How to make single glazed windows more energy efficient?

[fadetoblack]

Hi All, 
I recently bought an old town house with predominantly west facing single-glazed windows and am now looking at adding an extra glaze to the windows to make it more energy efficient. 

Due to budget constraints, I'm looking at a DIY project using either acrylic and/or polycarbonate materials for the second glaze. 

I'm just writing to see if anyone has any recommendations on using the two materials?
Can both materials be pre-treated – maybe with a tint?– to block UV and mitigate direct sun?
Also, for the sake of better security, is it possible to install the polycarbonate panels on the outside (first floor anyway) effectively? 

Any tips on the subject would greatly appreciated. 

Thanks in advance, 

[RColman]

Hi,

I have successfully used double walled polycarbonate sheets on the outside of windows as a cheap/light alternative to double glazing.

I sealed the cut ends with clear silicone to trap the air inside & then attached them directly to the glass with more clear silicone just around the outside edge. The view is a bit obscured, but light still gets through & the glass inside doesn't get as cold as it used to, so no condensation.

Regards,

Richard

[EricL]

Hello @fadetoblack 

Thanks for sharing your question about double glazing your window. Would it be possible for you to post a few photos of your window frame both inside and outside. This will give our members a better idea of its construction and configuration. We can then make recommendations on how to mount the polycarbonate sheet to your window frame.  

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[EricL]

Hello @RColman 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience regarding double glazing your windows.

It's great to hear that you've managed to double glaze your own window with polycarbonate. Would it be possible for you to post a few photos of your project? I'm sure our members would be keen to see how you did it.

Again, thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience regarding double glazing.

Eric