Issue 40 winter 23 web - Flipbook - Page 29
Smashing secondary
glazing myths
Ask any prospective customer what their glazing preference is, and the chances are they won’t say
“secondary”. There’s a feeling that it’s old fashioned, and an inferior alternative to single or double
glazing.
As we know, that’s far from the truth. But sometimes the
truth needs to be told. So we caught up with Nicholas
Dabney, Technical Advisor at secondary glazing experts,
Selectaglaze, to take a closer look at these secondary
glazing myths - and put an end to them once and for all.
Myth: Secondary glazing isn’t relevant in today’s
market
In a time of soaring heating costs, more stringent energy
efficiency regulations and an ever-growing climate crisis,
secondary glazing has never been more relevant.
Myth: Secondary glazing is a cheap alternative to
replacing primary windows
‘Cheap’ isn’t an attractive word, but the fact is that
secondary glazing is often the most cost-effective retrofit
solution to tackle issues with cold, noise and security.
“It’s being used more and more frequently to insulate
existing buildings - even ones with existing double
glazing,” says Nic, “and it’s by far the best way of providing
noise insulation. A 4mm primary window complemented
by a 4mm Selectaglaze secondary glazing unit with a
150mm cavity in-between will provide approximately
45dB Rw. It’s a higher rating than most modern double
or triple glazed units deliver.”
“Wholesale window replacement is an expense few
businesses want to incur,” says Nic. “In a recent office
refurb project that we were involved in, it wasn’t initially
part of the plans. But by the time a cost benefit analysis
was undertaken, it was. Replacing primary windows
requires scaffolding and this means lots of manpower, time
and money. Secondary glazing can be a phased installation, so businesses can still operate and spread the
financial commitment.
“So if by ‘cheap’, people mean cost-effective and flexible,
then this is one myth that rings true.”
“Secondary glazing installation is a more sustainable option than replacement of primary windows”, adds Nic
“The embodied carbon in the existing windows is retained
and there is no carbon cost associated with removing and
sorting materials for recycling or landfill.”
Below, with energy prices on the rise, secondary glazing is a
cost-effective way of keeping heating bills down.