Magnetite Products
How Retrofit Double Glazing Improves Your Home
Retrofit double glazing gives you the comfort of new windows without the cost of replacement. Many Australian homes have single-glazed windows that offer little protection against noise, heat loss, or summer heat gain. Traditional replacement windows are expensive and disruptive. Secondary glazing—adding a second glazed layer to your existing windows—solves this at a fraction of the cost.
Magnetite specialises in retrofit double-glazing solutions designed for Australian homes and climates. Our systems create an insulating air cavity that dramatically reduces noise, stabilises indoor temperature, and improves comfort year-round. Independent testing by the National Acoustic Laboratories and the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) proves our retrofit glazing performs as well as—or better than—traditional double-glazed windows, with noise reduction up to 70% and thermal efficiency gains up to 70%.
Why retrofit instead of replace? Retrofit glazing fits your existing window frames, preserves period features, installs in days rather than weeks, and costs significantly less. It’s ideal for heritage properties, rental homes, or anyone who wants immediate comfort without renovation hassle.
Our product range—Magnetite, Soundtite, Solartite, and Sealtite—lets you choose the right solution for your primary concern: noise control, thermal insulation, summer heat rejection, or budget-conscious draught-proofing. Many customers combine products for maximum performance (e.g., Magnetite + Solartite for hot climates, Magnetite + Sealtite for noise-prone areas).
Magnetite has over 25 years of experience delivering retrofit glazing across Australia and New Zealand. We operate through a network of licensed fabricators in Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Newcastle, and Sydney, plus authorised dealers in Orange, Central West, the Southern Highlands and Wollongong. Every installation includes a thorough assessment of your existing windows, custom design for your space, and professional installation by qualified technicians.
Why Choose Retrofit Double Glazing?
Retrofit double glazing (also called secondary glazing) transforms your existing windows into high-performance double-glazed systems. Unlike replacement windows, retrofit glazing installs over your current frames, preserving your home’s character whilst delivering modern performance.
Cost effective. Retrofit glazing costs 30–50% less than replacing windows. You avoid frame replacement, structural work, and the disruption of ripping out and reinstalling windows throughout your home.
Fast installation. Most rooms can be fitted within hours. Replacement windows often take weeks. With retrofit glazing, you gain comfort immediately, not months into a building project. Preserve period features. Heritage homes, Federation cottages, and character properties keep their original window frames and aesthetic. The retrofit system is virtually invisible from outside.
Proven performance. Independent testing confirms retrofit secondary glazing reduces noise by up to 70% and improves thermal efficiency by up to 70%—performance matching or exceeding traditional double glazing.
Flexible solutions. Our product range lets you address your specific concern: extreme noise (Soundtite), thermal comfort (Magnetite), summer heat (Solartite), or basic draught-proofing (Sealtite). Combine products for maximum benefit.
Sustainable choice. Retrofit glazing reduces energy bills by lowering heating and cooling demands. It extends the life of existing windows, reducing waste and environmental impact compared to wholesale replacement.
Custom to your space. Every installation begins with a site assessment. We design a solution tailored to your windows, climate zone, and budget—not one-size-fits-all.
Whether you’re battling road noise, winter cold, summer heat, or all three, retrofit double glazing offers proven, affordable comfort for Australian homes.
Magnetite
Retrofit double glazing for acoustic and thermal insulation
Our proven and tested magnetic Secondary Glazing System that enhances the performance of your existing windows, doors, skylights and glass areas. The system creates an air cavity which acts as an insulation barrier against noise, heat and cold. It reduces noise and stabilises indoor temperature, creating a more comfortable environment in your homes or buildings.
Soundtite
Soundproofing for existing windows and doors
A secondary aluminium system that is specially designed to reduce noise through an existing sliding window or door. The system can be set to slide horizontally or vertically to ensure maximum soundproofing and minimal impact on the appearance of the exterior, matching the existing aluminium window function and design.
Solartite
High-performance window film
Works in conjunction with Magnetite, Solartite will transform your existing glazing into a high-performance glazing system. It reduces radiant heat, making your living space more comfortable and functional. Solartite is applied to the inside layer of the existing glass, reflecting the heat before it enters the room and keeping the room comfortable during summer.
Sealtite
Acoustic and weather seals
Enhance insulation in your home or office with our selection of acoustic and weatherproofing seals. Sealtite improves the performance of your existing windows and doors by applying a draught-proofing strip that is appropriate for your window and door style. Sealing your home is an easy and cost-effective way to reduce noise and improve thermal comfort in your home.
Which Magnetite Product Is Right For You?
Choosing between Magnetite, Soundtite, Solartite, and Sealtite depends on your primary concern and budget. Here’s how they compare:
| Product | Noise Reduction | Thermal Efficiency | Best For | Installation Time |
|———|—————–|——————-|———-|——————-|——————|
| Magnetite | Up to 70% | Up to 70% | General comfort, balanced noise & thermal control | 1–2 days
| Soundtite | Up to 78% | Up to 70% | High-noise areas (airports, highways, railways) | 1–2 days
| Solartite | N/A | +45% cooling | Hot climates, west-facing windows, summer heat control | 4 hours
| Sealtite | Moderate | Moderate | Budget-conscious, mild climate, draught-proofing | 2–3 hours
Magnetite is the most popular choice for general use. Its magnetic glazing system creates a wide air gap that excels at both noise reduction and thermal performance. Ideal for homes experiencing moderate noise and temperature fluctuations.
Soundtite is purpose-built for extreme noise. If you live on a busy road, near an airport, or under a flight path, Soundtite’s laminated glass and sliding design handles low-frequency noise better than Magnetite. Cost is lower than Magnetite, but performance for noise is superior.
Solartite is a high-performance window film applied to existing glass. It works best paired with Magnetite in hot climates, reflecting solar heat before it enters your home. Summer cooling costs drop significantly. Install it alone for budget-conscious heat control; pair it with Magnetite for maximum year-round performance.
Sealtite acoustic and weather seals are the most affordable retrofit option. They reduce draught and minor noise through gap-sealing alone—perfect for mild climates or as a first step before considering full secondary glazing.
Many customers combine products: Magnetite + Solartite for hot inland areas; Magnetite + Sealtite for noise-prone suburban streets; Soundtite alone for severe noise. Request a free assessment to find your ideal combination.
Our retrofit glazing systems have been independently tested by the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL) under Australian testing codes. The results below demonstrate how our secondary glazing systems—Magnetite and Soundtite—achieve noise reductions rivalling or exceeding traditional double-glazed windows. Noise penetrates windows through vibration in glass and air leaks around frames. Secondary glazing solves this by adding a wide air cavity (100–125mm) that breaks the noise transmission path. CSIRO research confirms that a wide air cavity reduces noise by 7dB(A) more than narrow-gap windows.
Up to 70% Noise
Reduction
Our window systems have been independently tested by the National Acoustic Laboratories in line with National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) regulations. Reduce up to 70% of noise through windows or doors with Magnetite secondary glazing solution.
Up to 70% Better
Thermal Comfort
Our window systems have been independently tested by the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) in line with National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) regulations. Improve up to 70% of thermal efficiency of your windows or doors with Magnetite secondary glazing solution.
Why Retrofit Glazing Outperforms Replacement Windows
Retrofit glazing and replacement windows both improve comfort, but they differ in cost, disruption, and performance.
Retrofit glazing adds a second layer to your existing frames. Installation is non-invasive, taking hours to days. Cost is 40–60% lower than replacement. Your original window character stays intact—ideal for heritage homes. Performance is equivalent to or better than traditional double glazing for noise and thermal efficiency, especially in Australian climates.
Replacement windows remove and reinstall entire frames. It’s more disruptive (weeks of work, potential structural issues) and costly, but offers modern aesthetics and integrated seals. You lose original features in heritage homes.
Performance comparison: Independent testing (WERS, NAL) shows Magnetite secondary glazing outperforms traditional double-glazed windows, especially in winter (higher SHGC for solar gain) and when paired with Solartite film for summer. Replacement windows with supertoned glass perform better in summer without secondary film, but cost significantly more.
For most Australian homes, retrofit secondary glazing delivers superior value: lower cost, faster installation, better winter performance, and no disruption. Replacement windows make sense only if you need modern styling or your frames are deteriorating.
Request Your Free Window Assessment. Our local team will contact you within 1 business day with a tailored quote and next steps.
FAQs
Can I install secondary glazing on any existing window?
Yes, retrofit glazing works on aluminium, timber, and PVC frames. Magnetite and Soundtite systems are designed to fit standard window openings without frame modification. Unusual shapes (circular, triangular) may require custom solutions—our team will advise during the assessment.
Which product reduces noise the most?
Soundtite (laminated glass, sliding design) achieves up to 78% noise reduction and is superior for low-frequency noise (planes, trains, trucks). Magnetite with a wide air gap achieves up to 70% reduction and handles general traffic noise very well. For extreme noise, Soundtite is the best choice.
How long does retrofit glazing installation take?
Most rooms install in 1–2 days. Sealtite (draught-proofing seals) takes 2–3 hours. Solartite film takes 4 hours. Larger homes with many windows may take longer, but we work room-by-room so you’re not without windows.
Does retrofit glazing work in hot climates?
Yes. Magnetite reduces conduction and convection heat loss better than glass, so it outperforms traditional double glazing in summer. Combine it with Solartite reflective film for maximum summer cooling—up to 76% cooling improvement in testing.
Is retrofit glazing a good choice for rental properties?
Absolutely. Secondary glazing adds value, improves tenant comfort, reduces heating costs (lower utility bills = happier tenants), and is removable if needed. It’s a practical upgrade for investment properties.
Can I combine different Magnetite products?
Yes, many customers pair Magnetite + Solartite for year-round comfort, or Magnetite + Sealtite for noise + draught control. Our team recommends the best combination based on your climate and concerns.
How do I know if retrofit glazing will help with my noise problem?
The cause matters. If noise enters through gaps in your window frames, Sealtite alone may help. If noise transmits through glass, you need secondary glazing (Magnetite or Soundtite). Low-frequency noise (planes, trains) requires Soundtite’s laminated glass. Request an assessment—we’ll diagnose your specific issue.
