Both double glazing and secondary glazing are common ways for homeowners to improve the efficiency of their living spaces. Both work well to not only save energy but also reduce carbon emissions coming from a house. These two methods, however, are by no means equal in efficiency. One of the most notable differences is with secondary glazing and condensation.
Those who elect to install double glazing can expect to save about one-half of their current energy consumption. Good quality double-glazed windows are extremely efficient at blocking not only heat loss but also air and noise pollution. They will make your home quieter, cleaner, warmer (or cooler in summer) and more comfortable. They’re very good at their job.
One reason double glazing is so effective is because of the insulating space between the two panes of glass. This may be filled with air, gas (such as argon) or left empty (with a slight vacuum). This space acts as an insulating barrier and must be properly sealed in order to function correctly.
Sometimes ‘Low Emissivity’ (Low-E) glass is used, which significantly increases the window’s efficiency. This Low-E coating, applied to one side of the glass pane, is able to keep the heat in your house by bouncing it back when it’s trying to escape through the window. At the same time, Low-E allows the sun’s solar rays through, making good use of the sun’s warmth. It’s a great technological innovation.
Because an air-tight seal is critical for double-glazed windows to perform properly, condensation (moisture build-up) is a rarity. Secondary glazing, however, does have problems in this area, due to its configuration. These are windows applied from the home’s interior, right over the existing windows (usually single-glazed units). This method is not nearly as efficient as replacement with double-glazed models but may still be the best (or only) option in some cases.
Secondary glazing can be utilized without obtaining planning consent. If you happen to live in a Conservation area or your home is listed you may not be permitted to install newer style windows. The secondary glazing option may be your only recourse.
Besides problems with secondary glazing and condensation there are also a few other considerations. Secondary, internally fitted windows may be inconvenient during the warmer months and will need to be removed and stored away. In case of an emergency (such as a fire) they might make escape from the home more difficult. But, in certain situations they are definitely a viable option.
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