Secondary – and double-glazing are both tried and true methods of making a building more energy efficient. Both will reduce heating and cooling costs and also lessen carbon-dioxide emissions. Both work well but are certainly not equal in their efficiency or functionality. For one thing, there is an on-going problem with secondary glazing and condensation. This is not such a problem with double-panes.
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 secret behind the effectiveness of a double-glazed window is the space between the two panes. This acts as an insulating barrier and, if properly sealed, will be very efficient in insulating that huge hole in your wall called a ‘window’. This space may be filled with air or an inert gas (such as argon). It can also sometimes be void with a slight vacuum maintained in the space.
If Low-E glass is used the window will be even more efficient. Low-E, which stands for low-emissivity, is a microscopically small coating added to one side of the glass. This enables the window to bounce back long-waves of energy (room heat, for example) into the room but allow short-waves (solar energy from the sun) to enter. This is very ‘smart’ glass.
Properly installed double-glazed windows will have an air-tight seal, which is important for several reasons. One distinct advantage is the rarity of condensation forming on this type of unit. This, however, is not the case with secondary glazing, which is frequently associated with moisture and condensation problems. This method consists of putting an additional window inside your house, right over the existing single-paned unit. It’s not nearly as efficient, however, it may still be your best choice.
Prior planning consent is not required in order to install secondary windows. For homes that are listed (or in Conservation areas) this may be the best option. It may, in fact, be your ONLY option.
Besides the problems associated with secondary glazing and condensation there is also the inconvenience of this type of arrangement to be taken into account. You may want to remove these secondary windows during the summer months, which means finding a storage area for them. Also be aware that these types of windows will normally make escape from the house in an emergency more difficult.
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