What is retrofit double glazing?

Joinery Maintenance

Windows have components that wear over time. This includes items like window handles/ catches, stays/ hinges, gaskets and draught seals. As part of ‘retroglazing’, the required maintenance and optional upgrading of hardware are carried out. The outcome is that the windows and doors are refurbished and double-glazed all at once.

A number of alternatives are often confused with retrofit double glazing, including:

Insert Double Glazing

Where new aluminium-framed double-glazed windows are inserted into existing timber frames. This can be a useful alternative where the timber joinery has been under-maintained and subject to deterioration, or where the authenticity of the timber character is not important to the homeowner.

Insert double glazing more appropriately fits into the category of replacement window and doors (which are double glazed).  Refer: "Should I retrofit or replace my windows - which option is right for my home?"

Clip-on, or Magnetic Seal Secondary Glazing

Where a piece of glass or perspex is fitted to the existing single-glazed window. The lack of an effective seal means that moisture, dust and mould can occur between the two panes. Often portrayed as a cheaper alternative, it can prove to be significantly more costly.

When considering retrofit double glazing, it is important to understand what you are getting for your money.  

In buying products together with an installation service, for an existing home, there is more ‘to get right’. The retroGLAZE^® double glazing system was developed for this reason.  We believe that homeowners should be able to have quality products installed correctly with excellent service.