Insulating stained glass

[Lostgardensof]

Hello,

We are in the middle of buying a grade II listed Georgian house. In the 1920's it was extensively renovated and some stunning stained glass panels were added above several external doors and a couple of the windows. We are planning to renovate the existing windows and fit thin profile double glazed units where the existing glass currently sits. However I am not sure what we can do with the stained glass to insulate it. I don't like the idea of encapsulation as i think it is not a sensible long term solution and wont look right. Our window guy has suggested a single sheet of glass on one side of the stained glass. Anyone know of any other options or am I best just leaving it as it is. Obviously I am aware we probably need listed building consent for both of these window renovations.

 

[Feltwell]

Can you fit a frame to the inside? Done carefully this can look fine - I'll try and put some pictures of mine up later (Damn you Photobucket!!)

I suspect you won't lose a huge amount of heat if you leave them be though.

 

[Feltwell]

 

[plasticpigeon]

I wouldn't bother with the double glazing. The thin stuff isn't such a good insulator, it needs all the rebates to be made larger in the frames, you can't use normal putty so the best solution is butyl putty and beading, the edge seals are more exposed to the sun, so degrade more easily than normal double glazing and if you have sashes the weights will no longer balance. If your house is listed it probably isn't something that the conservation office would approve of either. Putting on parting and staff beads with integral seals is an effective way to largely draght proof without damaging too much original fabric, and also makes the windows less rattly and quieter. Feltwell's solution looks very nice too.

 

[88v8]

Unless you are able to achieve an exemplary outcome such as Feltwells, I'd leave them alone. The heat loss through overdoors will be piffling and anyone that obsessed with insulation should not be let loose on a period house.

Elsewhere, thick well-fitting curtains are your friend. Drawn at dusk, they can save as much heat as double glazing, with none of the visual detriment.

The main thing with a period house is not to spoil the appearance. As you rightly say encapsulation is a travesty. Secondary glazing also has potential problems with interstital misting, mould. It may work, or not.

If you buy a period house, glory in what it is, and avoid turning it into a pastiche by attempting to emulate the efficiency of a modern ugly Barret box.

Ivor