The likelihood is that if you have single glazed windows in your home, you will benefit from looking at the enivironmental benefits of secondary glazing.
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.
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.
There are numerous benefits to be gained from upgrading your windows, and an improved thermal performance is one of the main ones. The effectiveness of a window can be enhanced by up to 60% with a well fitted upgrade, and light breezes can be eradicated completely. Most heat lost from the home escapes through the windows and from an environmental viewpoint, an improved thermal insulation system considerably lowers carbon emissions.
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.
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.
In order to avoid bias, it should also be noted that there is one common complaint about secondary glazed windows. If the installation is not carried out to a sufficiently high standard there is a real risk of condensation. It is essential that if condensation builds up, you try to allow enough air circulation to prevent the problem worsening as this can cause the windows to rot from the inside.
By looking at the enivironmental 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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