If your property still has only single glazed windows, you might be keen to enhance your understanding of what the environmental benefits of secondary glazing actually are.
Before discussing the pros and cons, it is important to know exactly what this is as it can often be confused with double glazing. While the aims are similar to those of double glazing, this is a cheaper and easier option and is often used as an alternative when local building and planning restrictions exist.
Secondary glazed windows can be achieved either by adding an additional pane of glass to an existing window, or by fixing a plastic sheet to the existing window. It is best to have an expert install any additional panes to get the most out of the improvements, but the plastic sheeting can easily be installed by any amateur DIY enthusiast.
Greater thermal performance is generally considered to be the main advantage of these windows as an increase in efficiency of up to 60% is obtainable and troublesome draughts can quickly be remedied. As most energy conscious environmentalists know, the majority of heat lost in the home is through the windows, and carbon emissions can be significantly reduced by fitting a secondary window.
With population levels higher than ever before it is not surprising that the noise made from society is also at a peak. It is therefore fortuitous that improved acoustic insulation is another worthy benefit of this glazing. It may seem a minor plus, but doctors report that the stress caused by noise pollution can become so severe that it can lead to a complete mental breakdown, and anything that prevents the erosion of mental health has to be valued.
Greater protection is also provided as the stronger barrier can prevent unwelcome guests from breaking in via the window. Gunshots, explosions and fires are also less likely to penetrate a strengthened window, and those more concerned with security will find peace of mind an unexpected advantage.
For all the practical and environmental benefits, the financial gain cannot be overlooked either. It is estimated that secondary insulation can reduce heating bills by a third, and these savings must be considered when weighing up the cost of installation.
It should also be recognized that there is one potential disadvantage to these windows that can be extremely dangerous if not corrected immediately. A lack of ventilation caused by a poorly fitted window can result in a build up of condensation, which in turn can cause the windows to decay internally. Although this can be fairly common, it is also easily prevented if due care is taken.
Now the environmental benefits of secondary glazing should appear more obvious, and are hopefully a useful guide in helping decide how best to insulate your home or office.
Before discussing the pros and cons, it is important to know exactly what this is as it can often be confused with double glazing. While the aims are similar to those of double glazing, this is a cheaper and easier option and is often used as an alternative when local building and planning restrictions exist.
Secondary glazed windows can be achieved either by adding an additional pane of glass to an existing window, or by fixing a plastic sheet to the existing window. It is best to have an expert install any additional panes to get the most out of the improvements, but the plastic sheeting can easily be installed by any amateur DIY enthusiast.
Greater thermal performance is generally considered to be the main advantage of these windows as an increase in efficiency of up to 60% is obtainable and troublesome draughts can quickly be remedied. As most energy conscious environmentalists know, the majority of heat lost in the home is through the windows, and carbon emissions can be significantly reduced by fitting a secondary window.
With population levels higher than ever before it is not surprising that the noise made from society is also at a peak. It is therefore fortuitous that improved acoustic insulation is another worthy benefit of this glazing. It may seem a minor plus, but doctors report that the stress caused by noise pollution can become so severe that it can lead to a complete mental breakdown, and anything that prevents the erosion of mental health has to be valued.
Greater protection is also provided as the stronger barrier can prevent unwelcome guests from breaking in via the window. Gunshots, explosions and fires are also less likely to penetrate a strengthened window, and those more concerned with security will find peace of mind an unexpected advantage.
For all the practical and environmental benefits, the financial gain cannot be overlooked either. It is estimated that secondary insulation can reduce heating bills by a third, and these savings must be considered when weighing up the cost of installation.
It should also be recognized that there is one potential disadvantage to these windows that can be extremely dangerous if not corrected immediately. A lack of ventilation caused by a poorly fitted window can result in a build up of condensation, which in turn can cause the windows to decay internally. Although this can be fairly common, it is also easily prevented if due care is taken.
Now the environmental benefits of secondary glazing should appear more obvious, and are hopefully a useful guide in helping decide how best to insulate your home or office.
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