Eco-Friendly Insulation: How Secondary Glazing and Draught-Proofing Work Together

by Clearview Secondary Glazing

Draught-proofing your windows is an affordable and effective way to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By sealing gaps that allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape, you can maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce heating costs. When combined with secondary glazing, draught-proofing provides an even greater level of insulation and noise reduction. This article explores various methods for draught-proofing both standard and sash windows, offering practical solutions.

Identifying Draught Sources

Before implementing draught-proofing measures, it is essential to identify where draughts are entering your home. Common problem areas include gaps around window frames, loose sashes, and worn-out seals. A thorough inspection will help determine the most effective solutions for your specific situation.

Draught-Proofing Standard Windows

For standard windows, several DIY methods can effectively reduce draughts:

• Self-Adhesive Draught Strips: Applying weather seals or weatherstripping between the windows and their frames can seal gaps and prevent air leakage. These materials are affordable, easy to install, and a popular choice among homeowners.
• Window Film: Installing insulating film over the glass adds an extra layer of protection against heat loss. This transparent film is typically applied using heat from a hairdryer, creating a tight seal that reduces draughts.
• Draught Excluders: Placing draught excluders at the base of windows can block cold air from entering. These can be purchased or made at home, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution.
• Locks and Hinges Maintenance: Ensuring that locks and hinges are regularly maintained can help minimise draughts. Loose or damaged hardware may create gaps that let in cold air.

Draught-Proofing Sash Windows

Sash windows, commonly found in period properties, require specific draught-proofing approaches due to their sliding mechanisms. There are many products available, but not all are equally effective. Some of the most common DIY solutions include applying silicone sealant to small gaps, using self-adhesive weatherstrips to seal the edges, or installing brush seal weatherstrips that allow smooth sash movement while blocking draughts. Metal weatherstrips offer a more durable, long-term solution, while temporary window sealers provide a short-term fix ideal for use during colder months.

For a more comprehensive and long-lasting approach, hiring professionals to install integrated draught-proofing systems can be a worthwhile investment. This process typically involves adding discreet seals within the window frame, ensuring minimal visual impact while significantly improving energy efficiency.

Additional Tips for Enhancing Window Insulation

Beyond sealing gaps, other measures can further improve your windows insulation:

• Thermal Curtains: Using heavy or thermal-lined curtains adds an extra layer of insulation, reducing heat loss through windows. Closing curtains at dusk helps retain warmth accumulated during the day.
• Secondary Glazing: Installing secondary glazing involves adding a secondary pane of glass inside the existing window frame. This method significantly improves thermal performance and soundproofing without altering the property’s exterior appearance. When paired with draught-proofing, secondary glazing creates an even more effective barrier against heat loss and noise intrusion.

Conclusion

Draught-proofing your windows is a practical and cost-effective way to improve your home’s warmth and energy efficiency. Whether you opt for DIY solutions such as weatherstripping and draught excluders or seek professional services for more complex systems, addressing draughts is a worthwhile investment. For the best results, combining draught-proofing with secondary glazing provides superior insulation, enhanced comfort, and reduced energy costs—all while maintaining the character of your home.

Clearview Secondary Glazing

Clearview secondary glazing - the solution to significantly improved acoustic and heat insulation to your property, making your home or offices more comfortable, secure, greener and cost efficient to run. Achieved without the disruption of replacement windows, and without damaging the character of your building.

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