Improved energy conservation with secondary glazing systems

Buildings account for 44% of the UK’s total carbon emissions and single glazing in buildings is a major source of heat loss. The need to tackle this on both environmental and economic grounds is assuming much greater importance.

Secondary Glazing is a well established method for improving insulation levels within existing buildings and Selectaglaze, the UK’s leading designer, has commissioned independent research to establish thermal performance of its systems through The Centre for Window Cladding and Technology. The calculations covered a range of glazing specifications and were assessed against both timber and metal primary windows.

The results demonstrate that Selectaglaze systems glazed with a hard coat low emissivity glass will reduce the U-value of the window combination to the range 1.8 to1.95, better than the current requirements of Part L. The use of low emissivity sealed glass units to create a triple glazed assembly further improves the U-value to the range 1.6 to1.7.

Secondary windows are also fitted with high performance brush seals or compression seals for hinged panels and the frame is sealed to the whole widow opening. This ensures a dramatic reduction in air infiltration and helps eliminate the annoying draughts that are encountered around single glazed windows.
Selectaglaze’s units are purpose made with a wide choice of styles and finishes. They are fully factory assembled allowing rapid installation with minimal disruption. They do not alter the appearance of a building so therefore offer an ideal solution for Listed buildings or those within conservation areas.

Besides the improvement in thermal insulation secondary glazing will offer significant noise insulation, in the order of 45dB, an important factor for inner city areas, and can also enhance security to Secured by Design standards.

Refurbishment or upgrade projects are often “fast track”, requiring close co-operation between client, contractor, specialists and the professional team. Established in 1966 and a Royal Warrant Holder since 2004, Selectaglaze has a wealth of experience working on this basis in buildings up to Grade 1 listed. The company also offers a technical and specification advisory service to ensure the correct interface with other trades. Programmes are particularly important and proactive site surveys, linked to a modern production facility working on “Lean principles”, ensures projects are delivered on schedule.