Households across the UK are being urged to consider a simple, cost-effective modification to their windows that could lead to substantial savings on energy bills this winter.
The Power of Secondary Glazing
Experts from the online DIY retailer CutMy have highlighted secondary acrylic glazing as a highly effective method for improving a home's thermal efficiency. According to the company's founder, James Bryant, who spoke over the Christmas period, this approach tackles one of the biggest sources of heat loss without the expense and hassle of a full window replacement.
"Secondary acrylic glazing is one of the most effective ways homeowners can cut heat loss without the cost or disruption of replacing their windows," Mr Bryant stated.
The process involves fitting a lightweight acrylic panel internally over an existing window pane. This creates a sealed pocket of still air between the two surfaces, acting as a natural insulator. The experts claim this single change can reduce heat loss by as much as 60 percent, making older, draughty windows perform significantly better.
Immediate Benefits and Easy Installation
Mr Bryant reported that customers often feel the difference "almost immediately", with rooms becoming noticeably warmer and draughts being eliminated. An added advantage is a reduction in condensation build-up around the window frames.
Unlike major renovation works, the installation is described as a quick and clean process. "Because acrylic secondary glazing is fitted internally, it’s quick, quiet and mess-free to install, typically done in a couple of hours," explained the DIY specialist. He emphasised that it presents a far more affordable option than new windows, making it a practical solution for older properties or rental homes.
"For anyone looking to cut their heating bills this winter, secondary glazing offers real, measurable benefit at a fraction of the cost of new windows," he concluded.
A Bonus Tip: The Radiator Shelf Hack
Alongside the glazing advice, CutMy shared another straightforward tip for boosting heating efficiency. Installing a simple shelf above a radiator can drastically improve how warmth is distributed in a room.
Mr Bryant elaborated on the science behind it: "Without a shelf above the radiator, a surprising amount of warm air rises directly upwards and collects at ceiling height – completely bypassing the room where you actually want the heat."
A shelf acts as a barrier, redirecting that warm air forward into the living space, allowing it to circulate more effectively. This improved distribution means households may be able to turn their thermostat down slightly while maintaining a comfortable temperature, leading to cumulative savings over the colder months.
"It’s one of the easiest, most affordable energy-efficiency tweaks you can make – and it works instantly," Mr Bryant said of the radiator shelf.
With energy costs remaining a primary concern for many, these two simple, low-cost interventions from DIY professionals offer a tangible route to a warmer home and lower bills.
