Finding a balance between preserving the architectural beauty of heritage homes in Edmonton versus improving their energy efficiency can be difficult. While storm windows and secondary glazing in Edmonton have become popular options for replacing windows, they also have a role in replacing windows without full replacement. So how do you choose which option is best for your home?
Storm Windows vs Secondary Glazing:A full guide for heritage homes in Edmonton
Because Edmonton has harsh winters and temperatures that change a lot, window efficiency is quite important. Natural Resources Canada says that windows can let out up to 35% of the heat in a home. When it comes to heritage houses, replacing the original windows isn’t always possible. This is where storm windows and secondary glazing come in.
What Are Storm Windows?
Storm windows are additional panels placed on either the inside or outside of existing windows. The storm windows act as a second layer of insulation by providing a second barrier against cold air, while not changing the original frames of the window.
Key Benefits of Storm Windows
- Add an extra layer of air to make the insulation better.
- Cut down on drafts and air leaks by 10–15%
- Keep original windows safe from the weather
- Affordable and not too hard to put together
- Keep the property’s historic look and feel
Storm windows are very common in North America, especially in older homes where it’s important to keep the original wood frames.
Limitations
- Not as energy-efficient as contemporary glazing
- There is a chance of condensation if there is not enough air flow.
- The building’s look may change a little with exterior units.
What Is Secondary Glazing?
Installing a distinct internal window system beneath the present window is what secondary glazing is all about. It is usually put on the inside and is less noticeable than storm windows.
Key Benefits of Secondary Glazing
- It makes thermal insulation better and cuts down on heat loss.
- Can save energy costs by 15–20%
- Great for blocking sound
- Minimal effect on how things look from the outside (great for heritage rules)
- You can change the frames to make them look seamless.
Limitations
- Not as airtight as double glazing that has been sealed
- Can hold moisture if not put in correctly
- More expensive to buy than simple storm windows
Storm Windows vs Secondary Glazing: Key Differences
| Feature | Storm Windows | Secondary Glazing |
| Installation | Interior or Exterior | Interior Only |
| Cost | Lower | Moderate |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate Improvement | Higher Improvement |
| Aesthetic Impact | May affect exterior | Invisible from outside |
| Heritage Compliance | Generally acceptable | Often preferred |
| Condensation Risk | Moderate | Moderate |
| Noise Reduction | Moderate | High |
Which Is Better for Heritage Homes in Edmonton?
1. For Strict Heritage Preservation
If your property falls under conservation guidelines, secondary glazing is often the better choice. It preserves the original exterior completely while still improving insulation.
Best for: Listed or protected heritage homes
2. For Budget-Friendly Upgrades
If you’re looking for an affordable way to make your home more energy-efficient or reduce heating costs, then storm windows in Canada are the perfect solution! They provide immediate benefits while requiring minimal effort on your part!
Best for: Homeowners interested in inexpensive, quick-style improvements.
3. For Harsh Edmonton Winters
Because it gets so cold in Edmonton, you need robust insulation. Both approaches help, but secondary glazing in Edmonton usually works better to keep heat in over time.
Storm windows, on the other hand, nevertheless give a good thermal boost and can make older homes much more comfortable.
Best for: Storm windows can save energy over time through secondary glazing while also providing immediate improvements!
4. For Noise Reduction
If you live near busy roads or in a city, secondary glazing is the better choice because it blocks out more sound.
Why Not Replace Windows?
While full window replacement might be considered the best course of action; in the case of older style heritage houses, oftentimes it can still be impractical. The original windows are historically significant to the heritage value of the building and can often last for hundreds of years if properly cared for.
Additionally:
- You may not be allowed to replace your original windows under your local government’s heritage bylaw(s);
- The cost of replacing the original windows may be much higher than simply preserving them;
- Replacing the original windows could lead to the loss of the authentic character of the house.
For these reasons solutions such as storm windows or secondary glazing are highly recommended when upgrading heritage buildings.
What Should You Choose?
Whether you should choose either of the above two options depends on your priorities.
- If you would like to have an inexpensive, reversible upgrade that allows you to keep the charm of your home, you should choose storm windows.
- Alternatively, if you want improved insulation, soundproofing, and to comply with heritage regulations, choose secondary glazing Edmonton.
For the majority of homeowners in Edmonton, a combination solution works best since we can install storm windows in some areas and secondary glazing in others.
Conclusion
Upgrading the windows of a heritage property is about balancing performance with preservation of that property’s architecture. Storm windows and secondary glazing provide practical solutions that are both effective without compromising the architectural character of a property.
At Perma Seal Windows and Doors, heritage window restoration and energy-efficient upgrades are handled with precision and care.
For homeowners in Edmonton with long winters, having the right window upgrade will help to increase your comfort as well as reduce your heating costs and will help preserve the historic value of your property.
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