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Search Results for: Secondary Glazing

What is secondary glazing?

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Secondary glazing can provide a cost-effective and efficient way of improving the heat retention, sound reduction and security of your windows.

 

Secondary glazing involves installing a “secondary” window, i.e. a fully independent internal window, on the room side of your existing primary window.

Fitting an internal secondary window forms double glazing with your existing single glazed window. The secondary window is a separate unit consisting of a single glazed pane within its own frame and is fitted on the room side of your existing windows and sealed around the edges.

The range of secondary windows includes horizontal sliders, vertical sliders, top hung, side hung, double side hung, lift-outs, and removable fixed panels fitted onto the back of doors.

What are the benefits of secondary glazing?

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective way of improving heat retention and sound reduction in your home, as well as providing some additional security.

It can be a great less expensive alternative to replacing double or triple glazed primary windows.

Secondary windows units usually have separate handles and open so that you can get access to clean and open your primary windows.

Secondary glazing can result in significant cost savings

Secondary glazing is considerably cheaper and easier to fit than replacement windows because it doesn’t require complete removal and replacement of your existing windows.

everest secondary glazing raised

Heat loss is reduced with secondary glazing

A major long-term benefit of secondary glazing is heat retention properties. This is because it adds a second layer of glass behind your existing primary windows that reduce both the amount of warm air that can escape from your home and the amount of cold air that can enter.

The heat generated from your heating system will remain inside rather than escaping through inefficient windows, and there will be fewer draughts, making you feel warmer. Your heating bills could drop substantially as your home becomes more energy efficient, great for you and great for the environment.

Experience less external noise with secondary glazing

Secondary glazing also acts as an extra physical barrier against outside noise, reducing the amount of sound coming into your home through (closed) windows.

This noise reduction can be further improved by installing special sound-reducing laminate glass, or by having a gap of at least 100 mm between the secondary and primary window and lining the window head and reveals in between with acoustic tiles.

everest secondary glazing

Extra protection for your existing windows

Secondary glazing means your existing primary windows do not need to be removed, and there are many reasons why you might need to retain your original windows.

This is particularly useful in listed buildings, buildings in areas where they are subject to an Article 4 Directive, and areas where planning permission rules do not allow any aesthetic changes whatsoever to the external primary windows.

These older properties are often draughty and adding secondary glazing that doesn’t require any planning permission may be the only effective way to reduce heat loss and improve sound insulation.

In other circumstances where windows cannot be replaced or where you don’t have the budget to replace them, secondary glazing can provide an alternative solution. It’s also a great cost-effective option for rented accommodation.

Secondary glazing is low maintenance

Secondary glazing is low maintenance and doesn’t cause the same level of disruption as fitting replacement primary double or triple glazed windows, and can last for many years.

All About Secondary Glazing

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Following the Government’s inclusion of secondary glazing in the Green Homes Grant Scheme (launched 1st September), there have been many queries made to MyGlazing.com and the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) about the performance and qualities of Secondary Glazing.

Here’s the responses from the MyGlazing.com team in conjunction with the Glass and Glazing Federation and GGF Members Pilkington UK and Roseview Windows.  

How does secondary glazing compare to replacing with windows for new double or triple glazing in terms of improving energy efficiency?

Secondary glazing when placed in close proximity to a primary window can offer good thermal improvements and increase your energy efficiency. If you live in a listed buildings often local council restrictions means that you can’t replace the original window design (and specification which is usually single glazed) with double or triple glazing so secondary glazing units can be a good alternative.

The energy efficiency performance is not as high as that of a full double or triple glazing replacement, mainly because of the huge advance in the quality of sealed insulating double and triple glazed windows and doors, however, secondary glazing can still be an effective solution.

One the most common ways of determining thermal performance in building materials is the U value, which measures how easily heat can pass through a material. Materials that allow more heat to escape from a building have higher (i.e. worse) U-values. Materials that let less heat pass through them have lower (i.e. better) U-values.

Solely based on glass U-values the table below is a reasonable measure of the difference on different window types:

Glass typeU value (W/m2K)
Single pane5.7 to 5.8
Single pane with secondary glazing (with 150mm air gap)  2.9 
Single pane with Pilkington K GlassTM coated secondary glazing (with typical 150mm air gap)2.0
Replacement double glazing unit with low E coating1.0 – 1.5
Single pane with secondary glazing, glazed with double glazing slim unit with low E coating (not often used as cost is similar to standard double glazing)  0.9
Replacement triple glazing unit with two panes with low E coating0.5 – 0.8

The above table does not include the individual performance of frames, seals and insulation around the frames, the U values of the glass are based on typical performances.

Low emissivity (low E) coatings are microscopically thin, transparent coatings (much thinner than a human hair) that reflect long-wave infrared energy (or heat). So instead of heat escaping through the glass, a low E coating will reflect heat back into the home. In secondary glazing hard coat Pilkington K Glass™ is used to create the same effect.

The table shows the difference in thermal insulation from a single pane of glass through to a triple glazing unit with two panes of low E glass. As you can see the difference from single glazing with the addition of secondary glazing approximately doubles energy efficiency.

Many homeowners living in conservation areas and/or listed buildings who may be restricted by local authorities on installing modern home improvements, use secondary glazing as a solution to improve energy efficiency because once installed, it improves energy bills immediately. However, it is worth noting that installing double glazing or triple glazing does increase thermal performance even more significantly, by roughly 100% from secondary glazing.

Secondary glazing can also effectively eliminate the draughts commonly found with old single glazed windows. Draughts aren’t directly measured by U value but they can of course adversely affect a building’s energy efficiency and the occupant’s comfort levels.

Being a less expensive option (approximately 50% less on a supply and install) Secondary glazing is often an easier or temporary solution for those homeowners who want to improve their energy efficiency but may not have a huge budget.

What is the average cost of secondary glazing?

Cost varies depending on the specification. Secondary glazing can be bespoke, coloured and shaped to suit the period properties they are found in. Designed to cover the existing window style and be hardly visible, the variation in styles these days includes fully tilt out to clean units. On average, a typical secondary glazing window/unit is around half the price of a double glazing window. The installation of secondary glazing is also better for acoustics, whether it’s keeping sound out or in.

When would it be beneficial to use secondary glazing over replacement windows?

Noise prevention is one of the main benefits. Secondary glazing is used extensively throughout the country to combat noise pollution. It is often fully subsidised as part of government schemes to improve living conditions in particular situations such as airport flight paths and housing in proximity of railways or highways. The noise cancelling effects of secondary glazing are particularly impressive.  

Secondly in conservation areas or listed buildings where restrictions are in place. Many older public buildings like museums, schools or town halls have secondary glazing installed because the owners or local councils may have to retain the external appearance of the building. Professionally installed secondary glazing is virtually invisible from the exterior of such a property and delivers the advantages of energy efficiency and noise reduction.

Secondary glazing also offers an added layer of security and the internal finishes that can be achieved with secondary glazing are now of such a high quality, they can be a real feature of the interior design.  

What are the drawbacks of secondary glazing?

Secondary glazing is not as energy efficient as a new double or triple glazing windows, though it does improve energy efficiency where there are local council restrictions. One drawback that is sometimes mentioned is the maintenance and cleaning of secondary glazing. It can mean twice as much work when cleaning, especially when double and triple glazing can also feature self-cleaning glass. However, most modern secondary glazing panels are removable and the weight of a single glazed panel is much lighter to handle when doing so.

It has been mentioned that in some situations, secondary glazing can resolve a problem with condensation. Providing an extra barrier of glass can help regulate the extreme temperature clash of cold glass pane against warm centrally heated air though it should always be well ventilated to reduce the likelihood of condensation. Secondary glazing is not the best energy efficient glazing solution, because the seals are not as airtight as those on double and triple glazing. In addition, the thermal performance of secondary glazing is very much dependent on the condition of the prime single glazed window on a building’s exterior.

Video: See secondary glazing sound reduction demonstration.

The answers provided have been supplied by the technical team of MyGlazing.com and the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). The information has been corroborated with research, product testing and product data from GGF Members including Pilkington UK and Roseview Windows. Video courtesy of Roseview Windows.

Can’t replace your windows? Try secondary glazing

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A case study shows that where installing new energy efficient windows is not an option, secondary glazing can provide many of the same benefits

Installing energy efficient glazing can help make your home warmer, quieter and more comfortable to live in – and help lower your heating bills.

However replacing your old windows may not always be an option. Whether your budget doesn’t stretch that far or it is impractical or impossible (due to planning restrictions) to replace your current glazing, that doesn’t mean you can’t take action to reduce the heat lost through your windows and enjoy all the resulting benefits.

MyGlazing.com has drawn a case study from GGF Member company Selectaglaze to show how you can overcome the problem when you can’t replace your existing windows or doors.

Case study: Brighton’s historic Ship St Post Office

One reason window replacement may not be an option is when the property in question is a Listed or Historic building.

That was the case with Brighton’s historic Ship St Post Office building, the city’s main post office for many years. Dating back to 1925, and incorporating parts of an earlier building dated 1898, it was recently renovated with the aim of transforming it into comfortable apartments.

However creating warm living spaces turned out to be quite a challenge. The primary windows were draughty, allowing heat to escape and due to the listed nature of the building they could not be changed.

For many homeowners living in heritage or listed properties this can be the reality. Luckily it needn’t be a deterrent.

Secondary glazing solution

In this case, secondary glazing provided the ideal solution. A separate window fitted inside the existing primary window, it traps an insulating layer of air which can reduce heat loss by up to 50%.

Secondary glazing is fitted to the room side of the building and is fully reversible, making it a popular choice for heritage properties.

As well as improving the thermal efficiency of windows, secondary glazing can help reduce the amount of noise that enters a property through closed windows.

GGF Member company Selectaglaze installed 75 vertical sliding units at the Ship St address. All units are bespoke to ensure the tightest fit with matching sight lines where possible, to make them virtually unnoticeable from the outside.

More about secondary glazing

An introduction to secondary glazing and its benefits: What is secondary glazing?

Be inspired for your home: View our secondary glazing gallery

Related topics

– How double or triple glazing helps reduce window condensation
– How to design an energy efficient conservatory
– Glazing and noise reduction in homes
– Low emissivity (Low-e) glass and thermal efficiency
– Advice on ventilation when replacing windows

 

Is secondary glazing right for your home?

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If you want to enjoy the benefits of energy efficient glazing but seek an alternative to replacing your single glazed windows, secondary glazing could be a solution.
open secondary glazing on window everest

Secondary glazing involves installing a “secondary” window, i.e. a fully independent internal window, on the room side of your existing primary window.

Because it doesn’t require the replacement of existing window units, secondary glazing can be a cost effective and efficient way of improving heat retention, noise reduction and providing additional security for your home.

Read more…

Keeping The Industry Safe, the GGF’s Brand New IOSH Approved Managing Safely In The Glass & Glazing Industry Training Course

Health, Safety and Environment, Members News, News |

For a number of years, the GGF Training Academy has provided the GGF community and the wider sector with a unique opportunity to ensure their staff are equipped with the correct skill set to carry out their job to an industry leading standard.

The ability to retain top staff, futureproof your business and bring in the next generation of talented workers is at the forefront of what the GGF and FENSA are looking to accomplish on behalf of the glass and glazing industry.

Which is why the GGF are launching a brand new training course to the sector. GGF Group Health, Safety, and Environment Manager, Lauren Mawford, has been working on a brand new IOSH Approved Managing Safely in the Glass and Glazing Industry training course.  From early 2024, GGF Group Members will be able to take advantage of an exclusive course, run by the GGF and approved by an internationally recognised institution, IOSH.

Who are IOSH?

IOSH stands for The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. It is an internationally recognised body for Health and Safety.

– They set national standards to be adhered to

– They are an awarding body for H&S qualifications

– They facilitate and approve health and safety training in 130 countries

– They champion occupational H&S issues and advise government

Who Is It For?

This is an awareness course for those who manage others and manage risk and resources. The aim is to give directors, managers, and supervisors an understanding of everyone’s safety and health responsibilities in the workplace. The course will enable you to recognise how you can influence, control and monitor risk to improve safety and health issues in your workplace.

What Should Those On The Course Expect?

This is a 22 hour, 3 day course, based in the classroom with an end point assessment. Having completed the course, delegates should expect to have the ability to:-

– Describe the key reasons to manage safety and health in the workplace

– Define the key terms relating to safety and health

– Identify how the law can have an impact on safety and health in the workplace

– Describe how to assess, reduce and control risk in the workplace

– Identify workplace hazards and risks, their impact and how to manage them

– Identify how to evaluate and respond to an incident

– List the benefits and characteristics of an effective health and safety management system

– Describe principles that underpin good safety and health performance

The course will be run at the GGF offices in London.

Leading The Way

The IOSH approved ‘Managing Safely In The Glass & Glazing Industry’ training course is one of a kind in our industry. It is the only IOSH approved course that has been specifically tailored to our sector and only the GGF are licensed to run it.

It is yet another example of the GGF setting the standards to which others aspire and a major member benefit for the GGF community to take advantage to ensure their business is operating safely, looks after its staff and stands out from the crowd.

Costs

This new course is a major member benefit to the whole GGF community which is why it is available to them at a heavily discounted rate. We’re also delighted to give a discounted rate for the course to all FENSA Approved Installers and BFRC customers. We do want to make this important course available to the whole industry so it will be available to non-members but who will have to pay full price.

Full Price – £600 + VAT

FENSA/BFRC Customers – £550 + VAT

GGF Members – £500 + VAT

Read More
 
Book Now
 

Dates Available

  • 19th-21st (3 day course) August 2024
  •  9th – 11th (3 day course) December 2024 

Should you have any questions about the course, what it involves and how it can help your business then please contact Lauren Mawford, GGF Health & Safety Manager at lmawford@ggf.org.uk

Glazing and noise reduction in homes

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Replacing or upgrading your windows can improve noise reduction in the home.

diagram showing sources of noise inside a home, sound waves

What is noise?

Noise is unwanted sound. In the home, this is any sound that distracts or disturbs the occupants.

This could be anything from nearby traffic or low flying aircraft to sounds coming from neighbouring properties such as music and loud conversation.

How it travels

Sound travels through the air (and solids and liquids) like the ripples seen on the surface of a pond when you throw a stone into it. Just like these ripples, the waves decrease in intensity as they move away from the source.

Sound intensity is measured in decibels (dB). A low dB value indicates a soft sound and a high dB value a loud sound.

How it affects us

The perception of noise will vary from person to person depending upon the source of the noise and the individual’s tolerance/acceptance of a given type of noise.

For example, a person living next to a busy road for a number of years may have become accustomed to it, whereas someone relocating from a quiet location to the same busy road may find the noise a nuisance.

How glazing can help reduce noise

One of the many potential benefits of replacing windows or installing secondary glazing in your home is that in doing so you can often also improve your property’s noise insulation.

The correct installation of good quality, well-made windows or secondary glazing systems can result in a noticeable reduction in noise levels.

Type of glass

diagram of laminated glass

The type of glass used within your replacement window could have an effect on the level of noise reduction. Glass is available in a range of thicknesses and typically thicker glasses reduce more noise.

Domestic windows usually use 4mm-6mm thick glass. Some window panes are made up of two or more pieces of glass that have been bonded together; these are known as laminates. Specialist, acoustic laminated glass is available from many glass manufacturers.

Thickness of glass

diagram of an asymmetric window unit

Different thicknesses of glass are effective at reducing noise at different frequencies. As a result, a sealed double or triple glazed unit with glass panes of different thicknesses (i.e. both 4mm and 6mm) will be effective at reducing noise across a wider range of frequencies than if both panes of glass were the same thickness.

Triple glazing

In addition to reduced thermal losses, triple glazed units can provide a reduction in noise. By increasing the combined thickness of the glass within the unit, the mass is increased. A reduction in noise transmission will result from this additional mass.

Air gap

The size of the air gap between the panes of glass in either a double or triple glazed window or a secondary glazing system makes a significant difference to the level of noise insulation. Typically a large air gap will improve noise insulation.

Secondary glazing

diagram of secondary glazing on a window

Secondary glazing is when another window or glazed screen is positioned within the window reveal of an existing window.

The extra glass pane and air gap now present in the window unit help to improve its noise insulation properties. In some cases, noise reduction can be further improved by lining the window reveal with sound insulation material.

The effect of ventilation and air gaps on noise reduction

To be effective in reducing noise new windows and secondary glazing systems must be fitted and sealed correctly. Any air gaps around your window will seriously affect its noise reduction properties.

It is also important that any opening window can be securely closed with a good quality seal. If the window does not close correctly noise will be able to infiltrate the property.

Bear in mind that many windows are designed to provide your property with a means of ventilation. Background ventilation through trickle ventilators can, if left in the open position, provide a passage for sound to travel.

Likewise, an open window, perhaps in the night lock position, will not aid sound reduction.

Glazing may only be part of the solution

Replacing or upgrading the glazed elements of a home may not singlehandedly solve the problem of excessive noise levels.

This is because noise entering the home via roofs, walls and floors will not be reduced as a result of changes to glazing. Depending upon the source of the noise and type of property, replacing or upgrading the glazing may only be part of the solution.

It is important to discuss your requirements and your expectations with the window installation company.

By explaining the source of noise that you are trying to reduce, the glazing company can advise you on what can be achieved.

The dB reductions possible using the various methods can be supplied by your glazing contractor. Any claim of noise reduction should be backed up by test evidence.

GGF Members will be able to advise you on the most suitable glazing option to reduce noise in your home – find a local GGF Member company.

Granada Glazing Limited

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Granada has been in business for over 35 years and we are proud to be the largest manufacturer of secondary glazing products in the UK. Since 1983 we’ve made nearly a million frames, averaging roughly 100 frames a day, and around 25,000 every year. This level of experience is what makes us experts in our industry, and is why so many trade companies choose to partner with Granada. Read on below to find out how we’ve become secondary glazing pioneers.

Green Homes Grant Scheme and your glazing

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The Government has now launched a new scheme to improve the energy efficiency in domestic homes, but what does it mean for your glazing.

If you are upgrading your home and thinking about installing double or triple glazing then you may be disappointed with the Green Homes Grant Scheme, because to upgrade you need to have single glazing already in place. If your windows are double glazed then you will not qualify for an upgrade under the new scheme.

Here’s the information on the scheme as well as the best advice for your glazing home improvement.

What does the Green Home Grant Scheme Cover?

A maximum grant of £5,000 covers up to two-thirds of the cost of some of the energy-efficient improvements you can make in your home. The improvements you can make using the grant are split into two categories – primary measures and secondary measures.

The primary measures cover loft, wall and floor insulation as well as thermal systems and ground or air source heat pumps.

If you already have these features, you can apply for grant money to improve them and if you do this, you can then claim funding for secondary measures which means you can upgrade your single glazing with double or triple glazing, or secondary glazing.

Worth noting that you cannot get more money for secondary features than you can for primary. For example, if you got £1,000 for insulating a loft and installing a solar thermal system, you could not get more than £1,000 for putting in double glazing to replace your single glazing.  

Are you eligible?

The scheme is expected to help 600,000 homeowners to make properties more energy efficient.

If you live in a home you own, the scheme includes long-leaseholders and homes with shared ownership.

If you are a landlord and rent out privately or for social rent you are also eligible, while park homeowners, including traveller sites, also qualify for the scheme, though new-build homes are not eligible.

If you own your own home and are on Government benefits like Jobseeker’s Allowance you could be eligible for a bigger grant of up to £10,000 for the improvements – covering the entire cost of the refurbishments.

How to apply?

The Government will later in August provide advice to homeowners on how to apply from the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) website which will tell you in greater detail what areas of your property may be eligible for funding.

A list of government-accredited builders and tradespeople will also be available to choose from when the scheme is launched. Once the work is agreed, the Government will issue vouchers from the end of September.

Best Advice

Replacing Double Glazing

  • If you are planning on replacing or are replacing your existing double glazing, then don’t delay the job and use a GGF Member (listed in the MyGlazing.com installer search directory), to undertake the work. Only single glazing is available under the scheme.
  • If you have leaky or pre-2002 inefficient double glazing but you do qualify for the primary measures under the scheme and are installing insulation (primary measures), then it is worth considering replacing your double glazing over and above the scheme to complete your upgrade and make your home truly energy efficient. Remember up to 24% of heat energy can leave a house through inefficient windows.
Entrance Door by Synseal myglazing ggf
Entrance door by Synseal

Replacing Doors

  • The Government has yet to issue full details of door replacement and what will qualify under the scheme. However it will be a secondary measure.
Large white conservatory on brick two storey home
uPVC conservatory by Everest

Installing a conservatory or orangery

  • Conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms are not include under the scheme.

The Scheme is launched in September, but it is estimated that vouchers will be issued at the earliest at the end of September. Replacing single glazing with double/triple or secondary glazing is a secondary measure and not guaranteed unless you install or upgrade other measures. It’s also worth getting your home improvement done before the winter sets in, so our advice is, don’t rely on the Green Homes Grant Scheme but if you feel it’s worth the wait and you are sure you can upgrade your single glazing then it may be worth getting your application in when the scheme is launched in September.

Green Grant Scheme offers little for the Glazing Sector

News, Politics |

The Government has released more details of the Green Homes Grant Scheme almost one month after it was announced by the Chancellor.  The announcement adversely affected many home improvement companies as consumers cancelled or postponed orders until the launch of the scheme, which is set for September and will be available in England only, with an estimated 600k homes benefiting. 

In the detail, the glazing element is relatively low priority with only those upgrading from single glazing to double or triple glazing or if installing secondary glazing, being able to claim funding under the scheme.

The scheme also covers upgrading to energy efficient doors but at present there is no detail as to what this means and which products will be eligible. The amount of Government assistance for glazing cannot be more than the value of the initial measures which will need to be completed first and which are different types of insulation and / or low carbon heating.

On receiving the details of the scheme, John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “The Green Homes Grant Scheme announcement and delayed publication of operating detail has caused significant damage to many companies in our membership. Following the initial announcement last month, many homeowners cancelled or simply didn’t order their replacement glazing, in anticipation of the scheme’s September launch. Now that the details have been confirmed it’s clear there is very little in this scheme for the glazing industry”.

The biggest glazing challenge for homes is to have modern energy efficient windows – those that are C rated or above. There are currently tens of millions of double glazed windows in the UK that have been installed pre-2002 that need replacing because they are inefficient. The Green Homes Grant Scheme does not tackle this issue. Instead it leans towards, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and cheaper, easier options. 

The other reality in the scheme’s details is that it is very limited in terms of suppliers. Only installers who are accredited to PAS2030 will be allowed to carry out work under the scheme. It is estimated that of the 15,000 window and door installers in the UK, less than 5% (under 500) are PAS2030 registered. FENSA can accredit installers to PAS2030, and the GGF recommends all glazing home improvement companies who wish to qualify for work under the Green Homes Grant Scheme, register with FENSA who will support GGF members with any additional assessment requirements.

Later this month, homeowners across England will be able to access advice and support on improving the energy efficiency of their homes from the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) service. SEA will suggest appropriate home improvements that homeowners may be able to apply for support in funding.

Once the works are agreed, vouchers will start to be issued from the end of September so work can commence.

The GGF is continuing to engage in the Government’s work streams regarding the road to recovery from lockdown impact and will keep members up to speed with all developments.

To read more details of the Green Homes Grant Scheme please click here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/quality-assurance-at-heart-of-new-2-billion-green-homes-grants

Separate guidance for the local authority scheme has also been issued and can be accessed on the BEIS pages of .GOV at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/green-homes-grant-local-authority-delivery-scheme-entering-a-bid

West Midland Glazing Co Ltd

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Established in 1977, West Midland Glazing Co Ltd is a family firm of over 30 years standing. We offer top quality installations at affordable prices where all products are manufactured to individual customer requirements and installed by our own experienced fitters. uPVC, timber & aluminium.

  • uPVC
  • Aluminium
  • Timber
  • Secondary Glazing
  • Windows & Doors

When to repair or replace your windows

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Repairing or replacing windows – there’s a lot to consider, including the benefits of upgrading to energy efficient glazing. Here’s some advice to help you decide.

The decision about whether to repair or replace windows can be challenging. Just like any home improvement, it is important to think about costs and potential savings in the short term as well as over a longer period.

This is especially pertinent for glazing in the home because upgrading to windows with a higher energy efficiency rating has the potential to reduce your annual household energy use.

So when considering window repair or replacement it can be helpful to bear in mind the potential savings you could gain by installing windows with a higher level of energy efficiency.

Window maintenance and identifying problems

The importance of properly maintaining the windows in your home cannot be overstated. That’s because in addition to potentially affecting the value of your property, the condition of your windows can have a significant effect on both how comfortable your home is to live in and how much energy is required to heat and cool your living areas.

To help identify problems with your windows and the best course of action to take, we have provided some expert guidance in four easy steps.

Step 1: Visually inspect both sides of the windows

Inspect your windows for any evidence of rot (timber windows) or other damage to the hinges or jambs (the vertical parts that form the side of a window frame). Check if any of the seals are damaged, and if there are any chips in or around the glass.

Windows can be damaged by the sun, water and other weather exposure, so check for signs of this. If your windows have any of these faults which are compromising their performance or aesthetic looks (or both), you may wish to consider getting them repaired before any further damage occurs.

Step 2: Test the performance of your windows

Can you open and close your windows? Sounds obvious but sometimes windows stick due to paint, heat expansion or a broken handle. Also, check if there are any noticeable draughts. All of these are signs your windows may need repairing.

On rare occasions you may see condensation between the panes of a glass sealed unit where the seal of the sealed unit have failed. If so, the sealed unit will need to be replaced and this can usually be done quite easily by your window repair company, although they will have to take exact measurements to order a sealed unit specific to size.

Step 3: Analyse the impact on your living environment

Energy efficiency

Window quality may well be affecting your heating bills. If you have single glazed windows, then it could make a tremendous difference to the comfort of your home and your heating bills if you were to replace them with energy efficient double or triple glazed windows. New energy efficient glazing has the ability to reflect heat back into the room due to a low-emissivity (“Low E”) coating which has the effect of reducing heat loss through the windows.

Instead of replacing your windows, a less expensive option to improve energy efficiency would be to consider installing secondary glazing inside your existing windows, to form “double glazing”, however your existing windows must be in excellent condition.

Noise reduction

Are you affected by noise? If you live near noisy roads or other types of noise disturbance, then you can improve your living comfort by replacing windows to double or triple glazing that can reduce the passage of sound. Glass sealed units with enhanced acoustic options are available to reduce the noise further.

Again, if you wish to reduce noise and keep your existing windows, installing secondary glazing is a less expensive option. And for noise reduction, the bigger the gap between your existing windows and the secondary glazing the better. The head and jambs of the windows within that gap can then be lined with acoustic material if desired to further reduce the noise levels.

Ventilation

It is important to ensure that adequate ventilation is maintained when replacing your windows. This will allow for good air flow and reduce the risk of condensation on the inside of the windows.

Step 4: Consider the age of your home

Older homes – It‘s hard to decide if you should replace windows when they are original features of the house. If your home has stained or leaded glass, then replacing them could reduce the value of your home.

However, the good news is that these days window manufacturers can replicate your stained or leaded glass in energy efficient replacement windows.

If you have a home which is centuries old and listed, then you will need to obtain permission from your local planning officer for any changes. There are specialist glass suppliers who can locate such replicas of centuries-old glass if pieces are damaged.

Similarly, if your home is in an area covered by an “Article 4 Direction”, then you will need to obtain permission from your local planning officer for any changes. Homes in Conservation areas have permitted development rights and do not need planning permission to change windows, so long as the replacement windows are of similar aesthetics to your existing ones.

Still unsure? Contact a glazing professional

If you are unsure about whether to repair or replace windows in your home, it’s a good idea to talk to a glazing professional who can advise you on your options and provide quotes if necessary. Find your nearest GGF Member company.

GGF starts new Aluminium Group

Uncategorized |

The GGF’s is pleased to announce the creation of the new Aluminium Group for companies operating in the aluminium sector.

The idea for the new group was founded in the GGF’s Technical who identified a gap in the current GGF technical group infrastructure.

David Borland, GGF Senior Technical Officer

David Borland, GGF Senior Technical Officer explained “Part of the responsibilities of the Technical Department is to continually review the service we provide to Members and most importantly recognise gaps in that service. It is during these reviews and discussions it became clear one area of the Industry which needed additional support was the Aluminium sector.

The new Aluminium Group will attract interest not only from companies in GGF Membership but also many companies who are non-members. In the last few months the GGF has also seen new members join the Federation with specific interest in the aluminium sector. In the last few years there has also been a revival of aluminium in the home improvement sector with products such as bi-folding doors and secondary glazing which is becoming a popular solution for heritage buildings and those in conservation areas.

David Borland continued, “While there is substantial overlap with our Windows & Doors Group, there are areas of fenestration which are unique to aluminium such as shopfronts, commercial entrance screens, curtain walling & Commercial windows. We hope with the support of a considerable number of existing members with aluminium interests, the new Aluminium Group can prove to be a valuable technical asset for the GGF and our Members”.

Members who are interested in joining this Group are asked to contact Senior Technical Officer David Borland by email at dborland@ggf.org.uk

Mark Austin – The President’s Perspective

Events, Glassi, Membership News, News |

In this exclusive GLASSi interview, GGF President Mark Austin shares his views on the state of the industry, the GGF and has a message for GGF Members on how to cope and prepare for better times ahead. 

It is over 8 months since your Presidency began and it’s fair to say no one could have predicted how 2020 would have unfurled. What have been the major challenges for you?

There is no way to sugar coat what the entire industry is currently still in the mist of going through, including on-going supply chain problems, logistical issues, adapting to the necessary social distancing and costs of Covid-19 precautionary measures, which has had its own challenges in terms of getting hold of adequate and sufficient PPE, hand sanitiser and screens etc., and the GGF has provide good guidance to help the industry follow the restrictions and operate safely.

One major challenge was the extremely difficult decision during lockdown was to have to take the legal advice from the GGF’s auditors and solicitors to close the GGF Fund Ltd to any new business from 1st April 2020 at very short notice. It was the last thing GGF Members needed to hear during lockdown with the uncertainty that was swirling around at that time and we were all wondering how long this was going to last and how on earth each business was going to survive.

Whilst very unfortunate, the strong advice given proved to be very sound, when only 2 days later the underwriting insurers also withdrew from writing new deposit indemnity insurance business. It was always the intention of the GGF to find an insurance based product to replace the Deposit Indemnity Fund and it is hoped we can announce more details on a new product soon.

Adapting to the new normal of all GGF meetings being virtual ones, and all GGF staff working from home has not been without its challenges as all mail had to be redirected and dealt with to ensure both GGF Members and Consumers continue to receive the best possible customer service possible in such circumstances.

As GGF President it was a major blow when we also had to cope with the fallout from the loss of Everest Ltd (one of the GGF’s founder members), when the company went into pre-pack administration.

I dare not think the state the industry would be in today without the Government’s furlough scheme, but thankfully the Government realised they had to do something substantial, which thankfully they did.

Another major challenge our industry faced in the last few months was the Government’s Green Homes Grant Scheme. When it was announced in early July that the Scheme would be launched sometime in September, it was a real set back to the glazing industry as the lack of detail until mid-August (which at the time of writing has still not all been finalised i.e. which composite doors will be included or excluded).

For the first week my phone was running off the hook as I was contacted by GGF Members and non-Members from across the industry wanting clarity. The GGF and FENSA did all they could in the circumstance, by reporting accurate factual timely information for members and in pushing Government for more details.

Normally, the industry would welcome any scheme that incentivises consumers to spend on energy efficient home improvement but Government had not consulted with industry beforehand and left so many unanswered questions with the early announcement.

When more details were released (over 5 weeks later), it was revealed that the scheme was limited to the replacement of single glazing (with double, triple or secondary glazing) only, along with potential some composite doors being restricted to being “secondary measures”, which only can be accessed once one or more “primary measures” have been installed.

With a further restriction was detailed that the spend on the secondary measure is limited to either equal or less than that of the primary measure, it was clear that the Green Homes Grant Scheme is a major disappointment and a significant set-back for our industry. It has also left the industry with the task of educating consumers on the scheme’s complicated details from which the vast majority of equally disappointed as they are unlikely qualify for the scheme.  

How do you feel the Federation has coped since the COVID-19 outbreak?

I was very proud of the way the GGF Management and staff have rallied round throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, taking steps before the actual lockdown to pre-empt one should it come, to ensure that GGF Members and FENSA Registered Installers were still able to make contact and receive help and support. Many of the Managers and staff worked long extra hours and weekends for no extra pay, something for which I wish to formally thank them on behalf of all members and clients connected to the GGF and its group of commercial subsidiary companies including FENSA, BFRC, InstallSure RISA and Borough IT.

What are the big challenges facing the GGF over the next 6-12 months?

Not being able to use the GGF Offices at 40 Rushworth Street in London since mid-March has been a real challenge, and I am delighted a safe phased return to the building is starting in September. For the re-opening, we had to carry out the necessary risk assessments and ensure new precautions and policies were put in place, so anyone entering the building would be as safe as is possible. Like most businesses, the GGF has had to permanently change the way it operates to ensure it adapts to the new normal in order that its capacity to serve its members is not reduced. As a consequence, it was had to invest in many new extra laptops and mobile phones to ensure that its staff can work as effectively from home as if they were in the GGF Offices, as not all the staff will be returning initially due to general safety, social distancing and to ensure all Government guidelines are followed.

With the GGF focus over the next 6-12 months being helping and supporting all GGF Members during what is clearly going to be a slow, painful and cautious recovery, the GGF will continue to invest in its Members’ services. With plans in place and in action, when we do reach the end of the tunnel, the whole industry should be in a genuinely strong position to then kick-on once there is an up-turn.    

Members’ Week is your first annual conference as GGF President, how do you feel about it being entirely virtual?

Personally I’d much rather GGF Members Day was able to happen and we were all able to gather together in person and network as we have done so effectively in the past. As this is clearly not remotely possible, holding my first annual conference as GGF President virtually is to be embraced, as the new way of working, doing business, supporting members and interacting has also brought about many ways to improve the ways we communicate and deal with suppliers and consumers alike. We all know we won’t ever be going back to how things were in the past, as GGF Members have found they can save so much time, money and resources by not travelling, which in terms of reducing our carbon footprint is to be welcomed.

Members’ Week is a unique and ambitious project for the GGF, what do you think Members should expect?

My hope is that GGF Members will engage with the GGF throughout Members week and by the end of it feel they have really benefitted from contributing and from seeing and hearing the many different contributors. The fact the GGF is offering a “Menu” of events and information targeted at its Members, it gives each and every GGF Member the opportunity to dip in and out online as it suits them so that they can feel the time they do spend virtually interacting with the GGF Group and its Members proves genuinely fruitful.

What message would you give to the GGF Members for the future?  

There is no point trying to put an overly positive spin on the short term future, as nobody knows how long the pandemic will be around for and the extent to which it will affect business, consumer confidence and the confidence of all GGF Members staff to return to working in the office – particularly those who have offices in large cities with insufficient office space to enable all staff to socially distance.

My personal view is that 2021 in financial terms could turn out to be even more challenging than 2020, so it is very fortunate the GGF Group has a strong financial foundation and sufficient reserves to weather the many storms that I still think sadly are ahead. My suggestion is that, as they have always done, GGF Members support one another, rally round and stay in the boat, as we’ve proven together we are stronger and by doing so, better equipped to cope with the rough seas ahead with all hands on deck.

Mark will open proceedings at Members’ Week on 29th September at 10.30am.

To join both Mark and John Agnew at the GGF Members’ Week webinar click the banner below:

Gillingham Glass Company Limited

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About Gillingham Glass

Gillingham Glass Company Limited was launched in May 2005. The team have over 25 years of experience. With all their knowledge Gillingham Glass can offer expert advice on ‘anything and everything’ that involves glass, UPVc and plastics.

Our wide range of services includes a full glass and glazing service. All types of mirrors all round what ever size or shape, traditional lead lights or stick on lead, splashbacks, table tops and many other glass related products. On our home improvement side we can offer UPVc windows, doors, secondary glazing and conservatories, plastics including fascias, soffits, cladding and guttering. Our services offer supply only or supply & fix to both trade and domestic customers.

All double glazed units, UPVc windows and doors hold a 10 year guarantee.

We are a Fensa registered company and also offer a deposit and guarantee insurance that gives you peace of mind.

We supply our glass & glazing services to the areas of Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Hampshire, Somerset and much more of the South West and are happy to visit your home or business premises and provide a free quotation under no obligation. We at Gillingham Glass not only feel it is important to be competitive with price but also strive to provide a very high standard and professional service.

Mark Austin elected GGF Vice-President

Membership News, News |

The GGF is pleased to announce that Mark Austin, Marketing Director of Hazlemere Windows, has been confirmed as GGF Vice-President by the GGF Board.

Mark, who is also the Chairman of the GGF Window and Door Group, was elected for the vice-presidency by his fellow members of the Home Improvement Executive and takes on the role with immediate effect. As Vice-President, Mark represents the Home Improvement side of the industry on the GGF Board.

Mark has a solid background in working with membership organisations. During his time working as a Director in the football industry (for Wycombe Wanderers and QPR), Mark was Chairman of the southern region of the Marketing Managers Association (MMA) and he has also chaired quarterly meetings of commercial managers from the Premier League, Championship, Leagues One & Two. As Chairman of the MMA, he also attended the national The Institute of Football Management & Administration (IFMA) quarterly executive meetings.

In 2008, Mark joined Hazlemere Window Company Ltd – a family owned and independently run double glazing manufacturer & installer of high quality bespoke aluminium windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries, brise soleil and curtain walling. The company also supplies and fits UPVC windows, doors, conservatories, orangeries and Roofline, along with roof lantern lights, secondary glazing and solid roof conservatories.

At Hazlemere Windows, Mark works in the Commercial Division doing Marketing for the Retail & Trade Division, along with promoting the Group’s six websites, plus its showrooms in High Wycombe and Welwyn Garden City.

On accepting the role of GGF Vice-President, Mark commented: “I am pleased to have been elected as GGF Vice-President and happy to represent and express Members’ interests and concerns across all the sectors within the industry. I would also encourage each member company to get the maximum from their GGF annual membership fee by ensuring they get a return on their investment through benefits such as networking at the numerous meetings and events the GGF organises all over the country. I’d also like to Members to take full advantage of all the marketing and PR tools offered free to Members via the members area on the new GGF website.”

In his role as Vice-President, Mark will support the current GGF President John Agnew until 31st December 2019 when John’s tenure expires. Both roles are purely voluntary ones, along with all the other elected Directors who sit on the GGF Board.

Mark summarised: “It is fairly well known that the GGF has had a lot of personnel changes over the last few years as it has been going through a restructuring and governance review. It now needs a period of stability, something I aim to assist with. There are now several new Directors on the GGF Board, blessed with decades of experience in the Glazing Industry, so with them and the rest of the dedicated volunteer elected GGF Directors I hope we can steer the GGF ship into less choppy waters and revitalise what is at heart a superb organisation with over 40 years of history.”

The Milford Window Company Limited

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Installers of windows, doors and conservatories in Guildford and it’s surrounding villages. We believe in installing double glazing that retains the character of your home and maintaining an excellent level of customer service.
The family run business that is no pane in the glass!

  • Windows (PVCu, Aluminium, timber and Residence 9)
  • Composite doors
  • Bi-fold and sliding doors
  • Residence 9
  • Secondary glazing

Kitson Windows

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Founded in 1979, Kitson Windows is the longest established and the most highly accredited manufacturer and installer of performance glazed products in Northumberland and The Borders.

Servicing the retail, commercial, trade and construction sectors.

  • Windows and Doors
  • Conservatories and Sunlounges
  • Patio, French and Bi-fold Doors
  • Secondary Glazing
  • Roofline Systems

Milestone Windows Ltd

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Milestone Windows is a family run business. We provide a reliable, friendly and professional service specialising in supplying and installing double glazed UPVc and aluminium windows, doors, conservatories and secondary glazing in Berkshire and the surrounding areas. We take pride in offering all our customers top quality products at ‘honest’ prices. The majority of our work comes from customers who have been 100% satisfied with a first class installation service and product and therefore recommend the Company to their friends and family.

  • Installation
  • PVCu and aluminium
  • Windows and doors
  • FENSA registered
  • Insurance backed guarantees

Room With a View (South East) Ltd

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Room With A View is a well established company (est. 1988). We have over 25 years experience in manufacturing and installation of high quality conservatories, replacement windows, doors and porches in PVCu, timber and aluminium. Our conservatories are offered with a full range of double glazing options, both for the roof and side walls. We handle design, planning, all building work and a full range of options for finishing (heating, lighting, flooring, blinds). Our window range includes casement windows, tilt & turn windows and vertically sliding windows (box sash). We install aluminium secondary glazing with or without sub-frames. We have a full range of ‘Timber-lookalike’ composite doors and bespoke hardwood doors as well as PVCu and aluminium options. We also install patio and bi-fold doors. All our installations comply with current Building Regulations in respect of energy efficiency, fire egress, disability access and ventilation. We are FENSA registered (no.18946).

  • Conservatories in PVCu, timber and aluminium
  • Replacement windows in PVCu, timber and aluminium
  • Doors and porches in PVCu, composite, timber and aluminium
  • Whole projects- planning and all basework
  • Fensa registered double glazing

Sunrise Windows (Plymouth) Ltd

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Sunrise Windows – based in Plymouth serving customers in Devon and Cornwall for twenty two years.
Suppliers and installers of PVCu and aluminium windows and doors.
Sunrise Windows also install secondary glazing.
Sunrise Windows are members of FENSA

  • PVCu windowsand doors
  • Aluminium windows and doors
  • Secondary Glazing
  • Replacement sealed units
  • Conservatories

BJB Windows Limited

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Family owned and run since 1988, BJB Windows provides a wide range of quality PVCU, aluminium and timber windows, doors and conservatories throughout Surrey and Hampshire. Supply and installation, or supply only, at keen prices with top class service from experienced specialists.

  • Windows
  • Doors
  • Conservatories
  • Secondary Glazing
  • Sealed Units

Cyril Isaacs & Co Ltd

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Well established family run business trading for over 50 years.
We specialise in all types of glazing in the commercial sector right through to domestic applications. Fire glass installation, secondary glazing and mirror installation are our specialty.

  • Glazing Contractors
  • Fire Glass Installation
  • Secondary Glazing
  • Mirror Installation
  • Double Glazing Installation

Great Yarmouth Glass Ltd

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* Established in 1952.
* Suppliers & installers of PVCu windows, doors & conservatories.
* BFRC Authorised Retailer of Energy Rated Windows.
*Certass Registered Installers.
* Suppliers of Pilkington & Solaglas Insulating Glass Units.
* Serving local government, building contractors & general public.

  • Commercial aluminium shop fronts
  • Glass merchants & glazing contractors
  • Composite – PVCu & Bi-Folding Doors
  • Secondary glazing systems
  • Large showroom with retail counter

Hadrian Window Systems Ltd

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Hadrian Window Systems is committed to offering a complete service before, during and after installation. A client’s relationship with the Company begins with competitively priced and detailed quotations, and continues after installation is complete, to ensure total satisfaction.

  • PVCu Windows, Doors & Conservatories
  • Hybrid Windows & Doors
  • Glazed Fire Rated Soloutions
  • Structural Glass Assemblies
  • Secondary Glazing

GGF

40 Rushworth Street,
London, SE1 0RB
+44 (0)207 939 9100

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