Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows

Many homeowners are unable to add new double glazing to their homes, either because of financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative to sash windows. It can be installed several ways.

It consists of an extra pane of glass within the window frame, which blocks cold air from entering your home, while also offering insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

There are many different styles of secondary glazing that are available for sash windows. Each style offers its own set of benefits ranging from increased security to less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?

The basic idea behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an additional glass within the frame of your existing window. This adds an additional layer of soundproofing and insulation, which can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home.

However it's not always feasible to add double-glazed windows to your property particularly if you reside in a listed building or are subject to strict planning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be done to your exterior.

In these instances, secondary glazing is an excellent alternative that can be put in easily. It's also a popular option for those who want to modernize their home without the need to tear down the original windows in sash and replace them with modern ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each one of that can be adapted to fit your frame. The proprietary systems are typically made of painted aluminum frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on the sash window. This allows shutters and sills to be retained.

They can be equipped using a variety of installation methods, including glazing clips and Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that do not need to be opened often. Alternatively, you can opt for a fixed lift out unit, which can be lifted and put back in place with relative ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal sliders are the most well-known way to improve existing sash window. They are also very discrete and ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas, and listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they are operated by the inside.

They can be operated manually, and they can be left open or partially opened for ventilation. They are very effective at stopping draughts and also have the added benefit of removing harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.

Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for your original window sash. It is comprised of PVC double sliding track on all four sides of cavity and a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and finger pull angle handle to act as a hand, reducing bowing. It comes in kits with 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and it can significantly enhance noise reduction from outside, especially railway, road and airport traffic. The use of laminated glass or toughened glasses improves the acoustic performance. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warmer longer. This will decrease the use of central heating. It's much less expensive than replacing sash cords your old sash windows, and can be installed without the need to remove the existing window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It is also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's a great option to replace windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits, while maintaining the charm of older homes.

Vertical Sliders are specifically designed for sash windows, where regular hinged panels aren't appropriate. They have two secondary sashes that are secured to one sash over the other, within an outer frame and are supported by sturdy spring balances that allow for effortless movement. The system is available as a face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for increased thermal performance, or a'reveal fixed version, which has a glass to glass cavity, within the original window reveal, to ensure optimal sound quality.

You can pick from a range of handles and stop-strips to match your preferences. They can be fixed in a closed position for additional security, or propped open to allow ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulation bristle to block drafts.

The 'Choices' Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features the same authentic wood details you'd expect to see in a period window. It is available in a range of colors that match your existing sash. It's nearly impossible to distinguish from the original sash window with details such as sash horns & traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It's available in a broad selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the individual sashes of the window to be hinged backwards on safety stays for easier cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane secondary glazing can be installed on sash windows in any style, including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This will ensure that the glazed panel is locked in place and pulls tightly to the outer frame, creating a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be top-hung or side-hung, and they can also be double-glazed. Double-glazed windows are a great way to improve acoustic performance and are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.

Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at various angles. This is unlike the horizontal sash window, with movable sashes in the frame that move horizontally. They can also be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. Because of this, they can help improve airflow and offer an effective alternative to traditional windows made of sash.

They are used in modern homes due to their small "sightlines" that allow for unobstructed view, but they can also be put into listed properties because they do not require transoms and mullions. They're also a great choice for hard-to-reach areas because they can be opened with the flick of a handle.

This kind of window could be a disadvantage because it may limit the use of certain window coverings. They can be difficult to clean since they swing outward. They may also require regular maintenance and service.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be installed using a variety methods. The cost will vary depending on your preference of the materials thickness, thickness, and the type of glass. upvc sash windows are usually the least expensive, followed by aluminium and finally wooden window frames. Specialised glass can also increase the price and include additional features such as security or noise reduction.

Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project is, the more time and labor will be required. This is also the case for older homes that have more complex design of sash window restoration windows.

Examining the condition of your windows in use is a good place to start. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them checked by professionals.

In general secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has sleek and subtle frame lines, so you can get the most efficient thermal performance without compromising on aesthetics.

The horizontal sliding secondary glazing is popular because it allows easy access to the sash window for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function which is activated by unlocking the catch on the secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically until you reach a predetermined point. This is a great option for windows that don't open frequently and can be used to facilitate access for air cooling in bay windows. They can be used to open the middle sash of a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.