Why It's Important to Choose the Right Secondary Glazing Installer
Secondary glazing is a great option for homeowners looking to improve the efficiency of their home without spending too much money on new windows. It also helps minimise noise pollution and improves the value of the property.
There are a variety of DIY secondary glazing kits that are available but it is recommended to choose an option that is professionally installed for your home. This is because professionally-installed systems offer a warranty and a guarantee, which the DIY options do not.
Reliability
Secondary glazing involves adding a sheet of plastic or glass to the inside of your existing window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation, and also reduces noise pollution. It's a low-cost alternative to replacing windows, and can make a big difference to your energy bill. It is important to choose the right installer. To ensure the installation is successful, they must possess the right expertise and tools. It is also essential to consider the quality of the product. A reputable business will offer an assurance and will install their systems using the highest standards.
The cost of secondary glazing can vary depending on the type you choose. uPVC is typically the most affordable choice, followed by wooden windows and aluminum. The cost will rise when you need a specific glass type, such as noise-reducing glasses. It is also worth looking at the materials you choose to use in your primary window frames in order to determine the cost of the secondary glazing.
The main benefits of secondary glazing are lower energy costs, improved security, and increased comfort. double glazing installers near me can also help keep windows free of condensation and decrease cleaning. It is ideal for homes with a heritage theme since it can be installed without affecting the original appearance of the window. It's an excellent option for homes built in the past that need to adhere to conservation regulations and the listed building regulations.
The extra pane makes it more difficult for an intruder to enter your property. Some of the best systems are made from toughened glass, which further increases security. They can also be outfitted with coatings that are fire-resistant to stop the spread of flames in the event of the occurrence of a fire.
The installation of secondary glazing is quite straightforward if you follow the instructions that come with your kit. It is important to measure your windows accurately since any mistakes could affect the quality of the completed installation. You should also consider whether you want your secondary glazing to be fixed or removed, as the latter may need to be removed in warmer weather to allow for full operation of the original window. If the latter is the case, you'll require a dedicated storage space for it or be at risk of damage.
Energy efficiency
Secondary glazing can increase the energy efficiency of existing single-glazed windows by adding a second pane of glass inside the window frame. It helps reduce heat loss and draughts, making your home more comfortable and lower heating bills. It also cuts carbon emissions and puts less strain on the electricity grid. It can be a good option for older buildings that are unable to afford to replace windows with double-glazed.
There are a variety of different kinds of secondary glass available. Some are permanent and require professional installation, whereas others are temporary and are easily removed from windows in summer. There are systems that work with sliding sash windows as well as hinged windows with wooden, aluminium or uPVC frames. Some are easy to put in with DIY kits. However, it is important that you measure the window accurately and understand the basics of the home improvement tasks.
Secondary glazing has the advantage of not altering the look of your original window. This is an advantage when you live in a conservation area or are renovating a listed building in which replacing windows may be difficult due to restrictions. The design of the secondary glazing can be altered to match the appearance of your existing windows, so they will blend in seamlessly.
It is essential to review and evaluate reviews prior to selecting a company to do secondary glazing installation. Find a business with a solid track record and a high customer service rating. Check if the company is certified by professional bodies and also if they hold an authorization to do the task. You can also request references from previous customers and learn about their experiences.
Energy efficient solutions are vital to improve the performance of housing, and secondary glazing is one such solution. This product decreases heating requirements and energy consumption, which boosts EPC ratings. It can also be used combination with renewable energy sources like solar panels or air-source heat pumps to increase the efficiency of energy use. It is a great option for local authorities and housing associations seeking to meet the new energy standards for social housing while reducing costs.
Security
Secondary glazing is a second line defence against potential criminals. It acts as a defensible security barrier to prevent burglaries and provides enhanced security without the mess and disruption that comes with replacing windows. This is particularly useful for historic buildings and areas of conservation where preserving the original fabric is crucial.
A second glass pane can be added to your window to help reduce outside noise. This is especially useful in urban areas or if you live near noisy roads, pubs, clubs and airports, or trains. Sound-proofing can create a peaceful space in your home, reducing the noise outside and making it more relaxing.
Another benefit of secondary glazing is that it can aid in improving the energy efficiency of your home. The physical barrier that it adds to the window you already have can dramatically increase the U-value of your home which will help you reduce your heating costs.
Installing secondary glazing is typically easy and fast, with minimal disturbance to your property. It can be installed to your existing window reveal or fixed to the front of your primary windows depending on the type of installation you choose. Face fix is more efficient and requires professional skills, but is cheaper.
The majority of secondary glazing is made from aluminum, with various options available depending on the home you live in. As an example hinged secondary glass opens like a casement and sliding options function like the sash on the window you have already and horizontal sliders provide different opening configurations. A variety of locking systems are available to maximise the security your new secondary glass offers.
If you're thinking of adding secondary glazing to your home, it's essential to choose a reputable and reliable installer. Find a company registered with the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme and a member of the Glass and Glazing Federation. Anglian is one such company, and our work is fully conforming to the building regulations for England and Wales.
Aesthetics
Secondary glazing is a cheap and simple way to improve your home's energy efficiency, cut down on the noise level, and help keep it warmer. It doesn't require the removal of the original windows and is a great alternative for listed buildings or conservation areas where double-glazing isn't permitted. However, it is important to select the right secondary glazing for your home, as there are different options for installation.
Reveal fixing is the easiest type of secondary glazing and is fitted on the inside of your existing single-glazed window. The uPVC frame of the secondary window can be designed to match or enhance your existing windows, and it is recommended that this type of window be installed by a professional for the best results. Reveal fixing lets you open the window in the original for cleaning and ventilation.
Face fixing is a more permanent option and should be performed by a professional installer. The uPVC frames of the secondary windows can be affixed to the outside of the primary window or to the inside. They shouldn't be more than 80mm from the window. This kind of secondary glass is more effective at increasing thermal performance and can be designed to be acoustically neutral.
Secondary glazing of both types can be made available in a wide variety of colours and finishes to match your home's style, and they can be fitted with a selection of glass panes. You can select between acoustic and solar control glasses. The acoustic glass will block out external sound and improve insulation. Solar control glass reduces heat loss and lowers your energy costs.
Secondary glazing is offered in DIY kits. It's simple to put in however it is recommended that you employ a professional to ensure the best results. The kits can be face fixed or reveal and come with all the necessary tools. The face fixed option is better for newer homes, as the uPVC frame blends in with your existing windows. There are also wooden frames, but they can be more difficult to match your existing windows and will not be as durable.