How To Best Discover The Environmental Benefits Of Secondary Glazing

Posted by Business
By Roger McNiel


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.

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.

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.

To balance things up, it is necessary to point out the one major disadvantage that crops up from time to time. That disadvantage is condensation. If the glazing is not fitted correctly, the lack of ventilation can cause a build up of condensation which may not sound that serious, but if not treated it can actually lead to the window rotting away from the inside.

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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