COST GUIDES
How much does secondary glazing cost in the UK?
Updated 07/26
Fast Facts
Secondary glazing per window: £300–£500
Installation day rate: £120–£160
Typical installation: Half a day to a full day per room
If your home feels cold, noisy or suffers from condensation, replacing every window isn't your only option.
Secondary glazing fits neatly inside your existing windows, helping improve insulation and reduce outside noise while preserving the original frames.
It's particularly popular in listed buildings, period homes and properties where full window replacement isn't practical.
The cost depends on the size and number of windows you're treating, the type of secondary glazing you choose and whether bespoke panels are needed.
This guide explains typical secondary glazing costs, what affects the price and how to compare quotes from checked installers working in your area.
How much does secondary glazing cost?
As a guide, you’re looking at around £300–£500 per window for secondary glazing, although costs depend on the number of windows, their size and the type of system you choose.
| Glazing cost | Cost - low | Cost - high |
|---|---|---|
| Secondary glazing 1 window including labour | £300 | £500 |
| Installation hourly rate | £15 | £20 |
| Installation day rate | £120 | £160 |
| Last updated: July 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
Quotes are always tailored to your property because they depend on your exact window dimensions, access requirements and the number of panels being installed.
Comparing a selection of quotes from checked installers is the best way to understand what your project is likely to cost.
Find checked and reviewed tradespeople in your area
What affects the cost of secondary glazing?
Two homes with the same number of windows can receive very different quotes. That's because the size, style and condition of your existing windows all influence the amount of work involved.
The main cost factors include:
Window size and number: Larger windows require more material and take longer to install. Multiple windows on the same project can often reduce the cost per window
Type of secondary glazing: Fixed panels are generally the most affordable, while sliding and hinged systems cost more because they're more complex to manufacture and install
Frame material: uPVC is often the most economical choice, while timber and aluminium may be preferred for period or heritage properties
Listed building requirements: Older or unusual windows often require bespoke secondary glazing, increasing both material and labour costs
Access: Upper-floor windows or difficult-to-reach locations may require additional access equipment, which can increase installation cost
On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.
What's included in a secondary glazing quote?
A detailed quote makes it much easier to compare installers fairly.
Most quotations should include:
Initial site survey and measurements
Supply of secondary glazing panels and frames
Installation of the secondary glazing system
Draught sealing around the new panels
Removal of installation waste and a basic clean-up
Items that are often quoted separately include:
Repairs to existing window frames
Decorating or making good surrounding finishes
Scaffolding or specialist access equipment
Removal of old secondary glazing systems (where applicable)
Before accepting a quote, check exactly what's included so there are no surprises once work begins.
We check the reviews on Checkatrade are from real people, and that trades meet our high standards.
How long does secondary glazing take to install?
Most secondary glazing installations take half a day to a full day per room, depending on the number of windows and how complex they are.
As a guide:
A standard window can often be fitted in one to two hours
Several rooms may take two to three days
Bespoke panels will usually require additional manufacturing time before installation
Sash windows and unusually shaped windows often take longer than standard casement windows because they require more precise measuring and fitting.
Secondary glazing vs double glazing
Both options improve insulation, but they're designed for different situations.
Secondary glazing fits inside your existing window frame, making it a popular choice for listed buildings, period homes and anyone who wants to retain their original windows
Double glazing replaces the entire window and frame. It generally offers higher thermal performance but involves a much larger installation project and higher overall cost
Secondary glazing is often the more practical option if:
Your property is listed
You want to preserve original timber windows
You're looking for a lower-cost alternative to full window replacement
Replacing the windows isn't practical
If you're considering replacing your windows entirely, see our double glazing cost guide and window replacement cost guide for a full breakdown of costs.
Is secondary glazing worth it?
For many homeowners, yes. Secondary glazing can help reduce heat loss, improve acoustic insulation and minimise draughts without replacing your existing windows.
It's particularly effective in older homes where replacing original windows isn't desirable or possible.
If your existing windows are generally in good condition, secondary glazing can often provide a noticeable improvement in comfort while costing considerably less than full window replacement.
If you're mainly trying to tackle draughts rather than improve insulation, our draught-proofing guide may also be worth reading before deciding which option is right for your home.
DIY vs professional installation
Secondary glazing is fitted to the inside of your existing window frame, creating an additional barrier against heat loss and outside noise.
DIY secondary glazing kits are available, particularly for standard-sized windows
However, professional installation is usually recommended for larger windows, sash windows, listed buildings and bespoke systems, where an accurate fit is essential to achieve the best thermal and acoustic performance
If your property is listed, it's also worth checking with your local planning authority before work begins. Secondary glazing doesn't usually require listed building consent because it sits inside the existing window, but it's always sensible to confirm.
Benefits of secondary glazing
Secondary glazing does more than cut heat loss. It’s one of the most practical alternatives to full window replacement, particularly for listed buildings or rented properties where replacing windows isn’t an option.
Benefits include:
Lower energy bills. Adding a secondary pane significantly reduces heat loss through single-glazed windows, cutting the amount of energy needed to heat the room
Noise reduction. The wide air gap (typically 100mm) makes secondary glazing particularly effective for soundproofing your windows. It often outperforms standard double glazing on acoustic insulation because of the larger cavity
No planning permission needed in most cases. Unlike full window replacement, secondary glazing sits inside the existing frame and rarely triggers planning requirements
Removable. Most systems can be taken out without altering the original window, making them a good option for renters or anyone in a heritage property who may need to restore the original appearance
Lower upfront cost. Secondary glazing is usually much cheaper than replacing every window, making it a practical option if full window replacement isn't in your plans
Thinking about replacing your windows instead? Our triple glazing cost guide explains the costs and whether it's worth the extra investment.
Secondary glazing cost calculator
The quickest way to estimate your budget is to start with the number of windows you want to upgrade.
Our cost calculator can help generate a ballpark figure for the work. But remember, this is a guide price only. Your final quotation will depend on your property's layout and your chosen secondary glazing system.
Job Estimate Calculator
For an accurate cost of having secondary glazing installed in your property, contact a selection of checked installation services for a quote.
Find checked and reviewed tradespeople
Secondary glazing cost checklist
Find a checked installer near you
Installing secondary glazing correctly is just as important as choosing the right system.
An experienced installer will be able to recommend the most suitable option for your property, take accurate measurements and ensure the new panels fit neatly within your existing window frames.
When requesting quotes, it helps to provide:
The number of windows you'd like secondary glazing fitted to
Whether your property is listed or in a conservation area
The type of windows you have, such as sash or casement
Whether you need fixed, sliding or hinged panels
Any access issues, such as upper-floor windows
Comparing a selection of quotes from checked installers is the best way to understand your options and find the right solution for your home.
Browse secondary glazing installation services near you
Enter your postcode to find a top tradesperson near you
Swift Home Improvements Ltd
10.00
(279 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingAluminium Doors InstallationFrench Doors InstallationPorch Installation- P
Pearl Windows & Doors Ltd
10.00
(44 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingAluminium Doors InstallationWooden Sash Windows InstallationAluminium Windows Installation Aim Windows Ltd
10.00
(49 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingFrench Doors InstallationPorch InstallationAluminium Windows InstallationBexley Glass Limited
10.00
(89 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingPatio Doors InstallationRoof Windows InstallationStable DoorsAccurate Glaziers Ltd
9.93
(330 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingWindow FittersMisted Double GlazingEmergency Windows / Doors / Conservatories ServiceLondon Pro Painters Ltd
9.93
(24 reviews)Services & skills
Windows / Doors / ConservatoriesSecondary GlazingLoft Windows InstallationWindow FittersGlass Replacement
Secondary glazing cost FAQs
For most homeowners, yes. This is particularly true in older properties with single-glazed or attractive original windows that can't be replaced. It cuts heat loss, reduces outside noise, and doesn't require planning permission in most cases. For listed buildings it's often the only option short of applying for consent to replace the windows entirely.
Yes. Secondary glazing is particularly effective at reducing outside noise because of the large air gap between the original window and the new inner pane. A gap of around 100mm provides good acoustic insulation, often better than standard double glazing, which has a much narrower cavity.
Yes. Secondary glazing is one of the main solutions for listed buildings because it sits on the inside of the original window and doesn't alter the external appearance. Planning permission isn't normally required because secondary glazing sits inside your existing windows. If your property is listed, it's worth checking with your local planning authority before work begins.
A well-fitted secondary glazing system should last 20 years or more. The panels and frames are durable, and unlike double glazing units, there is no sealed cavity to fail. The main maintenance requirement is keeping the tracks and seals clean and replacing any worn draught seals.
Double glazing is a sealed unit with two panes of glass bonded together, fitted into a single frame. Secondary glazing is a separate inner pane fitted inside the existing frame, leaving a larger air gap. Secondary glazing is cheaper to install, doesn't require replacing the original window, and is the standard solution for listed buildings.
Some secondary glazing kits are designed for DIY fitting, typically magnetic or clip-on systems for small windows. For larger windows, heritage frames, or sash windows, professional fitting is recommended to get a proper seal and avoid damage to the original frame.
See the tradespeople we've checked for your job