Alternatives To Double Glazing

If you want better energy efficiency, less heat loss and less outside noise but full double glazed windows are out of reach, you are not stuck. There are several practical alternatives to double glazing that work with your existing windows and window frames, from secondary glazing and Low E upgrades to films, blinds and draught sealing. The right mix of solutions can cut energy costs, improve thermal comfort and reduce noise pollution without completely replacing every pane of glass in your house.

Why Look For Alternatives To Double Glazing?

Plenty of Australian homes still rely on single glazed windows, and they leak heat in winter and soak up direct sun in summer. Double glazing with two glass panes and new frames is often the ideal energy efficient solution, but it is not always affordable, practical or allowed. Heritage rules, tight budgets, tricky access or original windows you want to keep can all push you to look for realistic alternatives to double glazing. The good news is you can often improve energy efficiency, thermal comfort and noise reduction using the windows you already have. By upgrading glass, adding an extra layer on the room side, improving window frames and using smart internal and external treatments, you can reduce heat loss, energy usage and outside noise without completely replacing every window and door.

Cost, Disruption And Design Constraints Of Full Double Glazing

Full double glazed windows usually mean removing existing windows, fitting new double glazed units with two panes of glass, and finishing off internal plaster and paint. It is a big step in both cost and disruption. You pay not only for the insulated glazing units and window frames, but also labour, access equipment and finishing trades. In heritage homes or character streets, changing the look of original windows can also be a problem. You may not be allowed to install standard double glazing because it alters sightlines and frame profiles. In those cases, a smart alternative to double glazing, like secondary glazing or high performance single glazing, lets you improve performance while keeping the aesthetic integrity of your existing windows.

Common Problems You Are Trying To Solve (Heat, Cold, Noise, Condensation)

When people ask whether double glazing is worth the cost, they are usually trying to fix one or more of these issues:

• Heat loss and cold air in winter
• Overheating from direct sunlight in summer months
• Noise pollution from traffic, neighbours or aircraft
• Condensation on glass and frames leading to potential damage and mould

Single glazed windows can lose up to around 40 percent of a home’s heating in winter, so even a simple extra layer over existing windows can be a real game changer for comfort and energy costs. The key is matching the solution to the specific problem at each window rather than assuming full double glaze replacements are the only option.

When Alternatives Can Be “Good Enough”

Alternatives to double glazing can be more than good enough when:

• Your existing windows and window frames are structurally sound
• You only have a few problem rooms rather than a whole house issue
• You need to preserve original windows in a heritage building
• Budget or timing makes full replacement unrealistic right now

In these cases, you can often achieve noticeable improvements in thermal comfort, energy savings and noise reduction with a combination of secondary glazing, films, internal blinds and draught sealing, while planning for larger upgrades later if needed.

Secondary Glazing (Creating A Double Glazed Effect)

Secondary glazing is one of the most effective alternatives to double glazing because it creates an extra layer on the room side of your existing window and traps an air gap between the two panes.

What Secondary Glazing Is And How It Works

Secondary glazing is a retrofitting technique where a second glass or acrylic panel is added on the inside of an existing window. This creates an additional layer and sealed air gap that slows heat transfer and helps keep warm air inside in winter and hot air outside in summer. You still keep the original single glazed windows, but the new inner panel turns them into a sort of double glazed system. It improves thermal comfort, cuts energy loss and can noticeably reduce noise without completely replacing the window.

Fixed, Sliding And Removable Secondary Panels

Common secondary glazing formats include:

• Fixed panels for windows that rarely need to open
• Horizontal or vertical sliding panels that align with sash or sliding windows
• Hinged or magnetic removable panels that can be taken off for cleaning or summer ventilation

These systems can be very discreet, so from outside most people still see the original glass windows. That makes secondary glazing popular in heritage homes where you want performance without changing the look.

Pros And Cons Of Secondary Glazing Vs Full Double Glazing

Secondary glazing and double glazing share similar goals, but they are not identical. Pros of secondary glazing:

• Cheaper and more cost effective than full double glazed windows
• Uses existing windows and frames so there is less disruption
• Can significantly reduce noise pollution and outside noise
• Improves energy efficiency and helps reduce heat loss
• Helps with condensation control by keeping the inner pane warmer
• Preserves original windows and façade details

Cons compared to new double glazed units:

• Performance depends on the condition of the original frame
• More surfaces to clean
• Not quite as thermally efficient as top tier double glazing with argon gas and Low E glass

For many homes, especially older timber or steel glazed windows, secondary glazing gives most of the benefits without the full cost of completely replacing every frame.

DIY Secondary Glazing Kits Vs Professional Systems

Basic DIY secondary glazing kits use acrylic panels, magnetic strips or simple tracks. These can be installed with hand tools, and for renters or tight budgets they are a practical way to add an extra layer to existing windows. Some people even use bubble wrap as a temporary inner layer to create a small air gap over single pane glass in winter. Professional systems use purpose made aluminium or uPVC frames, safety glass and quality seals. They look more like a permanent part of the window, offer stronger noise reduction and insulation, and are better for long term use. If you search Trade Heroes for glazing and window retrofit specialists, you can find tradies who install these systems regularly and know how to get the best results.

High Performance Single Glazing Options

If you cannot or do not want to add two glass panes to every opening, upgrading the glass itself inside existing window frames can improve energy efficiency and comfort without completely replacing the window.

Low E Glass As An Alternative To Double Glazing

Low E glass is a single glazing option with a special coating that reflects heat while allowing natural light to pass through. It can:

• Reflect interior heat back into the room in winter
• Reduce solar heat coming in during summer
• Help keep glazed windows feeling more comfortable year round

In some cases Low E glass and good window coverings can be up to a similar thermal performance level as basic retrofitted double glazing with clear glass, especially where frame depth or budget limits your options.

Acoustic And Laminated Glass For Noise And Security

Laminated glass consists of two thin glass layers with a plastic interlayer bonded between them. Acoustic laminated versions use a special interlayer that dampens sound. As an alternative to double glazing, these products can:

• Reduce noise from traffic and neighbours
• Improve security because the glass is harder to punch through
• Slow heat transfer compared to regular glass

In bedrooms or street facing rooms where noise reduction is the main goal, laminated glass in existing windows can be a very effective solution, especially when combined with heavy curtains.

Toned And Tinted Glass To Control Solar Heat Gain

Toned and tinted glass cuts solar heat gain and glare from direct sun. Bronze, grey and green tones help reduce summer heat entering through glass windows, which lowers cooling costs and protects furnishings from harmful UV rays. This does not give the full insulation value of double glazed units, but in hot parts of Australia it can be a practical way to improve summer comfort without major building work.

When To Combine Upgraded Glass With Existing Frames

High performance single glazing works best when:

• Your existing window frames are structurally sound
• There is enough rebate depth for slightly thicker glass
• You want minimal visual change to the original windows

A glazier can look at frame material, sashes and seals, then advise whether Low E, laminated or acoustic glass is a sensible alternative to double glazing in your particular house.

Window Films And Coatings

Window films are another way to lift performance on existing windows without removing glass or frames.

Solar Control Window Films To Cut Heat And Glare

Solar control films stick directly to the glass and use tints or reflective coatings to reduce direct sunlight, glare and solar heat gain. They can be very effective on west or north facing windows where you currently feel the sun burning through the glass.

Low E And Insulating Films For Winter Performance

Low E window films can reflect room heat back inside in winter and block a portion of summer heat too. In some tests they have performed up to around 95 percent as well as retrofit double glaze units for thermal insulation, although they do not offer the same noise reduction or security.

Pros And Cons: Cost, Appearance And Lifespan

Films are relatively cheap, quick to install and do not require changes to window frames. On the downside, some films slightly darken the glass or create reflections, and cheaper films may bubble or peel over time. They are best seen as one layer in a broader mix of solutions, rather than the only answer.

Internal Window Treatments That Boost Insulation

Well chosen curtains, blinds and shutters can dramatically cut heat loss through single glazed windows, especially at night.

Thermal Curtains And Lined Drapes

Heavy, lined curtains that extend past the sides of the window and sit close to the frame can trap a layer of warm air between fabric and glass. Closed at night, they:

• Reduce heat loss from warm air to cold glass
• Cut draughts around older frames
• Make rooms feel more comfortable year round

Honeycomb / Cellular Blinds

Honeycomb or cellular blinds have built in air pockets that add insulation. Fitted tight in the reveal, they help reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer without blocking all natural light.

Shutters And Layered Window Furnishings

Internal shutters, especially on timber frames, add a solid barrier that helps with both thermal comfort and noise reduction. Layering shutters, blinds and curtains over existing windows and doors can be surprisingly effective, particularly in bedrooms and living areas you use at night.

How To Install And Seal Treatments For Best Effect

Whatever style you choose, the process matters. For best results:

• Minimise gaps at the top, bottom and sides
• Use pelmets or box tracks to stop warm air circulating behind curtains
• Make sure blinds or shutters sit close to the frame to reduce air movement

These details turn simple curtains and blinds into a genuine extra layer of insulation over single glazed windows.

External Shading And Insulation Solutions

Stopping direct sun before it hits the glass is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy usage in summer.

External Blinds And Awnings

External blinds and awnings shade the glass from outside, so less heat reaches the room. They are ideal on north and west facing windows where cooling costs are high and glare is a daily problem.

Shutters, Louvres And Shading Screens

External shutters and louvre systems can block low angle sun while still allowing airflow. They can be adjusted through the day to balance light, view and heat gain, which helps keep internal spaces comfortable without overusing air conditioning.

Eaves, Pergolas And Landscaping To Cut Summer Sun

Deeper eaves, pergolas and smart landscaping all reduce direct sun on glass during summer while allowing winter sun in. Over time this kind of passive shading can be as important as the glazing itself in keeping your home comfortable.

Other Ways To Improve Performance Of Existing Windows

Draught Sealing And Gap Filling Around Frames

Cold air often comes in through gaps around window frames rather than through the glass itself. Simple DIY or professional draught sealing with weatherstripping, seals and caulk can:

• Reduce unwanted air leakage
• Make heating and cooling more efficient
• Improve the performance of any other glazing upgrade you do

Repairing And Maintaining Existing Sashes And Seals

Sticking sashes, cracked putty and worn seals all reduce performance. Basic repairs and maintenance keep existing windows operating properly and help any secondary glazing or film sit tight and work as designed.

Partial Window Replacement In Problem Rooms Only

If double glazing is worth it in certain spaces, you can always replace the worst performing windows first. Many households double glaze key areas like living rooms and bedrooms, then use alternatives such as secondary glazing, blinds and films in less critical rooms to spread cost over time.

Comparing Alternatives To Double Glazing

Cost Comparison: Alternatives Vs Full Double Glazing

The cost of alternatives sits on a spectrum:

• Lowest cost: draught sealing, bubble wrap hacks, heavy curtains and cellular blinds
• Mid range: window films, DIY secondary panels, some high performance single glazing
• Higher cost: fully framed secondary glazing systems and partial double glazed window replacement

Secondary glazing is usually much cheaper than replacing all windows with new double glazed units, yet still delivers meaningful energy savings and noise reduction.

Impact On Heat, Cold, Noise And Condensation

Each option has different strengths:

• Secondary glazing, acoustic laminated glass and shutters are strongest for noise reduction and noise control
• Low E glass, Low E films and heavy internal furnishings target heat loss and winter comfort
• External awnings, toned glass and window films work hardest on summer heat and direct sun
• Secondary glazing and draught sealing help reduce condensation and moisture problems by keeping inner panes warmer and limiting humid air flow

Combining methods often gives the best result.

Suitability For Heritage Homes And Strict Design Areas

In heritage and character areas, you often cannot change the look of original windows. Secondary glazing, internal films, thermal curtains and external shutters are popular alternatives to double glazing because they respect the original windows while still improving energy efficiency and comfort.

How To Choose The Best Alternative For Your Home

Clarify Your Main Goal (Energy, Comfort, Noise, Heritage Look)

Start by deciding your top priority: lower energy bills, quieter rooms, better thermal comfort, or preserving original windows and street appeal. This makes it easier to choose between options like secondary glazing, Low E upgrades, shading or purely internal treatments.

Assess Orientation, Climate And Existing Window Condition

Next, look at:

• Which windows face harsh sun or cold winds
• Your local climate and how extreme the seasons are
• The condition of frames, sashes and seals

The right mix of solutions for a coastal home in Western Australia will be different to a cool climate terrace in inner Melbourne.

When To Mix And Match Solutions (E.G. Film + Blinds + Draught Sealing)

Most homes end up with a layered approach. For example:

• Secondary glazing plus thermal curtains in a noisy bedroom
• Solar control film, external awning and honeycomb blinds on a hot living room window
• Draught sealing, Low E glass and lined curtains in a main living zone

Mixing and matching lets you create comfortable year round rooms without overcommitting to one expensive change.

When Full Double Glazing Is Still The Better Option

Situations Where Alternatives Will Not Be Enough

Alternatives are powerful, but there are times when full double glazed windows and doors are still the right call, such as:

• Rotten or badly warped window frames that need replacing anyway
• Major renovations where you are already opening up walls
• Homes in very cold or very hot climates chasing maximum performance
• Projects with strict acoustic or bushfire performance targets

In these cases, modern energy efficient double glazing with argon gas, Low E glazing and quality frames can deliver the strongest result and the biggest long term energy savings.

Using Alternatives As A First Step Toward Future Double Glazing

For many households, the smartest move is to treat alternatives as a staged path. You might start with draught sealing, blinds and films, then add secondary glazing, and eventually replace a few key windows with full double glazing when budget allows. Done well, each step builds on the last rather than being wasted.

Alternatives To Double Glazing: Ready To Explore Your Options?

Alternatives to double glazing give you flexible, cost effective ways to improve existing windows, cut energy loss, reduce outside noise and boost comfort without completely replacing every frame. From secondary glazing and Low E upgrades to thermal curtains, blinds and smart external shading, there is almost always a practical solution you can create for your home. If you would like expert help choosing the best alternative to double glazing for your own property or want hands-on advice from a professional, Trade Heroes can connect you with local glaziers, window retrofit specialists and energy efficiency tradespeople who understand how alternatives like secondary glazing, films and upgraded glass work in real homes. You can find local specialists in: Perth, Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Hobart or Brisbane. Each directory lists experienced professionals who can assess your existing windows, explain the practical differences between options and provide quotes tailored to your climate, design and budget.