Supply
Acrylic and polycarbonate sheet for DIY secondary glazing
DIY secondary glazing adds a second clear panel inside an existing window, with a still layer of air between the panel and the glass. Clear acrylic or polycarbonate sheet is light and far easier to handle than a second pane of glass, and it is often held on with magnetic strip so it lifts off for cleaning and summer.
Plastics Hub NZ supplies the sheet. You, or a handyperson, measure and fit it. We do not fit windows or sell glazing kits. Need panels cut down? Cutting is available on certain materials at certain depots. Request a quote with your sizes and we'll confirm.
Shop the sheet
Acrylic: the clearest view
Acrylic is very clear, stiff and more scratch-resistant than polycarbonate, so it is the usual choice for living areas where you look through the window all day.
Polycarbonate: harder to break
Polycarbonate is much tougher and suits windows that might be knocked, such as in a child's room or a hallway. It scratches more easily, so clean it gently.
Magnetic fixing
The common DIY method is a self-adhesive magnetic strip around the edge of the panel and a matching steel strip on the window frame. The panel lifts off, so it can come down for cleaning, ventilation or an emergency exit.
Measuring
Measure the frame or reveal where the panel will sit, at the top, middle and bottom, and use the smallest size. Old frames are rarely square, so check the diagonals too.
Thickness
Thinner sheet is lighter and enough for small windows. Larger panels need thicker sheet to stay flat and not bow away from the frame.
What to expect
How much difference a panel makes depends on the window, the frame, the air gap and how well the panel seals. Plastics Hub NZ publishes no insulation or energy rating for it.
Guides
Questions
- Acrylic or polycarbonate for secondary glazing?
- Acrylic for clarity and scratch resistance in most rooms; polycarbonate where a panel could be knocked or broken. See our acrylic vs polycarbonate comparison for the details.
- Will secondary glazing stop condensation?
- It can change where condensation forms, but results vary with the house, ventilation and heating. Keep panels removable so you can air the room and clean the glass behind them.
- Do you fit secondary glazing?
- No. Plastics Hub NZ supplies the clear sheet only. You or your handyperson fit it.
Tell us what you need. We'll source it.
One enquiry, multiple supply sources. Or email trade@plasticshub.co.nz.