Yes, it’s entirely possible to improve your windows without replacing them—using advanced double glazing solutions. If your home suffers from external noise, rising energy costs, or uncomfortable temperature swings, Winsulation’s smart double glazing methods can transform your existing windows without full replacement.
Tired of noisy neighbours and sleepless nights? How to reduce outside noise without renovating your whole house: by upgrading your existing windows with energy-efficient double glazing windows or secondary glazing solutions. It’s the best, cost-effective, non-invasive way to achieve immediate noise reduction, better comfort, and significant energy savings.
Do You Really Need New Windows? Or Can Double Glazing Save Them?
Most Australian homes, especially older properties, still rely on single glazed window units that perform poorly in both sound insulation and energy efficiency. But replacing every window can be expensive, disruptive, and unnecessary.
Instead, your existing windows can often be saved and improved with tailored double glazing upgrades. Double-glazed glass, secondary glazing, or insulated inserts can be retrofitted to your current frame design. The key question is: Are your window frames structurally sound? If so, replacing the panes of glass alone can deliver the full benefits of double-glazed windows and doors, without replacing the entire unit with a brand new product.
Why choose upgrades over replacements?
- Reduce external noise by up to 80%
- Lower heat loss and heat gain by 70%
- Cut energy bills by up to 20%
- Keep the design and aesthetic appeal of your home
You don’t need to buy brand new windows. Retrofits allow you to transform your current windows into efficient, high-performance systems designed for the Australian climate.
How to Improve Your Windows with Double Glazing Without Replacing Them
Here are the practical ways to upgrade your current windows:
Secondary Double Glazing
This method involves adding a discreet, additional internal pane within your existing window frame design. The space between panes is filled with argon gas or air, providing insulation that reduces both noise and energy transfer. Perfect for residential and commercial projects where frame replacement isn’t desirable, secondary glazing is quick to install and offers an immediate comfort upgrade.
Double Glazing Inserts
Instead of replacing the entire frame of your windows, the original single glazed glass is removed, and new double-glazed glass is inserted into the existing structure. This preserves your frame on your windows and upgrades thermal and acoustic performance. Modern inserts often include low-E coatings and argon gas fillings that offer maximum energy efficiency.
Thermal Films and Low-E Glass
Low-E (low emissivity) coatings are an additional upgrade, reflecting heat and ultraviolet light to reduce summer heat gain and winter heat loss. Applied during the retrofitting process, this option helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter without altering window design.
Acoustic Seals and Draught Proofing
Supplementary acoustic seals and professional draught-proofing eliminate cold spots and block external noise. This option is best for addressing common double glazing problems like condensation and drafts in the windows and doors of older homes.
Professional Installation
Using experienced double glazing installers ensures that your upgrades perform optimally, especially when dealing with heritage homes or complex designs like awning windows, sliding windows, casement windows, hinged windows, louvre windows, or bi-fold windows.
Upgrading without replacing delivers practical benefits:
- Quieter living space
- Reduced reliance on air conditioning and cooling products
- Energy cost savings
- Enhanced property value
Best Double Glazing Upgrades for Existing Windows
The best solution or product depends on your property’s design, budget, and goals. Below are the most effective products for improving existing windows:
- Secondary Glazing Systems – Ideal for heritage and older homes requiring a non-invasive upgrade. Adds insulation and noise reduction without altering appearance.
- Retrofit Double Glazed Inserts – Suitable for aluminium and timber frames where structural integrity allows. Offer performance similar to brand new double-glazed windows and doors.
- Low-E Glass Inserts – Enhance existing windows and even doors by improving thermal insulation and reducing energy consumption.
- Argon Gas-Filled Units – Filling the space between panes with argon gas improves insulation over air-filled options.
- Acoustic Seals and Insulated Films – These products complement existing upgrades that offer maximum noise reduction and thermal performance.
Consulting a professional glazing company like Winsulation helps you choose the most cost-effective solution for your specific project. With a wide range of solutions and products on offer, Winsulation can help you select the ideal product or system to enhance both functionality and style in your space.
Is Secondary Double Glazing Worth It? Costs, Benefits & Results
Secondary glazing is a highly cost-effective alternative to full window replacement, particularly in period or architecturally sensitive homes. It creates a double glazed unit by adding a secondary internal pane, separated by an air or argon gas gap.
Benefits of Secondary Glazing:
- Reduces external noise by up to 70%
- Saves up to 15% on energy bills
- Retains the original aesthetic of your home
- Offer minimal installation disruption
- More affordable than full replacement of windows and doors
Average Costs in Australia:
- Standard window: $600 – $1,200 per unit
- Larger or more complex windows: from $1,500 upwards
Secondary glazing is especially worthwhile when your primary concern is noise reduction or energy efficiency, without altering the existing appearance of your windows and doors.
Beyond Standard Double Glazing: Low-E Glass, Insulated Inserts & More
Modern upgrades can outperform standard double glazing by incorporating advanced technologies:
- Low-E Glass: This product reflects infrared and ultraviolet light, reducing heat gain and furniture fading.
- Insulated Inserts: Double glazed windows and doors using argon gas improve thermal insulation and soundproofing.
- Triple Glazing: In extreme climates, a third pane will offer additional insulation, though this is less common in Australia.
- Acoustic Glass Options: Specialised glazing for enhanced noise reduction, suitable near airports or busy roads.
These products help create energy-efficient solutions for windows and doors that address both heating and cooling needs year-round, delivering peace of mind and sustainability benefits.
Fixing Common Double Glazing Problems: Drafts, Condensation & Leaks
Double glazing is low-maintenance but not immune to issues. Addressing them promptly ensures optimal performance:
- Drafts: Often due to aging seals. Professional resealing restores efficiency.
- Condensation: Typically between panes indicates seal failure. Solutions include the replacement of windows and doors or secondary glazing overlays.
- Leaks: Water ingress around frames requires re-caulking or frame maintenance.
Proactive maintenance and professional assessment keep your double glazed windows and doors performing efficiently for years.
Double Glazing FAQs: What Works for Old Windows?
Can I install double glazing in heritage windows and doors?
Yes. Secondary glazing and retrofit inserts allow you to preserve heritage aesthetics while improving comfort and efficiency.
Does retrofitting really work as well as new double glazed products?
When installed professionally, retrofit double glazing achieves comparable results to brand new double glazed windows and doors.
Is argon gas necessary?
Filling the space between panes on your windows and doors with argon gas significantly enhances insulation compared to air alone, especially in climates with temperature extremes.
Will double glazing help in hot Australian summers?
Absolutely. Modern double glazed windows and doors reduce summer heat gain and winter heat loss, making your home more energy efficient year-round.
What if my frames are old?
As long as the frames on your windows and doors are structurally sound, retrofitting is possible. Damaged frames may require full replacement.
How long does installation take?
Most upgrades can be completed within a few hours per window or door, depending on complexity and property access.
Is it worth the investment?
Reducing energy costs, enhancing comfort, and boosting property value makes double glazing your windows and doors a smart long-term investment.
Ready to Improve Your Windows? Choose Winsulation
With years of experience providing high-performance solutions and products across Australia, Winsulation is your trusted partner for sustainable upgrades on your windows and doors. Whether you’re battling external commotion, high energy bills, or uncomfortable temperature swings, our bespoke secondary glazing and retrofit double glazed glass solutions help you achieve peace, comfort, and energy savings—without replacing your windows or doors.
- Reduce racket by up to 80%
- Cut heating and cooling costs by up to 20%
- Enjoy a quieter, more energy-efficient home year-round
Get your free quote today and discover how easy it is to upgrade your windows. Contact Winsulation for expert guidance, premium products, and professional product installation that transforms your home’s performance and comfort.