Not all houses– particularly those that have actually “listed” status– are able to reap the benefits of double glazing. In such cases, alternatives should be looked for. One such option is what’s called “secondary glazing”. Let’s examine this technology– and see why your home may gain from it.
What’s the problem with double glazing?
Double glazing works by sandwiching an empty space between 2 panes of glass. This prevents the circulation of heat and noise from one side of the window to the other– as vibrations in one pane won’t be conducted right away to the other. In double glazing, the whole plan is housed in the exact same window– so you will not handle the panes separately, however rather as though the gadget is one system.
As window technology has actually advanced, producers have turned to ever-more innovative means of achieving the needed performance. Among these is the practice of putting an inert gas in between the two layers of glass. Heat discovers it even more challenging to travel through such things, therefore a more efficient window is consequently created.
While this is certainly a welcome development that’s saved a massive amount of energy throughout the years, it is one with an unfortunate side effect. Due to the fact that the interior of the window is entirely air-tight, there is a pressure difference in between the air (or lack of it) on the within the window and the exterior. This causes the glass to become a little bowed– an effect which can be observed from the outside of the home.
In period homes in conservation areas, this provides a particular problem. A Georgian property with an otherwise authentic appearance is likely to be undermined if its windows are recognisably modern. Planning permission for such changes, then, is not likely to be approved.
How is secondary glazing different?
Secondary glazing works by enhancing an existing window, rather than replacing it. It includes an extra panel that is put on the within the window, attaching to the frame. It’ll go a long way toward omitting any pesky draughts, as well as minimising sound and heat-retention in similar way that double glazing does (albeit not as efficiently). If you’re the owner of a period home, it’s an obvious option.
Another benefit that can be yielded from secondary glazing is that it’s able to be easily removed when it’s not needed. Throughout the summer season, you may discover that a window (typically a south-facing one) is getting lots sunlight, which you ‘d like to let it through.
Older residential or commercial properties can sometimes be tough to maintain. A set of secondary glazing makes certain to help in reducing those winter heating bills without compromising the appearance of the property– and it’ll do a good deal more besides, too!
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