Secondary Glazing vs Double Glazing
Complete comparison guide for secondary glazing vs double glazing 2025. Cost, performance, installation, and suitability differences explained by glazing experts.
Quick Comparison Overview
At a glance comparison of secondary glazing vs double glazing across key factors.
| Factor | Secondary Glazing | Double Glazing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £150-800 per window | £400-1500 per window |
| Installation Time | 1-2 hours per window | 4-8 hours per window |
| Disruption | Minimal | Significant |
| Heritage Properties | Ideal - no planning | Often restricted |
| Noise Reduction | Up to 80% (50dB) | Up to 70% (42dB) |
| Thermal Performance | 50-70% improvement | 70-80% improvement |
Detailed Comparison
In-depth analysis of secondary glazing vs double glazing across all key factors.
Cost Comparison
Secondary Glazing
- • £150-800 per window installed
- • No structural changes needed
- • Lower labor costs
- • Immediate installation
Double Glazing
- • £400-1500 per window installed
- • Frame replacement required
- • Higher material costs
- • Longer project timeline
Installation Time
Secondary Glazing
- • 1-2 hours per window
- • Same-day completion
- • Minimal disruption
- • No structural work
Double Glazing
- • 4-8 hours per window
- • Multi-day project
- • Significant disruption
- • Frame removal required
Suitability
Secondary Glazing
- • Perfect for heritage properties
- • No planning permission
- • Rental properties
- • Quick noise solution
Double Glazing
- • Modern properties
- • Long-term investment
- • New builds
- • Maximum thermal efficiency
When to Choose Each Option
Expert guidance on when secondary glazing or double glazing is the better choice for your property.
Choose Secondary Glazing When:
Heritage or Listed Buildings
No planning permission required, preserves original windows
Rental Properties
Reversible solution, lower investment, immediate benefits
Noise is Primary Concern
Superior noise reduction performance, especially for traffic noise
Budget Constraints
Lower cost, excellent value for money, immediate installation
Minimal Disruption Required
Same-day installation, no structural changes, continue living normally
Choose Double Glazing When:
Modern Properties
No heritage restrictions, can modify existing frames
Long-term Investment
Permanent solution, adds property value, 20+ year lifespan
Maximum Thermal Efficiency
Highest energy savings, best thermal performance available
Window Replacement Needed
Existing windows are damaged, old, or beyond repair
New Build or Extension
Building from scratch, can design optimal glazing solution
Still Unsure Which Option is Best?
Get expert advice tailored to your specific property and requirements. Our specialists will help you choose the perfect glazing solution.