Magnetic Secondary Glazing Or DIY Kits?

Are you looking to improve your home’s insulation, reduce noise or cut down on condensation? Secondary glazing is a practical and very cost-effective solution for homeowners and there is a wide range of options available to suit all budgets and requirements.
However, when it comes to finding the best secondary glazing for you, which is the best option? In this blog, we take a look at the pros and cons of magnetic secondary glazing and DIT kits, helping you make an educated decision.
What is magnetic secondary glazing?
Magnetic secondary glazing involves attaching a lightweight, removable pane of acrylic or glass to the inside of your existing window using magnetic strips. It’s a relatively quick and inexpensive method to add an extra insulating layer.
Pros of magnetic secondary glazing
- Simple to install, with no drilling or heavy tools required.
- Very effective at reducing heat loss and lowering energy bills.
- Adds a barrier that helps limit moisture buildup.
- Significantly cheaper than new windows.
- Fully customisable to fit your window openings.
Cons of magnetic secondary glazing
- Can often lack premium aesthetics and appear cheap and flimsy.
- Are less suitable for larger windows as magnetic seals may not hold the panel securely.
- Can weaken over time or become damaged due to strong winds.
- Offers no meaningful improvement in window strength or resistance to break-ins.
- Can be easily damaged when removing them for cleaning or ventilation.
DIY secondary glazing kits
If you’re a confident DIYer, a secondary glazing kit can be an excellent way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and acoustic insulation, all without the cost of professional installation.
Many kits on the market include either rigid panels or insulating films. The latter, which is a thin transparent sheet applied with adhesive, is cheap and easy to fit; however, it often provides minimal insulation, looks cloudy and offers little to no noise reduction. By contrast, a high-quality DIY secondary glazing kit, like those from Clearview, provides a much more effective and attractive solution.
Pros of DIY secondary glazing kits
- Each panel arrives ready to install and tailored to your window.
- Significantly improves both heat and sound insulation.
- Adds a sealed air gap that helps to keep moisture at bay.
- Adds an additional layer of protection against forced entry.
- Panels include finishing trims for a clean look.
- Easy to follow and comes with clear installation guides.
- Approved for use by the National Trust in heritage homes.
Cons of DIY secondary glazing kit
- Does require some basic tools and DIY essentials to complete the installation.
- Installers will also need some DIY skills and confidence.
- Poor quality DIY secondary glazing does not look as appealing (although this isn’t a concern with our range).
- Incorrect measuring or fitting could lead to fitment issues. However, again this is not an issue with our Clearview range thanks to the clear instructions and installation guides provided.
Start transforming your home today
While magnetic secondary glazing options can be effective, the results are often far below those provided by DIY kits like those offered at Clearview. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality glazing at affordable prices, with all of our kits coming fully assembled and pre-drilled to ensure a smooth and quick installation.
Want to learn more? Get in touch today or secure your free, no obligation quote here!
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