by Metropol | September 17, 2025 8:31 am
In older homes, charm often comes at the cost of comfort and warmth. Ornate windows, leadlight features, and unique architectural details may look stunning, but they rarely offer much insulation. Fortunately, modern technology has found a way to bridge the gap between tradition and thermal efficiency, says owner of Empire Glass Nathan Cadman.
“We see a rising trend in ‘un-flipping’ homes and restoring character-filled houses to their original glory. It’s a privilege to help preserve unique architecture while upgrading comfort and efficiency for modern living.”
There’s a good reason people are increasingly retrofitting their homes with double glazing – the benefits are instant and noticeable, and the cost is increasingly affordable, Nathan says.
“More than one million New Zealand homes lose up to 50% of their heat through single-glazed windows. Double-glazing your existing windows will get you a quieter, drier and more comfortable home.”

Retrofit double glazing allows homeowners looking to retain the distinctive character of their property while dramatically improving its energy performance. Designed to fit existing frames, this solution brings contemporary insulation to classic homes, keeping interiors warmer in
winter and cooler in summer.
Retrofit units can be custom-designed to suit rounded, triangular, or unusually shaped windows, ensuring that no design element is lost. Delicate leadlight windows can be preserved and protected by encapsulating them within double-glazed units, retaining their beauty and charm while adding a layer of comfort.
The result? A home that feels as good as it looks. Retrofit double glazing offers a seamless blend of heritage and innovation. Contact Empire Glass through the website.
Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/comfort-character-empire-glass/
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