazing reduces noise, secondary glazing often performs even better. The larger gap between panes of glass provides excellent sound insulation, making it particularly effective for homes near busy roads, urban areas or more severe cases like near construction areas or on flight paths. The significant gap between your original window and the secondary glazing system creates an effective sound barrier that can reduce external noise by up to 50dB.
Preservation of Period Properties
Secondary glazing offers a perfect solution for listed buildings and homes in conservation areas. Unlike replacement windows, secondary glazing systems can be installed without altering the external appearance of your property, helping you meet building regulations while preserving historical features. This makes it particularly valuable for period properties where maintaining original sash windows or other traditional styles is essential. Many conservation officers actively recommend secondary glazing as the preferred solution for improving the thermal performance of historic buildings.
Installation and Maintenance
Secondary glazing installation is typically less disruptive than installing replacement windows. The process involves fitting the new frame to your existing window frame, ensuring proper alignment and sealing. Professional installation provides proper ventilation between the panes of glass, preventing condensation issues that can affect single glazing and poorly installed windows.
Maintenance is straightforward – regular cleaning with warm, soapy water keeps the frames and panes looking their best. With proper care, secondary glazing can maintain its effectiveness and appearance for many years.
Cost Considerations
The cost of secondary glazing is often far less than full window replacement. The investment delivers immediate benefits through improved comfort and noise reduction, while the decrease in heating bills provides ongoing returns. When considering the cost of secondary glazing, it’s essential to factor in the long-term energy savings, increased property value, lack of disruption, and quicker installation time.
Incarnation Secondary Glazing from Futureglaze
At Futureglaze, we offer Incarnation Secondary Glazing, an innovative system combining elegant design and outstanding performance. These bespoke units feature slim-line aluminium profiles that complement any interior while remaining virtually invisible from the outside. The system’s versatility makes it suitable for all window styles, from traditional sash windows to modern casement windows.
Each unit is made to measure, ensuring a perfect fit that maximises thermal and acoustic performance. The system features high-quality aluminium frames available in any RAL colour, allowing perfect integration with your interior design. Whether you’re looking to preserve the character of period homes or improve the efficiency of a modern property, Incarnation secondary glazing provides a far simpler solution than complete window replacement.
Why Choose Futureglaze?
With 36 years of experience serving South Wales, our team understands the unique challenges faced by homeowners. We’ve installed home improvement products in everything from listed buildings to modern homes, developing extensive expertise. Our reputation has been built on delivering exceptional quality and service, earning us over 500 positive reviews on Checkatrade.
Our accreditations from FENSA, CHAS, and Construction Line demonstrate our commitment to maintaining the highest standards. This combination of experience, expertise and recognition makes us the ideal choice for your secondary glazing installation.
Preserve, Protect, and Improve Your Windows
Secondary glazing is an excellent solution for improving your home’s comfort and performance with minimal disruption and maintaining its character. Secondary glazing provides several benefits, especially for period homes or properties in conservation areas seeking better efficiency.
To discuss your needs and whether secondary glazing is the right option for you, you can call us on 01443 423 423, email us at sales@futureglaze.co.uk, visit us in person at our showroom, or use our online contact form.
We look forward to hearing from you.
