The likelihood is that if you have single glazed windows in your home, you will benefit from looking at the environmental benefits of secondary glazing.
Prior to looking at why this form of glazing might be considered, it firstly is necessary to define exactly what it comprises. In nature it is very similar to double glazing, but costs less and requires no extra planning permission because no structural alterations are made. This makes it a very neat alternative for the less affluent or those bound by building regulations.
Installation of secondary glazed windows should be carried out by a qualified fitter for best results, but the process is fairly simplistic and anyone with sound DIY experience should be able to do the same job at a fraction of the cost. The two main forms of this glazing are the basic version which is simply a plastic sheet fitted over the existing window, and the more advanced option which is an additional glass pane fitted in a frame added to the existing window.
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.
As well as thermal insulation, acoustic insulation can also be substantially improved. In the hectic society we live in, noise can be a major source of annoyance and whether it comes from traffic, music, or general hustle and bustle it can lead to increased amounts of stress. In reality noise pollution can actually have a seriously detrimental impact on health, and the benefits of reducing this should not be underestimated.
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.
As well as the obvious environmental benefits, the fact that heating bills can reduce by up to a third is a real bonus. This saving must be factored into any calculation made when determining whether the glazing is affordable, and of course the monthly savings made will be ongoing.
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.
By looking at the environmental benefits of secondary glazing, and indeed the minor disadvantages, an informed choice can be made in determining whether this particular glazing solution is suitable for your particular situation.
Prior to looking at why this form of glazing might be considered, it firstly is necessary to define exactly what it comprises. In nature it is very similar to double glazing, but costs less and requires no extra planning permission because no structural alterations are made. This makes it a very neat alternative for the less affluent or those bound by building regulations.
Installation of secondary glazed windows should be carried out by a qualified fitter for best results, but the process is fairly simplistic and anyone with sound DIY experience should be able to do the same job at a fraction of the cost. The two main forms of this glazing are the basic version which is simply a plastic sheet fitted over the existing window, and the more advanced option which is an additional glass pane fitted in a frame added to the existing window.
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.
As well as thermal insulation, acoustic insulation can also be substantially improved. In the hectic society we live in, noise can be a major source of annoyance and whether it comes from traffic, music, or general hustle and bustle it can lead to increased amounts of stress. In reality noise pollution can actually have a seriously detrimental impact on health, and the benefits of reducing this should not be underestimated.
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.
As well as the obvious environmental benefits, the fact that heating bills can reduce by up to a third is a real bonus. This saving must be factored into any calculation made when determining whether the glazing is affordable, and of course the monthly savings made will be ongoing.
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.
By looking at the environmental benefits of secondary glazing, and indeed the minor disadvantages, an informed choice can be made in determining whether this particular glazing solution is suitable for your particular situation.
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The environmental benefits of secondary glazing are endless. Get the ultimate low down on the best sash window company now in our exclusive online secondary glazing London overview.