Two very different solutions to the same complaints — and how to tell which one your property needs.
Secondary glazing adds an independent internal pane behind the existing window. Replacement windows change the window itself. They are often presented as alternatives, but they suit quite different situations.
This guide sets out where each genuinely performs, particularly for period and protected properties where replacement may not be permitted at all.
Its strongest case is on properties where the original windows must stay:
Where replacement is permitted and the frames are past their life:
If your property is listed or in a conservation area, start by finding out what you're allowed to do — that often settles it. If replacement is permitted and the frames are tired, replacement is usually the better long-term spend. If the windows are sound and the problem is noise, secondary glazing is hard to beat.
Tell us about the property and the problem you're solving, and we'll say which route we'd take.
It improves on a single-glazed window considerably, but a modern sealed unit in a modern frame generally performs better thermally.
Often yes — listed building consent can be required even for internal alterations. Speak to your local conservation officer before ordering anything.
We'll tell you what we see and what's typically required, but the local authority is the authority on consent. We'll never tell you it's fine when it isn't confirmed.