Can laminated glass be fitted to my existing windows?

How does a retrofit work?

At the survey the glazier measures each sealed unit or pane, checks its thickness and the depth of the rebate, and notes how the beads are fixed. New units are made to order with a laminated pane, and on the day the beads are removed, the old unit lifted out, the new one set on packers and the beads refitted. Most windows take well under an hour each.

A typical double-glazed unit is 24 mm or 28 mm thick. Swapping one pane for a 6.4 mm or 6.8 mm laminate can usually be absorbed by adjusting the spacer bar, so the new unit fits the existing frame.

Which pane should be laminated?

For burglary resistance the inner pane is usually laminated, because it is the last barrier and stays intact even if the outer pane is broken. Doors and door side panels often combine a toughened outer pane with a laminated inner pane to meet both safety and security needs. For higher risk, both panes can be laminated.

What if my windows are externally beaded?

If the beads that hold the glass are on the outside, a burglar may be able to remove them and lift the unit out without breaking anything. External beads can be secured with glazing security tape or clips, or the window re-glazed so the unit is bonded to the frame. Our glazing bead security upgrade covers this, and it is worth doing at the same time as a laminated retrofit.

Will it look or feel different?

• The glass looks the same as clear float glass
• Laminated glass cuts more outside noise, especially with an acoustic interlayer
• A PVB interlayer screens most ultraviolet light, reducing fading of furnishings
• Units are a little heavier, which sound hinges handle without trouble

Will it affect my window warranty?

It can. Some window makers' warranties only cover work by the original installer. If your windows are still under warranty, check its terms before changing the glass. Our quote names the glass and the work, and the new sealed units carry their manufacturer's warranty.

When is a retrofit not worth it?

If the frame is rotten, distorted or badly locked, or the sashes can be forced open without touching the glass, a stronger pane will not stop a break-in. In that case we will say so at the survey and suggest you look at the frame or locks first. Laminated glass is a strong upgrade for sound windows, not a fix for weak ones.

Sources

• Crime prevention advice (police.uk)
• Approved Document Q: security in dwellings (GOV.UK)
• Building standards technical handbook 2022, domestic: 4.13 security (gov.scot)

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland; check with your council, building control or insurer where it matters.

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