Acoustic · Listed-building friendly · Removable
Secondary glazing for Edinburgh sash windows is an internal panel fitted 100–150mm behind the original sash. It delivers 38–42 dB acoustic improvement — far more than slim-line double glazing — drops the U-value to around 1.4 W/m²K, and because it sits inside the room it doesn't change the streetscape at all. It's the answer for road-facing tenements on Leith Walk, Lothian Road, London Road and Gorgie Road, and for listed properties where the case officer won't approve glazing changes to the original sash.
The right answer for noisy main-road sashes and listed buildings where the case officer won't approve double glazing. Call 0800 193 1505 or request a fixed-price survey.
Three scenarios: road-facing flats where traffic noise is the main complaint; listed buildings where the case officer won't allow any change to the original glass; rented properties where the landlord wants a fully-reversible upgrade that doesn't touch the heritage fabric. In each case, an internal secondary glazing panel does more for comfort than a slim-line unit and the original sash stays exactly as it is.
A single-glazed sash gives around 18 dB Rw noise reduction. Slim-line double glazing gets you to 28–32 dB. Secondary glazing with a 100mm air gap and a 6.4mm acoustic-laminate inner pane delivers 38–42 dB. That's the difference between hearing traffic conversations and hearing none. Acoustic laminate also acts as a security upgrade — it's far harder to break through than ordinary glass.
We fit two systems. Slimline aluminium frames in white, brown or anodised finish — the most discreet, suitable for most rooms. Hardwood frames in white or stained finish — more sympathetic to traditional interiors in Georgian and Victorian rooms. Both come in hinged, lift-out and vertical slider formats; the vertical slider mirrors the operation of the sash behind it.
Because the secondary panel is internal and fully reversible, it's permitted on every category of listed building and across every Edinburgh conservation area without consent. We've fitted secondary glazing on Georgian first-floor drawing rooms in Charlotte Square, Victorian tenements on Marchmont Road and Edwardian villas in the Grange — all without case-officer involvement.
Secondary glazing fixes acoustic and heat loss through the window. It doesn't fix a snapped cord, a stuck sash or a rotten cill — those need separate repair work first. We always inspect the underlying sash before fitting and include any needed repair in the same quote.
| Item | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium frame, 6mm laminate, single panel per window | £395 | |
| Aluminium frame, 6.4mm acoustic-laminate (road-facing) | £495 | |
| Hardwood frame, 6.4mm acoustic-laminate | £695 | |
| Vertical slider secondary unit (mirrors sash behind) | £795 |
Quietest the house has ever been. Bay windows look stunning, and the survey caught a lintel issue two other firms missed.
Rachel B., Trinity EH5 — Triple glazing — full house · 5/5 ·
Door is solid, locks beautifully, and matched the listed-building colour the council insisted on. Faultless fitting.
Hugh M., Newington EH9 — Composite door + side panel · 5/5 ·