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Bronze Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is a window solution which improves thermal performance and reduces noise levels without affecting the aesthetics and appearance of a dwelling or building.

Our secondary glazing is a fully independent metal window system installed to the interior of an existing window, and is one of the few systems incorporating double glazed units which have added benefits over other single glazed systems available.

They can be made to any size and shape and can be formed by a number of fixed and opening casements joined together. Options for this are –

  • Openable – side hung on conventional hinges allowing access to the external window for cleaning and ventilation purposes.
  • Removable but secured into position by means of securing tabs - ideal for round or unusual shaped openings or for situations where access is required but hinges are not feasible.
  • Fixed sections which are neither openable nor removable.

All come with a choice of beads and ironmongery from single handles to duplex systems. Some handles also offer a trickle vent option via the keep.

Secondary glazing example
Bronze Secondary glazing example

Benefits of Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing is suitable for a wide range of both residential and commercial properties including listed and heritage buildings, offices, schools, colleges, universities, hospitals and hotels particularly in urban areas. One of the main reasons for the installation of secondary glazing is to alleviate issues such as heat loss and acoustic insulation. Other benefits may include:

  • Improved Thermal Performance
  • Additional layer of security
  • Can be installed within conservation areas, Heritage and Listed buildings
  • Installed internally creating little or no mess
  • Maintain functionality and character of original windows
  • Fine sight lines to maximise incoming light and not obstruct views
  • Bespoke design to suit the original windows
  • Reduction of condensation – stops the inner glass from getting too cold and can prevent condensation forming on both primary and secondary windows
  • Low maintenance and easy to clean due to internal access
  • Additional soundproofing and noise reduction

Secondary Glazing for Listed Buildings

For certain projects, such as listed and heritage buildings, secondary glazing is the only way to improve window thermal performance due to restrictions imposed on them relating to preservation of details of architectural and historical interest.

Listed buildings and period properties tend to have very poor insulation due to original single glazed windows, which in some cases can be a hundred or more years old. Bronze secondary glazing can be chosen to complement many styles without damaging the look of the existing windows or retracting from the value and aesthetics of a period or listed property. These installations are often found within conservation areas, Grade 1 and Grade 2 listed buildings.

Heritage and listed buildings require specialist solutions in treating external noise and thermal performance. London and other UK cities have a high number of listed buildings which require creative restoration to capture the essence of their original design. Architectural Bronze Casements can work alongside architects, designers and clients on a variety of restoration and refurbishment projects

Example of secondary glazing in a listed building
Listed building with bronze secondary glazing
Example of secondary glazing in a city property
Secondary glazing within a city property

Secondary Glazing for City Properties

Restoration programmes within city centres for both domestic and commercial properties have seen the conversion of older buildings into more useable spaces. These converted buildings require specialist solutions to treat issues such as external noise and thermal performance creating a more comfortable and quieter experience for domestic dwellers, hotel guests, students and office workers. Some of the properties may have heritage or listed building status and were built many years ago to standards of their time, but are now no longer suitable for modern day living.

City living offers work, restaurants, bars, culture and entertainment on your doorstep but for most urban homeowners noise, pollution and security can be of great concern. We can work with architects and clients to deliver solutions matching their specifications. Secondary glazing is an efficient and discreet solution to enhance issues connected with noise, thermal efficiency and security in buildings of all ages.

Secondary Glazing and the environment

Secondary glazing encourages resource efficiency by supporting the retention of existing windows instead of the more wasteful process of replacing them. Many people tear out their original windows replacing them with more modern windows which may only last 10-15 years. Secondary glazing is an environmentally friendly alternative. An additional pane is added with no need to remove existing windows, disposing of fittings, glass or panes.

Window Systems for Secondary Glazing

Dependant on the interior aesthetic and shape of the opening, we have various window systems that are suitable for secondary glazing. We generally use the Advanced Inward system although we may use Heritage system where particular shapes are required.

We can utilise either rebate sections or equal leg depending on the shape of the reveal, and on several projects we have had to utilise a timber subframe when there has been no flush reveal or we have been unable to get a direct fix.

Please contact us to discuss your project in more detail and we can advise which would be the most appropriate for your particular situation.

Secondary glazing and the environment
secondary glazing window systems
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For help with your own project, you can take inspiration from our brochure, call us to discuss the details or come and visit us, to see first-hand the quality of our bronze products.